
Community identification
Snow Flea / Springtail
Hypogastrura nivicola
- Order & Family
- Poduromorpha: Hypogastruridae
- Size
- 1 to 2 millimeters
Natural Habitat
Moist environments including soil, leaf litter, and on the surface of snow near the base of trees.
Diet & Feeding
Decomposing organic matter, fungal spores, algae, and bacteria.
Behavior Patterns
Active during winter months; they possess a tail-like structure called a furcula that allows them to jump significant distances when threatened.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans, pets, and structures; they are beneficial to the ecosystem as decomposers that help recycle nutrients into the soil.