The structure and probable function of the peritreme in intertidal Gamasina (Acarina: Mesostigmata)
In: Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. Academic Press: London. ISSN 0024-4082; e-ISSN 1096-3642, more
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| Author keywords |
Gamasina - intertidal - peritreme - plastron - respiration |
| Authors | | Top |
- Pugh, P.J.A.
- King, P.E.
- Fordy, M.R.
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| Abstract |
The peritremes of the British intertidal Gamasina are structurally similar to those described for species occurring in soil and leaf litter, the highly elaborate peritreme plastrons present in species occurring in low oxygen tension environments are not typical of the fauna. It is shown that elaborate peritremes can form effective gas gills if an airfilm is supported by the peritrematic slit; however, if the airfilm is supported by the micropapillae on the floor of the peritreme, then the respiratory efficiency of the gas gilhbecomes comparable with that of elaborate peritreme plastrons. Evidence is presented reinforcing the theory that the plastron is supported by the micropapillae. The absence of elaborate respiratory peritreme plastrons among the intertidal Gamasina suggests that these mites are preadapted to respiration during tidal inundation. Other preadaptations include the distal parabolic shape of the micropapillae, however in the plastron forming species the micropapillae are shorter and basally thicker to prevent bending under pressure Developmental trends within the peritremes, with respect to plastron formation are discussed. |
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