Springtails (Tropical white)

Technical Sheet – Tropical white (White Springtails)

Scientific name: Tropical white
Common name: White springtails
Family: Isotomidae
Origin: Cosmopolitan distribution (widely cultured)
Size: 1 – 3 mm
Coloration: Translucent white

Habitat and behavior

This species inhabits moist, organic-rich soils. It is commonly found in terrariums, paludariums, and controlled cultures, where it plays a key role in nutrient recycling. They are highly active organisms that move quickly, especially in high humidity conditions.

Feeding

They feed on:

• Fungi and mold
• Decomposing organic matter
• Plant debris
• Microorganisms

In culture, they can be fed with yeast, oat flakes, or specialized microfauna diets.

Care requirements

• Temperature: 18 – 25 °C
• Humidity: High (70 – 100%)
• Recommended substrate: Coconut fiber, peat, or plaster with activated charcoal
• Lighting: Not required (they prefer dark environments)

Reproduction

They reproduce mainly through parthenogenesis (without the need for males), allowing rapid colony growth. Under optimal conditions, populations increase steadily and reliably.

Use in terrariums

• Natural clean-up crew
• Helps prevent mold and fungal growth
• Improves substrate quality
• Ideal for bioactive terrariums, paludariums, and vivariums

Use as live food

• Ideal live food for reptile and amphibian hatchlings
• Suitable for small or juvenile arthropods
• Perfect size for animals that cannot consume larger prey
• Provides a constant food source in bioactive setups

Compatibility

Suitable to coexist with:

• Reptiles
• Amphibians
• Arthropods
• Isopods

Completely harmless to animals and plants.

Advantages

• Easy to maintain
• Fast reproduction
• Dual function: clean-up crew + live food
• Helps maintain a balanced ecosystem
• Reduces odors and visible decomposition

Recommendations

Maintain high humidity and avoid drying out the culture. Do not expose to extreme temperatures. Provide food in moderation to prevent contamination from excess.