Springtails are a large order of minute insects. They take their common name from a forked organ extending from the end of the abdomen of most species that can be used to propel the insect hundreds of body lengths away, putting them among the top ranked insect jumpers.

Springtails may be incredibly abundant, occurring in great numbers in and around wrack and other decaying vegetation. However, because most are less than 2 mm in length, they are rarely noticed. They are nonetheless among the most important scavengers at Coal Oil Point, as well as in most terrestrial environments. We have found four different species of springtails at the Reserve, though there are doubtlessly more.

Springtail Photos (click to enlarge)
Sminthuridae
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