Trophic diversity and niche partitioning in a species rich predator guild - Natural variations in stable isotope ratios (13C/12C, 15N/14N) of mesostigmatid mites (Acari, Mesostigmata) from Central European beech forests

► We analyzed variations in stable isotope ratios in 40 Mesostigmata species of beech forests. ► The majority of species occupy distinct trophic niches including closely related species. ► The most important prey comprises secondary decomposers presumably in particular nematodes. ► Trophic level in Mesostigmata correlates little with body size.