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Mesostigmata (Monogynaspida)—Key feature pages

Moustache-like internal malae

The internal malae are fimbriated membranous processes that act as part of the complex of filters that strain out solid particles when fluid-feeding monogynaspids take in their externally digested prey. They are often elaborate structures, but in the Veigaiidae (except Gamasolaelaps) they are especially well developed and resemble handlebar moustaches. If you are unsure of this character, also check above the palp apotelepalptarsal apotele:
(= palp apotele, palptarsal claw) the most distal segment of the palp; absent in Acariformes, claw-like in Opilioacarida, and a subdistal, tined structure in the Mesostigmata.
 for the membranous scale that is diagnostic for Veigaiidae.

    

Feature pages