
Community identification
Snow Flea
Hypogastrura nivicola
- Order & Family
- Order: Poduromorpha; Family: Hypogastruridae
- Size
- 1 to 2 millimeters in length
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.