Poduromorpha

Definition

An order of springtails (Collembola) characterized by a relatively stout body form, well-developed furcula (springing organ), and typically terrestrial habits in soil and leaf litter. One of three principal lineages of Collembola, distinguished from the elongate Entomobryomorpha and the reduced, often aquatic Symphypleona. Formerly treated as superfamily Poduroidea.

Etymology

From Greek pod- (foot) + uro- (tail) + morpha (form), referring to the well-developed foot and tail-like furcula structure

Example

Hypogastrura viatica, a widespread soil-dwelling species in the family Hypogastruridae, represents the compact, heavily sclerotized body plan typical of Poduromorpha.

Synonyms

• Poduroidea (superseded superfamily)

Related Terms

• Collembola
• Entomobryomorpha
• Symphypleona
• Furcula
• springtail
• Edaphic

Usage Notes

Use Poduromorpha when referring to the order-level taxon; the former name Poduroidea should be avoided in current taxonomy. The three collembolan orders are distinguished by body shape: Poduromorpha (compact, globular to cylindrical), Entomobryomorpha (elongate, slender), and Symphypleona (spherical, with fused body segments). Many poduromorphs are classic 'soil springtails' in ecological studies.