Folsomia

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Folsomia: /fɔlˈsoʊmiə/

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Summary

Folsomia candida is a globally distributed species of springtail known for its parthenogenetic reproduction and use as a model organism in ecological research, particularly related to soil health and invertebrate interactions.

Physical Characteristics

Folsomia candida has an unpigmented, slender body up to 3 mm (0.1 in) in length. The head has a pair of four-segmented antennae and post-antennal organs, but no eyespots. The first thoracic segment's dorsal part is reduced, and the posterior three abdominal segments are fused. The ventral side of the fourth abdominal segment bears a furca used for jumping, which is characterized by the number of bristles on this organ.

Identification Tips

The number of bristles on the furca distinguishes Folsomia candida from other species in the genus Folsomia.

Habitat

Found in high organic content soils, leaf litter in forests, on stream verges, as well as in mines and caves.

Distribution

Global distribution, often referred to as a 'tramp' species, due to its spread in soil and plant pots.

Diet

Primarily feeds on the hyphae of fungi, including root mycorrhizae.

Life Cycle

Females reproduce parthenogenically, with globular white eggs hatching in about one week at 21 °C (70 °F). The life cycle involves five molts before maturity, with adults continuing to molt approximately 45 times during their lives.

Reproduction

Folsomia candida is parthenogenic, consisting only of female populations with each capable of laying about a thousand eggs.

Ecosystem Role

May be beneficial to crops by feeding on plant-pathogenic nematodes and mites.

Economic Impact

Used in laboratory studies to assess the effects of pesticides and soil pollutants on non-target soil invertebrates.

Cultural Significance

In use for over forty years as a model organism in various ecological and biological research topics.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection from soil and leaf litter
• Using pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

• Preserved in ethanol for laboratory studies
• Kept in cultures with granulated baker's yeast as food

Misconceptions

Some may confuse springtails with harmful pests, but they play different roles in the ecosystem, often having beneficial effects.

Tags

• springtail
• Folsomia
• isotomidae
• soil ecology
• model organism