Which of the following describes the body shape of mites?

The body shape of mites is best described as bulbous or pill-shaped. Mites typically have a rounded, oval appearance that gives them a plump or bulbous look. This characteristic shape is due to their body structure, which lacks a distinct division into segments like some other arthropods. This bulbous shape can vary slightly among different species, but it tends to remain within this general description.

Insects and arthropods with a flat and wide shape are more commonly associated with other classes, such as certain species of beetles or flatworms, which do not resemble the rounded form of mites. Similarly, long and thin shapes are typical of other arthropod groups like some insects or worms, but they do not accurately depict the compact form of mites. Lastly, the segmented body shape with visible markings is associated with organisms such as centipedes or caterpillars but does not represent mites, which lack this clear segmentation. Thus, bulbous or pill-shaped is the most appropriate description of mites.