Dicyrtomina saundersi

Dicyrtomina saundersi

Description

Dicyrtomina saundersi  is a small globular springtail of only 2 or 3 mm. It has quite distinctive markings of pale greeny yellow and maroon.

Similar Species

This species is very similar to Dicyrtomina ornata, however D. ornata has a solid patch of dark pigment at the posterior end of the abdomen whereas in Dicyrtomina saundersi, this patch has a distinctive "multi-barred cross" pattern. There is also a distinct colour change at the joint of sections 2 and 3 of the antennae. 

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Submissions need to show details of the antennae and/or the dorsal colour of the 6th abdominal segment. 

Habitat

Under stones and logs etc.

When to see it

All year round.

UK Status

Quite common and widespread in Britain, although poorly recorded.

VC55 Status

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records