Hypogastrura

Hypogastrura spp. are small dark coloured springtails. Nine UK species have been identified (some represented only by a single historic specimen) but differentiating them is extremely difficult and requires chaetotaxy - counting the number of clavate tenant setae on the tibiotarsi. Unless evidence confirming the species is presented these should be recorded as Hypogastrura spp. 

Unless microscopic evidence (chaetotaxy) confirming the species is presented these should be recorded as Hypogastrura spp. 

Occurs in sites rich in organic matter including sewage sludge, rotting leaf litter, compost and other similar situations.

All year round.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.