Dicyrtoma

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Collembola
Order: Symphypleona
Family: Dicyrtomidae
Subfamily: Dicyrtominae
Genus: Dicyrtoma

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dicyrtoma: /dɪˈsɜrtəmə/

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

Images

Dicyrtoma fusca 108147135 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dicyrtoma fusca 60634100 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dicyrtoma fusca 59239344 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dicyrtoma fusca 59743993 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dicyrtoma fusca 59667621 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dicyrtoma fusca 60835849 by Alexis. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Dicyrtoma is a genus of springtails characterized by their globular shape and ecological role as decomposers in terrestrial ecosystems, with at least 30 known species.

Physical Characteristics

Globular body shape typical of springtails, with a variety of colors and markings depending on the species.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic globular shape and presence of furcula, which is adapted for jumping. Microscopic examination may be required for precise identification to species level.

Habitat

Dicyrtoma species are commonly found in leaf litter, soil, and decaying organic matter in a variety of terrestrial ecosystems.

Distribution

Widespread distribution, found in various regions around the world, particularly in moist terrestrial environments.

Diet

Primarily detritivorous, feeding on decaying plant material, fungi, and bacteria.

Life Cycle

Undergo simple metamorphosis; eggs develop into juveniles that resemble adults without a pupal stage.

Reproduction

Typically involve external fertilization; females lay eggs in the surrounding substrate.

Predators

Preyed upon by various soil-dwelling invertebrates such as nematodes and spiders.

Ecosystem Role

Important decomposers in ecosystems, aiding in the breakdown of organic matter and nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

Hand collection from leaf litter
Soil core sampling
Berlese funnel extraction

Preservation Methods

Ethanol collection
Drying
Low-temperature storage

Evolution

Dicyrtoma belongs to the ancient order of Collembola, with evolutionary adaptations allowing survival in diverse ecological niches.

Similar Taxa

Other genera within Dicyrtomidae
Other symphypleonan springtails

Misconceptions

Some may confuse springtails with pests due to their jumping ability, but they are generally harmless and beneficial.