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Class Collembola (Springtails) in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve

Class Collembola Characteristics: Collembolans are omnivorous, scavenging organic matter (e.g. algae, decaying vegetation, soil fungi, pollen, insect feces, and rotting fruit) from their surroundings. A few are predators.

The name "Collembola" originates from the Greek words colle (glue) and embolon (piston or peg). Most collembolans are less than 6 mm in length and have internal mouth parts, six or fewer abdominal segments, and a ventral, tubular appendage (a collophore) projecting from the first abdominal segment. The function of the collophore is thought to absorb moisture from the environment and help the springtail maintain water balance.

Most collembolans have a fork-like appendage (furcula) on the 4th segment of the abdomen. The furcula is folded under the body and used for jumping away from predators. This structure gives the collembolan its common name "springtail."

Unlike most hexapods (arthropods with six legs) that have a tracheal respiratory system, springtails respire directly through their porous skin. Springtails are very sensitive to desiccation and high temperature. When they molt, they have the ability to decrease their body size by up to 30%. Since warmer temperatures increase the metabolic rate and energy requirement, shrinkage is an adaptation that helps them survive. Springtails molt throughout their entire lives. When molting, springtails hide to find protection from predation.

They normally live in leaf litter and other decaying materials. Their numbers make them one of the most abundant of all macroscopic animals. (Macroscopic animals are those large enough to be seen without aid of a microscope.) A cubic meter of topsoil, covered in moss, fallen wood, grass, and ant or termite nests may contain 100,000 individuals. Pheromones, excreted by adult springtails, may cause them to be gregarious.

Because of their sensitivity to toxins and environmental changes, springtails are used in laboratory testing for the early detection of soil pollution.

There are three orders of collembolans: Poduromorpha, Entomobryomorpha, and Symphypleona. The first two have elongated bodies, the third has a globular body structure. All three orders have been found in the Smith Preserve and are listed in alphabetical order below.

Interactions in the Smith Preserve: Since springtails are detritivores (consumers of detritus) and microbivores (consumers of micro-organisms), they are a very important biological agent responsible for the control and dissemination of soil microorganisms. They contribute indirectly to decomposition by fragmentation of organic matter, and in this way, help recycle organic materials.

Order	Family	Species Name	Common Name
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Entomobrya clitellaria	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Entomobrya sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Entomobrya sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Lepidocyrtus sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Lepidocyrtus cyaneus	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Lepidocyrtus floridensis	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Lepidocyrtus pallidus ?	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Lepidocyrtus sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Orchesella ainsliei	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Orchesella alpa	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Orchesella sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Seira bipunctata	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Seira brasiliana	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Seira knowltoni	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Seira sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Seira sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Willowsia nigromaculata	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Unknown	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Entomobryidae	Unknown	Slender Springtail

Entomobryomorpha

Unknown

Unknown

Springtail

Entomobryomorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Desoria sp.	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae -Subfamily Isotominae	Unknown	Slender Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Unknown	Smooth Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Unknown	Smooth Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Unknown	Smooth Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Unknown	Smooth Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Isotomidae	Unknown	Smooth Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Paronellidae	Salina banksi	Elongate-Bodied Springtail
Entomobryomorpha	Paronellidae	Salina beta	Elongate-Bodied Springtail

Entomobryomorpha

Paronellidae

Unknown

Elongate-Bodied Springtail

Entomobryomorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Hypogastruridae	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Hypogastruridae	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Onychiuridae	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Poduromorpha	Unknown	Unknown	Springtail
Symphypleona	Bourletiellidae	Bourietiella gibbonsi	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Bourletiellidae	Bourietiella rustica	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Calvatomina sp.	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Dicyrtomidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Katiannidae	Unknown	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Sminthurididae	Sminthurides occultus	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Sminthurididae	Sphaeridia sp.	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Sminthurididae	Sphaeridia sp.	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Sminthurididae	Sphaeridia pumilis	Globular Springtail
Symphypleona	Sminthurididae	Stenacidia violacea	Globlular Springtail

 

Order Entomobryomorpha

 

Family Entomobryidae Entomobrya clitellaria ... Slender Springtail This very young, 0.5 mm long collembolan was living in leaf litter in the oak hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. It was isolated from the leaf litter with a Berlese Funnel on December 17, 2014. This photograph was produced using photomicroscopy. On January 3, 2015, this springtail was identified from this photograph as possibly Entomobrya clitellaria by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. Dr. Janssens stated, "Given the 'dark' th.2 abd.3. But still more an educated guess then an identification..." Janssens is with the University Department of Entomology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium, and he is an authority on collembola: Bellinger, P.F., Christiansen, K.A. & Janssens, F. 1996-2014. Checklist of the Collembola of the World.<http://www.collembola.org>. Entomobrya clitellaria was described as a species in 1903 by Guthrie. Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Entomobrya sp. ... Slender Springtail The individuals shown here were hidden inside folded leaves of a Ficus aurea (Strangler Fig). Some individuals were under silk webbing. Many molted, springtail exoskeletons were inside the leaves. On February 23, 2014, these springtails were identified as Entomobrya sp. from these photographs by Frans Janssens (Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium), Contributor to <bugguide.net>, hosted by Iowa State University Entomology Department. Species within this genus are often differentiated by hair size, shape, and location. The individual in the 3rd photograph was 1.5 mm long. Photograph 4 shows eggs that were inside one of the folded leaves occupied by some springtails. Many of these eggs had previously hatched. It has been confirmed by Frans Janssens that these are not springtail eggs. However, since springtails are scavengers, Janssens thinks "they might be attracted by the eggshells or exuvies as a food source." Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Entomobrya sp. ... Slender Springtail This 1.75 mm long collembolan was captured in a litter sample on March 27, 2016. The sample was composed of shredded palmetto fibers that were hanging in a bush. The fibers were collected where volunteers were clearing invasive vegetation from the southern preserve, north of the power lines. This springtail and 109 other tiny arthropods, and a nematode were isolated from the fibers with a Berlese funnel, and images were created using photomicroscopy. The images of this springtail were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On March 16, 2022, the springtail's genus was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net> and an authority on collembolans. Note that some segments of this springtail's antennae are purple. Also, the first image shows some of the hairs on its body. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Lepidocyrtus sp. ... Slender Springtail On November 16, 2022, the 2 mm long springtail below was living in leaf litter in the oak hammock in the Northeast quadrant of the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. It was isolated from the leaf litter with a Berlese funnel and these images were created using photomicroscopy. The images were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On December 26, the genus was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>, and a member of the Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium. There are at least 30 described species in Lepidocyrtus. Note the five brown strips on the dorsal surface of this individual. Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Lepidocyrtus cyaneus ... Slender Springtail On January 3, 2017, two individuals of this species were isolated from the same leaf litter sample, collected beneath a Serenoa repens (Saw Palmetto Bush) and a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the center of the Preserve, just north of Smith Preserve Way. . The first individual (shown in the above 4 photographs) was 0.5 mm long. The second specimen (shown below) was 0.6 mm long. Images were created using photomicroscopy, and the images were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. Both specimens were identified on March 18, 2017 as juveniles of the species by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. On January 23, 2017, the ~0.75 mm long springtail at right was living in leaf litter collected beneath a Psychotria nervosa (Shinyleaf Wild Coffee) bush and a Quercus laurifolia (Laurel Oak) tree that were growing in the Smith Preserve, just southeast of the pond, not far from the gopher tortoise fence adjacent to the parking lot. Photographs were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On April 15, 2017, the species was identified by Frans Janssens as Lepidocyrtus cyaneus. Note: this specimen had very pronounced wide purple and white bands. Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Lepidocyrtus floridensis ... Slender Springtail This 1 mm long springtail was living in leaf litter in the same oak hammock in the Smith Preserve as the first springtail shown above, and several shown below. The individual was removed from the litter using a Berlese Funnel on December 17, 2014. On December 30, 2014, the species was identified from these photographs by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. The species was documented by Ken Wolgemuth, Contributing Editor, as a new species for the <BugGuide.net> website. On December 29, 2014, the 1 mm long (without furcula) individual in images 3 and 4 was found living in pine needle litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree. It was isolated using a Berlese Funnel and the photographs were created using photomicroscopy. On March 5, 2015, it was identified from the photographs by Frans Janssens. Dr. Janssens said the brown color is because of the liquid preservative. Webmaster's note: The liquid was alcohol stained by the tannins from pine needles. Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Lepidocyrtus pallidus ? ... Slender Springtail On February 23, 2016, this 1 mm long springtail was living inside a curled citrus leaf on a tree that was growing in the northeast section of the Smith Preserve, north of Smith Preserve Way. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy. Both white and black backgrounds were used in these photographs to emphasize this springtail's features. The images were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On March 13, 2016, the species was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. Janssens stated, "Lepidocyrtus pallidus is the best match given lack of pigment. But .. .Christiansen & Bellinger 1998 consider records of L. pallidus as a species complex of fimicolus and cinereus. Note fimicolus typically also has ringed antennae." The image at right shows a close close up of the ringed antennae.   Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Lepidocyrtus sp. ... Slender Springtail On January 23, 2017, this 1 mm (without furcula) springtail was living in leaf litter beneath a Psychotria nervosa (Shinyleaf Wild Coffee) bush and a Quercus laurifolia (Laurel Oak) tree in the eastern section of the Smith Preserve, just south of the pond. It was isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On February 17, 2017, the genus was identified by Dr. Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>.       According to Wikipedia there are 260 species of this genus around the world.       On November 17, 2022, the 2 mm long springtail below was captured in a pitfall trap that had been left overnight in a hammock in the northeastern quadrant of Smith Preserve. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for confirmation that the springtail was a Lepidocyrtus sp.. On January 30, 2023, the identification was confirmed by Frans Jassens. The species is yet to be determined.   Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Orchesella ainsliei ... Slender Springtail This 2.5 mm long springtail was living in leaf litter under a citrus tree in part of the abandoned citrus grove that has evolved into a cabbage palm / oak hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. The specimen was extracted from the leaf litter using a Berlese Funnel. This photograph was produced using photomicroscopy. On January 6, 2015, the species was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. He explained that it is a pale specimen.       Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Orchesella alpa ... Slender Springtail On April 2, 2015, 551 springtails were caught in 10 dry pit traps placed ~ .5 m apart. The traps were placed in sand, "littered" with oak leaves and Cladina confusa (Reindeer Moss Lichens), adjacent to Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) trees living near the center of the Smith Preserve. The specimens were placed in alcohol, examined, and photographed using photomicroscopy. The individual below is 1.75 mm long. Photographs were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On July 28, 2015, the individual below was recognized as a pale form of Orchesella alpa by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. Janssens is with the University Department of Entomology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium, and he is an authority on collembola: Bellinger, P.F., Christiansen, K.A. & Janssens, F. 1996-2014. Checklist of the Collembola of the World.<http://www.collembola.org>. On July 28, 2015, the individuals below were identified as a pale form of Orchesella bulba, but later identified as Orchesela alpa by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. The first two images are of a specimen 1.5 mm in length. The individual in the next two photographs was a late instar. This individual was 2 mm in length. In the same collection of pit fall traps as above, the 1.6 mm long springtail below was also found. These images were submitted to <Bugguide> in 2023. Frans Janssens stated it was a dark version of Orchesella alpa. He explained that this species always has antennae that are ringed.   Also in the same pit fall traps as above, the 1.5 mm individual below was captured. In March 2023, Frans Janssens identified it as another pale-colored specimen.   On November 17, 2015, this next 1.75 mm long springtail was captured in a pit trap placed beneath a Quercus laurifolia (Laurel Oak) north of Smith Preserve Way. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent to <BugGuide.net> to be identified. Species identification occurred on November 24, 2015 by Frans Janssens.       On November 24, 2015, the 1 mm long individual below was captured in a pitfall trap placed near Cladina confusa (Reindeer Moss Lichens) in the middle of the Preserve. As with the other examples, it was identified by Frans Janssens, this time on December 7, 2015. On November 24, 2015, the 1.2 mm long individual below was captured in the same series of pitfall traps as the individual above. It was identified by Frans Janssens on December 7, 2015 as a juvenile.   On December 29, 2014, the collembolan below was isolated from Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) needle litter. The webmaster suspected it was Orchesella sp. and sent these images to <BugGuide.net> for confirmation. On November 15, 2018, the specimen was identified as another Orchesella alpa by Frans Janssens.   On January 18, 2020, a series of pitfall traps were retrieved after being left overnight in the Preserve. The placement of the traps was near an abandoned gopher tortoise burrow, north of Smith Preserve Way near the middle of the preserve. This 2 mm long individual was captured. The species identity was confirmed by Frans Janssens on January 7, 2022.     On March 3, 2016, the 1.5 mm long individual below was captured in a pit trap left in sand overnight next to a Myrica cerifera (Wax Myrtle) bush and other vegetation near the dry seasonal pond in the middle of the Preserve. The webmaster assumed the genus was Orchesella and that was confirmed and the species identified on March 29, 2016 by Frans Janssens. On November 16, 2016, the 1.5 mm long individual below was trapped in a pitfall trap. The trap had been placed in sand and oak leaf litter along the southern edge of a severely trimmed Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the western quadrant of the Preserve, south of Smith Preserve Way. On December 13, 2016, two different looking 2 mm long springtails were captured in pitfall traps left overnight in sand and leaf litter adjacent to Chromolaena odorata (Jack-In-The-Bush), growing near 14th Ave N and a private residence. Photographs of both individuals were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On December 30, 2016, the first specimen (shown in the three photographs below) was identified as the pale form of Orchesella alpa by Frans Janssens. Also on that day, Dr. Janssens identified the second specimen (shown below) as the dark form of the species. It appears that this species is thriving in all areas of the oak/rosemary scrub, oak hammock, and pine flatwoods within the Smith Preserve. Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Orchesella sp. ... Slender Springtail On December 17, 2014, this 1 mm long, curled, springtail was collected in leaf litter obtained from an oak hammock area in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. The springtail was extracted from the sample using a Berlese Funnel. Barely visible to the naked eye, this photograph was produced using a microscope. On December 20, 2014, the springtail was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. There are 138 species in Family Entomobryidae and 14 species of genus Orchesella in the United States.   On November 16, 2022, the 2 mm long springtail below was captured in a pitfall trap under an oak hammock in the northeast quadrant of Smith Preserve. This image was created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net> The webmaster suspected that it was Orchesella sp. That was confirmed by Frans Janssens on January 28, 2023. The species has not been determined. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Seira bipunctata. ... Slender Springtail Several individuals of this species were collected on December 17, 2014 from leaf litter in the oak hammock area in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. They were extracted using a Berlese Funnel. As shown in this first photograph, this springtail was less than 1 mm in length. On December 20, 2014, it was identified from the 2nd photograph by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State Department of Entomology. The species name "bipunctata" refers to the two spots near the tip of the abdomen. The 1.5 mm specimen in the 3rd image was identified by Frans Janssens on December 25, 2014. Dr. Janssens reported that this specimen had its scale cover almost completely removed. When Dr. Janssens was asked what causes the scale cover to be removed, he replied, "The scale cover is easily damaged. It is part of an escape technique. If a scaled specimen is grabbed by a predator, the connection of the scales with the body is released, and the specimen can escape at the cost of a few scales. The scales are easily rubbed off, so you have to treat/transport the soil sample carefully. Also, the specimens stored in alcohol should be treated gently. :-)" This is good advice for future collecting. On January 23, 2019, the 1.5 mm long individual below was isolated from leaf litter collected in Tillandsia urneoides (Spanish Moss) from the center of Smith Preserve just north of Smith Preserve Way. The following three images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On April 4, 2022, this individual was identified by Frans Janssens. He stated, "Wee dorsal shot: 2 dots posteriorly." Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Seira brasiliana. ... Slender Springtail   On December 30, 2015, this 2 mm long springtail was captured in a sweep net used in low, dry vegetation that was growing along the eastern gopher tortoise fence north of Smith Preserve Way. These two photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On February 18, 2016, the springtail was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net> and a world authority on collembolans. According to Dr. Janssens, both Seira bipunctata (shown immediately above) and Seira brasiliana have a dark line between the eyespots. The difference between S. bipunctata and S. brasiliana is an extra set of dark lateral spots in brasiliana. The spots are in the middle of the body.   On January 13, 2017, as the Conservancy science volunteer team was removing exotics along the southern tortoise fence adjacent to 14th Ave N, a mass of nesting material was retrieved from vines. The nesting material consisted of Serenoa repens (Saw Palmetto) fibers. The fibers were collected in a gallon bag and placed in a Berlese funnel to isolate invertebrates from the fibers. Many of the invertebrates were springtails. Two specimens were photographed and submitted for identification to <BugGuide.net>. Both were identified by Dr. Janssens on February 16, 2017. Unlike the specimen above, these two had more scales. Because of that difference, they looked much different from the one above.The first two photographs are of a specimen 1.5 mm long. The second specimen, shown below, was 1.3 mm long. On February 10, 2016, the ~1.2 mm long collembolan below was found in leaf litter in the oak hammock in the north-central section of the Smith Preserve, north of Smith Preserve Way. It was separated from the leaf litter with a Berlese funnel. Photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for confirmation that this was Seira brasiliana. The webmaster suspected it was this species, but all previous specimens identified in the Preserve were missing scales, so she wanted confirmation. On February 3, 2018, confirmation was made by Frans Janssens. He stated, "Seira brasiliana: Quite right, Susan." Image 1 below is a ventral view; image 2 is a dorsal view, the next two are lateral views.   Also on that day, February 10, 2016, two additional individuals were isolated and photographed from leaf litter samples in the same oak hammock north of Smith Preserve Way in the middle of the preserve. The first image (at left) shows an individual that was 1.5 mm long and with many scales.   The next three images are of a .75 mm individual found in the litter sample about one meter north of the other one. Notice that this one is half the length of the one in the other sample, On December 19, 2014, the 1.5 mm long springtail at right was living in leaf litter under a citrus tree in a hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. It was extracted from the leaf litter using a Berlese Funnel. These photographs were produced using photomicroscopy. When the photographs were submitted to <BugGuide.net> for identification, a note was attached to the photograph explaining " it certainly resembles the individuals you have identified for me as Seira bipunctata, but it has four dark scale spot areas and it seems to have more antennal segments than those others you've identified for me. I suspect it is the same genus, but I'm not sure. The response by Frans Janssens on January 6, 2015, was "S. bipunctata is the closest match, but as you notice it is different." [Note: as is explained above for Lepidocyrtus nr fimicolus., "nr" means "something close to or near to."] According to Janssens, this is probably another new species. On March 19, 2022, Dr. Janssens explained that he'd figured out that this specimen was really Seira brasiliana, a recently introduced species. It appears from all of the sightings of this species in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve that this species is well established here. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Seira knowltoni ... Slender Springtail On December 29, 2014, this 1.25 mm springtail was living in pine needle litter under a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree in the Smith Preserve. This hexapod was extracted from a collected sample of litter using a Berlese Funnel; this photograph was created using photomicroscopy. On January 20, 2015, the collembolan was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. As shown in this photograph, this individual has blue/purple coloration on much of its body, while Its legs and furcula are transparent. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Seira sp. ... Slender Springtail On December 17, 2014, this 1 mm long springtail was living with other springtails described above in leaf litter in the oak hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. The specimen was extracted from the sample with a Berlese Funnel. On December 25, 2014, it was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. Dr. Janssens reported that the scale cover had been removed. Members of Family Entomobryidae have distinct dorsal abdominal segmentation and the trunk is always elongate. The segmentation is very evident in this photograph. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Seira sp. ... Slender Springtail On December 17, 2014, this 2 mm long springtail was collected from the same location at the Smith Preserve as the ones described above in the Oak Hammock. On December 25, 2014, it was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. Note the one very long antenna of this specimen. The other antenna has broken off. This specimen also has a partially damaged scale cover.   Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Willowsia nigromaculata ... Slender Springtail On March 22, 2016, this 1.25 mm long springtail was living in leaf litter beneath a Serenoa repens (Saw Palmetto) in the north-central portion of the Smith Preserve, north of Smith Preserve Way. The springtail was removed from the litter using a Berlese funnel, and these photographs were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On April 11, 2016, identification was made by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, and a world authority on collembolans. According to Janssens (and quoted from <BugGuide.net>), "Willowsia is easily confused with Entomobrya. Both belong to the family Entomobryidae. With a microscope, the difference is seen easily: in Willowsia the body is covered with thin small translucent scales. In Entomobrya such scales are absent." The two images below are ventral views of this individual. The first was created using a black background and the second, using a white background. Both emphasize different structures. The first shows the hairs, collophore, and furcula. The second shows banding of the antenna, legs, lateral edges of the individual.   On December 17, 2014, the 1.3 mm long individual at right was living in leaf litter in an oak hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. It was isolated from the leaf litter using a Berlese funnel; this photograph was produced using photomicroscopy. This springtail photograph was analyzed on January 3, 2015 by Frans Janssens. Dr. Janssens said it looks similar to Lepidocytus fimicolus, originally described from Puerto Rico, but it is not the same. He decided to call it Lepidocyrtus nr fimicolus. On 29 December, 2017, Frans Janssens stated, "Willowsia nigromaculata ... according to Dr. Felipe N. Soto-Adames, who recently revised these images.   On December 19, 2014, the 2 mm long springtail below was living in leaf litter collected under a citrus tree in the same hammock as the one above. On January 7, 2015, it was identified from this photograph as another Lepidocyrtus nr fimicolus by Frans Janssens. When asked, Dr. Janssens explained that " 'nr' is a short way to say it is something close to or near to Lepidocyrtus fimicolus but different." [Note: <BugGuide.net> uses the word "prope" to mean "near."] When asked, "Do you think it could be another 'new' species." He responded, "Yes it could be new." Susan Snyder, host of this web site responded with "That would be incredible!!!:) If that is true, I will have looked at only 3.8 L of leaf litter, collected within 14 m of each other and filtered through a Berlese Funnel... and possibly discovered three new species of springtails. I am truly amazed." Dr. Janssens responded with, "If you collect fresh material, chances are high to find new undescribed species. Hopkin (1998) estimated the number of Collembola species worldwide at about 50,000. Currently only about 8,500 species have been described. I have calculated that based on the number of new described species each year, taxonomists will continue to describe new species for about 500 years... Your chance to find a new species currently is theoretically about 6:1 (50000:8500). Good luck in your Collembola hunt! ;-)" On 29 December, 2017, Frans Janssens stated the following about this particular specimen, "Willowsia nigromaculata ...according to Dr. Felipe N. Soto-Adames, who recently revised these images."   On December 19, 2014, the 1 mm long springtail below was living in leaf litter under a citrus tree, growing in the northeast hammock of the Smith Preserve. The creature was isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel, and these photographs were created using photomicroscopy. The photographs were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On January 4, 2017, the species was identified by Frans Janssens as Lepidocyrtus prope-fimicolus. On 29 December, 2017, Janssens noted, "Willowsia nigromaculata ... according to Dr. Felipe N. Soto-Adames, who recently revised these images." Dr. Janssens stated, "Descaled specimen." [Note from the webmaster: the scales might have been rubbed off by the springtail as it wiggled its way through the gauze to escape the light and heat of the light bulb in the Berlese funnel.]   On March 4, 2015, the 1.25 mm springtail in the image at left was living in leaf litter beneath a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree. It was isolated from the litter by using a Berlese Funnel. This photograph was produced using photomicroscopy. On March 12, 2015, it was identified from this photograph by Frans Janssens as Lepidocyrtus fimicolus. On 29 December, 2017, he stated,"Willowsia nigromaculata ... according to Dr. Felipe N. Soto-Adames, who recently revised these images.   On January 13, 2017, the Conservancy of SW Florida's science volunteer team was removing vines near the 14th Ave N tortoise fence in the southeast corner of the Smith Preserve and found nesting material made of palmetto fibers. A gallon bag of the material was collected and placed in a Berlese funnel to isolate any invertebrates living in the fibers. The 1.2 mm (without furca) springtail below was among the more than 150 invertebrates isolated from the fibers. These photographs were created using photomicrography and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On March 1, 2017, the species was identified by Dr. Frans Janssens as Lepidocyrtus fimicolus. On 29 December, 2017, Janssens stated, "Willowsia nigromaculata ... according to Dr. Felipe N. Soto-Adames, who recently revised these images. Return to top

 

Family Entomobryidae Unknown Species ... Slender Springtail On December 29, 2014, this tiny springtail was living in pine litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree in the Smith Preserve. It was extracted from the litter using a Berlese Funnel. This photograph was created using photomicroscopy. Before additional photographs could be taken or the individual could be accurately measured, it was lost is the sample. Its estimated length was 0.75 mm. It had a lot of setae around the base of its head, along the thorax, and along the abdomen, especially at the abdomen tip. The furcula was short and shaped like a fish tail. The last segment of an antenna was much longer than the others, broad in the middle, and pointed at the end. There seemed to be distinct paired sets of dark scale patches along abdominal segments 2 through 4. On February 19, 2015, the springtail was identified as a member of Family Entomobryidae by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.Net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology.   Return to top

 

 

Family Entomobryidae Unknown Species ... Slender Springtail On February 20, 2014, this 1 mm long Collembolan was found crawling with others on the leaf of a Ficus aurea(Strangler Fig). These three images were created using photomicroscopy. They were sent for verification of the family name to <Bugguide.net>. On February 2, 2023, the family was confirmed by Frans Janssens. According to <Bugguide.net>, there are 23 genera in 5 subfamilies in our area. According to <Bugguide.net>, there are 23 genera in 5 subfamilies in our area. Crawling on the same leaf of the strangler fig was the 1 mm long individual below. It was also confirmed by Frans Janssens as being in Family Entomobryidae. It is unknown whether this is the same species, or even the same genus as the other one. Return to top

Family Entomobryidae Unknown Species ... Slender Springtail On March 4, 2015, this blue collembolan (~1.75 mm long) was isolated from leaf litter collected under a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the middle of the Preserve. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology.     On January 27, 2018, Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, responded "If you could make a shot of the mucro (with a microscope about 600X) we could at least verify the genus with certainty."       He later explained that "The mucro = the terminal claw-like segment of the dentes of the furca. The dentes (singular = dens) = the 2 arms of the furca. The furca = the forked ventral appendage with which Collembola jump."         After several attempts by the webmaster, the images that Dr. Janssens needs to identify the genus and species could not be produced. Below are lateral photographs that do show the furca and the dentes. The first image shows a ventral view of the furca. The second image shows a lateral view of the furca and dentes. Return to top

 

Family Isotomidae Desoria sp. ... Smooth Springtail On November 21, 2023, this 1 mm long springtail was isolated, using a Berlese funnel, from leaf litter collected beneath a Coccoloba uvifera (Sea Grape) bush just south of the dry retention pond in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On November 23, 2023, the genus was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>. According to Frans, this genus lacks macrosetae on the body segments. According to <Bugguide.net>, there are more than 100 species in the genus. Return to top

 

Family Isotomidae - Subfamily Isotominae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail On March 3, 2016, this 1.25 long springtail (without its fulcra) was captured in a pitfall trap left overnight in the scrub just south of Smith Preserve Way, adjacent to a Myrica cerifera (Wax Myrtle) bush and the dry marsh. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On April 1, 2023, the family and subfamily were identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>, and a member of the Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium.   Subfamily Isotominae has about 15 genera and at least 100 described species, according to Wikipedia.     Return to top

 

 

Family Isotomidae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail On December 29, 2014, this ~0.5 mm long springtail was living in pine needle litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree in the central western section of the Smith Preserve. The specimen was isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel and these photographs were created using photomicroscopy. In this specimen, the head capsule appears to be more scleritized than the rest of the body. When an arthropod's body part is scleritized, there is crosslinking of some protein molecules. This biochemical process makes the cuticle (the outer fibrous layer secreted by the epidermal cells) more rigid and tan. Note the tan color of the head in these photographs. The photographs were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On April 12, 2018, the specimen was identified as a member of Family Isotomidae and Subfamily Isotominae by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.Net> and an expert on collembolans. Family Isotomidae is the second largest family in Order Collembola. Family members are elongate and lack scales on the upper surface of the body. According to <BugGuide.Net> there are 25 genera in our area and ~500 species in 50 genera worldwide in Subfamily Isotominae. Return to top

 

 

Family Isotomidae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail On March 3, 2016, this 1.5 mm long springtail was captured in a pitfall trap, placed in sand and left overnight near a Myrica cerifera (Wax Myrtle) bush and other vegetation bordering the northwest corner of the dry seasonal marsh. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On March 28, 2016, the family was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, and a world expert on springtails. The 3rd photograph shows the furcula (forked tail-like appendage), while the 4th is a better focused image of the abdominal segments. As stated earlier, Family Isotomidae is the second largest family in Order Collembola.   Return to top

 

 

Family Isotomidae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail The individual shown here was hidden inside a folded leaf of a Ficus aurea (Strangler Fig) with members of another collembolan species. Some of the collembolans were under silk webbing, and many springtail exoskeletons were inside the leaf. This image was created using photomicrography and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. The webmaster suspected it was a member of Family Isotomidae. On December 27, 2014, the family was confirmed by Frans Janssens. Return to top

 

Family Isotomidae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail On November 16, 2022, this .6 mm long springtail was isolated with a Berlese funnel from leaf litter collected in the oak hammock in the northeast quadrant of the Smith Preserve. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On January 8, 2023, the order was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>. He said, "It could be some kind of Isotomidae." Return to top

 

 

Family Isotomidae Unknown Species ... Smooth Springtail On November 18, 2023, this 0.8 mm springtail was extracted from pine needle litter that had accumulated beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree , growing in the west-central portion of the Smith Preserve. A Berlese funnel was used to isolate this springtail. The first image is a dorsal view, the second is a ventral view, and the third is a lateral view. Note the very elongate shape, which is a typical characteristic of this family. These images were created by photomicroscopy and sent for confirmation to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. The family was confirmed by Frans Janssens on January 10, 2024. Return to top

 

 

Family Paronellidae Salina banksi ... Elongate Bodied Springtail This springtail was captured with a sweep net along the southwest edge of the dry seasonal marsh in the Smith Preserve on December 8, 2014. The marsh was filled with grasses and sedges. On December 16, 2014, identification was determined from these photographs by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. The eyepatch photograph (Image 2) made the identification possible. The size of this particular springtail was 1 mm. On December 17, 2014, the 2 mm long individual at left (eye patch enlargement shown in image 3 above) was living in leaf litter in a hammock at the northeastern corner of the Smith Preserve. It was extracted from the leaf litter using a Berlese Funnel. On December 25, the species was identified by Frans Janssens. On December 19, 2014, the next two individuals below were living in leaf litter collected under a citrus tree in the same hammock as the other Salina banksi shown above. On January 8, 2015, Frans Janssens identified the one at right, a 1.5 mm long individual, as a sub adult. He said the one below, a 1.0 mm individual, is a juvenile. He explained that Salina banksi may grow to 2 mm in body length, and that unlike some other collembola, this species does not have scales. The individual above that looks like it has colored scales has pigmentation cells in the epidermis just below the cuticula. Dr Janssens called this "intrinsic colouration." He explained, "The intrinsic colouration can be seen in microscopy and/or in alive specimens in scaleless specimens. In scaled specimens with intact scale cover the intrinsic colour cannot be seen in alive specimens due to iridisation of the scales." The 1.5 mm long specimen below was collected in leaf debris under a citrus tree in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve. Its identity was confirmed by Frans Janssens on January 24, 2015.   On March 4, 2015, the 2 mm long springtail at left and below was living in leaf litter beneath a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the middle of the Smith Preserve. It's identification was made by Frans Janssens on March 25, 2017. Note the "intrinsic colouration."     On December 30, 2015, the 1.25 mm springtail below was caught with a sweep net in low, dry vegetation along the northeast corner of the gopher tortoise fence. The webmaster thought it was Salina banksi. This was confirmed by Frans Janssens on February 13, 2016. Return to top

 

Family Paronellidae Salina beta ... Elongate-Bodied Springtail On March 4, 2015, this 1.75 mm long, bluish purple colored springtail was found living in leaf litter beneath a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the middle of the Smith Preserve. It was isolated from the litter with a Berlese Funnel. These photographs were produced using photomicroscopy. On March 12, 2015, the individual was identified from the first two photographs by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. Janssens said "Entomobrya comparata seems to be the best match. But not 100% ;-) However, after considering some of its structures, Janssens requested additional photographs of the detailed portions of the furcula, especially of the claw-like terminal part of the dens (arms of the furcula), called the mucro.     On March 19, 2015, based on the photograph at left, Janssens determined that the species is Salina beta and not Entomobrya comparata. He stated "I do not see any crenulations on the dentes. But I do see a relative large mucro. In Entomobrya it is very small. So I conclude the best match is Salina beta." [Earlier, Janssens had explained to the webmaster that in Entomobrya, the dens is crenulated (kind of unilateral annulation). As such the dens is able to curve when applied to the substrate. It kind of rolls over the substrate. In Salina, the dens is not crenulated. It cannot be curved." Salina beta is yet another collembolan found in the Smith Preserve that is new for the <BugGuide.net> guide. Return to top

 

Family Paronellidae Unknown Species ... Elongate-Bodied Springtail On November 17, 2021, this 1 mm long springtail was captured in a yellow bowl trap that had been left overnight in a hammock south of the pond and west of the gopher tortoise fence. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Entomology Department. On 5 December 2021, the family was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>. According to <Bugguide.net>, there are 2 subfamilies Paronellinae mostly Indo-Pacific and Cychoderinae worldwide. The range is worldwide. In North America, they are more diverse in the west and Florida. Return to top

 

Family Unknown Unknown Species ... Springtail This 1.2 mm BL springtail was isolated from leaf litter collected in an oak hammock in the Northeast quadrant of the Smith Preserve. Images created by photomicroscopy were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On January 4, 2023, Frans Janssens confirmed that it was in Order Entomobryomorpha. This individual was brown with brown stripes on its dorsal surface. The antennae were four- segmented and slightly purple. These three photographs show different structures in focus; it can be noted that this individual has many hairs on its body. Its eyes seem centered on top of its head more than other springtails found in the Preserve. Return to top

 

Order Poduromorpha

 

Family Hypogastruridae Unknown Species ... Springtail On November 17, 2015, this 0.5 mm springtail was captured in a pit trap that had been placed in sand adjacent to a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) in the middle of the Smith Preserve. Using photomicrography, this image was created. The photograph was submitted for species identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. On November 20, 2015, the individual was identified as a member of Family Hypogastruridae by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. Janssens is with the University Department of Entomology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium, and he is an authority on collembola: Bellinger, P.F., Christiansen, K.A. & Janssens, F. 1996-2014. Checklist of the Collembola of the World.<http://www.collembola.org>. Members of Order Poduromorpha have short legs, short antennae, a plump body, and an oval shape. In dorsal view, as seen in this photograph, the abdominal segments are very distinct. Members of Family Hypogastruridae are very common and widespread with ~660 species in ~ 40 genera. Return to top

 

Family Hypogastruridae Unknown Species ... Springtail On December 29, 2014, this 0.4 mm long springtail was collected in pine needle litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree. It was blue with tan horizontal stripes on the abdomen. Unfortunately, the specimen set in the pine litter/alcohol-filled container for four years before the sample could be sorted, and the springtail may have been discolored and in other ways compromised by the mixture. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On March 17, 2018, identification of the family was made by Frans Janssens. As stated earlier, Janssens is with the University Department of Entomology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium, and he is an authority on collembola, helping create: Bellinger, P.F., Christiansen, K.A. & Janssens, F. 1996-2014. Checklist of the Collembola of the World.<http://www.collembola.org>. Also stated earlier, members of Family Hypogastruridae are very common and widespread with ~660 species in ~ 40 genera.   Return to top

 

Unknown Family Unknown Species ... Springtail On February 14, 2023, this springtail was extracted from a dead Tillandsia fasciculata (Cardinal Airplant/Wild Pine) that had fallen from a tree in the southeastern quadrant of Smith Preserve, not far from the eastern gopher tortoise fence. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On April 22, 2023, the order was confirmed by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>. The webmaster thought this specimen was another member of Family Hypogastruridae, but this has not confirmed by Frans. Return to top

 

Family Onychiuridae Unknown Species ... Springtail On December 29, 2014, this 0.8 mm long springtail was extracted from pine litter collected under a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree, using a Berlese Funnel. These photographs were produced by photomicroscopy. The first image had front lighting only. The second image had front and back lighting. On February 19, 2015, the springtail was identified from these photographs by Frans Jenssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. Members of Order Poduromorpha have short legs, short antennae, a plump body, and an oval shape. In dorsal view, as seen in these photographs, the abdominal segments are very distinct. Dr. Janssens identified this springtail as belonging to Subfamily Onychiurinae of Family Onychiuridae of Order Poduromorpha. Dr. Janssens' website defines the Family Onychiuridae as having "Antennae shorter than head. Body pigment absent. Body shape elongate. Eyes absent. First thoracic tergite present. Legs short. Sixth abdominal segment monolobed. Sixth abdominal segment in dorsal aspect pointed. Trunk segmentation outline bumpy." Return to top

 

 

Unknown Family Unknown Species ... Springtail On December 29, 2014, this 0.5 mm long bluish-colored springtail was collected in pine needle litter under Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) in the middle of the Smith Preserve. The springtail was separated from the litter sample using a Berlese Funnel. These photographs were prepared using photomicroscopy. On January 28, 2015, the springtail was identified from these photographs as a species in Order Poduromorpha by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. As stated for the species above, members of Order Poduromorpha have short legs, short antennae, a plump body, and an oval shape. In dorsal view, as seen in these photographs, the abdominal segments are very distinct. In an e-mail dated January 30, 2015, Janssens wrote, "Poduromorpha are difficult to ID on habitus shots. Many species are characterised on chaetotaxy: the distribution of the dorsal setae. Frontal shots that reveal the shape of the mouth cone may help to find the family. Ventral shots help in verifying the presence/absence of the furca.   Return to top

 

 

Unknown Family Unknown Species ... Springtail On November 24, 2015, this 0.9 mm long springtail was captured in a pitfall trap placed beside Cladina confusa (Reindeer Moss) in the central scrub area of the Smith Preserve. Dorsal (image 1), ventral (image 2), and lateral photographs (image 3) were created using photomicrosopy. The photographic images were sent for species identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On December 1, 2015, Ken Wolgemuth, a Contributing Editor of <BugGuide.net>, determined that the arthropod was a Collembolan and he sent it to the <BugGuide.net> collembolan expert, Frans Janssens. On December, Frans confirmed what Ken thought, that it is a collembolan of the Order Poduromorpha. Frans stated, "It could be Neanuridae given the pointed buccal cone. But also Odontellidae is a candidate given the presence of a furca (that is what it looks like anyway...). But the specimen is too distorted to do a decent ID. To relax the tissues of the specimen, put it in a solution of 10% lactic acid. This will not only relax the tissues but also make the specimen more transparent. Follow the process under the microscope. If you leave it in the solution too long the specimen will desintegrate...If you do not have access to lactic acid simply use sour milk." This webmaster will try Dr. Janssens suggestions. If the process works, more photos will be taken, sent to Dr. Janssens for identification, and posted here. Return to top

 

 

Unknown Family Unknown Species ... Springtail On March 3, 2016, this 0.5 mm springtail was caught in a pitfall trap that was placed in sand adjacent to an oak hammock in the east-central portion of the Smith Preserve. These photographs were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On March 10, 2016, the individual was identified as a member of Order Poduromorpha.     Return to top

 

Unknown Family Unknown Species ... Springtail On November 18, 2023, this 0.8 mm springtail was isolated from pine needle litter collected beneath a branch on the western section of a large Pinus elliotti densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree that was growing in the west-middle section of the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology.     On December 15, 2023, the Order was confirmed as Poduromorpha by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>, but he stated, " I cannot confirm [Family] Hypogastruridae given it could also be [Family] Pseudachorutinae." Return to top

 

Order Symphypleona

 

Family Bourletiellidae Bourletiella gibbonsi ... Globular Springtail On February 18, 2020, this .75 mm long springtail was captured in a pitfall trap left overnight in sand that was adjacent to an abandoned gopher tortoise burrow just West of the gopher tortoise fence and East of the water grate by the pond. There were four more individuals like this in the sample. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On April 6, 2023, the species was identified by Frans Janssens. This species was first described by Richard J. Snider in Entomological News, Volume 92, No 3, May & June 1981. Dr. Snider first found the species in South Carolina. Dr. Snider's color description of the species is, "Antenna purple, first segment uniformly dark, segments II and III darker distally, segment IV dark throughout. Head with light and dark purple mosaics forming two bands originating behind head, extending through eyepatches and converging between antennae forming a 'V'; a yellow-orange mosaic pattern above the intersection of the 'V'; another band formed midway between eyepatches and mouthparts, with three dark mosaics creating a broken line of dots on frons; the three mosaics and base of 'V' pattern above, constitute a triangular pattern; lower frons with light purple dusting. Thorax with paramedial lines broken. Abdomen with paramedial and lateral lines converging on dorsum of segment V; segment VI with dorsal maculae; bothriotrichium D surrounded with purple; parafurcular lobe with inverted crescent-shaped macula. Leg beyond trochanter with light dusting of purple, darkest distally on each segment. Bases of dentes purple. Body cream colored, becoming light yellow dorsally. Male color pattern same as female, except ground color more intense yellow." Below is another individual collected in the same pitfall trap as above. This one was slightly larger at 1 mm. Return to top

 

 

Family Bourletiellidae Bourletiella rustica ... Globular Springtail On November 24, 2015, this 1 mm BL (without furcula) springtail was captured in a pitfall trap placed beside Cladina confusa (Reindeer Moss) in the central scrub area of the Smith Preserve. Dorsal, ventral, and lateral photographs were created using photomicrosopy. The photographic images were sent for species identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On August 21, 2016, the specimen was identified by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, and an authority on collembolans. This species has a brown pigment with tan lateral lines broad and irregular. On December 13, 2016, the 1 mm BL (without furcula) springtail shown in the four photographs below was captured in a pitfall trap left overnight in sand and leaf litter adjacent to Chromolaena odorata (Jack-In-The-Bush), growing in the Smith Preserve near 14th Ave N and a private residence. These images were created using the same technique as those above and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On December 29, 2016, Frans Janssens identified this individual as another Bourletiella rustica. When queried by this webmaster as to why the two individuals look so different, Dr. Janssens responded "You did record two infraspecific forms of rustica: a pale one previously and a darker one recently."       Return to top

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Calvatomina sp. ... Globular Springtail This 1 mm long springtail was collected in leaf litter in an oak hammock in the northeast corner of the Smith Preserve on December 17, 2014. Using a Berlese Funnel, it was extracted from the leaf litter. Photomicroscopy was used to take these photographs. On December 30, 2014, after looking at the first two photographs, Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology made the following analysis. "Probably new to science. It is not in the 'bible' on Northern American Collembola of Christiansen & Bellinger of 1998. Given the very short 4th antennal segment: Dicyrtomidae. Given the reddisch background colour of the eyepatch : tentatively Calvatomina. More pictures pls. Such as facial aspect and ventral aspect." Janssens is with the University Department of Entomology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, B-2020, Belgium and he is an authority on collembola: Bellinger, P.F., Christiansen, K.A. & Janssens, F. 1996-2014. Checklist of the Collembola of the World.<http://www.collembola.org>. Additional photographs, shown below, have been sent to Dr. Janssens. According to Wikipedia, there are 199 described species in genus Calvatomina. Perhaps this species will become the 200th. Shown Below: On November 17, 2015, another individual (this time 0.8 mm long) was captured in a pitfall trap, placed under the eastern edge of a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine)'s canopy in the middle of the Smith Preserve. It was identified by Frans Janssens on November 22, 2015. He said, "Given this specimen is more pale, it could be a juvenile instar. The pattern seems to match quite well (with small diffs) as a juvenile instar." Shown at right and immediately below: On December 9, 2015, this 1 mm long individual was living in pine needles beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree that was growing in the southern portion of the Smith Preserve, just South of the power lines. It was suspected by this webmaster that it was another specimen of Calvatomina sp., but she was not sure because the markings are somewhat different. These three photographs were submitted to <BugGuide.net> and on January 15, 2017, Frans Janssens confirmed that it too is Calvatomina sp. He stated, "Calvatomina sp. 5 quite right. Especially the facial markings are similar.     Below is another specimen collected with the one immediately above. It too was 1 mm long. Frans Janssens confirmed that this was also Calvatomina sp. He stated, "They do resemble your other specimens quite well, although much paler. On January 3, 2017, the 1 mm long springtail below was living in leaf litter that had accumulated on top of a Serenoa repens (Saw Palmetto) trunk. Isolated with a Berelese funnel, the individual was photographed and images were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>. On 29 December 2017, the species was identified by Frans Janssens as "Calvatomina sp5 Janssens & Snyder 2014". Below: Images 1, 2, and 4 are lateral views. Image 3 is a dorsal view. Images 5 and 6 are frontal views. In all, more than 12 specimens have been collected in 27 leaf litter collections throughout the preserve, and additional others have been captured in pitfall traps. On March 4, 2022, two specimens of this species were sent in alcohol to Dr. Richard J. Snider at the Department of Integrative Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing. Dr. Richard will examine the individuals and determine if they do represent a new species to the world. As soon as this web master receives that information, it will be posted here. ______________________________ September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 hurricane, made landfall along the Naples, Florida coast, creating a storm surge that completely covered the Preserve several feet for several days. The water was brackish and from the Gordon River. On November 16, 2022, the webmaster collected leaf litter in the NE quadrant of the Preserve to see if the population diversity of invertebrates had changed compared to collections made prior to the hurricane. There did not appear to be any change in this sample. Several specimens of Calvatomina sp. were collected, as well as many other invertebrate species. Below is one of the individuals. (Note: the antennae are broken off at the tip.) On December 1, 2022, the genus was confirmed as Calvatomina sp. 9 by Frans Janssens. The 1 mm long individual below was isolated from the same litter sample as the one above on November 16, 2022. These images were sent to <Bugguide.net> and Frans Janssens said on December 19, 2022, "the pattern seems new me... but the best match (based on the facial pattern) = Calvatomina sp. 9" On November 16, 2022, the 1 mm long springtail below was captured in a pitfall trap left in sand overnight in the Northeast Hammock of Smith Preserve, where the litter sample described above was collected. These images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for confirmation of the genus to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. Frans Janssens confirmed the genus. The webmaster expected that few if any macroinvertebrates would be collected on November 16th in pitfall traps, but in 6 small pitfall traps, 41 individual microinvertebrates were collected. Of that number 26 were collembolans. Return to top

 

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail On March 4, 2015, this 1 mm long springtail was isolated from leaf litter that was collected beneath a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) in the center of the Smith Preserve. The springtail was isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel and photographs were created by photomicroscopy. The photos were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University Department of Entomology. It has not been identified. According to <BugGuide.net>, there are 25 species in 5 genera in this family in our area and 200 species in 8 genera worldwide. Members of this family have "elbowed" antennae and the 4th antennal segment is short.   Return to top

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail This 1 mm long springtail was collected with many other tiny invertebrates in leaf litter on November 17, 2022 in the NE quadrant of the Preserve. The invertebrates were isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel. Of note is that September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 hurricane, made landfall along the Naples, Florida coast, creating a storm surge that completely covered the Preserve several feet for several days. The water was brackish and from the Gordon River. The webmaster collected leaf litter to see if the population diversity of invertebrates had changed from when collections were made prior to the hurricane. There did not appear to be fewer types of species or numbers of individuals. This individual was one that hadn't been seen by the webmaster before. These images were sent for ID confirmation that the individual was a member of Family Dicyrtomidae, since its antennae are bent. On December 1, 2022, it was confirmed by Frans Janssens. Unlike other members of the Family that have been found, this individual has six very distinct white spots on its posterior. Return to top

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail On December 9, 2015, the ~0.5 mm specimen below was living in leaf litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Florida Slash Pine) Tree in the southeastern quadrant of the Smith Preserve . On December 1, 2017, the individual was identified by Frans Janssens as a member of Family Dicyrtomidae, but "it was too deteriorated to try a proper identification." The webmaster notes that this specimen looks a lot like the one shown above, but it is not identical. The one below has several larger circular purple markings on its face. Return to top

 

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail On December 9, 2015, this tiny springtail was living in pine needle litter beneath a Pinus elliottii densa (Southern Florida Slash Pine) tree that was growing in the southern portion of the Smith Preserve, just South of the power lines. The specimen was separated from the needles using a Berlese funnel, and this photograph was created using photomicroscopy. The photo was sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On January 15, 2017, the family was identified by Frans Janssens. He stated, "Note short antenna 4. Juvenile specimen." Return to top

 

 

Family Dicyrtomidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail On January 23, 2017, this ~0.3 mm long springtail was living in leaf litter collected beneath a Psychotria nervosa (Shinyleaf Wild Coffee) bush and a Quercus laurifolia (Laurel Oak) tree that were growing in the Smith Preserve, just southeast of the pond, not far from the gopher tortoise fence adjacent to the parking lot. The springtail was isolated from the leaf litter with a Berlese funnel. Photographs were created using photomicroscopy and the images were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. The tiny specimen was identified on April 15, 2017 by Dr. Janssens. Dr. Janssens stated, "Dicyrtomidae ... Very early juvenile instar. Possibly just hatched from egg." The webmaster notes that the ocelli of the specimen appear to number 7 and they are separated. In the other members of the family above, they appear to be merged as one large eye spot. Dr. Janssens explained, "In adults the ocelli are located on a dark eyepatch. In juveniles the background colouration may not be (fully) developed. In this juvenile you can see the 7 (or 8?) ocelli of the eyepatch. According to <BugGuide.net>, the black patches on the head of a collembolan are the lateral eye clusters. Each eye patch is composed of a maximum of 8 single eyes. The eye cluster has 6 photosensitive single eyes and 2 single eyes that are sensitive to polarized light. In many Collembola the number of single eyes in the eye cluster is reduced. In many soil and cave species single eyes are completely absent. Collembola also have frontal eyes. In the large facial space below/between the antennae there may be a dark spot. This spot marks the location of the frontal eyes. Frontal eyes are embedded deep into the skin and have no external (domelike) components.   Return to top

 

 

Family Katiannidae Unknown Species ... Globular Springtail On November 17, 2022, this .2 mm long springtail was captured in a pitfall trap that had been left overnight in an oak hammock in the northeast quadrant of the preserve, adjacent to where Litter Sample 27 was collected the previous day. These images were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On January 28, 2023, the family was identified by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net>. According to The Families of Springtails (Collembola) of British Columbia by R. A. Cannings and G. G. E. Scudder, 2005, "The family is widespread, but mostly in the Southern Hemisphere. There are 162 named species. They are small springtails, less than 1.5 mm, mostly living in forests. Abdominal segments 5 and 6 are not fused." Return to top

 

 

 

Family Sminthurididae Sminthurides occultus ... Globular Springtail On March 4, 2015, this ~0.2 mm long globular springtail was living in leaf litter beneath a Quercus geminata (Sand Live Oak) in the center of the Smith Preserve. It was isolated from the litter with a Berlese funnel. These photographs were created using photomicrography and sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. Note, this specimen has a purplish head and a brown, speckled abdomen. These images are not clear because the specimen was coated in a gelatinous webbing. On January 12, 2017, the springtail was identified as possibly a juvenile female Sminthuridides occultus, by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. Dr. Janssens stated, "Just an educated guess... given the fuzzy images..."   Return to top

 

 

Family Sminthurididae Sphaeridia sp. ... Globular Springtail This .2 mm long springtail was isolated from leaf litter collected on November 16, 2022 in the oak hammock in the northeast quadrant of the Smith Preserve. These images were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On December 28, 2022, the springtail was identified as a female Sphaeridia sp. by Frans Janssens, Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. Return to top

 

 

Family Sminthurididae Sphaeridia sp. ... Globular Springtail On November 17, 2022, this .2 mm long springtail was captured in a pitfall trap that had been left overnight in an oak hammock in the northeast quadrant of the preserve, adjacent to where Litter Sample 27 was collected the previous day. These images were sent for identification to <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. The webmaster suspected it might be the same species as the one immediately below in the next green box because of its purple color. On January 28, 2023, the genus was confirmed, but the species has yet to be determined.   Return to top

 

 

Family Sminthurididae Sphaeridia pumilis ... Globular Springtail On March 4, 2015, this ~0.1 mm long springtail was living in leaf litter beneath a Quercus gemnata (Sand Live Oak) tree in the center of the Smith Preserve. The leaf litter was collected and placed into a Berlese funnel to separate the arthropods from the litter. Then, photographs were created using photomicroscopy. The images were sent for identification to <BugGuide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology. On March 17, 2017, this specimen was identified as a male Sphaeridia pumilis by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <BugGuide.net>. When the webmaster asked Dr. Janssens how he could tell from the poorly focused photographs that this is a male, he responded: "That is easy, really. I'll tell you the secret ;-) Members of the family Sminthurididae are sexually dimorphic. That is : the sexes are morphologically different. As in humans ;-) The difference is in the antennae. Females have 'normal' antennae. Males have modified 'grasping' antennae. The grasping mechanism is formed by setae and papillae on the 2nd and 3rd antennal segment. In Sminthurides it is most complex. In Sphaeridia the grasping mechanism is very simple : just a few macrosetae. You can see in some images that the 2nd and 3rd antennal segments are kind of in an angle. The antennae seem kind of broken. This is typical for the male. I cannot see the setae in your images. Try to make a dark field illumination shot : dark background with sideways illumination. The setae will become visible then. With the grasping antennae the male grasps the bases of the antennae of a female. During this courtship ritual you may find couples head to head. Kind of kissing ;-) Females often walk around with an uplifted male clasped to her antennae. It is quite funny to see that. Now you are an expert too. Have fun!" Additional online research stated in that many collembolan species, males deposit spermatophores on the substrate for females to find. Each spermatophore is usually placed at the top of a thin hair or petiole to keep it off the substrate. In some species, males deposit spermatophores wherever they like. In other species, males wait until finding a receptive female and then deposit spermatophores nearby. In some species, competing males eat another's spermatophores before setting their own in the same place. However in Sphaeridia pumilis, a male uses his third pair of legs to transfer a drop of sperm directly to a female's genital opening. As can be seen in these photographs, this individual was purple with white mottling. The ocelli (eye patches) of this species are typically sharply black. The ocelli of this individual were dark purple. Also on March 4, 2015, another similar~0.2 mm springtail was isolated from litter under another Sand Live Oak tree in the middle of the Smith Preserve. Shown below, this individual was identified as a female of the species by Frans Janssens on January 28, 2018. He commented, "Note the diff in the shape of the antennae : in the female : ant 2+3(+4) narrow and straight in the male : ant 2+3 modified in a clasping mechanism (note the angle between ant 2 and ant 3)." Return to top

Family Sminthurididae Stenacidia violacea ... Globular Springtail On November 21, 2023, this 0.2 mm female collembolan was isolated from leaf litter collected beneath a Coccoloba uvifera (Sea Grape) bush, just south of the dry marsh in the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. The first two images were created using photomicroscopy and sent for identification <Bugguide.net>, sponsored by Iowa State University's Department of Entomology in early December, 2023. On December 9, 2023, this individual's family was confirmed by Frans Janssens, a Contributor to <Bugguide.net.> Two additional photographs were taken and sent to Dr. Janssens to see if addition identification was attainable from better images. On December 28, 2023 the following message was sent by Dr. Janssens ..."Stenacidia violacea..Well done, Susan. Happy 2024." Return to top

 

© Photographs and text by Susan Leach Snyder (Conservancy of Southwest Florida Volunteer), unless otherwise credited above.

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