Isotominae

Isotominae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Isotominae: /ˌaɪsəˈtɒmɪniː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Isotoma viridis (27112140888) by AJC1 from UK. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Isotoma viridis (49047367148) by AJC1. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Isotoma delta 29816556 by Even Dankowicz. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Isotoma delta 258345766 by Sus scrofa. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Isotoma viridis (40539414741) by AJC1 from UK. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Isotoma delta 109566636 by Ken Kneidel. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Isotominae is a subfamily of elongate-bodied springtails under the family Isotomidae, housing around 16 genera and at least 100 described species.

Physical Characteristics

Elongate-bodied springtails, typically small in size, adapted for jumping.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies and a furcula (jumping organ) at the rear, which can be used to distinguish them from other springtails.

Habitat

Found in a variety of habitats including soil, leaf litter, and decaying organic matter, often in moist environments.

Distribution

Widespread, found throughout North America and globally, with about 460 species in approximately 50 genera worldwide.

Diet

Primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, and bacteria in their environment.

Life Cycle

Undergo hemimetabolous development; they progress from eggs to juvenile stages and finally to adults without a distinct larval stage.

Reproduction

Usually reproduce sexually, with some species capable of parthenogenesis.

Ecosystem Role

Play a crucial role in soil aeration and nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter.

Collecting Methods

  • Soil sifting
  • Pitfall traps
  • Leaf litter sampling

Preservation Methods

  • Alcohol preservation
  • Freezing
  • Drying

Tags

  • Isotominae
  • Collembola
  • springtails
  • Isotomidae
  • soil organisms