Isolation of <i>Psoroptes</i> scab mite microsatellite markers (Acari: Psoroptidae)

Abstract

Abstract Nine microsatellite markers have been isolated from the scab mite, Psoroptes ovis . These markers have been tested for polymorphism in individual Psoroptes mites originating from two hosts, the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus , and sheep, Ovis aries . No definitive picture of Psoroptes species’ status or interrelationships exists. This study provides the basis for a new molecular system to elucidate the systematics of groupings within the genus Psoroptes , allowing us to clarify the population dynamics and epidemiology of the mites causing sheep scab world wide.