Giant Springtail vs Alpine Cave Springtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Springtail | Alpine Cave Springtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tetrodontophora bielanensis | Onychiuroides alpinus |
| Order | Collembola | Collembola |
| Family | Onychiuridae | Onychiuridae |
| Size | 6.0-9.0 mm | 0.8-1.2 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Caves |
| Diet | Detritivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Italy |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Data Deficient |
Giant Springtail
One of the largest springtails in the world, with a metallic blue body. It lives in forest soil and leaf litter in Central Europe.
Did You Know?
At up to 9 mm long, this species is a giant among springtails which typically measure less than 2 mm.
Alpine Cave Springtail
A recently described blind springtail from caves in the Italian Alps. It lacks eyes, pigment, and a jumping furca.
Did You Know?
It survives in caves where temperatures remain just a few degrees above freezing.