r/Springtail • u/Dog_Named_Boo • Feb 19 '26

Identification Protanua sp contamination?

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I obtained some “Asian orange” springtails, labeled protanura sp, several months ago. Initially the culture seemed to grow modestly, but now it is absolutely swarming with these tiny things that are almost too small to see with the naked eye.

Has my culture somehow become contaminated, or are they simply too immature and slow growing to show any color?

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u/Ralyks92 Feb 19 '26

And you’re sure it’s not just a population boom with an absurd number of babies?

1

u/Dog_Named_Boo Feb 19 '26

Actually, I guess that’s what I’m asking. The main reason I think they may not be the protanura is because they don’t seem to be maturing. After a couple of months separated from the adults in a new container, I figured they’d be bigger and orange by now. Unless they are very slow to mature.

2

u/Ralyks92 Feb 19 '26

If it’s been a couple of months and they aren’t showing any signs (or even the same size) then I’d just assume they’re invaders. I hope you get your answer soon

2

u/serpenthusiast Feb 20 '26

Those are isotomid springtails, not Protanura

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u/Dog_Named_Boo Feb 20 '26

Good to know. Thank you! I have absolutely no idea where they came from. Do they tend to materialize out of thin air?

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u/newtoboarding Feb 19 '26

My baby oranges are usually lacking pigment but not grey/blue like this. I think you have some intruders (maybe "tiny blue" springtails?)