Speciation processes within the Korean Peninsula based on the mites from the family Zerconidae (Acari: Mesostigmata)

The mesostigmatid mites speciation of the family Zerconidae in the Korean Peninsula was analysed in relation to the range of this group in the world. The Korean Peninsula is located on the edge of the Holarctic and is characterised by a uniquely diversified climate shaping the longitudinally changing flora. At present, there are altogether 40 genera included in the family Zerconidae. So far, in the Korean Peninsula there have been recognised 18 species of the Zerconidae belonging to 11 genera. The endemic genera within the area include: Metazercon, Eurozer-con, Xenozercon, Koreozercon, Kaikiozercon, Aquilo-nozercon, and cf. Mesozercon gen. nov. A very high level of endemism (over 60%) proves the intensity of the speciation processes within the Zerconidae family on the Korean Peninsula.