SPRINGTAILS
(Collembola)

Springtails are a group of very small to minute (1-2 mm) wingless insects. They often occur in enormous numbers on the surface of water, on snow, in mushroom houses, in flowerpots and other damp places. They occasionally invade houses and are particularly common in basements, bathrooms and kitchens.

Close up of springtail, Entomobrya albocincta *

Springtails feed on algae, fungi and decaying vegetable matter. These insects are among the most troublesome swimming pool pests. They also occasionally become pests in maple-sap buckets or on seedlings in greenhouses.

Damp environmental conditions are preferred since springtails respire through their cuticles. If their habitat becomes too dry, they will actively seek a more favourable environment. They may move indoors through window screens, open doors, through vents or with the soil of ornamental plants brought into the house. After entering a house, they are often trapped in sinks, basins and bathtubs. They may also be found in cracks and crevices, or occur in damp wall voids.

CONTROL

Close up of springtails, Folsomia candida *

Outdoors:
- Cleaning leaves and plant debris from around the house, especially in window wells, can reduce insect numbers.
- Keep turfgrass from growing near the edge of swimming pools.
- Keep compost piles or mulch away from house foundations.

Indoors:
- Decrease dampness and humidity within the house with de-humidifiers or fans.
- Do not allow food particles to collect in cracks or crevices of cupboards, counters, etc.
- Plants should only be watered after the soil in the pots appears to be dry.
- Seal any cracks or crevices in the house foundation, or other points of entry.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove springtails from around the household.

Reference:
*© 2000-2003 © Hopkin, S., www.collembola.org

W.A. Attwater

PDCF-0025 (Revised 2003/11/07)