Sminthuroidea
Bretfeld, 1994
Family Guides
2- Bourletiellidae
- Sminthuridae(globular springtails)
Sminthuroidea is a superfamily of springtails (Collembola) within the order Symphypleona, established by Bretfeld in 1994. Members share a globular body form with the ability to roll into a ball when disturbed, distinguishing them from elongate superfamilies. The superfamily includes such as Sminthuridae and Dicyrtomidae, which are among the most frequently observed and photographed springtails due to their relatively large size and often bright coloration.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sminthuroidea: //smɪnˌθjʊəˈrɔɪdiə//
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Identification
Globular body shape capable of conglobation (rolling into a ball); inserted on a prominent cephalic plate; (springing organ) well-developed and folded beneath the . Distinguished from Katiannoidea (the other Symphypleona superfamily) by specific chaetotaxy and mouthpart arrangements. Generally larger and more conspicuous than elongate springtails (Entomobryomorpha and Poduromorpha).
Images
Distribution
; recorded across all continents including remote oceanic islands. Particularly well-documented in temperate and tropical regions with sufficient moisture.
Behavior
Conglobation —rolling into a spherical ball when disturbed—is a characteristic defensive response. This globular posture protects appendages and reduces desiccation risk.
Similar Taxa
- KatiannoideaOther superfamily in Symphypleona; distinguished by mouthpart and chaetotaxy differences, though both share globular body form and conglobation ability
- EntomobryoideaSuperfamily in Entomobryomorpha; members are elongate-bodied, lack conglobation ability, and have different antennal insertion