Springtails (Collembola)
Springtails are tiny, wingless insects in the Order Collembola. They develop large numbers in moist soil, mulch and decaying leaves, and can be found in homes with high humidity, mold, and other favorable conditions. Homeowners may discover large numbers of these insects on patios, in swimming pools, or areas near exterior doors. They are beneficial to soil because they feed on decaying, damp vegetation, returning nutrients to the soil in a form used by plants.
General Biology
Springtails vary in length from a quarter millimeter to 6 millimeters, though normally they are about 1 millimeter long. They are wingless in all stages, and the young though smaller, look like adults. They have colors ranging from white to yellow, or shades of gray. They have a forked appendage, resembling a lever, called the furcula. The furcula is attached to the tip of the abdomen, and is held to the abdomen when the insect is at rest. When disturbed, the furcula is released, striking the ground, causing the insect to spring into the air. They can spring about 4 inches into the air. The common name, springtail comes from this ability.
The Order Collembola has two suborders, best identified by body shape. One appears long and narrow, while the other is more rounded. There are seven families including 650 species in North America. There have been 3600 species discovered worldwide, and they are found from the Arctic to the tropics.
WHY ARE THEY A PROBLEM?
Springtails are probably best described as occasional invaders under most conditions, though they can become pests due to their large numbers. They are harmless and do not bite, sting or transmit diseases. They are attracted to lights and may come inside in large numbers when the weather is dry or after heavy rain. People with potted plants may unwittingly bring springtails into their home and support indoor breeding with well watered plants. Leaks and moist environments in or near homes provide breeding areas which contribute to interior invasions.
CONTROL OPTIONS
Springtails really require no chemical insecticides to control them inside. They can be killed with a mist of dishwashing soap in water. Mix to about 1% soap solution. Let potted plants dry out a bit before bringing inside and avoid overwatering once inside. Be sure to caulk, seal and weatherstrip the home to prevent entry from outside. If chemicals are chosen, spot treatment and crack and crevice treatment can be made with properly labeled insecticides.
Outdoor population control starts with removal of breeding sites and moisture control. Don’t allow mulch to become too deep. Keep compost piles, decaying leaves and vegetation, away from the house. Allow the soil to dry between watering and keep the soil from becoming too acidic to help reduce populations near the house. Soapy water or insecticidal soap can be used to treat living areas such as soil or mulch. If broadcast or barrier treatment with insecticide is chosen, read and follow the label instructions carefully.