Globular Springtail

Scientific Name: Sminthurinus sp.

Order & Family: Symphypleona; Sminthurididae / Katiannidae

Size: 0.5mm to 2.0mm in length

Globular Springtail

Natural Habitat

Damp environments, including leaf litter, soil, gardens, and occasionally indoors in areas with high humidity or houseplants.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly detritivores; they consume decaying organic matter, fungi, mold, algae, and bacteria.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for their 'furcula', a tail-like appendage used to propel themselves high into the air as a survival mechanism. They are generally active year-round and congregate in moist areas.

Risks & Benefits

Completely harmless to humans, pets, and structures. They do not bite or sting. Benefit the ecosystem as decomposers by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients into the soil.

Identified on: 12/28/2025