Bristletails

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Microcoryphia: /ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈkɒr.ɪ.fi.ə/

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Summary

Archaeognatha, commonly referred to as jumping bristletails, are primitive, wingless insects known for their ability to leap and their unique tail structure. They inhabit moist environments globally, feeding on organic debris. Their reproductive behaviors are varied and complex, highlighting their evolutionary significance.

Physical Characteristics

Small, cylindrical body; brownish or yellowish with darker mottling; thorax arched dorsally; on abdomen, one long medial filament and two shorter lateral cerci; long thread-like antennae with many segments; large compound eyes that meet in the middle; mandibles articulate at one point only; short lateral styli on abdominal segments 2-9.

Identification Tips

Look for their distinctive jumping ability and tail structures (two lateral cerci and one long medially located filament); the body is cylindrical and covered with scales.

Habitat

Moist soil, grassy or wooded environments; often found under bark, in leaf litter, rock crevices, or under stones.

Distribution

Widespread throughout North America and globally; cosmopolitan distribution detailing ~500 species in two families.

Diet

Primarily feed on algae, lichens, mosses, and decaying vegetation; nocturnal feeders.

Life Cycle

Sexual maturity after at least eight juvenile instars; may take up to two years; adults continue to molt periodically even after reaching adulthood.

Reproduction

Separate sexes; males produce a spermatophore and do not engage in direct copulation; females pick up sperm from the ground; eggs are laid singly or in small groups (less than 30).

Conservation Status

Not currently evaluated as at conservation risk; no species identified as endangered.

Ecosystem Role

Feed on decaying plant material, contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.

Health Concerns

Not considered a pest; do not breed indoors and are not typically found in human habitats.

Evolution

Extant insects that are among the most evolutionarily primitive, appearing in the Middle Devonian; fossils resembling extant species can be found in ancient strata.

Similar Taxa

• Zygentoma
• Thysanura

Misconceptions

Often confused with Zygentoma; lack of olfactory receptors may lead to assumptions about sensory abilities.

Tags

• insects
• Archaeognatha
• bristletails
• Microcoryphia