Definition

A small, wingless insect that belongs to the class Entognatha, commonly found in soil and leaf litter, known for its ability to jump using a specialized tail-like structure.

Example

Collembolans play an important role in soil health by helping to decompose organic matter.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a collembolan?

No, what’s that?

It's actually a tiny insect, often called a springtail.

That's interesting! I love learning about little creatures like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Collembolan is derived from "colle" (from Greek "kolla", meaning glue) and "embola" (from Greek "embolos", meaning a wedge or plug). The term refers to a group of small, wingless insects that have a unique structure called a furcula, which acts like a spring, allowing them to jump, resembling a glue-like action when they land.

Memory Tip

Think of 'glue' ('colle') and 'wedge' ('embola') to remember that collembolans are tiny insects that can jump, almost like they are sticking and then springing away.

Visually Confused Words