Avian Air Sac Mites Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Air sac mites are obligate endoparasitic hematophagous arthropods that infest the respiratory tract of birds, causing respiratory acariasis or sternostomatosis. These tiny arachnids colonize the trachea, syrinx, lungs, and air sacs, where they feed on blood and tissue. Air sac mite infestations are particularly devastating in Gouldian finches and canaries, representing a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.

Etiology and Classification

Air sac mites belong to family Rhinonyssidae, order Mesostigmata. Key species:

Mite Morphology

• Size: Males 0.4 mm; females 0.5-0.7 mm long; 0.2-0.3 mm wide
• Color: Clear to dark red depending on blood meal status
• Legs: Four pairs (arachnid characteristic)
• Feeding apparatus: Chelate-dentate chelicerae for blood feeding

Life Cycle and Transmission

S. tracheacolum is ovoviviparous and completes its life cycle in approximately 6 days.