Redescription of the species of Fonsecia Radford, 1942 (Trombidiformes: Trombiculidae) from Brazil

• Grant number: 25/09534-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Preventive Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Ricardo Bassini Silva
• Grantee: Guilherme Furlaneto Rizzo
• Host Institution: Instituto Butantan. Secretaria da Saúde (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This project aims to redescribe the species of the genus Fonsecia (Trombiculidae) present in Brazil, focusing on species that are parasitic on reptiles. Through detailed morphological analyses and molecular data, we will seek to update the taxonomic knowledge about these mites, a neglected group of ectoparasites of veterinary interest. The research will be carried out with specimens deposited in the Acarological Collection of the Butantan Institute (IBSP), one of the largest collections of mites in Latin America, in addition to material collected by national and international collaborators. The methodology will involve the analysis of Trombiculidae larvae, since only this phase is parasitic, using phase contrast microscopy with a drawing chamber attached. Identification will be based on the Brennan & Goff genus key and the original descriptions. The work will contribute to the advancement of the taxonomy of trombiculids in Brazil, promoting a more precise understanding of their diversity and potential vector of pathogens, in addition to providing relevant data for epidemiological and conservation studies. (AU)