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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 31 May 2012
The larvae of all known species of Acroceridae are internal parasites of spiders (Araneae) and recently (Sferra 1986), first-instar larvae have been described from mites (Acari). The eggs usually are laid in close proximity to their hosts, and the first-instar larvae (planidia) wait for, or actively seek, a host. Once a host is found, the larvae burrow through the spider's integument and attach to the book lungs where they remain in diapause for several months. The consecutive larval instars occur rapidly, during which time the larva consumes most of the liquid contents of the host. The larvae emerge posteriorly from the host, attach to the spider silk for pupation, and adults emerge in 7–10 days. Acrocerid biology was most recently reviewed by Schlinger (1969, 1981).