Trouessartia thalassina and Proterothrix sibilla

About Trouessartia thalassina and Proterothrix sibilla:

• The mites were identified on the Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassinus) and the Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae), two bird species native to the East Khasi Hills district. 
• Trouessartia thalassina is notable for its semi-ovate terminal lamellae and lanceolate setae in males, while females exhibit unique non-sclerotized lacunae.
• Meanwhile, Proterothrix sibillae, part of the wolffi species group, is distinguished by its larger size, circular lacunae on the prodorsal shield, and distinctive male genital structures.
• Trouessartia thalassina: Named after the Verditer Flycatcher, whose sea-green plumage inspired the Latin word thalassina, meaning “sea-green.”
• Proterothrix sibillae: Honoring Maria Sibylla Merian, a trailblazing German naturalist known for her pioneering work in insect taxonomy and her meticulous scientific illustrations.

What Are Feather Mites?

• Feather mites are microscopic arachnids that inhabit bird feathers, feeding on oils, skin flakes, and organic debris. 
• Typically, they maintain a symbiotic relationship with their avian hosts, helping to keep feathers clean and healthy.
• However, under stress, they can become parasitic, causing irritation or feather damage.
• Found worldwide, feather mites are transferred between birds through close contact, especially during nesting. 

Q1: What are arachnids?

Arachnids are a group of animals that belong to the Chelicerata subphylum of the Arthropoda Phylum. These invertebrates are joint legged with a distinct characteristic of having eight legs although in some species, the front pair is used for sensory purposes. Some species also have appendages that have grown big enough to be confused with another pair of legs. Spiders are the most populous of the Arachnida class with 40,000 species, alongside solifuges (900 species), mites (32,000 species), scorpions (2,000 species), ticks (12,000 species), and harvestmen (6,300 species).

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