Giant Springtail vs Water Springtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Springtail | Water Springtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tetrodontophora bielanensis | Podura aquatica |
| Order | Collembola | Collembola |
| Family | Onychiuridae | Poduridae |
| Size | 6.0-9.0 mm | 1-1.5 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Detritivores | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
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.
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.
Did You Know?
It can walk on water using surface tension and its water-repellent cuticle.