Where do earth fleas overwinter? - briefly
Earth fleas overwinter in the soil, typically at depths that protect them from freezing. They remain dormant until spring temperatures become favorable.
Where do earth fleas overwinter? - in detail
Earth fleas, also known as springtails, survive the cold season by retreating to microhabitats that provide stable temperature and moisture. The primary overwintering sites include:
- Upper layers of mineral soil, typically 2–10 cm below the surface, where organic matter retains humidity.
- Leaf litter and decaying plant material, which form insulating mats that protect against freezing.
- Spaces beneath stones, logs, and bark, offering shelter from wind and temperature fluctuations.
- Snow cover, which acts as an insulating blanket; individuals remain active within the snowpack, exploiting the relatively constant subnivean temperature.
In these niches, earth fleas rely on physiological adaptations such as antifreeze proteins and the ability to enter a dormant state (cryptobiosis) when moisture drops. Their small size and high surface‑to‑volume ratio enable rapid heat exchange, allowing them to exploit the thin layer of unfrozen water that persists in the described habitats. Consequently, populations persist throughout winter and resume activity as temperatures rise in early spring.