Trombidium grandissimum "Giant Red Velvet Mite"
Adaptation
The Giant R
ed Velvet Mite is exposed to
hundreds of bacteria, worms, bugs and fungi on a daily basis. Some of
these bacteria and fungi are known to cause discomfort in
humans, and in some instances even kill them. So how does
a bug as small as the Giant Red Velvet Mite live so abundantly
in such harsh conditions? Recent research has been conducted, and evidence shows T.
grandissimum actually secretes antifungal oil, and the mites
circulatory fluid, hemolymph, showed the most antifungal activity.
This secretion allows the Giant Red Velvet Mite to live in
"dirty" conditions.
The characteristic color of the Red Velvet Mite is also
an
adaptation. The vivid red states, "I taste the way I
look-dangerous and gross," and acts as a warning to hungry
birds and mammals.
Because of the bright warning color, T. grandissimum has few
known natural enemies. Its biggest enemy is other Giant Red
Velvet Mites; to see what this could mean, please see
nutrition. They also curl their legs
up into a ball when they feel threatened.
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