acarineology
Acarineology is the branch of zoology that studies mites and ticks, collectively known as Acari. These small arthropods belong to the subclass Acari within the class Arachnida, making them relatives of spiders and scorpions. Acarineology encompasses a broad range of research, including the taxonomy, morphology, physiology, ecology, and behavior of these diverse creatures.
Mites and ticks exhibit an incredible variety of lifestyles. Some are free-living, inhabiting soil, freshwater, or
The study of acarineology is crucial for several fields. In agriculture, understanding plant-feeding mites is vital