Lorryia (Acariformes, Tydeidae): The evolutionary plasticity of an enigmatic genus

Abstract

Interpretations of the genus Lorryia Oudemans, 1925 are reviewed together with their respective criteria. After consideration of Oudemans' detailed description and previously unavailable plates, the unique type specimen (lost ?) is not considered abnormal but rather reveals evolutionary pathways (heterobidactyly, reduction of the palp chaetotaxy) consistent with other Tydeoidea. After discussion, the genus is re-established in its pristine state and remains monospecific (L. superba). The genus Brachytydeus Thor, 1931 (ca 200 species) is quite distinct from Lorryia and does not deserve any synonymisation.