springtail
- noun
- /ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl/
- Specialized
- In most of the Dry Valleys, there is only one species of springtails," Hogg says.
- springtails and mites
- tiny insects called springtails
- insects called springtails
Examples
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And then there are the other creatures: nematodes, mites, protozoa, springtails—does he plan to raise all of those bacteria-free?
Fiction book (2000) -
This springtail species, Neocryptopygus nivicolus (actual size 0.9 mm), is found only in the vicinity of Mount Seuss.
Academic text (2008) -
Do you see the springtail?
Blog text (28) -
Don't know what a springtail is?
Blog text (28) -
It appears that the springtail was hitching a ride several million years ago.
Blog text (28) -
Anyway, researchers have discovered a springtail in association with a mayfly in Dominican amber.
Blog text (28) -
After examining their images, researchers discovered that the little springtail was holding onto the mayfly with its antennae.
Blog text (28) -
The tiny springtail jumped over the soil as I observed it under the microscope.
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While hiking in the snow, I noticed a springtail moving quickly across the icy surface.
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A springtail can be found in moist environments, where it plays an important role in the ecosystem.
Synonyms
Tiny wingless animals called springtails that live in soil and help break down dead plants
A very small wingless insect with a tail-like spring that lets it jump
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Springtail comes from the simple parts spring ('to jump') and tail ('the rear part of an animal'). This tiny insect has a tail-like part that works like a little spring to launch it into the air, so the name tells you exactly how it moves.