Record of mimetism between mites and eggs of the neotropical termite Cornitermes cumulans (Isoptera : Termitidae)

Abstract

Cornitermes cumulans (Isoptera: Termitidae) is a mound-building termite nests provide suitable conditions for the development of associated organ isms. The present stud), describes the occurrence of them ire Caloglyphus sp. (Astigmata: Acaridae) associated with this termite species in laboratory colonies. Mite adults were found among the egg batch of C cumulans and they showed the same shape and color of the termite eggs. This mimicry may represent an adaptation of this organism for survival in termite colonies, and egg-mimicking mites have not yet been recorded in any termite colony. Further studies will help to clarify the ecological aspects of this relationship.