An Encounter with Red Grasshopper Mites Parasitizing an Egyptian Tree Locust in Al Munay-Shawkha, RAK

The Red Grasshopper Mites appears like shiny red dots on the dorsum and appendages of its Egyptian Tree Locust host 

Jump, land, fly, jump. These red grasshopper mites are really holding on tight 

Attached from head to legs these red grasshopper mites are feeding and travelling in style 

A closer look on these shiny red parasitic free loaders 

It was during our expedition at the wadi areas in between the mountains and hills of Al Munay-Shawkha, RAK that my good friend, hiking buddy and fellow nature enthusiast, Engr. Rey Corpuz, spotted, shouted and pointed my attention to a "grasshopper with shiny red spots on its back." Via quick mental recall of the grasshopper and locust fauna of the UAE, I told him that I cannot remember any locust species with a shiny red spot on its dorsum. We decided to follow this hopper and take a closer examination. The shiny red spots were present on its back but also on its appendages. These red spots we found were not color markings but parasitic red grasshopper mites.  

RED GRASSHOPPER MITES (ACARI-Acariformes)

Mites are tiny arachnids (eight-legged arthropods), less than a 1mm in length that possess a simple, unsegmented body plan. Because of the tiny size of most species they are often overlooked and under appreciated. Mites are actually widespread, they can be found on the soil acting as decomposers, other species live on plants as gall formers, there are also aquatic mites, others as ferocious predators and parasites.   

The red grasshopper mites are parasitic mites wherein their growth, development and movement are associated with their grasshopper hosts. These mites upon emergence from the eggs, appear as 6-legged larvae which actively search for host grasshoppers. The larvae attached to the base of the wings and other appendages and from that position suck the body fluids of its host to feed. They later metamorphose into 8-legged nymphs and later on to reproductive adults. Compared with the hitch-hiking larvae, the nymphs and adults are more of free-living species and are actively searching for grasshopper eggs to forage and lay eggs.  

Entomological research have revealed that the presence of these parasitic mites gravely effect the growth and development of grasshoppers and locusts. Some have look into there potential as biological control agents.   

I was not able to fully identify the red grasshopper mites we observed parasitizing the Egyptian Tree Locust, (Anacridium aegyptium). A detailed microscopic analysis by an expert Acarologist is needed for that. 

After taking our snap shots we have to stop bothering the tree locust and let it jump away and bear the weight and appetite of its mites passengers. Hold on juvenile mites and enjoy the jumpy ride!

Mites are truly fascinating! They are truly awesome creatures! These eight-legged beauties, reminds me always of my dear Entomology-Acarology Professor, Mentor, Adviser and Friend, Dr. Leonila Corpuz-Raros who is the epitome of fascination, dedication and professionalism. Thank you always Ma'am Leoning for your life and the inspiration to go, go, go and explore further!  

Mites are awesome! Awesome creatures! Awesome CREATOR!

Thanks for your support and careful attention. 

If you need Pest Management Training, Technical Field Support, On-Line and On-Site Consultancy, please feel free to send me an email: odelon.reyes@gmail.com