Belted springtail (Orchesella cincta)
I absolutely adore the big size and characteristic coloring of the belted springtail (Orchesella cincta). They can be kept perfectly together with dermestid beetles or emerald cockroaches in the more natural enclosures.
Belted springtail (Orchesella cincta)
The belted springtail grows up to 3 to 5 mm in length, which is extremely large for springtails. They are quite calm in nature, often staying in the same spot for a prolonged time instead of being jumpy. Both adults and nymphs are belted. These springtails feed on plant material and are found near the ground, under stones, or in the foliage and leaf litter. I have seen them feeding on fish flakes, yeast and apple as well.
This species tends to prefer dry, well-ventilated air with deeper substrate moisture. If conditions are dry, large aggregations of mixed sizes will occur near moisture. If there is a sudden moisture increase, they will spread out and molt rapidly to adulthood. This can be used to carefully grow large colonies quickly.
Distribution: Europe and North America.
Origin: The Netherlands, Europe. In my care since 2024.
