Trace element concentrations in two oribatid mite species and their associated soil and moss habitats

Oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida) are soil-dwelling arthropods that contribute to decomposition processes and nutrient cycling. This study presents a preliminary analytical assessment of trace element concentrations in oribatid mites and their associated environmental matrices. Two species were examined together with their corresponding soil and moss substrates using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Due to limited sample availability, pooled samples were used and the results were evaluated in a descriptive manner. The findings indicate the presence of both trace metals and essential elements in mite and substrate samples, with variations observed between species and environmental matrices. Elemental profiles of mites generally reflected those of their surrounding substrates, suggesting environmental exposure as a contributing factor. Differences between sample groups are reported as observed trends rather than statistically validated relationships. The data provide sample-based evidence of element accumulation patterns in oribatid mites; however, the extent and mechanisms of uptake cannot be conclusively determined within the scope of this study. The results are therefore interpreted as indicative rather than definitive. This work provides baseline data for future studies employing expanded sampling and quantitative analyses, and contributes to the understanding of trace element distribution in soil-associated microarthropods.