Nitidane
Guides
Heteromurus nitidus
slender springtail
Heteromurus nitidus is a species of slender springtail (Collembola) characterized by a superhydrophobic cuticle that enables it to float on water. The species produces nitidane, an irregular prenylated diterpene with a unique seven-isoprene structure that dominates its cuticular lipids—unlike typical insects that rely on hydrocarbon mixtures. Its distribution is influenced by soil acidity, with documented interactions involving earthworms and predator pressure. The species exhibits seasonal changes in wetting behavior and tends to aggregate in coordinated groups.