Mite diversity is determined by the stingless bee host species

Mites can establish ecologically mutualistic and/or commensal relationships with stingless bees. In the present study, we evaluated acarine diversity associated colonies of three bee species (Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata, Scaptotrigona bipunctata and Tetragonisca fiebrigi) in seven localities southern Brazil. A total 1458 mites from 18 species/morphospecies were sampled. The Melipona q. showed highest richness mites, but T. fiebrigi was acari among species. This information suggests a close relationship between bees, which has direct implications for transport hives non-naturally occurring to different regions.