Investigation of the seasonal dynamics of soil Gamasina mites (Acari: Mesostigmata) in Pinaceum myrtilosum, Latvia

Investigation was made because of the lack of data on soil Gamasina mite seasonal dynamics in coniferous forests of Latvia and their relation to the changes of soil ecological conditions during the season. Investigations were carried out on the seasonal dynamics of some soil microarthropod groups, numbers of Gamasina species and individuals, and species diversity, in relation to soil ecological conditions. Soil microarthropods, including Gamasina mites, were shown to depend on soil ecological conditions. The soil relative humidity must be recognised as a limiting factor. It was found that when there is enough humidity, the decisive factor is soil temperature.