SPRINGTAILS
Stephen Bambara, Extension Entomologist
CAUTION: This information
was developed for North Carolina and may not apply to other areas.
[Biology]
[Control]
GENERAL INFORMATION
Springtails belong
to a primitive order (Collembola) of insects where the adults have no wings.
These tiny insects are called springtails because they have a unique structure
which allows them to jump for a considerable distance considering their size.
Springtails are very common and abundant native insects found all over the world
in many ecosystems. They are seldom observed because of their small size and
the fact that most of them live in concealed habitats. They range from the size
of a flea to several times larger. Most species live in the soil or in leaf
mold, under bark and decaying logs, thatch, mulch, etc. They are sometimes found
on the media surface of potted plants and in greenhouses. A few species have
been suggested pests in greenhouses, mushroom cellars, or on certain crops in
other parts of the world, but most of the time springtails are harmless. As
decomposers, they are important to the garden and yard ecology. A 1998 article
in Wisconson
Natural Resources Magazine has more details about this fascinating insect.
BIOLOGY
Springtails are often noticed in yards during the spring. They require moisture
and are easily found in mulches or areas of decaying organic matter or under
crawl spaces of houses. Population explosions in hundreds of thousands may occur.
They may be especially noticeable on driveways, sidewalks and poolsides giving
them a sooty appearance that may move beneath one's feet. Another name for springtails
is "snowflea" because they are sometimes noticed hopping across a
ground covered with snow. During a population explosion, springtails may become
so numerous that they enter houses causing the unsuspecting homeowner some undue
stress. Springtails do not bite. They consume decaying matter and require moisture,
so they will be short-lived inside a home.
CONTROL
Because springtails do no damage inside or around the home, control measures
are rarely needed. Reducing the water to houseplants or changing any surface
mulching in a potted plant will usually help. Do not overmulch around foundation
plantings. Hosing off hard outdoor surfaces with regular or soapy water may
give temporary satisfaction. Patience is a good control strategy that works
about the same as most chemical treatments and without the expense or risk.
If springtails are a problem indoors and patience is not your strength, you
can consult Residential,
Structural and Community Pest Note #33.
Photo credit: SSSA
Other Resources
Published by North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service
Distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June
30, 1914. Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people
regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. North
Carolina State University at Raleigh, North Carolina A&T State University,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.
© 2002 NC Cooperative Extension Service
Prepared by: S. B. Bambara, Extension Entomologist
ENT/ort-123 June, 2002.
Web page last reviewed January, 2008 by the webperson.