Mites of the genus Bryobia (Acari, Tetranychidae): taxonomic notes on some species and a diagnostic key to the world species

The present study aimed to develop taxonomic keys to the world species of the genus Bryobia, categorized into three subgenera: Allobia Livschits & Mitrofanov, Bryobia s. str. Koch, and Lyobia Livschits & Mitrofanov. Published descriptions, redescriptions, and illustrations of a total of 149 world species were thoroughly analyzed.

The taxonomic notes on the status of the species in the species groups of each subgenus are discussed in detail. The variability of morphological characters found among different populations of a species is discussed. As a result, 116 species of the genus Bryobia were classified in three diagnostic keys, with 22, 43, and 51 species assigned to the three subgenera Allobia, Bryobia, and Lyobia, respectively.

The population of B. neoribis Tuttle & Baker from Utah, USA, should be re-identified through type examination due to differences from the original description of the species. Additionally, taxonomic notes are provided on the status of the remaining 33 species, and arguments are provided on suggested synonyms among them.