The biology of Megalolaelaps colossus (Acari: Dermanyssina)

Aspects of life history and host interactions of Megalolaelaps colossus were studied in a laboratory environment. These mites appear to require a host for survival, but hosts do not survive very long in a laboratory setting, leading to a modified rearing protocol relying on regular host replacement. Specific data on phenology and incidence are reported. Direct observations on feeding, mating, transmission, and interaction with other mites could not be obtained, but indirect observations allow some hypotheses in each of these areas.