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SPRINGTAILS IN LAS VEGAS

Springtails

SPRINGTAILS IN LAS VEGAS

Springtails are very small insects in the order collembolan even though they are in the insect class, being wingless having poor vision and that they are more primitive than most insect, leading some entomologists to believe they should have their own class-collembolan.

These odd looking bugs are beneficial to soil. Springtails feed on algae, fungi, fungi spores, pollen and decaying vegetable matter.  While eating they break down organic matter and release nutrients back to the soil, enriching it. Springtails are sometimes considered pests in agriculture, but are more often harmless and do not damage crops. Their presence is in fact an indication of good soil health

Springtails live in moist or damp places all over the world. Species of springtail can live on snow, on the surface of water, and in tidal areas. Most springtails prefer soil and damp decaying places like under leaves, wood and organic debris however will live in damp parts of a home in the basement, kitchen or bathroom.

There is a  device called a furcula attached to the springtail's abdomen that allows it to 'jump' three to four inches, a distance 100 times its body length of one or two millimeters. The fork-shaped furcula is normally held down flat against the insect's abdomen and when released, it propels the springtail into the air which can be startling.

The best way to keep springtails out of a home is by keeping it aired out and free of moist or moldy places. In humid climates this can be difficult. If springtails become a nuisance, the advice is to keep to dry out the air by using a fan or to use a dehumidifier. Removing any rotting or moldy wood that provides indoor springtail habitat is also a good idea.

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