CLOSED: 1000's and 1000's Smaller than a pin head, I.D. needed

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intercessor Fox River Valley Are, WI(Zone 5a) May 12, 2009

Hi,
I was able to snap this pic using a microscope and my digital camera. These are ultra tiny.

Thanks for your help,
Andy

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suunto Sinks Grove, WV May 12, 2009

This is a springtail (order Collembola); likely in the family Sminthuridae - see http://tinyurl.com/q46ggs

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intercessor Fox River Valley Are, WI(Zone 5a) May 12, 2009

Thanks. Any idea if they carry plant viruses?

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suunto Sinks Grove, WV May 12, 2009

To the best of my knowledge, they do not. Some species actually appear to 'graze' preferentially on pathogenic fungi, thus acting as biological control agents. The vast majority of collembolans are detritus feeders, but some members of the family Sminthuridae can be plant pests - see http://tinyurl.com/o9hehf

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goldfinch4 Ripon, WI(Zone 4a) May 12, 2009

Amazing picture of the rotten little monster! I had them in my house once - no fun.

Post #6539234
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intercessor Fox River Valley Are, WI(Zone 5a) May 13, 2009

In your house? I kind of chuckled when I saw it's little face looking at me.

Post #6541421
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goldfinch4 Ripon, WI(Zone 4a) May 13, 2009

Not by the thousands, but definitely hundreds. Just all showed up at once. Freaked me right out! Luckily one visit from Valley Pest Control took care of them. It does have a creepy little face.

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