Bug Identifier
Globular springtail (likely)
Community identification

Globular springtail (likely)

Order-level identification: Collembola; species uncertain

Order & Family
Collembola; family unresolved from the image
Size
Usually 0.5–6 mm; the pictured individual appears about 1–2 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist soil, leaf litter, compost, moss, and damp indoor areas such as plant pots or drains.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds mainly on fungi, algae, bacteria, decaying organic matter, and microscopic plant material; it does not bite people.

Behavior Patterns

Often appears as a tiny rounded, dark-bodied speck and may jump using a forked appendage (furcula). Populations increase in humid conditions and decline when surfaces dry.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans, pets, and household structures; occasional plant damage is minor. Springtails recycle organic matter and indicate moisture, though large indoor numbers can signal excess dampness.