Sminthurides aquaticus is a springtail belonging to the Sminthuridae family in the Collembola order. It is a common species that is found throughout United Kingdom on the surface of water.
Morphology[]
These springtails have rotund, translucent bodies with a light yellow colouration with their dorsal surface often having a tinge of green or teal to it. The males are twice as small as females. The fourth antennae segment aim females isn’t subdivided into sub segments like other members from the same family.[1] the antennae of the males are modified for clasping which aids in their unique courtship ritual.
Ecology[]
Adaptations[]
This species has quite a few noteworthy adaptations which aid it's unique semi-aquatic lifestyle. We already know that this species is typically found inhabiting the surface of static water bodies. It is quite typical for arthropods to pose specific adaptations which enable them mobility on the surface of water, these typically consist of water-repellent hairs and a physique which spreads the insect's weight evenly on the water surface (As in the case of Gerrids). However in the case of springtails., these adaptations are often than not, quite complex. Their jumping organ has a membrane present at the bottom with fine, hydrophobic hairs covering it. This likely serves the function of providing a safe landing on water surfaces. This species also possesses other distinct features. They possess a sikle-shaped claw at the end of each leg, the outer surface of the claw is hydrophilic i.e, attracts water whereas the inner surface of the claw is water-repellant. This unique build form a concave meniscus on the surface of the water, allowing the insect to stay afloat.
Courtship[]
Courtship rituals are quite elaborate, as discussed earlier as well in the article, the males have specialised claw modifications or grasping the female during courtship with their antennae. It simply goes like this- The male uses his antennae to cling onto the antennae of the female and then the female pulls him upside-down over her body, the male then guides the female to his spermatophore.
Other info[]
- Podura aquatica is a springtail similar to this species.