Folsomia candida
100+ Count
Folsomia candida, or "White Springtail", is one of the world's most widely recognized and utilized springtail species. Belonging to the Isotomidae family, this species is commonly referred to as the default springtail due to its adaptability, ease of culture, and essential role in soil ecology and bioactive systems.
The White Springtail is a detritivore, feeding on fungi, decaying plant matter, and microbial biofilms, and is instrumental in decomposition and nutrient cycling. It plays a vital role in mold suppression, substrate aeration, and the overall biological balance of closed ecosystems.
Folsomia candida thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F, with high humidity levels (85–95%), and prefers a moist, organically rich substrate. It performs exceptionally well in bioactive soil blends, which support microbial diversity and offer the structural stability needed for burrowing and reproduction. Although relatively tolerant of light compared to other springtails, it still prefers low-light, shaded environments similar to natural leaf litter and topsoil layers.
Due to its rapid reproductive rate, hardiness, and ecological versatility, Folsomia candida is commonly used in bioactive terrariums and vivariums as the foundational cleanup crew of most molds and mold spores. Folsomida candida is also a nutritional food source for dart frogs, or exceptionally small dwarf tarantula spiderlings!
100+ Count
Folsomia candida, or "White Springtail", is one of the world's most widely recognized and utilized springtail species. Belonging to the Isotomidae family, this species is commonly referred to as the default springtail due to its adaptability, ease of culture, and essential role in soil ecology and bioactive systems.
The White Springtail is a detritivore, feeding on fungi, decaying plant matter, and microbial biofilms, and is instrumental in decomposition and nutrient cycling. It plays a vital role in mold suppression, substrate aeration, and the overall biological balance of closed ecosystems.
Folsomia candida thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F, with high humidity levels (85–95%), and prefers a moist, organically rich substrate. It performs exceptionally well in bioactive soil blends, which support microbial diversity and offer the structural stability needed for burrowing and reproduction. Although relatively tolerant of light compared to other springtails, it still prefers low-light, shaded environments similar to natural leaf litter and topsoil layers.
Due to its rapid reproductive rate, hardiness, and ecological versatility, Folsomia candida is commonly used in bioactive terrariums and vivariums as the foundational cleanup crew of most molds and mold spores. Folsomida candida is also a nutritional food source for dart frogs, or exceptionally small dwarf tarantula spiderlings!
100+ Count
Folsomia candida, or "White Springtail", is one of the world's most widely recognized and utilized springtail species. Belonging to the Isotomidae family, this species is commonly referred to as the default springtail due to its adaptability, ease of culture, and essential role in soil ecology and bioactive systems.
The White Springtail is a detritivore, feeding on fungi, decaying plant matter, and microbial biofilms, and is instrumental in decomposition and nutrient cycling. It plays a vital role in mold suppression, substrate aeration, and the overall biological balance of closed ecosystems.
Folsomia candida thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F, with high humidity levels (85–95%), and prefers a moist, organically rich substrate. It performs exceptionally well in bioactive soil blends, which support microbial diversity and offer the structural stability needed for burrowing and reproduction. Although relatively tolerant of light compared to other springtails, it still prefers low-light, shaded environments similar to natural leaf litter and topsoil layers.
Due to its rapid reproductive rate, hardiness, and ecological versatility, Folsomia candida is commonly used in bioactive terrariums and vivariums as the foundational cleanup crew of most molds and mold spores. Folsomida candida is also a nutritional food source for dart frogs, or exceptionally small dwarf tarantula spiderlings!
What's the ideal diet for White Springtails?
This species plays a crucial role as a detritivore, feeding on decomposing organic matter, fungi, and microbial films. This process supports nutrient cycling and contributes to the overall health of soil ecosystems. In captive environments, it is highly valued as part of a bioactive cleanup crew, helping to manage waste and mold buildup. They should be housed in your Royal Soil Blend, a rich and well-balanced substrate specifically formulated to support detritivores, retain moisture, and promote microbial activity for optimal results. For additional food, we highly recommend you check out our Springtail Superfood (designed for tropical and temperate environments) for a long-lasting food supplement that will keep your springtails thriving!
What is the benefit of White Springtails in my enclosure?
The benefit of having a thriving colony of springtails within a bioactive enclosure is their ability to naturally manage waste by consuming decaying organic matter, mold, shed skin, and uneaten food. This reduces the buildup of harmful substances, minimizes odors, and limits the growth of pathogens, resulting in a cleaner and more stable environment for invertebrates or reptiles.
In addition to their role as decomposers, springtails contribute to substrate health by promoting aeration and supporting beneficial microbial activity. This enhances plant growth in planted setups and helps maintain a balanced micro-ecosystem, reducing maintenance and creating a more natural, self-sustaining habitat.
What foods will help promote growth with the White Springtails?
Temperate Springtail Superfood, or "High-Fiber Microfauna Feed", is a handcrafted, plant-based nutritional blend explicitly formulated for springtails adapted to cooler, temperate environments. This balanced, protein- and fiber-rich diet supports optimal colony growth, reproduction, and soil activity in bioactive systems.
Made from premium, organic ingredients, this blend is ideal for the following springtail species:
White Springtails (Folsomia candida)
Blue Podura Springtails (Proisotoma minuta)
Bylas Ant Springtails (Pseudosinella violenta)
Pearlescent Springtails (Lepidocyrtus sp.)
Albino Springtails (Ceratophysella sp. ‘Albino’)
Lilac Springtails (Ceratophysella sp. ‘Lilac’)
The formula features a base of Organic Sprouted Barley, Lentil, Blue Corn, Organic Wheat Bran, Oats, and Brewer’s Yeast. These ingredients provide essential nutrients, amino acids, and natural fermentables that encourage microbial growth and biofilm development—ideal conditions for detritivorous springtails.
This Superfood is well-suited for temperate or cooler bioactive enclosures and culturing springtails in starter colonies or soil enrichment programs.
We recommend our Tropical Springtail Superfood for tropical springtail species, specially designed to support high-protein needs and warmer, high-humidity conditions. Best for:
Red Springtails (Lobella sp.)
Florida Orange Springtails (Neanura growae sp.)
Orange Springtails (Yuukianura aphoruroides)
Giant Silver Bullet Springtails (Pogonognathellus dubius)
Globular Cave Springtails (Arrhopalites caecus)
Quicksilver Springtails (Tomocerus vulgaris)
