Raphignathoidea

The Raphignathoidea is a superfamily of the Acari (mite) Order Trombidiformes. It contains many predators of small invertebrates, while some are herbivores and others parasites.

The predatory Raphignathoidea are of some commercial importance, as many are suitable for biological pest control. They are bred and released to control such plant pests as gall mites (Eriophyidae), spider mites (Tetranychidae) or scale insects (Coccoidea) in agriculture and forestry.

This is a diverse and widespread group of mites. With about 62 genera and some 877 species, Raphignathoidea mites are abundant on most continents, including a few that have colonized Antarctica. The lineage dates back at least to the Paleocene–Eocene boundary, about 56 million years ago.