Heavy-metal-tolerance
Guides
Orchesella
Orchesella is a genus of springtails (Collembola) in the family Orchesellidae, characterized by subdivided basal antennal segments. The genus comprises approximately 96 species distributed across diverse global habitats from Arctic to tropical regions. Several species, notably O. cincta, have been extensively studied as model organisms for understanding heavy metal tolerance and evolutionary adaptation to polluted environments.
Orchesella cincta
Belted Springtail
Orchesella cincta is a relatively large springtail species, averaging 4 mm in length—substantially larger than most springtails, which typically remain under 1 mm. The species is distinguished by its distinctive 'belted' coloration, with a darkly pigmented third abdominal segment contrasting against lighter adjacent segments. Native to Western Europe and North America, it has also been introduced to Saint Helena. This springtail exhibits notable physiological plasticity, including populations with evolved heavy metal tolerance from contaminated mining sites.
Scobicia declivis
lead cable borer, short-circuit beetle, leadcable borer
Scobicia declivis is a horned powder-post beetle in the family Bostrichidae, commonly known as the lead cable borer or short-circuit beetle. The species is notable for its ability to bore through lead sheathing on telecommunications cables, causing electrical shorts by allowing moisture to reach copper wires. It has been documented in North America and Oceania. The beetle is classified among insects that tolerate or thrive on toxic materials.