Overview

Springtails (Collembola) are microfauna that consume mold, fungi, biofilm, and decaying organic matter. They act as a biological cleaning crew, improving soil health, preventing microbial overgrowth, and supporting isopod and plant ecosystems in any bioactive setup.

Microterra Labs cultures three primary species:

• Temperate White Springtails (Folsomia candida) — hardy, explosive breeders
• Silver Springtails (Lepidocyrtus sp.) — slightly larger, highly active mold control
• Asian Orange Springtails (Yuukianura aphoruroides) — warm-loving, premium species

All species follow the same basic care with slight environmental preferences noted below.

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Culture Setup

Container:

• 8 oz deli cup with a ventilated fabric-lid for small cultures
• 6 qt tub for large, long-term colonies or production setups

Substrate:

• Temperate White: Charcoal or clay substrate
• Silver: Mixed organic substrate
• Asian Orange: Substrate blend with slightly higher humidity

Charcoal provides excellent surface area and microbial growth; soil-blended setups provide additional stability for tropical species.

Moisture:

• Keep substrate consistently damp, not soaked
• Mist every 2–3 days with dechlorinated or RO water
• Avoid standing water — it limits oxygen and kills springtails

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 70–78°F
• Asian Orange performs best at the warmer end (72–80°F)
• Avoid heat mats, direct sun, or cold drafts

Light:

• Indirect ambient light only
• Springtails thrive in low-light, humid environments

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Feeding

Diet:

• Light dusting of brewer’s yeast once weekly

Alternative Foods:

• Rice flour
• Spirulina powder
• Powdered fish flakes or sinking fish food

Important:

Feed lightly — excess food encourages mold blooms and mites, especially in dense colonies.

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Harvesting

Direct Tap Method:

• Gently tap or swirl the culture, allowing springtails to climb the sides
• Invert the container over your terrarium to introduce them

Water Float Method:

• Add a small amount of water
• Springtails float immediately
• Pour or drip into the enclosure

Substrate Scoop:

• Use a spoon to move a small piece of charcoal or substrate into the new environment

Recovery Time:

• Allow 2–4 days between harvests so the colony can rebound
• Re-seed terrariums every 2–4 weeks for continuous mold control

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Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Mold or Sour Smell:

• Remove affected substrate
• Add fresh charcoal/moss
• Reduce feeding until conditions stabilize

Low Ventilation:

• Ensure lids have proper airflow
• Anaerobic conditions cause rapid colony crashes

Moisture Issues:

• Dry surfaces → mist lightly
• Standing water → drain or tilt the container briefly

Culture Cycling:

• Rebuild or split cultures every 2–3 months
• Always keep a backup starter colony from your strongest bin