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 Springtails, or collembola, are primative hexapods (six-legged arthropods) that are closely related to insects. These small critters (1-6 mm, usually less than 3 mm) live in soil, leaf litter, and other damp organic material. They can be extremely abundant at times.
Houseplant soil is a common habitat of springtails in homes. They generally cause no harm but may be so abundant that they become a nuisance. Very occasionally they damage tender, young garden plants.
Springtails may be nearly colorless to white or gray and even yellow, orange, red, or green. The name "springtail" comes from an ability to spring forward by releasing an appendage that is normally tucked under the abdomen (right, lower drawing). All stages except the egg are similar in shape.
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Two views of a springtail; photograph (upper, head and antennae to the right) and linedrawing (below, head to the left). Note the long "springtail" at rear end (lower, right) which may be folded forward.
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