Isotoma Springtail vs Glacier Springtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Isotoma Springtail Glacier Springtail
Scientific Name Isotoma viridis Isotoma saltans
Order Collembola Collembola
Family Isotomidae Isotomidae
Size 2.0-4.0 mm 1-3 mm
Habitat Grasslands Mountains
Diet Detritivores Seed Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Scandinavia, Alps, Arctic Russia, Greenland, Svalbard
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Isotoma Springtail

A greenish elongate springtail common in grasslands and gardens throughout Europe. It is active year-round even in cold weather.

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Did You Know?

This springtail remains active at temperatures near freezing and can be found hopping on soil surfaces in winter.

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.