Caring for your Springtails

Assorted Isopods

(Collembola spp.)

Basic Information:

Springtails are tiny, soil-dwelling microarthropods found worldwide, including across North America. While often mistaken for insects, they belong to their own unique group (Collembola). Most species are extremely small—typically 1–3 millimeters—and are commonly seen as tiny white or gray specks in moist environments.

They get their name from a specialized structure called a furcula, which allows them to “spring” into the air when disturbed. In the reptile and bioactive hobby, springtails are highly valued as a cleanup crew, feeding on mold, fungus, and decaying organic matter. They are essential for maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems in humid enclosures.

Lifespan:
Several months to about 1 year, though colonies reproduce continuously under proper conditions.

Sexing:
Sexing is not applicable or necessary for care.
• Springtails reproduce rapidly in colonies.
• Populations will sustain themselves when conditions are appropriate.

Enclosure:

• Starter cultures: Small deli cups or culture containers.
• Established cultures: Can be maintained in small bins or directly within bioactive enclosures.

Springtails are often kept in charcoal or soil-based cultures. In enclosures, they thrive in moist substrate layers and hidden microhabitats.

Substrate:

Common culture and habitat options include:
• Charcoal (for breeding cultures)
• Coconut fiber
• Organic topsoil
• Bioactive substrate mixes

They thrive in consistently moist environments with access to organic matter.

Lighting & Temperature:

• Basking Spot: Not required
• Ambient Temperature: 65–75°F
• Cool Side: 60–65°F
• UVB Lighting: Not required.

Avoid high temperatures, as springtails prefer cooler, stable environments.

Humidity:

Maintain high humidity (70–100%). Moisture is critical for survival, as springtails are highly sensitive to drying out.

Food:

Springtails are detritivores and microfauna feeders.
• Primary diet: mold, fungus, and decaying organic material
• In cultures: can be fed small amounts of rice, yeast, or specialized diets

Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can foul the culture.

Water:

Springtails do not require a water dish. They obtain all necessary moisture from their environment. Keep substrate or charcoal consistently moist (not flooded).

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Springtails are an essential component of any bioactive enclosure. They help control mold, break down waste, and maintain a clean, balanced ecosystem. While not typically kept as display animals, they are incredibly valuable for maintaining healthy habitats.

Where Can I Buy Springtails Near Me?

If you're in Carroll County, Maryland, it’s just a short drive to Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick, where you can check availability of springtails and get expert advice on bioactive setups and culture maintenance. Whether you're building a new enclosure or boosting an existing one - there’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!