Bug Identifier
Springtail
Community identification

Springtail

Collembola (subclass)

Order & Family
Order: Poduromorpha, Entomobryomorpha, or Symphypleona; Various families
Size
1 to 6 mm typically
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in moist environments such as leaf litter, soil, decaying wood, and under flower pots inside homes.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feed on decaying plant material, fungi, mold, algae, and bacteria.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their ability to jump large distances relative to their size using a tail-like structure called a furcula; they usually appear in large numbers in damp areas.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite or sting; they are beneficial to the ecosystem as decomposers that improve soil health.