About Temperate White Springtails
Folsomia candida is the white springtail most North American keepers culture. They control mould and break down waste in temperate bioactive tubs. Pair them with Porcellio, Armadillidium, and similar isopods.
Natural history & background
F. candida reproduces parthenogenetically in culture (females without males), which makes cultures easy to maintain. They breed fast in moist, organic-rich substrate.
Housing a culture
Ventilated 32 oz cup with charcoal/clay or fine coir. Tight lid with small vent holes. Springtails are tiny and slip through big gaps.
Substrate & moisture
Keep substrate consistently moist like a wrung-out sponge. They die within hours if it dries out. Mist every 2–3 days or when the lid looks dry.
Temperature
18–24°C (65–75°F). Room temp is ideal. Cold basements below 15°C slow them down.
Feeding
Staple: Brewer's yeast, a tiny pinch 1–2× per week.
Alternatives: Mushroom, fish flakes, rice. Less food is better than too much.
Introducing to isopod enclosures
Tip a spoonful of culture (substrate + springtails) into the damp side of a Porcellio or Armadillidium tub. They spread within 1–2 weeks.
Breeding
Continuous and prolific at room temperature. A healthy cup can run for years with minimal work.
Common issues & troubleshooting
Culture looks empty
- Springtails may be in the substrate. Tap the cup. If white specks jump on the lid, you are fine. If truly empty, mist heavily and wait 2 weeks for eggs.
Culture dried out
- Mist with dechlorinated water. Eggs often survive drying and hatch when moisture returns.
Too many springtails
- Share cultures, seed more tubs, or use as feeders for small frogs or fish.