Collembola
1
9.9
Tiny wingless animals called springtails that live in soil and help break down dead plants
- noun
- /kəˈlɛmbələ/
- Specialized
:
colémbolo
- The leaf litter was teeming with tiny Collembola bouncing around.
Examples
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Scientists often use Collembola to study soil health and micro-ecosystems.
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Collembola are plentiful in forest soils, where they help decompose organic matter.
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Look! A Collembola!
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I found a Collembola under the leaf.
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The Collembola, tiny springtails found in the soil, can jump to avoid being eaten.
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In gardens, Collembola play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter.
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Anyone interested in soil biodiversity should learn about the role of Collembola in the ecosystem.
Surface Forms
Collembola singular
Collembola plural
Etymology
The word Collembola likely comes from Greek parts kolla meaning 'glue' and bolē meaning 'a throw' or 'leap'. So the name points to a sticky tube some have and the spring-like tail they use to jump, which is why it fits these tiny soil animals called springtails.