Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent'
25+ Count
Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent', or "Pearlescent Springtail", is a visually elegant springtail species noted for its iridescent sheen that reflects shades of white, silver, and pale blue under light, giving it a pearly or shimmering appearance. This striking coloration differentiates it from more common springtail varieties, making it especially popular for display-grade bioactive terrariums.
This species belongs to the Lepidocyrtus genus and is a surface-dwelling detritivore. It feeds on fungi, mold, decaying organic matter, and microbial films. It plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, balanced substrate by breaking down waste and contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.
The Pearlescent Springtail thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F and high humidity levels of 85–95%. It prefers a moist, soil-based substrate rich in organic matter, which provides the structure, nutrients, and moisture retention this species needs. While this species may venture onto surfaces and hardscape, it still benefits from low-light conditions, as it naturally avoids strong illumination.
In addition to being an effective part of a bioactive cleanup crew, Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent' also adds visual interest to springtail colonies and is often cultivated as a specialty species among enthusiasts.
25+ Count
Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent', or "Pearlescent Springtail", is a visually elegant springtail species noted for its iridescent sheen that reflects shades of white, silver, and pale blue under light, giving it a pearly or shimmering appearance. This striking coloration differentiates it from more common springtail varieties, making it especially popular for display-grade bioactive terrariums.
This species belongs to the Lepidocyrtus genus and is a surface-dwelling detritivore. It feeds on fungi, mold, decaying organic matter, and microbial films. It plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, balanced substrate by breaking down waste and contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.
The Pearlescent Springtail thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F and high humidity levels of 85–95%. It prefers a moist, soil-based substrate rich in organic matter, which provides the structure, nutrients, and moisture retention this species needs. While this species may venture onto surfaces and hardscape, it still benefits from low-light conditions, as it naturally avoids strong illumination.
In addition to being an effective part of a bioactive cleanup crew, Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent' also adds visual interest to springtail colonies and is often cultivated as a specialty species among enthusiasts.
25+ Count
Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent', or "Pearlescent Springtail", is a visually elegant springtail species noted for its iridescent sheen that reflects shades of white, silver, and pale blue under light, giving it a pearly or shimmering appearance. This striking coloration differentiates it from more common springtail varieties, making it especially popular for display-grade bioactive terrariums.
This species belongs to the Lepidocyrtus genus and is a surface-dwelling detritivore. It feeds on fungi, mold, decaying organic matter, and microbial films. It plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, balanced substrate by breaking down waste and contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.
The Pearlescent Springtail thrives in temperatures between 65–75°F and high humidity levels of 85–95%. It prefers a moist, soil-based substrate rich in organic matter, which provides the structure, nutrients, and moisture retention this species needs. While this species may venture onto surfaces and hardscape, it still benefits from low-light conditions, as it naturally avoids strong illumination.
In addition to being an effective part of a bioactive cleanup crew, Lepidocyrtus sp. 'Pearlescent' also adds visual interest to springtail colonies and is often cultivated as a specialty species among enthusiasts.
What's the ideal diet for Pearlescent 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 Pearlescent 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 Pearlescent 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)
