Svalbard Springtail vs Elongate Springtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Svalbard Springtail Elongate Springtail
Scientific Name Folsomia quadrioculata Entomobrya nivalis
Order Collembola Collembola
Family Isotomidae Entomobryidae
Size 1-2 mm 1.5-2.5 mm
Habitat Tundra & Arctic Woodlands
Diet Detritivores Seed Feeders
Regions Svalbard, Scandinavia, Iceland, northern Russia, Arctic Canada Europe, North America
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Svalbard Springtail

A small, pale springtail with only four simple eyes, for which it is named. It is extremely common in Arctic soils where it plays a major role in decomposition. Populations can reach densities of thousands per square meter.

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Did You Know?

This springtail is so abundant in Arctic soils that it is considered one of the most important decomposer organisms in tundra ecosystems.

Elongate Springtail

A slender, colorful springtail with variable banding patterns found on tree bark. It is one of the most common European entomobryid springtails.

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Did You Know?

Despite its species name meaning snowy, this springtail is most commonly found on sun-warmed tree bark rather than snow.