Szekessy Vilmos (szerk.): A Magyar Természettudományi Múzeum évkönyve 60. (Budapest 1968)

Farkas, H.: On the systematics of the family Phytoptidae (Acari: Eriophyoidea)

I propose therefore to let the genus Platyphytoptus remain in its present allocation in the system and for us to rest content with having clearly recognized its correct phylogenetical relationship. Summary 1. Some species of the femily Phytoptidae bear 4, others again 3 or 1 (therefore an odd number of), setae on the dorsal shield. 2. Those disposing of an odd number of shield setae live without exception on conifers, while none bearing an even number of setae on the shield inhabit coniferous species. 3. Manifestly therefore the species having an odd number of setae constitute a phylogenetically homogeneous group, that is, they are distinct from those bearing an even number of hairs. 4. Since there were relegated to the subfamily Phytoptinae species bearing as well odd as even numbers of setae, the subfamily was not homogeneous. The subfamily is herein delimited to contain only genera disposing of an even number of shield setae; for those displaying odd numbers of setae the new subfamilies Trisetacinae and Boczekellinae are hereby established. 5. The new identification key of the family Phytoptidae sharply delimits the groups showing odd or even numbers of setae. 6. The members of the genus Platyphytoptus bear merely two setae on the shield, and thus belong to the family Eriophyidae. From a phylogenetical point of view, they should be removed to the "odd-haired" group of the family Phytoptidae. It is probable namely that originally they also had 3 setae on the shield, of which the third bristle became vestigial. The assumption is substantiated by their morphological similarity to the genus Setoptus and their characteristically conifericolous habits. Their systematical reallocation would, however, be impractical for fear of confusion in identification work. Reference: FARKAS, H. K.:Über die Eriophyiden (Acarina) Ungarns I. Beschreibung neuer und wenig bekannter Arten (Acta Zool Hung., 6, 1960, p. 315 — 339).