They vary in color but are usually white to yellowish with black markings, or dark gray. Most are scavengers, feeding on algae, fungi, spores, pollen and decaying vegetable matter.
Some springtails feed on dead animals.
Unlike most insects, many springtails can tolerate fairly cold conditions. Some can even live on snow. Springtails may even be a problem in swimming pool drains. Occasion-ally they invade homes. Large numbers of jumping springtails can be a serious nuisance.