Springtail
Scientific Name: Collembola (general order, specific genus/species difficult to identify from image)
Order & Family: Order: Collembola (though sometimes considered a class or subclass, Collembola is widely treated as an order within Hexapoda). Family: There are many families within Collembola, such as Entomobryidae, Sminthuridae, Hypogastruridae, etc. Due to the image resolution, a specific family cannot be identified.
Size: Most springtails are very small, ranging from 0.2 mm to 10 mm in length, with many common species being in the 1-3 mm range.
Natural Habitat
Springtails thrive in damp, moist environments with abundant decaying organic matter. They are commonly found in soil, leaf litter, rotting wood, under bark, in compost piles, and sometimes in damp indoor environments like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
Diet & Feeding
Springtails primarily feed on decaying organic matter, fungi, mold, algae, and bacteria. Some species may also consume pollen or plant material, but generally, they are decomposers.
Behavior Patterns
Springtails are known for their ability to jump using a furcula, a tail-like appendage folded under the abdomen. They live in moist environments and are often found in large numbers. Some species can invade homes, especially in damp areas like bathrooms or basements. They are generally active, constantly foraging for food in their microhabitats.
Risks & Benefits
Springtails are generally considered beneficial as decomposers, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems. They help break down organic matter in soil and regulate microbial populations. They are not known to bite, sting, or transmit diseases to humans or pets, nor do they typically cause structural damage to homes or significant damage to healthy plants. However, in large numbers, they can be a nuisance in damp indoor spaces, and their presence can indicate a moisture problem.
Identified on: 8/24/2025