Water Springtail vs Lucifugous Springtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Water Springtail | Lucifugous Springtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Podura aquatica | Megalothorax minimus |
| Order | Collembola | Collembola |
| Family | Poduridae | Neelidae |
| Size | 1-1.5 mm | 0.3-0.5 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Caves |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Worldwide |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Did You Know?
It can walk on water using surface tension and its water-repellent cuticle.
Lucifugous Springtail
One of the smallest known hexapods, found in deep soil and cave environments. It is nearly transparent and extremely difficult to observe.
Did You Know?
At about 0.3 mm, it is among the tiniest hexapods on Earth.