The springtail is a small and naturally abundant invertebrate with complex mouthparts used to suck fluids from decomposed foods and fungi. What makes them unique is a forked tail-like appendage called a furcula under the abdomen that launches the springtail into the air for a quick getaway. One thing they have in common with red wigglers is that springtails feed heavily on microbes and decaying organic matter.  Specifically, springtails seem to be particularly fond of fungi.  Springtails have an “ametabolous” life cycle, meaning that they do not undergo metamorphosis. Springtails do not have nymphal, larval , or pupal stages. Instead, springtails develop by going through a number of molts (shed their exoskeleton) as their body size grows.