Distribution of Leptotrombidium (Leptotrombidium) arenicola (Acarina: Trombiculidae) on the ground in West Malaysia.

Leptotrombidium (Leptotrombidium) Arenicola (Traub, 1960) a probable vector of scrub typhus, is widely distributed along both E and W coasts of West Malaysia, the only country where this mite has so far been found. Distribution was determined by collection of unengorged larvae from the ground on black plates. Habitats had a variety of vegetational cover, but all had sandy soil and shade. Larvae were found in considerable numbers as far inland as 135 m (150 yards) from the edge of open sand; once larvae were found .8 km (1/2 mile) from the beach, but they were most numerous within 30 m (30 yds) of the shore. Distribution of larvae within typical habitats was very uneven and often larvae were absent. Frequently L. (L.) arenicola and L. (L.) deliense (Walch, 1922) were found together, but L. (L.) arenicola was never found in association with L. (L.) akamushi (Brumpt, 1910).