First record of Leptus Charles De Geer, 1778 (Acari, Erythraeidae) larval parasitism on Eyprepocnemis alacris alacris Serville, 1838 (Orthoptera, Acrididae) from Kerala, India

Abstract

Eyprepocnemis alacris alacris is a species of short-horned grasshopper commonly found in grasslands, forests, and open habitats across Kerala. Leptus larvae, which are six-legged parasitic mites, typically inhabit soil and leaf litter. For the first time, a severe infestation of Leptus larvae on E. a. alacris was recorded in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala. Leptus larvae were collected from the host’s abdomen, antennae and hind wings. These larvae penetrate the host’s cuticle, creating deep puncture wounds, particularly in the abdominal region, to feed on body fluids. The heavy infestation suggests that the larvae exploit the grasshopper not only for nourishment but also as a means of dispersal.