The spider mites of the genus Eutetranychus Banks (Acari, Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae) from Saudi Arabia: two new species, a re-description, and a key to the world species.

Two new species of the genus Eutetranychus Banks are described and illustrated based on adult females and males, E.spinosus sp. n. from Indigoferaspinosa Forssk (Leguminosae), E.neotransversus sp. n. from Juniperusprocera Hochst. ex Endl. (Cupressaceae), and E.palmatus Attiah, 1967 is redescribed from Washingtoniarobusta H. Wendl. (Arecaceae). Additionally, the intraspecific morphological variations within E.orientalis populations, collected from 28 various host plants and 80 different localities from six regions of Saudi Arabia from 2009 to 2017, are discussed and presented. The genus Eutetranychus is divided into two species groups based on the presence of one seta (orientalis group) or two setae (banksi group) on coxa II. In addition, seven Eutetranychus species are suggested as synonyms of E.orientalis (Klein, 1936) and E.papayensis Iqbal & Ali, 2008 is considered as species inquirenda. A key to all known species of the genus Eutetranychus is provided.

Introduction

The spider mites belonging to the genus (: ) mostly feed on shrub and tree leaves (Jeppson et al. 1975, Bolland et al. 1998) and make little webs on plant leaves (Saito 2010, Vacante 2010). Among species, the Oriental red spider mite, (Klein) and African red spider mite, (McGregor) have been recorded as major pests of citrus in many tropical and subtropical countries (Vacante 2010). Recently, Attiah was considered as a pest of date palms in Israel (Palevsky et al. 2010). Previously it has been reported from different palms () from Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Iran (Attiah 1967, Gerson et al. 1983, Kamali 1990, Ben-David et al. 2013).

The genus belongs to the tribe of Eurytetranychini Reck of the subfamily Tetranychinae. Banks (1917) considered as subgenus of the Trägårdh. Later, McGregor (1950) proposed as valid and separated genus with type species . Baker and Pritchard (1960) provided a key to the world with eight species of . Later, only two regional keys of species have been constructed from India and Africa including nine and 16 species, respectively (Nassar and Ghai 1981, Meyer 1987). To date, includes 34 nominal species, mostly reported from Africa and Asia (Migeon and Dorkeld 2006–2017). Prior to this study, no diagnostic key to those world species is available. Only four species viz. (Tucker), , and have been reported from Saudi Arabia (SA) so far (Martin 1972, Alatawi 2011).

The two species and are widely distributed over the world and have been reported from approximately 223 and 84 various host plants, respectively (Bolland et al. 1998, Migeon and Dorkeld 2006–2017, Mattos and Feres 2009, Vacante 2010). Morphological variations in shape and length of dorsal setae, striation pattern between setae d1 and e1 and legs chaetotaxy have been reported in these two species (Baker and Pritchard 1960, Chaudhri et al. 1974, Meyer 1974, Meyer 1987, Khanjani et al. 2017). Because of such variations, some species have been synonymized with (Baker and Pritchard 1960, Meyer 1987) and others with (Pritchard and Baker 1955, Bolland et al. 1998).

The aims of the present study were to explore species from Saudi Arabia, to develop a key to the world species of this genus and to discuss the morphological intraspecific variations in populations collected from different hosts and localities from Saudi Arabia. In this study, two new species of ; sp. n. and sp. n. are described and illustrated based on adult females and males (Figs 1–30). Also, is redescribed and illustrated based on adult female and male (Figs 31–46) because its original description was brief and incomplete from date palm trees in Egypt (Attiah 1967). Two previous recorded species, and , from SA were not found in this comprehensive collection. The intraspecific morphological variations within populations collected from 28 various host plants and 80 different localities in six regions of SA during 2009 to 2017, are discussed and presented (Figs 47A–H, 48, 49).

Figure 1.

sp. n. Female, Dorsum (A, B).

Figures 27–30.

sp. n. Male, 27 Leg 1 28 Leg 2 29 Leg 3 30 Leg 4.

Figure 31.

, Female, Dorsum (A–C).

Figures 43–46.

, Male, 43 Leg 1 44 Leg 2 45 Leg 3 46 Leg 4.

Figure 47.

(Klein), Females, Variation in shape of setae and striations pattern between setae e1 on dorsum; host plants and regions, A Date palms, Riyadh B Fig, Al-Ula C Guava, Taif D, Riyadh E Lemon, Al-Ula F, Riyadh G, Najran H, Riyadh.

Figure 48.

A, B Female, Variation in shape of spermatheca. Pointed distally.

Figure 49.

A, B Female, Variation in shape of spermatheca. Rounded distally.

Materials and methods

spider mites were collected from diverse host plants from different localities in six regions (Al–Ula, Madina, Nijran, Riyadh, Tabuk, and Taif) of SA during 2009–2017. The mite specimens were collected by shaking the aerial parts of plants over a white piece of paper. The mites moving on paper were picked with camel hair brush and preserved in small vials containing 70% alcohol, then mounted in Hoyer’s medium under a stereomicroscope (SZX10, Olympus, Tokyo, Japan). The specimens were examined and identified under a phase contrast microscope (BX51, Olympus®, Japan) using keys and available literature. Different mite body parts were pictured by using an auto-montage software system (Syncroscopy, Cambridge, UK) and then drawn with Adobe Illustrator (Adobe SystemInc., San Jose, CA, USA). All measurements are given in micrometers. The lengths of the legs were measured from the base of the trochanter to the tip of tarsus. The measurements are presented for the holotype followed by the range of paratypes in parenthesis. The morphological terminology used in this study follows that of Lindquist (1985). All collected specimens including type specimens of the new species have been deposited at King Saud University Museum of Arthropods (, Acarology section), Department of Plant Protection, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, SA.

Family TETYRANYCHIDAE Donnadieu

Subfamily Tetranychinae Berlese

Tribe Eurytetranychini Reck

Banks

Banks, 1917: 197.

McGregor, 1919: 644.

Banks,

Type species.

McGregor, 1914.

Diagnosis.

Based on Meyer 1987. The genus can be recognized by the combination of following characters: Propodosomal setae three pairs (v2, sc1 and sc2); opisthosomal setae 10 pairs (c1−3, d1−2, e1−2, f1−2, h1); setae f1 either normally or widely spaced; anal setae (ps) and para anal setae (h) each two pairs; empodium absent or reduced to small rounded tiny knob; true claws pad-like; tarsi I with two or three solenidia (two solenidia closely associated with fastigial setae ft), tarsi II with one or two solenidia; coxa II with either one or two setae.

Species group

Diagnosis. Coxa II with two setae.

sp. n.

http://zoobank.org/DA81A602-25EC-458E-86B9-C029405EDEC4

Figures 1 , 2 , 3 , 4−7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12–15

Figure 2.

sp. n. Female A genito-anal region B Venter C Spermatheca.

Figure 3.

sp. n. Female, Palp.

Figures 4–7.

sp. n. Female, 4 Leg 1 4A Leg 1 tarsus 5 Leg 2 6 Legs 3 7 Leg 4.

Figure 8.

sp. n. Male, Dorsum.

Figure 9.

sp. n. Male, Venter.

Figure 10.

sp. n. Male, Palp.

Figure 11.

sp. n. Male, Aedeagus.

Figures 12–15.

sp. n. Male, 12 Leg 1 13 Leg 2 14 Leg 3 15 Leg 4.

Diagnosis.

(Based on female). Dorsal body setae long, slender, serrate, all set on small tubercles except v2 and sc1, dorsocentral setae c1, e1 and f1 longer than the distance between their base and the bases of next consecutive setae; setae c1 and f1 shorter than distances between c1−c1 and f1−f1 respectively, setae e1 almost as long as distance e1−e1; dorsum with simple striae except area anterior to setae sc1 with lobed striae, striae between setae d1 “V” shaped, genua and tibiae I−IV 5−5−3−3; 9(1)−7−8−8, respectively.

Description.

Female (n = 12) (Figures 1–7).

Body oval, color in life greenish yellow. Length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 315 (312−325), (including gnathosoma) 396 (390−405), maximum width 221 (218−231).

Dorsum (Figure 1). Propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae; hysterosoma medially with transverse striae except area between setae d1 and e1 forming a V-shaped pattern; dorsal striae simple except anterior of setae sc1 with small lobes; all dorsal setae slender, serrated and sub-equal in length, setae sc2 and hysterosomal setae set on small tubercles; setae v2 almost reaching 2/3 to the distance v2−v2; dorsocentral setae c1, and f1 reaching to past bases of next consecutive setae; setae e1 almost as long as distance e1−f1; setae f1 slightly more widely spaced than e1. Length of dorsal setae: v2 44 (41−45), sc1 56 (53−58), sc2 44 (42−46), c1 50 (47−52), c2 44 (42−45), c3 46 (45−48), d1 53 (51−55), d2 47 (45−49), e1 47 (46−48), e2 44 (42−45), f1 48 (47−50), f2 42 (40−44), h1 42 (40−44); distance between dorsal setae: v2−v2 66 (63−68), sc1−sc1 95 (91−97), sc2−sc2 165 (162−170), c1−c1 63 (60−67), c2−c2 147 (142−150), c3−c3 200 (195−210), d1−d1 95 (92−97), d2−d2 189 (186−191), e1−e1 53 (50−55), e2−e2 158 (155−160), f1−f1 58 (55−64), f2−f2 79 (77−82), h1−h1 34 (33−36), v2−sc1 42 (40−44), sc1−sc2 50 (48−53), sc2−c3 45 (44−47), sc2−c2 53 (52−55), sc2−c1 95 (93−98), c1−c2 44 (42−46), c2−c3 33 (32−36), c1−d1 37 (36−39), c2−d2 68 (66−70), d1−e1 51 (49−52), d2−e2 59 (57−60), e1−f1 42 (40−44), e2−f2 48 (46−50), f1−h1 39 (36−41), f2−h1 25 (22−27).

Venter (Figure 2). Ventral cuticle medially with transverse striae from setae 1a to setae g1, length of ventral setae: 1a 50 (48−53), 3a 42 (41−44), 4a 44 (43−46), 1b 42 (40−45), 1c 45 (41−46), 2b 42 (40−43), 2c 39 (37−41), 3b 47 (45−49), 4b 42 (41−43); distance between intercoxal and coxae setae: 1a−1a 37 (35−38), 1b−1c 17 (17−18), 3a−3a 79 (77−80), 4a−4a 75 (73−78); aggenital setae: ag 37 (37−38), ag−ag 54 (49−57); genital setae: g1 31 (30−33), g2 32 (31−34), g1−g1 26 (23−28), g2−g2 60 (57−61); anal setae two pairs: ps1 12 (12−13), ps2 12 (11−13), ps1−ps2 8 (8−9), ps1−ps1 21 (20−23), ps2−ps2 17 (17−18); para-anal setae two pairs h2 21 (19−22), h3 19 (18−19), h2−h2 25 (23−26), h3−h3 45 (40−45). All ventral setae simple except h2 and h3 barbed. Spermatheca elongated and sacculus terminally rounded (Figure 2C).

Gnathosoma (Figure 3). Subcapitular setae m 41 (39−43), m−m 31 (29−32) (Figure 2). Palp femur and genu each with one setae d 51 (49−55), l” 43 (40−45); palp tibia with three setae d 34 (31−34), l” 21 (20−22), l’ 13 (13−14) and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 17(17−18) long, 13 wide, with 3 simple setae a 13 (12−13), b 9 (9−10), c 13 (13−14), 3 eupathidia suζ 7.5 (7.5−8), width 1.3 (1−1.5), ul’’ζ = ul’ζ 6.5 (6.5−7) width 1.2 (1−1.3), a solenidion ω 5 long width 2 (1.8−2.3) (Figure 3). Stylophore anteriorly rounded; peritremes ending with simple bulb (Figure 1).

Legs (Figures 4–7). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 320 (313−323), 263 (255−270), 294 (288−300), 336 (325−340) respectively; leg I: trochanter 21 (19−21), femur 105 (100−109), genu 53 (51−55), tibia 63 (60−68), tarsus 79 (74−82); leg II: trochanter 16 (15−17), femur 95 (91−99), genu 42 (41−44), tibia 53 (51−55), tarsus 58 (54−60); leg III: trochanter 17 (17−18), femur 86 (84−90), genu 44 (42−47), tibia 71 (68−75), tarsus 76 (74−79); leg IV: trochanter 19 (18−20), femur 105 (102−108), genu 47 (45−50), tibia 79 (76−83), tarsus 86 (83−90); legs chaetotaxy I−IV (eupathidia and solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−2−1−1; trochanters 1−1−1−1; femora 7−6−2−1; genua 5−5−3−3; tibiae 9(1)−7−8−8; tarsi 12(3ζ, 3ω)−10(3ζ, 2ω)−10(1ω)−10(1ω).

Male (n = 3) (Figures 8–15).

Length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 300−310, (including gnathosoma) 350−361, maximum width 237−246.

Dorsum (Figure 8). Propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae; hysterosoma medially with transverse to irregular striae and forming a V-shaped pattern in between setae d1 and e1; all dorsal body setae slender, serrated and sub-equal in length, hysterosomal setae set on small tubercles. Length of dorsal setae: v2 34−38, sc1 35−40, sc2 32−37, c1 31−35, c2 36−39, c3 32−35, d1 29−32, d2 33−35, e1 33−38, e2 32−35, f1 28−33, f2 33−37, h1 23−26, h2 15−19, h3 13−16; distance between dorsal setae: v2−v2 45−50, sc1−sc1 73−80, sc2−sc2 162−173, c1−c1 44−47, c2−c2 112−120, c3−c3 150−162, d1−d1 65−70, d2−d2 136−151, e1−e1 37−41, e2−e2 90−100, f1−f1 35−40, f2−f2 55−60, h1−h1 14−17, h2−h2 10−13, h3−h3 32−36, v2−sc1 28−32, sc1−sc2 32−33, sc2−c3 55−60, sc2−c2 45−50, sc2−c1 55−60, c1−c2 30−34, c2−c3 22−26, c1−d1 39−43, c2−d2 50−56, d1−e1 42−46, d2−e2 35−40, e1−f1 20−24, e2−f2 35−40, f1−h1 36−41, f2−h1 25−30.

Venter (Figure 9). Area between setae 1a to ag with transverse striae; length of ventral setae: 1a 30−33, 3a 31−35, 4a 32−37, 1b 40−45, 1c 40−45, 2b 30−33, 2c 37−41, 3b 36−39, 4b 36−41; distance between setae: 1a−1a 30−36, 1b−1c 17−18, 3a−3a 62−68, 4a−4a 51−58; aggenital setae: ag 15−18, ag−ag 49−54; genital setae: g1 9−13, g2 8−10, g1−g1 14−17, g2−g2 15−18; anal setae two pairs: ps1 10−12, ps2 11−13, ps1−ps2 3−4, ps1−ps1 24−28, ps2−ps2 22−26.

Gnathosoma (Figure 10). Subcapitular setae m 30−34, m−m 27−31 (Figure 9); palp femur and genu each with one setae d 35−41, l” 31−35; palp tibia with three setae d 18−22, l” 21−25, l’ 13−14 and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 11−14 long, 10 wide, with 3 simple setae a 9−11, b 7−10, c 8−10, 3 eupathidia suζ 6.5−7, width 0.9 (0.8−1), ulζ = ul’ζ 6−7, width 0.8 (0.7−1) a solenidion ω 4 long width 1 (0.9−1.2) (Figure 10). Stylophore anteriorly rounded; peritremes ending with simple bulb (Figure 8).

Aedeagus (Figure 11) Aedeagus bends dorsad at an angle of 90°; the bent portion narrowly rounded toward tip and blunt distally, shaft 18 long, 7 wide, bent portion 3 long.

Legs (Figures 12–15). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 313−328, 235−250, 263−280, 278−295 respectively; legs I−IV chaetotaxy (eupathidia and solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−2−1−1; trochanters 1−1−1−1; femora 8−7−4−3; genua 5−5−4−4; tibiae 8(4)−7(3)−8−8; tarsi 11(3ζ, 2ω)−11(3ζ, 2ω)−10(1ω)−10(1ω).

Immature stages.

unknown.

Etymology.

The species name is derived from name of the host plant species, , of which type specimens were collected.

Type material.

Holotype female and four paratype females, (), Al- Shifa road, Taif, , elevation 2102 m, 11 Oct 2016, leg. M Kamran and M Rehman; five paratype females, (), As Sayl Saghir, Taif, , elevation 1516 m, 10 Sept 2017, leg. Eid M Khan and M Rehman; two paratype females, (), Al Sayl Kabeer, Taif, , elevation 1240 m, 15 Sept 2017, leg. Eid M Khan and M Rehman.

Remarks.

sp. n. belongs to the species group. It closely resembles Meyer 1987 because both have same legs chaetotaxy (Table 1) and dorsal striae pattern. However, the new species differs from by all dorsal setae slender, much longer, mostly longer than the distance between their base and the bases of next consecutive setae vs. all dorsal setae sub-spatulate, small, far behind the bases of next consecutive setae, setae c1 and e1 crossing the bases of next consecutive setae vs. reaching less than half distance to the bases of setae next in line and all hysterosomal setae set on strong tubercles vs. only some setae on opisthosoma set on tubercles in . The new species also resembles Miller 1966 because both have all dorsal setae slender, much longer, and mostly longer than the distance between their base and the bases of next consecutive setae. The new species can be separated from by setae f1 slightly more widely spaced as setae e1 vs. f1 two time more widely spaced as compare to e1, differences in legs chaetotaxy, genua I−IV with 5−5−4/3−3 vs. 3−3−1−1 and femora II & III with 6 & 2 vs. 4 & 3, respectively in .

Table 1.

Legs chaetotaxy of world species of the genus (including new species).

Species	Femora I–IV	Genua I–IV	Tibiae I–IV	Tarsi I–IV	Reference
Species group orientalis
neotransversus sp. n.	5-4-2-1	4-4-1-2	6(1)-5-4-4	15(2)-14(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Present study
bilobatus	8-5-4-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(2)-13(2)-10-10	Nassar and Ghai 1981
caricae	7-6-2-1	5-4-1-1	8-5-5-5	15(2)-12 (1)-10(2)-10(1)	Nassar and Ghai 1981
citri	–	–	9(1)-5	–	Attiah 1967
maximae	8-6-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-5-7	15(2)-13(2)-10(1)-9(1)	Nassar and Ghai 1981
mirpuriensis	8-6-3-2	5-5-2-2	10-6-6-7	14-12-11-11	Chaudhri et al. 1974
nagai	8-5-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(2)-13(1)- 9(2)-10 (1)	Nassar and Ghai 1981
orientalis	8-6-3/4 -1/2	5-5-2-2	9(1-4)-6(0-2)-6(0-1)-7	15(3)-13(1-2)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1974
	8-6-4-2	5-5-2-2	9-7-6-7	15-13-11-11	Chaudhri et al. 1974
	8-7/6-3/4-1/2	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Khanjani et al. 2017
	8/7-7/6/5-4/3-1/2	5-5-2-2	9/8(1)-7/6-6/5-7/6	15(3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Present study
palmatus	–	–	9(1)	–	Attiah 1967
	8-6-2-1	5-5-2-2	9(2)-6(2)-6-7	15(3)-13(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
	8-7-4-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Present study
pantopus	–	–	9(1)-5	–	Meyer 1974
pyri	–	–	9(1)-5	–	Attiah 1967
transverstriatus	7-7-4-3	4-4-2-2	10-6-6-6	10-10/9-10(1)-10(1)	Smiley and Baker 1995
*fici	8-6-3-2	5-5/6-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(1-3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
*phaseoli	8-7-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(3)-13(2)-10(1)-10	Nassar and Ghai 1981
* pruni	8-7-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	12(3)-11(1)-8(1)-8(1)	Smiley and Baker 1995
*ricinus	8-7-4/3-2	5-5-2-2	9/8(1)-6-6-7	15(1)-10(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Smiley and Baker 1995
*sanaae	8-7-4/3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-7/6-6-7	11(1)-11(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Smiley and Baker 1995
*guangdongensis	Mentioned in original description same as E.orientalis				Ma and Yaun 1982
*xianensis					Ma and Yaun 1982
Species group banksi
spinosus sp. n.	8/7-6-2-1	5-5-4/3-3	9(1)-7-8-8	15(2)-13(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Present study
acaciae	6/7-4-3-1	3-3-1-1	8(1)-4/5-3-5	13(4)- 12(3)-10(1)-10(1)	Based on pictures send by Dr. Owen D. Seeman
africanus	8-6-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-6-7	15(2/3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
anitae	9-6-4-3	5-5-3-2	9(4)-7(2)-6/7-7	13(3)-12(2)-11(1)-10(1)	By personal communication with Dr. Elizeu Castro
banksi	6/7-4/6-2-1	4-4-2-2	9(1)-6-4/5-5/6	14(2)-12(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Mattos and Feres 2009
bredini	8-7-4-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-5-5	–	Baker and Pritchard 1960
carinae	8-6-2-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-5-6	15(2)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
clastus	8-6-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-5-5-6	15(3)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
concertativus	7-6-2-2	5-5-5-3	9(1)-7-8-8	15(2)-13(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
cratis	8-6-3-2	3-3-2-2	6(1)-5-4-5	14(3)-13(1)-10-10(1)	Meyer 1987
eliei	8-6-2-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-5-6	15(1)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
enodes	8-6-3-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-6-5-7	15(2)-13(2)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
namibianus	7-6-2-1	5-5-3-3	9(1)-7-8-8	15(2)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer 1987
nomurai	6-6-2-1	5-5-2-2	9(1)-8/7-8/7-8/7/9	12/13/14(3)-12/13(1/2)-12/13(1/2)-10(1)	Flechtmann 1997
rhusi	7-6-2-1	5-5-3-3	9(1)-7-7-8/7	15(2)-13(1)-10(1)-10(1)	Meyer and Ueckermann 1988
swazilandicus	8-6-2-2	5-5-3-3	9(1)-7-8-8	15(3)-13(2) - 10(1) - 10(1)	Meyer 1987

* Suggested synonyms of All missing characters/values in the table were not described or illustrated in the original descriptions/re-descriptions.

Diagnosis. Coxa II with one seta.

http://zoobank.org/50D5AC16-EE8D-4508-8A29-103B8FA68D34

Figures 16 , 17 , 18 , 19−22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27–30

Figure 16.

sp. n. Female, Dorsum (A, B).

Figure 17.

sp. n. Female, A Genito-anal region B Venter.

Figure 18.

sp. n. Female, Palp.

Figures 19–22.

sp. n. Female, 19 Leg 1 20 Leg 2 21 Leg 3 22 Leg 4.

Figure 23.

sp. n. Male, Dorsum.

Figure 24.

sp. n. Male, Venter.

Figure 25.

sp. n. Male, Palp.

Figure 26.

sp. n. Male, Aedeagus.

Diagnosis (Female).

Dorsal body setae slender and serrate, all set on small tubercles; hysterosoma medially with transverse striae; propodosoma with lobed striae, hysterosomal striae simple (without lobes); stylophore slightly notched anteriorly; leg I shorter than body length; femora, genua, tibiae and tarsi I−IV: 5−4−2−1; 4−4−1−2; 6 (1)−5−4−4; 12(3ζ, 2ω)−11(3ζ, 1ω)−10(1ω)−10(1ω), respectively.

Female (n = 8) (Figures 16–22). Body oval; length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 347 (340−355), (including gnathosoma) 425 (415−430) and maximum width 263 (255−270).

Dorsum (Figure 16). Propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae, propodosoma with lobed striae, hysterososma medially with transverse striae, hysterosoma with simple striae; dorsal body setae slender and serrate, all dorsal setae with small tubercles, setae v2 reaching about two third to the distance v2−v2, reaching to the base of setae sc1; most hysterosomal setae distinctly shorter than distances of setae next row distance f1−f1 almost as long as d1−d1 but more widely spaced than c1−c1 and e1−e1. Length of dorsal setae: v2 34 (32−36), sc1 37 (36−38), sc2 32 (32−33), c1 24 (24−25), c2 36 (35−36), c3 23 (22−23), d1 33 (33−35), d2 38 (36−38), e1 37 (36−38), e2 42 (40−44), f1 39 (36−41), f2 26 (24−27), h1 28 (27−29); distances between dorsal setae: v2−v2 53 (51−55), sc1−sc1 95 (93−96), sc2−sc2 163 (160−165), c1−c1 58 (55−59), c2−c2 168 (160−170), c3−c3 263 (260−268), d1−d1 95(93−97), d2−d2 179 (174−185), e1−e1 63 (61−66), e2−e2 168 (163−170), f1−f1 73 (70−75), f2−f2 100 (97−102), h1−h1 26 (25−28), v2−sc1 27 (26−29), sc1−sc2 43 (42−45), sc2−c3 89 (87−90), sc2−c2 58 (57−59), sc2−c1 86 (85−87), c1−c2 53 (52−55), c2−c3 50 (50−52), d1−d2 48 (47−49), e1−e2 47 (46−48), f1−f2 21 (20−22), c1−d1 63 (60−64), c2−d2 74 (73−75), d1−e1 68 (66−69), d2−e2 74 (73−75), e1−f1 42 (41−43), e2−f2 53 (52−54), f1−h1 40 (39−41), f2−h1 37 (36−38).

Venter (Figure 17). Area between setae 1a−g1 with transverse striae. Length of ventral setae: 1a 37 (34−38), 3a 39 (39−40), 4a 40 (41−42), 1b 44 (41−44), 1c 43 (42−44), 2c 37 (35−38), 3b 36 (35−38), 4b 36 (33–37); distances between intercoxal and coxae setae: 1a−1a 53 (51−54), 3a−3a 68 (66−70), 4a−4a 95 (92−97); agential setae ag 42 (37−43), ag−ag 85 (83−86); genital setae: g1 33 (30−33), g2 32 (30−32), g1−g1 25 (24−26), g2−g2 81 (76−85); anal setae two pairs: ps1= ps2 14 (13−15), ps1−ps1 23 (21−23), ps2−ps2 23 (22−23); para−anal setae two pairs: h2 28 (27−28), h3 26 (26−28), h2−h2 31 (29−34), h3−h3 75 (72−77); all ventral setae simple except h2 and h3 slightly barbed. Spermatheca not clear.

Gnathosoma (Figure 18). Subcapitular setae m 23 (22−25), m−m 42 (39−44) (Figure 17). Palp femur and genu each with one setae, d 40 (39−44), l” 42 (40−43); palp tibia with three setae d 16 (14−17), l” 23 (21−25), l’ 23 (21−25) and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 16 (16−17) long, 11 (11−12) wide at base, with three setae a 7 (7−8), b 7 (6−7) both simple, c 13 (12−13) slightly barbed, three eupathidia suζ’’ 7 (6.5−7) long, 1.60 wide, ul’’ζ 6, ul’ζ 6 and one solenidion ω 5 width 1.7 (1.5−2) (Figure 18). Stylophore anteriorly slightly notched; peritreme ending with a simple bulb (Figure 16).

Legs (Figures 19–22). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 257 (250−265), 221 (216−225), 215 (210−225), 242 (235−250) respectively; leg I: trochanter 24 (23−25), femur 105 (102−107), genu 58 (54−63), tibia 57 (54−59), tarsus 68 (66−70); leg II: trochanter 30 (29−33), femur 95 (92−98), genu 53 (50−55), tibia 48 (46−50), tarsus 63 (61−65); leg III: trochanter 32 (30−34), femur 74 (71−75), genu 40 (39−41), tibia 68 (66−70), tarsus 68 (66−70); leg IV: trochanter 32 (30−35), femur 95 (91−98), genu 42 (40−45), tibia 74 (71−76), tarsus 70 (69−73); chaetotaxy of legs I−IV (eupathidia and solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−1−1−1, trochanters 1−1−1−1, femora 5−4−2−1, genua 4−4−1−2, tibiae 6(1)−5−4−4, tarsi 12(3ζ, 2ω)−11(3ζ, 1ω)−10(1ω)−10(1ω).

Male (n = 2) (Figures 23–30).

Body oval; Length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 236−246, (including gnathosoma) 335−353, maximum width 154−165.

Dorsum (Figure 23). Propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae; hysterosoma medially with transverse striae; all dorsal body setae slender, serrate and sub-equal in length, setae sc2 and hysterosomal setae with small tubercles. Length of dorsal setae: v2 19−21, sc1 18−20, sc2 20−24, c1 19−22, c2 24−28, c3 21−24, d1 20−23, d2 25−27, e1 24−26, e2 20−24, f1 28−33, f2 20−23, h1 19−21, h2 9−11, h3 12−13; distance between dorsal setae: v2−v2 48−54, sc1−sc1 80−85, sc2−sc2 143−148, c1−c1 35−37, c2−c2 115−120, c3−c3 160−164, d1−d1 63−65, d2−d2 120−125, e1−e1 32−36, e2−e2 86−90, f1−f1 42−43, f2−f2 68−70, h1−h1 25−27, h2−h2 17−19, h3−h3 38−40, v2−sc1 32−33, sc1−sc2 36−38, sc2−c3 43−45, sc2−c2 32−34, sc2−c1 60−63, c1−c2 37−38, c2−c3 26−28, c1−d1 24−26, c2−d2 37−38, d1−e1 42−45, d2−e2 32−34, e1−f1 43−45, e2−f2 38−40, f1−h1 22−22, f2−h1 28−30.

Venter (Figure 24). Idiosoma ventrally with transverse striae from setae 1a−ag. Length of ventral setae; 1a 35−38, 3a 22−24, 4a 26−28, 1b 45−48, 1c 42−47, 2b 26−30, 3b 30−33, 4b 27−28; distance between setae: 1a−1a 55−58, 1b−1c 13−16, 3a−3a 44−47, 4a−4a 62−65; aggenital setae: ag 14−16, ag−ag 10−11; genital setae: g1 10−11, g2 11−12, g1−g1 16−17, g2−g2 24−26; anal setae two pairs: ps1 8−9, ps2 12−13, ps1−ps1 8−9, ps1−ps2 6−7.

Gnathosoma (Figure 25). Subcapitular setae m 24−28, m−m 30−31 (Figure 24); palp femur and genu each with one setae d 20−22, l” 26; palp tibia with three setae d 12−13, l” 17−19, l’ 8 and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 11 long, 8 wide, with 3 simple setae a 7−8, b 6, c 10−11, 3 eupathidia ul’’ζ = ul’ζ 6−7, width 0.7 (0.6−0.9) suζ 4, 0.6 (0.5−0.7) a solenidion ω 3.5 long, width 1 (0.9−1.2) (Figure 25). Stylophore slightly notched; peritremes with simple bulb terminaly (Figure 23).

Aedeagus (Figure 26) bends dorsad at an angle of 90°; the bent portion blunt distally, shaft 8 long, 4 wide, bent portion 2.5 long.

Legs (Figures 27–30). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 315−325, 269−275, 265−271, 268−275 respectively; chaetotaxy of legs I−IV (eupathidia and solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−1−1−1, trochanters 1−1−1−1, femora 8−6−4−1, genua 5−5−2−2, tibiae 9(4)−5(3)−5−4, tarsi 11(2ζ, 2ω)−11(3ζ, 2ω)−10(1ω)−10(1ω).

Unknown.

The species name is derived from the transverse striations on dorsal hysterosoma.

Holotype female and four paratype females, Hochst. Ex Endl. (), Al-Shifa road, Taif, , elevation 2244 m, 11 Oct 2016, leg. M Kamran and M Rehman; three paratype females, , Ash Shifa road, Taif, , elevation 2133 m, 12 Sept 2017, leg. Eid M Khan and M Rehman.

sp. n. belongs to species group. It closely resembles Smiley & Baker, 1995 because the entire hysterosoma dorsomedially in both bear transverse striations. The new species is different from by stylophore anteriorly slightly notched vs. rounded; hysterosomal striae without lobes vs. with distinct lobed striae; number of setae on femora I−IV 5−4−2−1 vs. 7−7−4−3; genu III 1 vs. 2 and tibiae I−IV 6(1)−5−4−4 vs. 10−6−6−6 in (Table 1).

Attiah, 1967

Figures 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35−38 , 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 , 43–46

Figure 32.

, Female, A Genito-anal region B Venter.

Figure 33.

, Female, Palp.

Figure 34.

, Female, Spermatheca.

Figures 35–38.

, Female, 35A leg1 tarsus 35B Leg 1 36 Leg 2 37 Leg 3 38 Leg 4.

Figure 39.

, Male, Dorsum.

Figure 40.

, Male, Venter.

Figure 41.

, Male, Palp.

Figure 42.

, Male, Aedeagus.

Attiah, 1967: 12−13,

Material examined.

Eight females, sp. (), Taif, , elevation 1736 m, 11 Oct 2016, leg. M Kamran and M Rehman; seven females, sp., Tabuk, .

Known Hosts.

Date palm, L. (Attiah 1967, Palevsky et al. 2010); the desert fan palm, Lindley, Wendland; doum palm, L. Martius; Canary Island palm, Chabaud; mountain date palm, (Ben-David et al. 2007). Alatawi (2011) misidentified specimens of as collected from Duchesne ex. Poiret ().

Distribution.

Egypt, Iran, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

Redescription

of female (n = 15) (Figures 31–38)

Body oval, color in life greenish yellow. Length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 414−425, (including gnathosoma) 435−455 and maximum width 325−345.

Dorsum (Figure 31). Dorsum with lobed striae, propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae, hysterosoma medially with transverse striae except area between setae d1 and e1 longitudinal or “V” shaped pattern; dorsal setae serrate, slightly lanceolate, setae c1, d1, e1 reaching less than half to the distance of next consecutive setae; all dorsal setae without tubercles, propodosomal setae v2 reaching about two third to the distance v2−v2 and reaching to the bases of setae sc1, setae c3, d2, e2, f2, h1 and all propodosomal setae relatively longer than dorsocentral setae c1, d1, e1. Length of dorsal setae: v2 47−52, sc1 30−33, sc2 30−34, c1 17−19, c2 20−22, c3 25−29, d1 20−23, d2 28−31, e1 21−25, e2 27−32, f1 25−30, f2 32−37, h1 32−37; distance between dorsal setae: v2−v2 63−70, sc1−sc1 125−133, sc2−sc2 234−245, c1−c1 67−73, c2−c2 184−195, c3−c3 280−296, d1−d1 123−140, d2−d2 245−255, e1−e1 55−62, e2−e2 172−181, f1−f1 44−47, f2−f2 116−130, h1−h1 48−52, v2−sc1 40−43, sc1−sc2 46−50, sc2−c3 79−84, sc2−c2 72−78, sc2−c1 116−127, c1−c2 57−60, c2−c3 53−57, c1−d1 59−63, c2−d2 93−97, d1−e1 66−74, d2−e2 88−94, e1−f1 47−50, e2−f2 62−66, f1−h1 62−67, f2−h1 42−45.

Venter (Figures 32, 34). Ventral integument with transverse striae between setae 1a to g1. Length of ventral setae; 1a 39−43, 3a 30−34, 4a 41−44, 1b 35−39, 1c 42−47, 2c 36−40, 3b 29−33, 4b 42−46; distance between intercoxal and coxae setae: 1a−1a 40−43, 1b−1c 10−11), 3a−3a 63−66, 4a−4a 82−88; aggenital setae: ag 29−32, ag−ag 51−55; genital setae: g1 30−34, g2 26−31, g1−g1 28−32, g2−g2 61−66; anal setae two pairs: ps1 11−13, ps2 10−11, ps1−ps1 16−18, ps1−ps2 22−26; para anal setae two pairs: h2 18−20, h3 23−27, h2−h2 16−17, h3−h3 46−50, para-anal setae h2 and h3 finely serrated. Spermatheca oval, elongated and sacculus terminally rounded or slightly pointed as shown in figure 34.

Gnathosoma (Figure 31). Subcapitular setae m 30−34, m−m 37−42 (Figure 32). Palp femur and genu each with one setae d 45−49, l” 32−37; palp tibia with three setae d 24−27, l” 21−24, l’ 15−16 and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 19 long, 14 wide, with 3 simple setae a 10−11, b 9−10, c 13−14, 3 eupathidia suζ 9, width 1.35−1.7, ul’’ζ = ul’ζ 7−8, width 1.3−1.6 a solenidion ω 5 long, width 1.9−2.2 (Figure 33). Stylophore anteriorly slightly notched; peritremes ending with simple bulb (Figure 31).

Legs (Figures 35–38). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 320−340, 285−300, 280−295, 335−350 respectively; leg I 320−340: trochanter 30−33, femur 112−125, genu 61−68, tibia 63−72, tarsus 61−67; leg II 285−300: trochanter 30−33, femur 88−93, genu 50−55, tibia 46−50, tarsus 67−72; leg III 280−295: trochanter 25−30, femur 95 93−99, genu 30−33, tibia 58−63, tarsus 76−80; leg IV 335—350: trochanter 25−29, femur 110−117, genu 48−55, tibia 73−79, tarsi 77−82; legs chaetotaxy I−IV (solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−1−1−1, trochanters 1−1−1−1; femora 8−7−4−1; genua 5−5−2−2; tibiae 9(1) −6−6−7; tarsi 12 (3ζ, 3ω) −10(3ζ, 1ω) −10(1ω) −10(1ω).

Male (n= 4) (Figures 39–46)

Body oval, length of body (excluding gnathosoma) 340−355, (including gnathosoma) 405−425 and maximum width 206−220.

Dorsum (Figure 39). Propodosoma medially with longitudinal striae, area between setae c1−d1 with transverse striae and e1−h1 with oblique striae; all dorsal setae short and slightly lanceolate, and without tubercles; length of dorsal setae: v2 30−32, sc1 28−33, sc2 21−24, c1 15−17, c2 19−22, c3 20−24, d1 14−16, d2 14−17, e1 16−19, e2 19−22, f1 16−18, f2 19−22, h1 25−28, h2 9−12, h3 11−13; distance between dorsal setae: v2−v2 60−68, sc1−sc1 90−103, sc2−sc2 180−195, c1−c1 45−52, c2−c2 115−125, c3−c3 180−196, d1−d1 80−89, d2−d2 130−142, e1−e1 38−44, e2−e2 80−89, f1−f1 35−40, f2−f2 65−70, h1−h1 25−30, h2−h2 11−13, h3−h3 41−48, v2−sc1 36−42, sc1−sc2 30−34, sc2−c3 75−84, sc2−c2 64−70, sc2−c1 86−96, c1−c2 38−42, c2−c3 33−37, c1−d1 45−50, c2−d2 55−61, d1−e1 46−54, d2−e2 55−60, e1−f1 39−45, e2−f2 38−43, f1−h1 32−35, f2−h1 25−31.

Venter (Figure 40). Idiosoma ventrally with transverse striae; length of ventral setae; 1a 30−32, 3a 20−24, 4a 24−28, 1b 35−39, 1c 42−47, 2b 28−30, 3b 39−43, 4b 42−46, distance between setae: 1a−1a 34−38, 1b−1c 10−11, 3a−3a 38−45, 4a−4a 38−42; aggenital setae: ag 20−22, ag−ag 6−7; genital setae: g1 9−11, g2 10−11, g1−g1 16−17, g2−g2 25−28; anal setae two pairs: ps1 9−11, ps2 11−12, ps1−ps1 19−21, ps1−ps2 7.

Gnathosoma (Figure 41). Subcapitular setae m 27−29, m−m 30−33 (Figure 40); palp femur and genu each with one setae de 38−41, l” 21−25; palp tibia with three setae d 16−20, l” 21−25, l’ 13−14 and a palp tibial claw; palp tarsus 9−10 long, 12 wide, with 3 simple setae a 7 −8, b 8, c 9−10, 3 eupathidia ul’’ζ = ul’ζ 6.5−7, width 1 (0.9−1) suζ 4, width 0.7−0.9 a solenidion ω 3 long, width 1.2−1.7 (Figure 41). Stylophore notched; peritremes ending with simple bulb (Figure 39).

Aedeagus (Figure 42) bends dorsad at an angle of 70°; aedeagal knob pointed distally, shaft 10 long, 3.4 wide, bent portion 2.8 long.

Legs (Figures 43–46). Length of legs I−IV (trochanter to pretarsus): 470−485, 385−400, 402−425, 399−420 respectively; legs I−IV chaetotaxy (solenidia in parenthesis): coxae 2−1−1−1, trochanters 1−1−1−1; femora 8−7−4−1/2; genua 5−5−2−2; tibiae 9(3) −6(2)−6(1)−7; tarsi 12 (2ζ, 3ω)−10(3ζ, 2ω) −10(1ω)−10(1ω).

Attiah, 1967 is different from all other species of the genus by having all dorsal body setae without tubercles. It was described and illustrated from date palm trees in Egypt (Attiah 1967), but its original description was briefly and incomplete i.e. leg chaetotaxy, length and distance of dorsal setae were not provided. Meyer (1987) identified some specimens as from date palms from Israel and provided legs chaetotaxy without illustrations. Chaetotaxy of specimens collected from sp. from Saudi Arabia is same as mentioned by Meyer (1987) except differences on femora II and III 7−4 vs. 6−2 in the specimens from Israel. However, femur III with three setae was illustrated in original illustrations (Attiah 1967). Moreover, Attiah (1967) and Meyer (1987) observed striations of prodorsum longitudinal and undulating in this species. Undulation in prodorsal striations usually happened during mounting is not important diagnostic character to differentiate the species of the genus . Also, in this species striae between setae d1 and e1 were either longitudinal (Figure 31A) or “V” shaped (Figure 31B).

(Klein)

Figures 47 , 48 , 49

Klein, 1936: 3.

(Klein):

Andre, 1954: 859.

Meyer, 1974: 148−149.

Elbadry, 1970: 301−305.

Previous records from Saudi Arabia.

Martin 1972, Alatawi 2011.

Twenty seven females, sp., Education Farm, King Saud University, Riyadh, , 01 Feb 02 Apr 2009, 26 Oct 01 Nov 2010, 14, 24 Apr 2011, leg. J Basahih, and T Martibi; one female, sp., Dariyah, Riyadh, , 02 Feb 2009, leg. J Basahih; seven females, and sp., Ammaria, Riyadh, , 12 Apr 2009, 10 Mar 2011, leg. W Negm; five females, Hayer, Riyadh, , 28 Apr 2009, leg. J Basahih; two females, Rhodat ul Khoraim, Riyadh, 03, 9 May 2009, leg. J Basahih;, three females, sp., Waseel, Riyadh, , 11 Oct 2009, 23 Apr 2010, leg. J Basahih; four females, sp., sp., and Grasses under , near students housing King Saud University, Riyadh, , 20 Sep 2010, 28 Mar 2011, leg. J Basahih; eight females, , Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud University, Riyadh, , 13, 27 Dec 2010, 01, 25 Jan 25, 23 Mar 2011, leg. J Basahih ; twelve females, sp., Nijran, 18 Apr 28 Sept 2011, leg. Jaid; six females, sp. Qassim, , 26 May 2011, leg. J. Basihih and A. Majeed; two females, sp., and soil under Al-Madina, , 19 Jun 13 Oct 2011, leg. M Kamran and W Negm; eleven females, sp., and sp., Wadi Namar, Riyadh, , 14 Oct 2012, leg. M Kamran; two females, , Dariyah, Riyadh, , 5 Apr 2014, 18 Mar 2015 leg. M Kamran; two females, sp. and sp., Deesa valley, Tabuk, , 17, 18 Oct 2015, leg. M Kamran; two females, , Al-Sail Kabeer, Taif, , 15 Oct 2016, leg. M Kamran and M Rehman; two females, sp., Khayber, , 1 Nov 2016, leg. M Kamran and E M Khan; nine females, sp., sp., and sp., Al-Ula, , 2 Nov 2016, leg. M Kamran and E M Khan; twenty five females, sp., sp., , sp., sp., sp., and sp., Al-Ula, . 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 May 2017, leg. E M Khan and M Rehman.

Discussion.

Variations within the different populations of .

Morphological variations of in 91 female specimens that were collected from 28 various host plants and 80 different localities in six regions of Saudi Arabia during 2009 to 2017 are shown in Figures 47A−H, 48, and 49. The lengths and shapes of dorsal body setae, striation patterns between setae d1 and e1, and chaetotaxy of leg segments including femora and tibiae have been presented in Table 1.

The most prominent variations within in populations are in the length and shape of dorsal setae. These variations including, dorsocentral setae length [c1 (10−51), d1 (12−50), e1 (14−41) and f1 (10−45)] and shape [oblanceolate, ovate, obovate, subspatulate and spatulate] (Figure 47A−H). Also, these setae were either very short far behind the bases of next consecutive setae (Figure 47B, D, E, G), reaching one third to half (Figure 47A, F) or almost extending to the bases of next consecutive setae (Figure 47C, F, H). Dorsal setae sc1, sc2, c2, c3, d2, e2, f2, and h1 were also varied in shape (oblanceolate, subspatulate, spatulate, slender), mostly among the specimens of different populations. The same variations in these dorsal setae have been recorded in populations of this species collected from different countries (Baker and Pritchard 1960, Chaudhri et al. 1974, Meyer 1974, Meyer 1987, Khanjani et al. 2017).

Striations patterns between the dorsocentral setae d1 and e1 varied either forming “V” shaped pattern (n = 80; Figure 47A-E, G, H) or a longitudinal pattern (n = 11; Figure 47F) and varied even among the specimens of the same population. Similar variations in dorsal striation patterns have also been observed by Chaudhri et al. (1974), Meyer (1987), and Khanjani et al. (2017).

Moreover, all dorsal setae in collected in this study are set on tubercles; lateral setae are on prominent tubercles as compared to dorsocentral setae (c1, d1, and e1) which are mostly set on relatively smaller tubercles (n = 73). However, in some specimens setae c1, d1, and e1 are without distinct tubercles (n = 19) as shown in Figure 47D, G. This variation was observed even among the individuals of a single population collected in the current study. A similar variation has been illustrated by Chaudhri et al. (1974). However, dorsocentral setae c1, d1, and e1 were described and illustrated only on small tubercles (Meyer 1987, Khanjani et al. 2017).

Our observations also showed that legs setal count was fixed in on coxae, trochanters, and genua I−IV (2−1−1−1, 1−1−1−1 and 5−5−2−2), respectively (see Table 1). Chaetotaxy on leg femora and tibiae were observed mostly as I−IV (8−6−3−1) and (9(1)−6−6−7), respectively. The differences in legs chaetotaxy of the specimens of belonging to the same and different populations were observed on femora I 7 (n = 3), 7/8 (n = 10); femora II 5/6 (n = 2), 6/7 (n = 2); femora III 3/4 (n = 10), 3 (n = 40); 4 (n = 23), 2/3 (n = 3); femora IV 1/2 (n = 8); on tibiae I 8/9 (1) (n = 7), 8 (1); tibia II 6/7 (n = 3); tibia III 6/5 (n = 2); tibia IV 7/6 setae (n = 2) in the current study, similar to the variations on femora and tibiae documented by Khanjani et al. (2017) in populations collected from Iran and Australia.

The spermathecal sacculus terminally varied from rounded to slightly pointed in some specimens of this study (Figures 48A, 49A). Also, the length of the spinneret on the palp tarsus varied from three to four times compared to its width. Similarly, Khanjani et al. (2017) reported that shape of spermathecal sacculus varied distally from rounded to pointed and that spinneret length also varied in . However, Meyer (1987) considered variations in shape of spermathecal sacculus (rounded or pointed distally) and length of spinneret (3 to 4 times as long as its width) as a method to differentiate Meyer from .

The morphological variations in have resulted in misidentifications and additions of new species in the genus . Because some morphological variations have now been reported in , four species Rahman & Sapra, 1940, André, 1954, El Badry, 1970, and Meyer, 1974 were synonymized with by Meyer (1987) and Bolland et al. (1998).

Meyer, reported from Africa, was separated from by the slightly longer dorsocentral setae, shape of spermathecal sacculus, and length of palp spinneret (Table 2; Meyer 1987). The three species , , and reported from Yemen were differentiated from by variation in the number of setae on femora I and IV, shapes of dorsal setae, and striation pattern between setae d1 and e1 (Smiley and Baker 1995). Nassar & Ghai, 1981 reported from India was separated from based on the difference in numbers of setae on femur I and distances between dorsal setae e1 and f1 (see also Table 2). The two species and , reported from China, were distinguished from and , respectively, based only on differences in lengths of dorsal setae (Ma and Yuan 1982) (Table 2). However, the leg chaetotaxy of these two species were mentioned in the original descriptions as being similar in (Ma and Yuan 1982) (Table 2).

Table 2.

Variable morphological characters used to differentiate some species suggested as synonyms of in the current study.

Suggested synonyms of E.orientalis	Characters used to differentiate in original descriptions							Reference
	Dorsocentral setae, short, medium or long	Shape of dorsal setae	Setae on femur II	Setae on femur IV	Striations pattern b/w e1 and d1	Spermatheca distally	Length of palp spinneret as compared to width
E. fici	long, extending to the bases of next setae in line	Spatulate to subspatulate	6	2	V shaped	rounded	4 times	Meyer 1987
E. pruni	Short to medium	Slender	7	1	longitudinal	–*	–*	Smiley and Baker 1995
E. ricinus	Short to medium	oblanceolate to subspatulate	7	2	longitudinal	–*	–	Smiley and Baker 1995
E. sanaae	Short to medium	Slender	7	1	V shaped	–*	–*	Smiley and Baker 1995
E. phaseoli	Short	Subspatulate	7	1	V shaped	–*	–*	Nassar and Ghai 1981
E. guangdongensis	Short to medium	Spatulate to Subspatulate	Mentioned the same as in E.orientalis			–*	–*	Ma and Yaun 1981
E.xianensis**	Short	Spatulate to Subspatulate				–*	–*	Ma and Yaun 1981
E. orientalis	Short, medium and long almost extending to the bases of next setae in line	Slender, Spatulate, subspatulate, oblanceolate	6, 6/7, 7 Variable	1, 2,1/2 Variable	V shaped or longitudinal	Pointed or rounded	3 to 4 times	Khanjani et al. 2017; Present study

*Information not available in the original descriptions **distinguished from in the original description

Because these seven species have been differentiated in their original descriptions by only one or more variable characters which have also been observed in populations (Chaudhri et al. 1974, Meyer 1987, Khanjani et al. 2017) as well as this study (see Table. 2), these seven species (, , , , , , and ) are suggested as synonyms of in this study.

Species Inquirenda

Iqbal & Ali, 2008

Iqbal & Ali, 2008: 125−130.

Host and Distribution.

Female, from L. (), Abbottabad, Pakistan.

was described with coxae I−IV 2−2−2−2 (whereas they illustrate 2−2−1−1 setae) and three pairs of anal setae. Also, the empodium of this species were neither described nor illustrated. So, based on these characters together, can neither be placed in nor even in other genera of the family .The first author has informed us that type specimens of this species have been lost. Therefore, is considered as a species inquirenda.

After excluding those seven species which we suggest as synonyms and one species inquirenda, the genus includes 28 species (including the new species described herein) and is divided into two species groups based on the number of setae (one or two) on coxae II: the species group has one seta on coxa II (12 species) and the species group has two setae on coxa II (16 species). The number of setae on coxae II has been considered as a solid morphometric character founded to be strongly constant in all specimens of each species (Pritchard and Baker 1955, Baker and Pritchard 1960, Chaudhri et al. 1974, Meyer 1974, 1987, Khanjani et al. 2017).

1	Coxa II with 2 setae	species group banksi −2
–	Coxa II with 1 seta	species group orientalis −17
2	Setae f1 two times more widely spaced as setae e1 or marginal in position	3
–	Setae f1 equally spaced or slightly more widely spaced as setae e1	5
3	Hysterosoma with elipitical elevations in between dorsocentral setae c1 and e1; dorsal setae set on strong tubercles	cratis Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Congo)
–	Hysterosoma without elipitical elevations in between dorsocentral setae c1 and e1, dorsal setae set on small tubercles	4
4	Genua I and II with 5 setae, setae f1 marginal in position	anitae Estebanes-Gonzalez & Baker, 1968 (Mexico)
–	Genua I and II with 4 setae, setae f1 in normal position	banksi (McGregor, 1914) (USA)
5	Hysterosoma dorsomedially with transverse striations	nomurai Flechtmann, 1997 (Brazil)
–	Hysterosoma dorsomedially with a band of “V” shaped or longitudinal striae between setae d1 and e1	6
6	Genua III and IV with 1 seta	acaciae Miller, 1966 (Tasmania)
–	Genua III and IV with more than 1 setae	7
7	Genu III with 5 setae	concertativus Meyer, 1974 (Namibia)
–	Genu III with 2 or 3 setae	8
8	Genua III and IV with 3 or 4 setae	9
–	Genua III and IV with 2 setae	12
9	All dorsal body setae slender, much longer; dorsocentral setae c1, e1 and f1 reaching past bases of next consecutive setae	spinosus sp. n.
–	All dorsal body setae short, oblanceolate to subspatulate, dorsocentral setae c1, d1 and f1 reaching at least half distance of next consecutive setae	10
10	Femur I with 7 setae, femur IV with 1 setae	11
–	Femur I with 8 setae, femur IV with 2 setae	swazilandicus Meyer, 1974 (South Africa)
11	Tibia III with 7 setae	rhusi Meyer & Ueckermann, 1988 (South Africa)
–	Tibia III with 8 setae	namibianus Meyer, 1987 (Namibia)
12	Tibia II with 5 setae	13
–	Tibia II with 6 setae	14
13	Setae v2 as long as to the distance v2−v2, setae f2 reaching past bases of setae h; dorsal setae slender; all setae with tubercles	bredini Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Rwanda)
–	Setae v2 and f2 reaching one third to the distances v2−v2 and f2−h1respectively; dorsal setae oblanceolate to subspatulate; only few opisthosomal setae set on tubercles	clastus Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Congo)
14	Tibia III with 6 setae, dorsocentral (c1, d1, e1) setae on prominent tubercles	africanus (Tucker, 1926) (South Africa)
–	Tibia III with 5 setae, dorsocentral (c1, d1, e1) setae with small tubercles	15
15	Tibia IV with 7 setae, femur III with 3 setae	enodes Baker & Pritchard, 1960 (Congo)
–	Tibia IV with 6 setae, femur III with 2 setae	16
16	Tarsus I with solenidion of loosly associated setae about two third as long as proximal tactile seta, tarsus II with this solenidion slightly longer than proximal tactile setae	carinae Meyer, 1974 (South Africa)
–	Tarsus I with solenidion of loosly associated setae about less than half as long as proximal tactile seta, tarsus II with this solenidion about two third as long as than proximal tactile seta	eliei Gutierrez & Helle, 1971 (Madagascar)
17	Entire hysterosoma dorsomedially with transverse striations	18
–	Hysterosoma dorsomedially in between setae d1 and e1 with longitudinal or “V” shaped band of striations	19
18	Femora I−IV with 5−4−2−1	neotransversus sp. n.
–	Femora I−V with 7−7−4−3	transverstriatus Smiley & Baker, 1995 (Yemen)
19	Idiosoma with none of dorsal setae set on tubercles	palmatus Attiah, 1967 (Egypt)
–	Idiosoma with most of the dorsal body setae set on tubercles	20
20	Tibia II with 5 setae	21
–	Tibia II with 6/7 setae	24
21	Most of dorsal setae set on strong tubercles; striae on prodorsum medially tortuous forming crescentic pattern	pyri Attiah, 1982 (Egypt)
–	Dorsal setae set on relatively small tubercles; striae on prodorsum medially longitudinal and lobed	22
22	Dorsal body setae slender tapering towards tips, most of dorsal setae longer than the distance between their base and the bases of the next consecutive setae	pantopus (Berlese, 1910) (Australia)
–	Dorsal body setae sub-spatulate to oblanceolate with blunt tips; most of setaeespecially dorsocentrals (c1, d1, e1, f1) short far behind the next consecutive setae	23
23	Tibia I with 8 setae, all dorsal setae set on tubercles	caricae Nassar & Ghai, 1981 (India)
–	Tibia I with 9 setae, setae c1, d1, e1, f1, sc2 and c3 without tubercles	citri Attiah, 1967 (Egypt)
24	Tibia III with 5 setae	maximae Nassar & Ghai, 1981 (India)
–	Tibia III usually with 6/7 setae or (sometime 5 setae on one side while on other side of tibia in same specimen of E.orientalis)	25
25	Femur II with 5 setae	26
–	Femur II usually with 6/7 except 5 setae on femur II in some specimens of E.orientalis)	27
26	Peritremes ending in bilobed bulb; setae e2 short reaching half to the bases of setae e1 and f1	bilobatus Nassar & Ghai, 1981 (India)
–	Peritremes ending in a simple bulb-like structure; setae e2 long reaching the bases of setae e1 and f1	nagai Nassar & Ghai, 1981 (India)
27	All dorsal setae long slender with tapering tips, dorsocentral setae c1, e1, f1 crossing the bases of next consecutive setae; setae e1 crossing the bases of h1	mirpuriensis Chaudhri, Akbar & Rasool, 1974 (Pakistan)
–	Most of dorsal setae oblanceolate to subspatulate; setae e1 far behind the bases of h1	orientalis (Klein, 1936)