Axonopsella

Smith, Ian M., Cook, David R. & Gerecke, Reinhard, 2015, Revision of the status of some genus-level water mite taxa in the families Pionidae Thor, 1900, Aturidae Thor, 1900, and Nudomideopsidae Smith, 1990 (Acari: Hydrachnidiae), Zootaxa 3919 (1), pp. 111-156 : 137

Axonopsella -like mites (sensu Cook, 1974)

Axonopsella -like mites Cook, 1974a, pp. 322–330, figs. 1333–1372.

Axonopsella -like mites: Smith & Cook, 1998, pp. 311–325, figs. 1–42.

Diagnosis. Larva: Unknown.

Adults (modified from Cook 1974a): Character states of subfamily Axonopsinae. Idiosoma with dorsal shield entire. Ventral shield with or without ridge that originates at lateral end of suture line between third and fourth coxal plates and extends anterolaterally. First and second coxal plates often with some setae relatively thick; first three pairs of coxal plates with anterior edges broadly rounded to pointed; fourth coxal plate with large projection partially covering opening for insertion of fourth leg. Genital field bearing four to many pairs of acetabula on acetabular plates that are fused with ventral shield in both sexes. Gnathosomal setae small. Pedipalp tibia without a ventral projection. Idiosoma and legs of males slightly to greatly modified, and genu of fourth leg of males characteristically with a ventral projection bearing a thickened seta.

Genera included. Many genera listed by Cook (1974a) and species listed by K.O. Viets (1987), supplemented by Cook (1981, 1986, 1988), Smit (1996), and Smith & Cook (1998).

Distribution. South America, southern North America, and Australia.

Discussion. Cook (1974a) characterized the Axonopsella -like mites as a distinct group of Axonopsinae and noted that diagnoses of genera in the group are essentially based on male character states making generic placement of females somewhat problematic. We are not proposing any changes in the classification of this group at this time.