
Community identification
Snow Flea
Hypogastrura nivicola
- Order & Family
- Order: Poduromorpha; Family: Hypogastruridae
- Size
- 1 to 2 millimeters in length
Natural Habitat
Found in leaf litter and soil, but most visible on the surface of snow during winter thaws across North America.
Diet & Feeding
A scavenger that feeds on decaying organic matter, fungal spores, algae, and microscopic bacteria.
Behavior Patterns
They are flightless hexapods known for their ability to jump using a tail-like structure called a furcula. They produce an anti-freeze protein that allows them to remain active in freezing temperatures.
Risks & Benefits
They are harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite. Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing organic material and recycling nutrients back into the soil.