| abstract | The nominate form of Laelaps echidnina Berlese is not considered to occur naturally on wild rodents in the Ethiopian Region, but may be introduced from other areas on captive rats. A new subspecies of L. echidnina, distinguished by being much larger than the nominate form, is described from the Ethiopian Region, and named L. echidnina solida. L. muricola Trägårdh is recognized as a highly variable species. A new species, L. litigiosa, is described from rodents in Nigeria and the Ivory Coast. A key to separate the 4 forms discussed is provided. |