Springtails are all around us.
Springtails (Collembola) are hexapods but not insects, being members of the insects’ sister class Entognatha (which also includes proturans and diplurans). They are tiny (<6mm), and numerous, occurring at densities up to around 100,000 per square meter of topsoil. They are important components of forest floor ecosystems, and some species can also be found floating on the surface of stagnant water.
Their name comes from the tail-like furcula folded beneath their body which is used for jumping (see video below).
Here is another video from Preston Guerra of some springtails:
Springtails Timelapse @ Castlewood State Park from Preston Guerra on Vimeo.
“Meet the…” is a collaboration between The Finch & Pea and Nature Afield to bring Nature’s amazing creatures into your home.
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I love Castlewood State Park! Will have to go look for some Springtails next time I take the kids there.
I’ve never heard of Springtails. Are the unique to the USA or could I find them in topsoil Preston in the UK?