Glacier Springtail vs Globular Springtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Glacier Springtail | Globular Springtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Isotoma saltans | Sminthurus viridis |
| Order | Collembola | Collembola |
| Family | Isotomidae | Sminthuridae |
| Size | 1-3 mm | 1-2.5 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Grasslands |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Alps, Arctic Russia, Greenland, Svalbard | Europe, Australia, North America |
| 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.
Did You Know?
This springtail can survive being encased in ice and resume activity once temperatures rise above freezing.
Globular Springtail
A round-bodied green springtail found in grasslands and agricultural fields. It can become a pest of clover and alfalfa crops.
Did You Know?
It is one of the few springtails that feeds on living plants and can damage crops.