Oribatid mite

Platyliodes sp. nov. showing mineralized cuticle. Oribatid mites are distinguished from other mites by their sclerosed and mineralized cuticle in some species. This striking armor and a cerotegument cover allow them to resist inclement weather and predators. Scanning electron microscopy. Image by Harol Revelo Tobar, Colegio de Postgraduados, Texcoco, Mexico