Phoretic deutonymph: Solenidion ω1 of leg I positioned directly on tibia, associated with tibial solenidion phi (φ) (Fig. 6). Setae of coxa I (1a) filiform (dung mites) or vestigial (bee-associated mites). Setae of coxae III (3a) conoidal (Fig.4).
Other diagnostic characters
Phoretic deutonymph: Empodial claws I-IV simple (not bifurcated) (Fig. 6). Tarsus III and IV with a weak, flexible region in middle of segment (Fig. 7). Pretarsus III with empodial claw, pretarsus IV with a claw that is distinctly thinner than claw III (Fig. 7). Trochanters I-II without setae. Anterior prodorsum without a pair of brown pigmented areas (Fig. 6). Anterior edge of dorsal hysterosoma entire, smooth (not scalloped) (Fig. 1). Anterolateral region of hysterosoma without lens-like organs (Fig. 1). Hysterosomal setae c1, d1 and e1 filiform (not lanceolate) (Fig. 1). Attachment organ wider than long (Fig. 5). Coxal fields IV closed (Fig. 4).
Female: Pretarsi with a bilobed membranous ambulacrum and empodial claw. Posterior rings adjacent to or directly anterior to the anus. Anterior apodemes of coxae I fused medially. Most dorsal setae elongate (c1 always elongate); setae spine-like, foliate or heavily barbed. Dorsal setae borne on individual tubercles.
Male: Paranal suckers absent. Aedeagus thin, usually short and often posteriorly directed. Without large spine-like setae at base of aedeagus. With two pairs of genital "rings." Mouthparts and setation normal. External vertical setae long and spine-like, extending over the gnathosoma. Many dorsal setae long, often heavily barbed or blade-like.