Springtails
Springtails are tiny, primitive arthropods that use a forked tail-like structure called a furcula to spring into the air when disturbed. They are barely visible to the naked eye, measuring 1 to 2 mm, and are typically white, gray, or dark-colored. They thrive in moist environments and can be found in enormous numbers - millions per acre - in soil, leaf litter, and around foundations. They occasionally invade homes in large numbers when outdoor conditions become too wet or too dry, appearing on bathroom floors, kitchen sinks, and in potted plant soil.
Species in This Group (1)
Key Behaviors
Springtails require moist conditions and feed on mold, fungi, algae, and decaying organic matter. They aggregate in tremendous numbers in mulch, under slabs, around pools, and in over-irrigated lawns. They enter homes through foundation cracks and plumbing penetrations, appearing in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. In swimming pools, they can form a visible layer on the water surface. They do not survive long in dry indoor environments.
Risks & Concerns
Springtails do not bite, sting, or damage structures or belongings. They are strictly a nuisance pest, though their sheer numbers can be overwhelming and distressing to homeowners. Their presence in large numbers indicates excessive moisture around the foundation, under slabs, or in landscaping that may contribute to other pest and structural moisture issues.
Need Help With Springtails?
If you're seeing signs of springtails in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.