(Collembola)
Biology:
Springtails belong to the group of protozoan insects. They are usually 1 to 2 mm long and often have a so-called jumping fork, which is folded forward under the abdomen when at rest. This enables the animals to perform small jumps.
Most of the insects, also known as collembolans or earth fleas, live in the soil. They are dependent on a moist habitat and generally feed on decaying animal and plant matter. As they contribute to the formation of humus, they are considered very useful.
Damage:
During heavy infestations, springtails can be seen jumping around on the surface of potting soil. Some species can cause damage to living plant material if they multiply en masse. In general, however, these are insignificant and direct control of the animals is not necessary.
Tip:
As collembolans are always dependent on areas with high humidity due to their thin-skinned bodies, heavy infestations on flower pots, for example, can be quickly contained by allowing the soil to dry out several times. If you find springtails in other areas of the home, this indicates that the humidity is too high. This can also be remedied by drying out the soil.
