Springtail-predator
Guides
Asaphidion
Asaphidion is a Holarctic genus of small ground beetles in the family Carabidae. The genus contains approximately 39 species, predominantly distributed across the Palaearctic region with limited representation in North America. Species are characterized by large eyes and diurnal activity patterns. Two native North American species, A. alaskanum and A. yukonense, are restricted to Arctic tundra environments, while the introduced A. curtum has established in the northeastern United States and adjacent Canadian maritime provinces.
Notiophilus aquaticus
black-legged springtail-stalker
Notiophilus aquaticus is a Holarctic ground beetle in the family Carabidae, commonly known as the black-legged springtail-stalker. It occupies diverse open and semi-open habitats including moraines, meadows, and forest edges. The species is one of several in the genus Notiophilus, which are recognized for their specialized predation on springtails (Collembola).
Stenus comma
Stenus comma is a rove beetle in the family Staphylinidae, notable for its highly specialized predatory behavior. The species employs a unique hunting mechanism using pygidial gland secretions to capture springtails (Collembola). It can eject a viscous, sticky secretion as a droplet on an extendable terminal filament to 'shoot' at prey, or apply the secretion directly during ambush. The beetle demonstrates flexible hunting strategies that adapt to different prey types and defensive capabilities. This species has a broad distribution across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America.