Fine structure of the feather mite Falculifer rostratus (Buchholz, 1869) (Acari, Falculiferidae)

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The authors provide a detailed and well-illustrated study of the fine structure of the feather mite Falculifer rostratus, focusing on its mouthparts from functional and comparative perspectives. First described in 1869 by Reinhold Buchholz, F. rostratus is the type species of the family Falculiferidae, which includes 14 genera and around 45 species that inhabit the plumage of columbiform birds. These mites are part of a larger group of over 2500 known feather mites, yet their biology and internal morphology remain largely unexplored. The study discusses the bimorphism of males in this species, particularly the heteromorphs with sickle-shaped chelicerae. For the first time, the fine structure of sensory organs in all gnathosomal parts is examined using advanced microscopy techniques, enhancing our understanding of the gnathosoma, a key feature of Acari. Additionally, the digestive tract is described in detail, revealing distinct parts and cell types, along with the discovery of microsporidian parasites in the midgut of a female mite. The research also thoroughly investigates the supracoxal glands, uncovering complex structures and functions. These findings are significant for biologists studying arthropod structure, particularly acarologists, arachnologists, parasitologists, microbiologists, ornithologists, and those interested in host-parasite coevolution.