Wind dispersal of oribatid mites as a mode of migration

摘要: Abstract Oribatid mites are important colonizers of young soils, but little is known about their immigration pathways. In this study, one often-stated hypothesis was tested quantitatively: that wind an dispersal pathway. The aim (1) to detect in oribatid (using sticky traps at different heights above ground level) and determine factors influencing dispersal, (2) investigate whether oribatids can survive immigrate by into soils mini-pitfall test plots with oribatid-free substrate, active being prohibited) (3) find out those able colonize soil cores from the plots). results demonstrate mainly arboreal species were dispersed – even 160 m height therefore be spread over large distances. Nevertheless, 10% wind-dispersed belonged live may potential soils. number specimen transported highest close surface individuals influenced seasonality humidity. also suggest probability a depends on its original microhabitat (tree habitats > soil surface > deeper layers) body weight. It shown soil-dwelling survived immigrated colonization took least 2 months longer than immigration. However, success low during first years investigation only Trichoribates incisellus found several times nutrient-poor substrate. Therefore, migration pathway, especially for oribatids. We most likely occurs repeated short-distance dispersal. Only some hostile conditions as well pioneer do potentially founders new populations.