Redescription of the feather mite Gabucinia delibata (Robin, 1877) (Astigmata: Gabuciniidae), newly recorded from the hooded crow, Corvus cornix (Linnaeus, 1758) (Passeriformes: Corvidae) in Egypt

Abstract

Abstract Background Faunistic information about feather mites in Egypt is scarce, as well as in the Middle East region. Results Gabucinia delibata (Robin, 1877) (Astigmata: Pterolichoidea: Gabuciniidae) is recorded for the first time in Egypt from the hooded crow, Corvus cornix (Linnaeus, 1758) (Passeriformes: Corvidae). Adult males and females of G. delibata are redescribed and illustrated. Examined specimens were compared with previous description and anomalous features were discussed. Conclusion The new mite record reported here provides descriptive information for future taxonomic research of feather mites in Egypt. Hopefully, the present work would encourage more comprehensive surveys in the Middle East region since a large number of undiscovered species is expected.

Keywords

• Acari
• Feather mites
• Gabucinia delibata
• Corvidae
• Egypt