Bug Identifier
Springtail
Community identification

Springtail

Collembola

Order & Family
Order Collembola (hexapods)
Size
0.2 to 6 millimeters long
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp environments such as soil, leaf litter, decaying wood, and sometimes around household water sources like sinks or bathrooms.

Diet & Feeding

Decaying organic matter, fungi, algae, and pollen, acting as important decomposers.

Behavior Patterns

They are wingless and use a specialized ventral appendage called a furca to spring high into the air when disturbed. They reproduce rapidly in moist conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Completely harmless to humans, pets, and structures, while benefiting ecosystems by breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients.