Arachnida Acariformes are a fascinating order within the class Arachnida, known primarily for their microscopic size and diverse habitats. This order includes a wide variety of mites and ticks, which are two groups of tiny arachnids that often go unnoticed due to their minuscule size, yet they play significant roles in their ecosystems.

Characteristics:

• Members of Acariformes are characterized by the absence of distinct body segmentation, a feature typically seen in other arachnids.
• The body is divided into two main parts: the gnathosoma, which includes the mouthparts, and the idiosoma, which contains the rest of the body.
• Many species within this order have specialized adaptations for burrowing, feeding, or parasitism.

Ecological Roles:

• Mites contribute to the decomposition process and soil formation by feeding on decaying organic matter and fungi.
• Some species are parasitic and can affect a wide range of hosts including plants, animals, and humans.
• Ticks, on the other hand, are well-known vectors for various diseases, transmitting pathogens as they feed on the blood of their hosts.

In the Comunidad Valenciana, these arachnids can be found in a multitude of habitats ranging from forested areas to agricultural lands, where they can impact both natural ecosystems and human activities.

While the local term for these creatures may not be commonly used, they play indispensable roles in the natural world akin to "ácaros" and "garrapatas," which are often the Spanish terms associated with these tiny yet significant arachnids.