Water Springtail vs Spotted Grass Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Water Springtail Spotted Grass Moth
Scientific Name Podura aquatica Rivula propinqualis
Order Collembola Lepidoptera
Family Poduridae Crambidae
Size 1-1.5 mm 15-20 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Seed Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America, Asia Eastern North America
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.

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Did You Know?

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

Spotted Grass Moth

A tiny yellowish moth with a distinctive dark spot on each forewing. It is extremely common in damp grassy habitats across eastern North America.

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Did You Know?

Despite being one of the most abundant moths in its range, it is so small that most people never notice it.