First record of Leptus spp. (Acari: Erythraeidae) parasitizing stingless bees (Apidae: Meliponini)

Abstract

The first occurrence of Leptus mites parasitizing different species of stingless bees is reported. The samples were collected in the Argentinian province of Misiones on flowers and managed stingless bee colonies. Although the frequency registered was very low, the current report is relevant as it will drive research efforts on the understanding of parasite-host dynamics, consequences at the community level, and disease management in wild and productive contexts.