Springtails
Springtails play a crucial role in bioactive enclosures, acting as natural custodians that help maintain a clean, balanced micro-ecosystem. These tiny, soil-dwelling arthropods feed on mold, decaying organic matter, and waste, preventing harmful buildup that could affect the health of plants and animals within the enclosure. When paired with isopods, springtails form a powerful cleanup crew—springtails specialize in breaking down fungal growths and fine organic debris, while isopods consume larger waste and leaf litter, together creating nutrient-rich soil that supports plant health. Beyond their functional role, springtails are increasingly being appreciated as fascinating micro-pets in their own right. Hobbyists are beginning to cultivate and observe them for their intriguing behaviors, simple care requirements, and the insight they offer into miniature ecosystems.
Florida Oranges
(Neanura growae)
A beautiful Florida Native species that makes a vibrant addition to your Bioactive enclosure's clean up crew or a colorful addition to any springtail collection.
Recommended Conditions:
Temperature: 70-85 Degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Temperate (can handle humidity spikes) Sensitive to constant High Humidity
Culture Substrate: Aah Real Reptile Calcium Bearing Clay, Soil
* Species benefiting from additional protein sources
Yellow Albino Springtails
(Ceratophysella isabellae)
The Albino phase of Ceratophysella isabella "Lilac". This species makes an excellent cleanup crew as they have a healthy appetite and will utilize all layers of the substrate in your soil.
Recommended Conditions:
Temperature: 70-82 Degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Temperate-High
Culture Substrate: Aah Real reptiles Calcium Bearing Clay, Lump Charcoal, Springtail Plaster, and Soil
Lilac Springtails
(Ceratophysella isabellae)
A lovely beginner friendly species that can be used as a clean up crew or individuals looking to start keeping springtails as pets. These cultures will produce individuals with albinism.
Recommended Conditions:
Temperature: 70-82 Degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Temperate-Temperate-High
Culture Substrate: Ahh Real Reptiles Calcium Bearing Clay, Springtail Plaster, Soil, Lump Charcoal( we recommend against charcoal due to difficulty seeing springtails against charcoal)
Tropical Pink Springtails
(Coecobrya sp.)
One of the most common cleanup crew species in the hobby. The Tropical Pink Springtail is a fast reproducing species with an excellent appetite. They have been known to overwhelm isopod and other invertebrate bins in some cases. Population will need to be monitored.
Recommended Conditions:
Temperature: 75-82 Degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: An extremely tolerant species that prefers High humidity but is able to tolerate periods of low humidity.
Culture Substrate: Aah Real Reptile Calcium Bearing Clay, lump charcoal, plaster, Soil
Thai Red Springtails
(Lobella CF)
As the name suggests this species originates. from Thailand and is a must have in any collection. They have a slow growth and reproduction rate.
Recommended Conditions:
Temperature: 78-82 Degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: High
Culture Substrate: Soil, Aah Real Reptiles Calcium Bearing Clay