Slender Springtails
Entomobryidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Collembola
- Order: Entomobryomorpha
- Superfamily: Entomobryoidea
- Family: Entomobryidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Entomobryidae: /ˌɛntəmoʊˈbraɪɪˌdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Entomobryidae, or slender springtails, are a diverse family of springtails characterized by their unique morphology and varied habitats. They play essential roles in ecosystems and can be found in numerous environments worldwide, demonstrating a rich variety of forms and colors.
Physical Characteristics
The family Entomobryidae is characterized by an enlarged fourth abdominal segment, a well-developed furcula, and a reduced prothorax that lacks setae. Species are typically large, reaching 2 mm or more, and may exhibit vibrant colors such as blue, red, and purple, with some species being all blue or white. The antennae are longer than the head diagonal, and the body may feature trichobothria and thick clavate setae. Scales are often present, and cave-dwelling species may have elongated appendages and modified claws.
Identification Tips
Look for the elongated fourth abdominal segment and the presence of a furcula. Many species display vibrant colors or distinct patterns such as stripes or bands, which can assist in identification.
Habitat
Entomobryidae inhabit a variety of environments, including forest floors, herbaceous plants, and canopy faunas of trees. Some species are found in intertidal habitats. They are commonly collected in pitfall traps and are also present in brood galleries of bark beetles.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution with more than 1,800 species reported across various genera. They are found throughout North America and are particularly abundant in Europe and the Northern Hemisphere.
Diet
Entomobryidae primarily feed on pollen, fungal spores, and decaying organic matter. They may also consume fungi found in brood galleries of bark beetles.
Predators
Various predators target Entomobryidae, including ground beetles, the shore bug Saldula saltatoria, lady beetle larvae, ants, and crab spiders.
Ecosystem Role
Entomobryidae play a vital role in soil ecology by participating in the decomposition process and nutrient cycling. They are also considered saprophages in some ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Pitfall traps
- Shaking vegetation
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol
- Drying
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Entomobryidae
- Slender Springtails
- Invertebrates
- Collembola
- Soil Ecology