Haxes

Haxes are a type of arthropod belonging to the order Acariformes. They are characterized by their small size, typically less than a millimeter in length, and their eight legs in the adult stage, though larval forms have only six. Haxes are found in virtually every terrestrial and freshwater habitat worldwide, from soil and leaf litter to animal fur and feathers, and even in human homes. Their diversity is immense, with hundreds of thousands of species described and many more yet to be discovered.

The diet of haxes varies greatly depending on the species. Some are predatory, feeding on smaller invertebrates like mites, springtails, and insect eggs. Others are herbivorous, consuming plant matter, fungi, or algae. Many haxes are detritivores, playing a crucial role in decomposition by breaking down dead organic material. A significant number of haxes are parasitic, feeding on the blood or tissues of plants and animals, including humans, where they can cause various skin irritations and diseases.

Reproduction in haxes typically involves sexual reproduction, though some species can reproduce asexually through parthenogenesis. The life cycle usually includes egg, larval, nymphal, and adult stages. The duration and complexity of these stages can vary widely. Despite their small size and often unnoticed presence, haxes have profound ecological impacts, influencing soil health, plant growth, and animal populations. Their study is an active area of research within acarology, the branch of zoology dedicated to mites and ticks.