The cys-loop ligand-gated ion channel gene family of Tetranychus urticae: Implications for acaricide toxicology and a novel mutation associated with abamectin resistance

► The first chelicerate cys-loop ligand-gated ion channel (cysLGIC) super family is described and analysed. ► Tetranychus urticae contains a high number of glutamate- and histamine-gated chloride channel genes and 3 Rdl orthologues. ► Sequence analysis provides insights into insecticide selectivity. ► An abamectin-resistant T. urticae strain accumulates mutations in different GluCls. ► A novel mutation associated with abamectin resistance was uncovered.