Mite in Amber For Sale

VELVET MITE

This is a velvet mite. Everything about this specimen is great. The amber is a very clear yellow, and there is even an ant thrown in to boot! The mite is in the order Acarina, family Trombidiklae. The surface of the mite is covered with very fine hairs. An easy way to identify this animal are the heavy antennae which are distinctive. Newly hatched young have only 3 pairs of legs and acquire the 4th pair after the first molt. This is the largest velvet mite that I have ever seen, it must be about 2 mm in size (that is BIG!) Here is a Scanned Image!

The ant and the Velvet mite are very easy to see in this photo. Notice how clear the amber is.

The antennae on this animal are large, which allows easy identification. I would certainly hate to have this mite on me!

The amber is about 1.5 cm in length. This is a rare plus for any serious collection.

Mites are predators. They often attack small invertebrates (six legged larval mites) by affixing themselves to the outer surface of their victim. Inserting their mouthparts thorough the body wall, they slowly suck up the internal fluids, only rarely killing their host. When the velvet mite has consumed enough nourishment to molt to the following eight-legged stage , it detaches and becomes a predator .

These quarter inch arachnids (velvet mites) emerge following the first heavy summer rains, coinciding with the emergence of winged termites on their nuptial flight. These are the velvet mite's sole food. Termites provide rich nutrients which allow for a brief visit to the surface to feed, mate, lay eggs and return to the soil.

If this specimen is the one for you then just click on this price.............

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