Bug Identifier
Snow Flea
Community identification

Snow Flea

Hypogastrura nivicola

Order & Family
Order: Poduromorpha; Family: Hypogastruridae
Size
1 to 2 millimeters in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp soil, leaf litter, and the surface of snow in wooded areas

Diet & Feeding

Decomposing organic matter, algae, fungi, and bacteria

Behavior Patterns

They are active in winter and can be seen jumping across the snow using a tail-like structure called a furcula; they produce an anti-freeze protein that allows them to remain active in sub-zero temperatures.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans, pets, and structures; they provide ecological benefits by aiding in the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling.