Pronunciation: [ɐkˈaɹɪdˌiː] (IPA) 
The word "acaridae" is spelled with six phonemes: /əˈkærɪˌdeɪ/. The first sound is a neutral schwa /ə/, followed by a stressed short /æ/ sound. The third sound is an unaspirated /k/ /k/, followed by a stressless /ə/ and a long /ɪ/ sound. The final two sounds are a stressed /deɪ/ diphthong, comprised of /d/ and /eɪ/. The word refers to a family of mites, which includes over 3,500 species.
Acaridae is a taxonomic family of small arachnids commonly known as mites. They belong to the subclass Acari, which encompasses an immense diversity of small, typically eight-legged arthropods. Mites of the family Acaridae are characterized by their small size, usually measuring less than one millimeter in length.
Members of the family Acaridae can be found in various habitats worldwide, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. However, they are most commonly associated with the terrestrial environment and can be found in soil, litter, stored food products, and even on plants and animals.
These mites have an oval-shaped body and lack distinct segmentation. Acaridae species possess mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking, allowing them to feed on a wide range of organic matter such as dead skin, plant debris, and fungal spores. Some acarids are known to feed on stored food products, including grains and pantry supplies, making them a common household pest.
Acaridae species reproduce rapidly, with females laying numerous eggs that quickly develop into adults. Due to their small size and rapid reproductive rates, infestations by these mites can become widespread and challenging to control.
In summary, Acaridae refers to a diverse family of small arachnids known as mites. They inhabit various environments, with terrestrial habitats being the most common. These mites have piercing-sucking mouthparts and feed on organic matter, including dead skin, plant debris, and stored food products. Acaridae species can become household pests due to their rapid reproduction and ability to infest a wide range of environments.
A family of the order Acarina, including the mites.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Acaridae" is derived from the Greek word "akari", meaning "mite". In scientific nomenclature, adding the suffix "-idae" indicates a family level classification. Therefore, "Acaridae" denotes the family of mites.
