Invertebrate · Other invertebrate
Temperate springtail care guide
Folsomia candida
The temperate springtail is a beginner-level other invertebrate from Cosmopolitan. Adults reach Body 0.15–0.3 cm and live Months (colony indefinite) in captivity. Essential bioactive clean-up crew that eats mould; culture on charcoal or soil.
- Enclosure 20 × 15 × 10 cm
- Temp 15–25°C
- Humidity 80–100%
How much does a temperate springtail cost in Canada?
Temperate springtail quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 0.15–0.3 cm
- Lifespan
- Months (colony indefinite)
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Cosmopolitan
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 15 × 10 cm (8 × 6 × 4 in, ≈ 1 US gal)
- Housing
- A colony species – best kept in a group.
- Temperature
- 15–25°C
- Humidity
- 80–100%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Detritivore – mould, fungi, decaying matter, rice or yeast
- Bioactive style
- Invertebrate colony
Temperate springtail enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 20 × 15 × 10 cm (8 × 6 × 4 inches). A colony species – best kept in a group. This species suits a invertebrate colony bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix3 cm
Leaf litter is food here, not decoration – keep a thick layer topped up. Keep one side damper than the other.
Temperature: 15–25°C. Humidity: 80–100%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a temperate springtail eat?
Detritivore – mould, fungi, decaying matter, rice or yeast. Sprinkle a few grains of rice or yeast weekly and keep the culture damp.
Handling, temperament & health
Too small to handle; added to vivariums by pouring in culture media.
Health watch: Cultures die if they dry out or get too hot.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Nothing needed most days.
Weekly
- Mist the damp side; add vegetables or protein food in small amounts and remove leftovers after 24–48 h.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter and add a calcium source (cuttlebone).
- Thin out the colony or split it if it gets crowded.
Yearly
- Replace about a third of the soil, which turns into frass over time.
Recommended for a temperate springtail bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 15 × 10 cm).
Temperate springtail FAQ
Is the temperate springtail good for beginners?
Yes – the temperate springtail is a good choice for beginners. Too small to handle; added to vivariums by pouring in culture media.
What size enclosure does a temperate springtail need?
At least 20 × 15 × 10 cm (about 8 × 6 × 4 inches, roughly 1 US gallons) for one adult. A colony species – best kept in a group.
How much does a temperate springtail cost in Canada?
Typically $10–20 CAD to buy, about $90–150 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $5–20 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a temperate springtail need?
Temperature: 15–25°C. Humidity: 80–100%.
What does a temperate springtail eat?
Detritivore – mould, fungi, decaying matter, rice or yeast. Sprinkle a few grains of rice or yeast weekly and keep the culture damp.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.