Sminthuroidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sminthuroidea: //smɪnˌθjʊəˈrɔɪdiə//

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Summary

Sminthuroidea is a superfamily within the order Symphypleona, comprising families like Sminthuridae and Bourletiellidae, recognized for their rounded bodies and ecological significance as detritivores in soil environments.

Physical Characteristics

Symphypleona have a very round, almost spherical body shape and usually possess long antennae.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from other springtails by their body shape; Symphypleona are spherical, while Poduromorpha are more oval with short legs, and Entomobryomorpha are slender and variable in leg and antenna length.

Habitat

Found worldwide and throughout North America; inhabit moist soil, leaf litter, and decaying organic matter.

Distribution

Approximately 500 species in 67 genera worldwide, with about 2 families and numerous species present in North America.

Diet

Primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, such as leaf litter and fungi.

Ecosystem Role

Play a critical role in soil ecology by breaking down organic matter and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Evolution

Once believed to be a suborder of insects; phylogenetic studies indicate a distinct classification as order Symphypleona.

Similar Taxa

• Poduromorpha
• Entomobryomorpha

Misconceptions

Previously considered a suborder of insects which may mislead individuals about their phylogeny and ecology.

Tags

• Sminthuroidea
• Symphypleona
• Collembola
• springtails