Marsh Springtail vs Water Springtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Marsh Springtail Water Springtail
Scientific Name Isotomurus palustris Podura aquatica
Order Collembola Collembola
Family Isotomidae Poduridae
Size 2.0-4.0 mm 1-1.5 mm
Habitat Wetlands Ponds & Lakes
Diet Detritivores Seed Feeders
Regions Europe, North America, Asia Europe, North America, Asia
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Marsh Springtail

A colorful elongate springtail found near ponds, streams, and marshy areas. Its color varies from green to orange depending on the population.

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Did You Know?

This springtail is sometimes found in huge numbers on water surfaces, forming colorful floating mats near pond edges.

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.

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Did You Know?

It can walk on water using surface tension and its water-repellent cuticle.