Onychiuroidea
Family Guides
2Onychiuroidea is a superfamily of springtails (Collembola) within the order Poduromorpha. It comprises approximately five and over 630 described . The superfamily includes the well-known family Onychiuridae and several smaller families whose classification has been subject to revision. Members of this group are soil-dwelling hexapods characterized by reduced or absent (springing organ).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Onychiuroidea: /ɔˌnɪkiˈʊroʊˌɪdiə/
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Identification
Onychiuroidea can be distinguished from other superfamilies by the reduction or complete absence of the , the springing organ found on the surface of the . This contrasts with the well-developed furcula typical of Symphypleona and Entomobryomorpha. The body form is generally cylindrical and adapted for burrowing in soil. The within Onychiuroidea are distinguished by details of mouthpart structure, chaetotaxy (bristle arrangement), and antennal segmentation.
Images
Habitat
Soil-dwelling; found in deeper soil horizons and litter layers.
Distribution
distribution; recorded across multiple continents based on iNaturalist observations.
Similar Taxa
- PoduroideaFormerly used as a superfamily name for this group; now treated as a synonym or outdated classification.
- SymphypleonaDifferent body plan (globular vs. cylindrical) and possesses a well-developed for springing.
- EntomobryomorphaTypically has a well-developed and more elongate body form adapted for surface activity rather than deep soil burrowing.