Circadian rhythms allow organisms to behave in accordance with the daily and seasonal conditions in which they are living. These circadian rhythms change based on environmental cues, such as photoperiod and temperature, to adapt to the constantly changing environment.

Circadian rhythms were studied in the "model mite" TSSM on a seasonal scale: TSSM hibernates over the cold winter season. Adult, mated females enter hibernation when exposed to certain photoperiods at specific life stages.

We wish to study possible daily rhythms in TSSM and uncover the genetic mechanisms governing these.