The influence of environmental variables on soil mite communities (Acari: Mesostigmata) from overgrazed grassland ecosystems – Romania

Abstract In 2013–2014, the soil mite communities from six overgrazed grassland ecosystems located in the Trascău Mountains, Romania, were investigated. Forty-six species were identified, with 645 individuals. Some abiotic factors from soil were measured (soil temperature – T, soil water content – H, soil acidity – pH, carbon content – C, total nitrogen – Nt, and C/Nt ratio). Significant statistical differences were obtained between environmental factors. Using a canonical correspondence analysis of mite species abundance, environmental variables and habitats, strong relationships between investigated factors were established.