Springtail

Scientific Name: Collembola

Order & Family: Entomobryomorpha (Order), often Entomobryidae or Isotomidae

Size: Typically extremely small, ranging from 0.25 mm to 6 mm in length.

Springtail

Natural Habitat

Very moist or damp environments. Commonly found in soil, leaf litter, decaying wood, potted plants, and often found floating in swimming pools or near drains.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivores and fungivores; they primarily feed on decaying organic matter, fungi, mold, bacteria, and algae.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their ability to jump using a tail-like appendage called a furcula (though some aquatic species lack this). They tend to aggregate in large numbers in damp areas and are active year-round, even in snow (Snow Fleas).

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Essential for soil health as they break down organic matter and cycle nutrients. Risks: Generally harmless to humans and pets; they do not bite or sting. However, they can be a nuisance pest in swimming pools or if they infest houseplants.

Identified on: 3/5/2026