Microhabitat selection and coexistence in feather mites (Acari: Analgoidea) on Alaskan seabirds

Abstract

Two species of feather mites, Alloptes (A.) sp. and Laronyssus martini, coexisted on the flight feathers of kittiwakes, while Alloptes (C.) sp. occurred alone on murres. All three species were found mostly on the ventral surface of mid-wing regions. On individual feathers, the mites were attached to the distal sides of barbs on the trailing vanes. The two species coexisted on kittiwakes but occupied different portions of feathers. The results suggest that the two species compete for the attachment site on the feather and Alloptes (A.) sp. is excluded by L. martini from the preferred microhabitat.