Tidal-marsh
Guides
Anurida maritima
seashore springtail, rock springtail
Anurida maritima is a cosmopolitan springtail confined to the intertidal zone, where it forms dense aggregations of up to several hundred individuals on rock-pool surfaces. This wingless collembolan exhibits unique adaptations to marine conditions, including a vestigial furcula that prevents jumping and hydrophobic body hairs that enable it to remain on water surfaces. The species demonstrates complex behavioral rhythms synchronized with tidal cycles and survives winter through egg diapause. Recent genetic studies have revealed cryptic speciation within this morphospecies, with distinct mitochondrial and nuclear lineages now recognized.
Crematogaster pilosa
Hairy-headed Acrobat Ant
Crematogaster pilosa is a polydomous ant species native to the southern Atlantic coast of the United States and some interior areas. It forms multiple spatially separated nests per colony, typically inhabiting tidal marshes, wet meadows, and other wetland environments. The species nests in plant stems, logs, and fallen branches. Its common name 'Hairy-headed Acrobat Ant' refers to its pilose (hairy) head and the characteristic acrobat ant behavior of raising the gaster (abdomen) over the thorax when disturbed.