Glacier Springtail vs Dewy Ringlet

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Glacier Springtail Dewy Ringlet
Scientific Name Isotoma saltans Erebia pandrose
Order Collembola Lepidoptera
Family Isotomidae Nymphalidae
Size 1-3 mm 34-42 mm wingspan
Habitat Mountains Mountains
Diet Seed Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Scandinavia, Alps, Arctic Russia, Greenland, Svalbard Europe, Scandinavia, Urals
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Glacier Springtail

A tiny, elongate springtail adapted to life on glaciers and permanent snowfields. It is dark-pigmented to absorb solar radiation. Populations can be found actively hopping on glacier surfaces in summer.

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Did You Know?

This springtail can survive being encased in ice and resume activity once temperatures rise above freezing.

Dewy Ringlet

A widespread alpine ringlet with grayish-brown wings and small eyespots. It is found across many mountain ranges from Scandinavia to the Balkans.

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Did You Know?

It is the most widespread alpine ringlet species in Europe.