Oribatid Mites ( Acari: orbatida) of Hayne’s Lease ER

Valerie M. Behan-Pelletier of Biosystematics Research Centre , Agriculture Canada, Ottawa did this research in the 1980s.

Oribatida are a quantitatively important component of most soils. They affect litter decomposition by feeding on and dispersing fungi, and by stimulating senescent fungal colonies through grazing.

See the PDF: oribatid_mites_of_haynes_lease

It notes that two generas were found there which were not previously recorded in Canada. Exechocepheus and Passalozettes

See also: Orbatid Mites of British Columbia: http://www.cbif.gc.ca/spp_pages/mites/phps/bc_e.php

Orbatid Mite–unknown species, photo by S.E. Thorpe