Elongate Springtail vs Water Springtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Elongate Springtail Water Springtail
Scientific Name Entomobrya nivalis Podura aquatica
Order Collembola Collembola
Family Entomobryidae Poduridae
Size 1.5-2.5 mm 1-1.5 mm
Habitat Woodlands Ponds & Lakes
Diet Seed Feeders Seed Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Europe, North America, Asia
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Elongate Springtail

A slender, colorful springtail with variable banding patterns found on tree bark. It is one of the most common European entomobryid springtails.

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Did You Know?

Despite its species name meaning snowy, this springtail is most commonly found on sun-warmed tree bark rather than snow.

Water Springtail

A distinctive dark-colored springtail found on the surface of still freshwater. It is the only species in its family and forms dense aggregations.

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Did You Know?

It can walk on water using surface tension and its water-repellent cuticle.