Elongate-bodied Springtails
Entomobryomorpha
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Collembola
- Order: Entomobryomorpha
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Entomobryomorpha: /ɛn.toʊ.moʊˌbɹaɪ.oʊˈmɔːɹ.fə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Summary
Entomobryomorpha is the largest order of springtails, characterized by their elongate bodies and diverse morphological traits. They are important soil organisms found globally, contributing to the breakdown of organic materials.
Physical Characteristics
Elongate body shape; either short legs and antennae or long legs and antennae; well-developed furculae in some species.
Identification Tips
Distinguished from other springtails by body shape; Entomobryomorpha are the slimmest springtails with elongated bodies.
Habitat
Worldwide, found in various terrestrial environments including leaf litter, soil, and decaying plant matter.
Distribution
More than 3,800 species in over 230 genera of 8 families globally; widespread throughout North America.
Diet
Detritivores, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, and bacteria.
Life Cycle
Information on specific life cycles varies, but generally involves egg, juvenile (nymph), and adult stages; may undergo multiple molts.
Reproduction
Typically reproduce sexually; females lay eggs in moist soil or organic matter.
Predators
Commonly preyed upon by various invertebrates, such as spiders, predatory mites, and other microfauna.
Ecosystem Role
Play a crucial role in soil health and nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter.
Collecting Methods
- Tapping or shaking decaying wood or leaf litter into a container
- Hand collecting from surface debris
- Using pitfall traps in leaf litter
Preservation Methods
- Alcohol preservation (typically ethanol)
- Drying and mounting specimens on slides for microscopic examination
Evolution
Previously treated as superfamily Entomobryoidea, the classification has evolved as relationships among springtails are better understood.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often misidentified as insects; they are a distinct class of hexapods known as springtails.
Tags
- springtails
- Entomobryomorpha
- Collembola
- soil ecology
- detritivores