Oviposition and development of larvae in the water mite Hydrachna cruenta (Acariformes, Hydrachnidae)

The oviposition and development of larvae in Hydrachna cruenta Muller 1769 was studied using methods of light and scanning microscopy. Some features of similarity in the reproductive behavior and development of larvae were noted between H. cruenta and terrestrial tromboculid mites: spermatophore fertilization, the presence of one egg shell, the ability to bear short periods of egg drying, and the formation of stylostome. The life of H. cruenta larvae in water during a search of host may be considered as one of the adaptations of this species to a new habitat.