In acariform mites, the male genital opening is often in a
similar position to that of the female and except for its smaller size, similar
in appearance. In some derived lineages, however, the males have an
aedeagus (a penis-like copulatory organ) and the genital opening is highly
modified (e.g., Astigmata) or shifted to the posteriorposterior:
the back part of the body or towards that region in comparison, e.g., 'posterior to'.
where the sclerotized
aedeagus may be protruded.
No parasitiform mites have evolved an aedeagus, and the genital opening is typically small, circular to oval, and in the intercoxal region.
Author: David E. Walter
Content last updated Sept. 2006, unless indicated otherwise
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