Class Collembola (Springtails)
Order Entomobryomorpha (Elongated springtails)
Family Entomobryidae (Entomobryid springtails)
Species Orchesella villosa (Geoffroy, 1764)
Length up to 5 mm.
One of Britain’s largest springtails. A very densely hairy species, with variable patterning. The basal segments of the antennae are usually dark.
Found, in various habitats, under rocks and stones, it can be seen all year round. It feeds on plant detritus. Common and widespread throughout southern England and Wales, but less so further north. A native species.
Found in back garden, South Staffordshire. © Peter Hillman.
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