Neanuridae

Definition

A family of springtails (Collembola: Poduromorpha) established by Carl Börner in 1901, characterized by a compact, often globular body form with relatively short legs and reduced or absent furca (jumping organ). Members are typically soil-dwelling and lack the elongated body and well-developed furca seen in Entomobryidae and other Symphypleona families.

Etymology

From Greek 'neos' (young/new) and 'anoura' (tailless), referring to the reduced or absent furca; suffix '-idae' denotes family rank.

Example

Neanurid springtails such as those in the genus Neanura are common in forest litter layers, where their short-legged, slow-moving habit contrasts with the rapid, jumping behavior of symphypleonan springtails like Sminthurus.

Related Terms

• Poduromorpha
• Collembola
• furca
• Entomobryidae
• Symphypleona
• Edaphic

Usage Notes

Distinguished from other poduromorph families by the combination of globular body shape and reduced furca. The family is diverse and widespread; identification to genus or species typically requires examination of chaetotaxy and mouthpart morphology. Not to be confused with the superficially similar Onychiuridae, which also have reduced furcae but differ in body shape and antennal structure.