Springtails are wingless insects, thin and elongated, about 1/16 of an inch. They can be found on top of the soil or walking on the edges of the pot, or in the saucer, if the pot has drainage holes. They are generally harmless to plants, as they feed on decaying organic matter and fungi. Some species may damage plants by chewing on the roots and seedling leaves. Even in the case of species that eat plants, with mature plants the damage is rarely sufficient to get you worried. ⠀ People who are in

Step right up to see tiny springtails spin through the air with the greatest of ease! In ponds and streams, they skyrocket out of the reach of hungry insects like water striders by slapping a tail-like appendage against the water. And you won’t believe how they stick the landing. | Deep Look • PBS