How to Culture Springtails

Springtails (Colembolla) are not only a great live food to culture for small aquarium fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, they are an important part of a bioactive cleanup crew in bioactive vivariums. If you want to culture springtails for live food or as a cleanup crew in your bioactive vivarium, this video will help you raise lots of springtails easily.
LINKS to springtail foods and supplies:
I get 100% natural lump charcoal for your springtail cultures at my local feed, hardware, or grocery store much more cheaply than at this link, but this is a brand I often use: amzn.to/2FZCQ9Q
Here is a link to the food storage container I use to culture springtails, but they are cheaper at the dollar store: amzn.to/34cDeLh
Here are the ingredients I use for DIY springtail food:
10 ounces of nutritional yeast: amzn.to/2B55x1w
Green Pea Powder: amzn.to/2S8QqOB
Pure Spirulina powder: amzn.to/2pYLJdY
Repashy calcium plus: amzn.to/2W3aJMs
Josh’s Frogs Spring to Life Springtail food: amzn.to/2FLhk9m
For FREE 2-Day shipping on qualifying orders, try Amazon Prime: amzn.to/2N2HuFb
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. In other words, I earn a small commission when you use that affiliate link, at no cost to you.

[@NeverKnow-yt6ev]

I enjoy watching your videos as I find I usually learn something new, or have a good time enjoying the content you put out, and I’ve been really stoked my 10 reasons I love isopods aquarimax pets shirt came in, and have been wearing it often as it’s now my favourite shirt as I get to show off some really awesome isopods and share my favourite content creator on KZbin😊

[@Aquarimax]

I really appreciate everything in your comment! It is great to be appreciated and supported! Thanks for supporting the channel by watching and by buying that shirt. Enjoy it!

[@jilliancrawford7577]

I've found that you can cut a big hole on the lid and glue a thin sheet of muslin or disposable coffee filter over it to allow for air without leaving the culture vulnerable to mites. It might technically be easier to open the lid every day, but I don't trust myself to have the memory to do that so it was worth the effort in my opinion.

[@donteague614]

Nice idea on the coffee filter, thanx!

[@Svedkadog]

This is the only video on KZbin I can find that is actually informative and not... vague I appreciate that. THANK YOU!

[@aquaticma]

I've ventilated cultures by putting holes at the top and putting filter floss or cotton over the holes. Allows ventilation and keeps stuff from getting in or out 👍 thanks for sharing!

[@Aquarimax]

Aquatic Ma That is a good method too, I have used it myself with success 👍

[@basicbaroque]

I was going to ask if that would work! Thanks for posting this comment. 👍

[@FusionDeveloper]

You can also put a few layers on the inside and outside of a hole with this first aid paper tape, which is breathable. (1) www.dollartree.com/assured-first-aid-paper-tape-for-sensitive-skin-10yd-rolls/974328 A better looking option that is more visually appealing, is to buy this material along with hot glue sticks, and make several holes and then hot glue the scarf material on both the inside and outside of the lid. You could put more than 1 layer on the outside if you would prefer better pest resistance over better air venting. (2) www.dollartree.com/solid-color-fashionable-scarves/262701 (3) www.dollartree.com/crafters-square-hot-melt-glue-sticks-16pc-packs/290739 How many holes should I make? Just remember, it's better to filter the vent so tightly that it can't vent any air, then it is to vent it too sparse and have pests get in. If fermentation starts occurring in the container, having a vent hole covered or stuffed with material to the point that is way too dense for air to travel on it's own, will still easily function has a vent from the added air pressure. You can use a filtered vent hole(s) as an emergency backup to buy you a little more time. You could cut a huge hole in the lid and use a ton of the breathable tape or fabric, but a large hole is more likely to get accidentally destroyed by something falling onto it or being bumped into something. You could drill 50-100 holes, but each hole you drill, risks cracking the lid (you can modify a bit with a large taper to lower possibility of cracking, along with putting it on a flat surface that you can sacrifice being drilled into.) I think 1 to 5 holes is maybe a good number. If you do want to have 1 huge hole in the lid, you can replace the cutout area with Hardware Cloth (galvanized wire mesh) and then put the filter material over that (the tape or fabric) to add strength and prevent sagging. Another option would be window screen in place of the metal fabric, which is not nearly as strong and needs to be pulled very tight while gluing in place. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be aware that there is no window screen that is fungus gnat or mite proof, DO NOT rely on window screen to filter out pests, I know this from personal experience. Gnats and Mites do not all grow up to be the same size, some are smaller than normal, and they can both lay eggs on the window screen or though the window screen. The outer most venting material you use, MUST be fine enough that they can not insert their mosquito like tube and push eggs through it.

[@markcoutts1796]

How do you fix the filter floss or cotton over the holes?

[@gorgonzolamarshall3267]

@@markcoutts1796 probably with staples or hot glue

[@leftyguyiam]

I feel confident to try my hand at Springtail culture thanks to your perfect video. Thanks a million!

[@meganma5261]

Thank you for answering my question! This was an extremely informative video that I definitely needed. I thought that I should add this in because I believe it is worth mentioning; for anyone who is considering buying isopods or springtails (or any other pets) from Rus, he makes it very convenient to order and consistently follows up when necessary. My post office has been rejecting my mail for some reason lately and Rus has been a big help in making sure I receive my isopods safely - this has got to be the best customer service I've ever experienced and he's got a lot on his plate, as you can see with the amount of time and effort he puts into these informative videos. He deserves a lot more recognition for doing what he does!

[@Aquarimax]

Megan Ma I really appreciate your positive feedback, Megan! I am very glad to know the video is helpful, and am humbled by your excellent attitude as we deal with postal issues. 👍👍👍

[@jendubay3782]

Thanks for the post! I am gonna try to breed from my yard 1st. But if it does not work good. I'll check with Rus!!

[@Crystalspets]

I added springtails with my isopods nice project rus

[@Aquarimax]

Excellent! They go great together 👍

[@richardroyster405]

Super helpful. I appreciate the simplicity. Now it's time to redo my springtail cultures!

[@ThePederangell]

I'm excited about culturing springtails for my roly poly vivarium!

[@nikkibegg]

I'm new to the vivarium hobby and these videos have been so helpful. Thank you so much for putting all this information out there!

[@user-hq5yj6bk7v]

Thanks for the information, great video!

[@76Stankfinger]

I recently subbed your channel. Great information that is straight and to the point, you’re well spoken and no background music to interfere. Excellent work sir.

[@iddybiddyladybugleeza262]

So much great information Rus thank you

[@Aquarimax]

iddybiddyladybug Leeza you’re very welcome! 👍

[@kellipolsinelli9248]

Great information, thank you.

[@P00py8UTT]

I found all of your tips super helpful! How you suggested to just set the deli cup in the new larger container, great idea will be doing it later today. Thanks :)

[@Aquarimax]

stinky poopie glad to help!!

[@greatnorthreptiles105]

This was very helpful. Thank you!

[@Aquarimax]

Great North Reptiles Glad to hear it, thank you! 👍

[@Frogmandb]

Really helpful video, no one seems to sell springtails on charcoal and I really want to start using them as an additional feeder for my frogs :)

[@gbeeshrimp]

Excellent video. I'll definitely be adopting this technique 👌

[@rodkirt9273]

Very interesting and informative. Obtained all of the information for my first culture. I have them in from the seller and will be following your advice: simple, easy.

[@Aquarimax]

Rod Kirt excellent! Best of luck with them! 👍

[@permanax_patb1472]

Great video!!!! Everyone with animal enclosures need to watch this video!!! Springtails are a must!

[@Aquarimax]

Permanax_patb Thank you! I agree...springtails are crucial in bioactive enclosures. 😊

[@SupremeGecko]

Excellent video. Your best point is about 'seeding' a new culture with some of the existing culture. Well done Rus.

[@Aquarimax]

Supreme Gecko Thank you Wally! I have found that it is a quick and easy way to jump-start a culture 👍

[@SupremeGecko]

@@Aquarimax I have several cultures of dwarf whites with STs in them that are just exploding. I've thought about doing the water thing but am staying with the 'dirt' mix substrate as it is just so much easier (IMHO).

[@Aquarimax]

Supreme Gecko They do really well with dwarf whites, that is for sure. I agree! Unless you want to harvest large numbers of ‘clean’ springtails, which I often need to do, the ‘dirt’ method is usually more than sufficient, and quite easy.

[@SupremeGecko]

@@Aquarimax Good point. Sometimes get some DW and actually dirt included when harvesting.

[@Dana-cb7vk]

I have a giant culture going in a critter keeper- with some reptisoil/garden soil from my garden on top, and live plants/moss/etc. Pretty much exactly how I would set up a bioactive- but this one is specifically for the good critters like worms/springtails/mini millipedes/'rolly pollys' (as the kiddos call them)- to have not only their own home...but a set up that they will fully recognize, in a way, when transferring into other tanks. Plus its fun, and a skillset to grow Michigan forest/marsh moss in jts own right! LOL

[@ricks2907]

Thanks Rus.

[@airplanegeorge]

I have bought three spring tail cultures so far and have yet to see a spring tail. I can see yours so obviously they are not invisible. Bad enough spending 75 bucks for bugs, but I still got no bugs.

[@Aquarimax]

airplane george sorry to hear that. Don’t give up quite yet...there may be eggs or tiny juveniles that will mature within the next couple of weeks, so your money may not have been wasted. Here’s Hoping that is the case. It happens with springtails sometimes. 🙏

[@Helveteshit]

@Aquarimax, you should see if you cannot make a tutorial on how to capture different beneficial insects from the wild so you can culture them like springtails. Isopods are easy, talking smaller lifeforms like springtails. Beneficial Mites etcetera.

[@Aquarimax]

Helveteshit indeed! That would be an interesting video 👍

[@jameswalls2696]

For what it is worth, just got my first FREE starter woodlice from under some old roof tiles on the ground next to my greenhouse. Replace them in the same spot and as if by magic you will have more in a few days - just keep repeating the process - just be patient and keep these tiles in the same location. If it ain't broke, don't fix it - good luck. P.S. This is just one idea, there must be a million other locations for you to locate your non Isopod critters. The compost bin is another good source of critters - The Good The Bad and The Ugly. Much patience is essential for getting them to move in and then search for your required critter. As regards to your question, a good video by THE MAN would be well received.

[@Lostcity178_b]

I bought a container from the store I use them for my tarantula enclosure. Then I found on video about keeping them they feed dry yeast i try it with what little bit I had left a couple of weeks later I have more babies then what I bought

[@StephInOttawa]

This is a great way to culture tropical springtails-- but I've found that the smaller, temperate ones don't do well like this.. I keep my temperate springtails like I do my isopods & they do way better.

[@Guishan_Lingyou]

Thanks for adding this information. I was planning on catching springtails, in Tennessee, so this is a useful tip. Now I just need to learn how isopods are kept ;-)

[@daneldemeta2178]

Springtails are very great to

[@hexdiagonal6450]

That was a really good video! I learned alot. I have just started on isopods, another aquarium is not an option, no room for it. Isopods is very interesting, yes Im a total noob but I try my best to make exciting terrariums and they seem to like it, I harvest fallen leaves every day in my garden for them, fungus is allways an issue so spring tails is very important. I just love a green terrarium, but my wife insist in animals in it.

[@hexdiagonal6450]

maybe one day a dart frog, that would be awsome

[@Aquarimax]

Hex Diagonal Welcome to the wonderful world of isopods and other microfauna!

[@hexdiagonal6450]

@@Aquarimax Im in it for life, I just love the small isopods

[@maea.4241]

great!

[@miniscenesgb]

Great video thank you. Question - how fast do the little guys breed? I had probably about 100 delivered today and have set up a box as you show here - what rate will they multiply?

[@tuntunlove]

All videos are about propagating springtails from already cultured springtails which serves very little purpose. Please make a video where to find the springtails. This would be very useful to those who live in areas where springtails culture is not popular. Or if there's already a video on "where to find and catch springtails", please share the link. Thanks in advance.

[@someguy3186]

I’m really having trouble getting my springtails to populate, so hopefully this video helps

[@Aquarimax]

Some Guy I have tried many methods, and this has proven the easiest and most consistent for me. 👍

[@alejandrocanales5302]

I have a new bioactive tank for my whites tree frogs and it's the first time I've gone bioactive :) ! I have a good drainage layer and good size substrate layer and I've already added isopods and springtails twice! Problem is there's fuzzy white mold on many parts and I thought that the springtails would eat it but I haven't actually seen any in the tank :( , temperature and humidity aren't a problem, I don't want to buy any more clean up crews so I've started to culture my own springtails and isopods , I was wondering if this food mix you showed in the video would work to feed both the isopods and springtails inside the tank, not in the culture! Thanks in advance :)

[@ger13nunyah56]

This is the way

[@cheese5943]

I feed mine some powdered fish food and fish pellets! They go crazy!but I'll probably make some springtail food.

[@MoultrieGeek]

You answered all my questions about springtails but one: Will they reproduce in a dairy cow enclosure or is it best to keep a separate sprintail culture?

[@Aquarimax]

Scott H I definitely recommend keeping springtails with your dairy cows, but if you want to produce large numbers of springtails, I recommend a separate springtail culture as well.

[@MoultrieGeek]

@@Aquarimax Thanks Rus! I sent you an e-mail through your site but I haven't heard back...

[@Aquarimax]

Scott H I must have missed your email, but I just did a search and found it! I’ll answer right away.

[@katarinasebikova2669]

What if I won't use destiled water?

[@jendubay3782]

@@katarinasebikova2669 just make sure it is properly dechlorinated. If it's good water for fish , u can use it.

[@porkchopnews]

I didn't even try to breed them, i just added some dirt from my backyard in a jar and added some water to see what would happen. Since then they have been reproducing none stop

[@Aquarimax]

They are very adaptable!

[@davidtarver6029]

Hello! I just received my starter springtail culture! I have real lump charcoal for my culture, but the wood has a strong smokey flavor. Will that be a problem for my springtails?

[@oedhelsetren]

After watching this video, I went out to my fire pit and grabbed a few chunks and now I have both springtails and isopods.

[@wanz8429]

Can i catch wild springtail or isopod for breeding and how to catch it? I know some menthod to catch but need pro explain to me. Sorry for my bad english

[@Aquarimax]

For springtails, I recommend a Berlese funnel to collect springtails from moist leaf litter. You will likely collect other creatures along with them, so it may be a bit tedious to separate them out, but definitely possible. Here is a link to instructions for creating a Berlese funnel: www.carolina.com/teacher-resources/Interactive/constructing-berlese-funnels-study-invertebrate-density-biodiversity/tr19101.tr Instead of directing the insects into alcohol, direct them into a jar with some damp paper towel at the bottom. You may catch some isopods this way as well, but isopods may be easier to collect by carefully flipping over flat rocks and logs in moist areas.

[@wanz8429]

@@Aquarimax thanks

[@Mermic13]

Awesome video! I have a question, can you use pine ashes/charcoal for springtails or is it bad for them?

[@Aquarimax]

I have never tried with pine specifically…so I am not sure

[@ProgressiveDiscussions]

I like either one of the two dwarf Isopods, the white ones or the purple ones, I have seeded so many large enclosures from the original shot glass portion that I ordered years ago. With asian forest scorpions or emperor scorpions I used to have a problem with mites and fungus but the dwarf Isopods seem to completely eradicate these problems.

[@Aquarimax]

Progressive Discussions good to know that dwarf whites aren’t a problem when your scorpion molts. 👍

[@ProgressiveDiscussions]

Aquarimax Pets Actually I have the tropical purple dwarf Isopods from Costa Rica. This is the first time that the Asian forest scorpions stay jet black with no mites ever and no deaths like in the past. Also fungus is disposed of quickly. But I am sure the dwarf whites are just as effective at cooler temperatures. Maybe the dwarf whites can be used with let’s say salamanders that require cooler temperatures? Dwarf Isopods appear to require less maintenance than springtails. For dryer environments there is the powdered blue or orange Isopod. They require a calcium source such as a cuddle bone.

[@Aquarimax]

Progressive Discussions I have the Costa Rican purples too, an underrated cleaner! I may put some of them in with my Asian first scorpion. In my experience, dwarf whites thrive at warmer temperatures too, and breed very prolifically. I love powder blues/oranges, I use them with my leopard gecko. Very efficient cleaners!

[@ProgressiveDiscussions]

Aquarimax Pets So the powder blue and orange isopods can actually thrive in the dry environment that leopard geckos prefer? I am amazed. I know it is a good idea to spray or pour some water on one end of a desert enclosure since moisture is really not that far down into the ground of the worlds deserts. Desert creatures I have learned actually live in the moist microclimates of their burrows. What substrate do you use for the leopard geckos? Is it half sand and half coconut fiber? Various humidity loving isopods are ideal for arboreal terrarium set ups for Horrido assassin bugs., which surprisingly are very communal and actively out in the open even in daylight.

[@Aquarimax]

Progressive Discussions Yep, P. pruinosus really do well with the leopard gecko. They have a moist Hide under slabs of cork bark, and the substrate (The Biodude’s Terra Sahara substrate) holds moisture at the lower levels, and stays dry at the surface. This allows the gecko to regulate its own humidity needs by burrowing, just like you mentioned. 👍

[@Workof]

I keep mine in a not entirely air tight container and feed them a few rice kernels every week or two, they do just fine that way

[@Aquarimax]

Workof Rice grains work well too, that is a good method 👍

[@Shaden0040]

Russ can you post a link to a place I can get organic charcoal for my springtails. please?

[@GerbilGirl987]

I know this is a year-old video, but I thought it wouldn’t hurt to ask. I’m setting up my springtail culture now, but I wasn’t sure about something. Do they need light or heat? Or should they be kept in a dark place? Thank you! Very useful video

[@Aquarimax]

Some ambient light is good, nothing too intense or too dark seems to be best, room temps are good, no additional heat needed.

[@GerbilGirl987]

@@Aquarimax Okay, thank you very much!! I'll do that!

[@Photron52]

I'll use the short version of this question first. I have a thriving culture of springtails. I place small 2"x3" pieces of cardboard in the culture and spread commercial springtail food over that paper as well as more of the container. So when I go into the container they are all over the surface as well as the paper. I then transfer the paper to my terrarium. For more than two weeks I have done this every third day. But so far I have not seen near as many springtails as in the culture. Each time I transfer the paper I think that 12-20 of the springtails is all that are transfered each time. So does it just take longer for a culture to grow in the terrarium ? You really need to look for a while just to see one in there now.

[@Moch.Habibie]

Hi boss about food only specialy yeast or free to other?because we have a lot type yeast tempeh and nananaaa😁

[@zacharyoates5264]

over the year I had spring tails the only problem i have had is snails for some reason! anyways love ur vids :D

[@Aquarimax]

Zachary Person You had snails show up in the culture?

[@zacharyoates5264]

@@Aquarimax yeah, I am not sure why, only one of the three of them.

[@Roseles89]

@@zacharyoates5264 I had this same issue but I wild harvested my springtails and I guess that the glass snail eggs were on some of the litter (though I thought I had handled ensuring it was clean and safe for indoor use). not really a big deal to me as it's a mixed bin with basic garden worms, common isopods and the springtails.. the bin gets any left overs my iguana's don't eat so everything seems to be thriving. Depending on the snail I wouldn't worry too much, my glass snails are a non issue as they eat the same things as the isopods and springtails without bothering them.

[@zacharyoates5264]

@@Roseles89 I started the new colony from an old one, and my best guess is they got in on food I gave them, mostly I feed them apple or cucumber my millidepes don't eat, and I make sure to clean it before and after putting in the millis tank.

[@rodkirt9273]

What would be the optimum high and low temperatures for raising a master colony for best production?

[@Aquarimax]

Rod Kirt I would say around 72-80 F.

[@rodkirt9273]

Aquarimax Pets Thanks

[@jameswalls2696]

Hi, A question from a new springtail keeper:- My pet store sells these in little square plastic see through shipping containers. Bought two so far (expensive for what they are) and for what appears to be so few springtails. That i can live with, but they come in what I would call potting compost - that's a problem. How do I separate the springtails into the charcoal WITHOUT adding the compost as i would like to keep my starter charcoal culture PURE without additional questionable unwanted substrate? I have no problem with just adding the lot to Isopod bins, but would just like to keep some pure carbon cultures separate for ongoing future use. Great videos as always, hope you can help. Regards, Jim (UK)

[@Aquarimax]

Hi Jim, Great question! If the charcoal enclosure is large enough, you can make sure the outside of the small starter cultural is free of contaminants and set it inside the charcoal culture without a lid, and the springtails will make their way out , given time

[@jameswalls2696]

@@Aquarimax Rus, thanks for super fast reply, nearly got it before I finished asking the question :-) Please,Please, don't feel the need to respond so quickly. I am a very patient OLD GUY, and know that you must have other pressing matters to attend to. I get it, but in my case I will have to source a larger master culture container, it also raises further thoughts and questions. It's amazing what you pick up on with a second viewing of the video. 1. I overlooked the fact that your charcoal is REALLY WELL SOAKED before the transfer takes place, and that it still looks WELL SOAKED long after the srings have moved in AND reproduced. I deduced that they really LOVE to live, and breed on wet charcoal (all things being equal), at least in their temp quarters before going into their forever homes. 2. That said, I must deduce that springs would NOT do so well on top of dry charcoal, even if there is a base of water down below - tell me if I am wrong on this one. 3. Your words "given time" equates to how long is a piece of string, at least in my mind. I suppose I would just have to make a guess as to when the soil has been vacated. Even then, It would play on my mind just how many unseen were left behind, plus their children, and beneficial micro stuff etc., :-) 4. I think that concern could be set aside if I were to just tip and wash the vacated tub of soil straight into the (experimental) ISO tub containing FREE (I love that word) common or garden Woodlice - my first experimental tub of ISOPODS. 5. I know I am on a learning curve here, but that's all part of the fun and enjoyment of starting a new project, I am sue you would agree. Thanks again, Regards, Jim (UK)

[@archiesauls3672]

Hi Rus! Do you know any requirements for rearing globular springtails? I’ve seen their population growing steadily in my isopod enclosure and I’m having trouble finding any specific sources on the internet. Thanks!

[@Aquarimax]

archie sauls Hi! I haven’t worked with globular springtails...but if they thrive in your isopod enclosures I am guessing they would do well cultured in the same way as other springtails. Worth a try!

[@carmenthompson4298]

Do you have to use distilled water or can you use well water?

[@DasSnakeBoy]

Nice video!! Do you sell them by any chance?

[@Aquarimax]

ALL KNOWING BILLY I do! www.aquarimax.com/price-list/

[@ultrabrixstudios365]

Can you use a tall container so the springtails don’t jump out when you open the lid or transfer them? And then add water and use a turkey baster to transfer them to other containers?

[@Aquarimax]

UltraBrix Studios you could definitely use a taller container. A ladle might be better than a turkey baster, because they don’t sink, so they would be difficult to aspirate with a baster

[@bastiennormand5131]

Hi, great video should the springtails be kept in a rather dark place ?

[@Aquarimax]

Mine seem to do fine in normal ambient light. When I use charcoal chunks as medium, they have dark hiding places available, and when I use clay, the clay on the sides of the container shields them from some of the room light. Works well!

[@Christinas_creatures]

Do you rinse the charcoal before putting it in? I want to make sure I'm doing this right

[@divolino]

Thanks for the informative tutorial. My ordered Springtails come instead of on charcoal but on substrate, can i just leave them on or must i change the substrate to charcoal. Thanks in advance for your reply.

[@Aquarimax]

They can do well on the substrate they came in. 👍🏼

[@divolino]

@@Aquarimax Thanks for the speedy reply.

[@Danielmchanderson]

How do I keep mold out of any tank I put springtails in my dairy cow culture but I have too much mold

[@Andreas-gh6is]

Any alternatives to charcoal? Seems like it would be relatively messy! Or is it actually good at absorbing/killing stuff you don't want in there?

[@Aquarimax]

Andreas Klostermann actually, though the setup is messy, this is a pretty easy and clean way to keep them. you can culture springtails in the same medium you use for isopods, but I find this is the best way to enable me to harvest nothing but springtails. Another advantage is that in event that a culture becomes contaminated with pests, they are very easy to detect.

[@scottcomella2264]

I'm interested in black soldier flies and wonder what you might recommend for clean up after their life cycle ?

[@Aquarimax]

Scott Comella Great question.I haven’t kept soldier flies, do it they function as their own cleanup crew?

[@maxwellethoxian4085]

I got Isopods with Yellow heads from a friend he says I need them as well not just springtails in my geckos enclosure

[@Aquarimax]

Ethox Maxwell / Toxic Lemonade Ii keep isopods with all of my geckos as well. 👍

[@simhadrijalla7061]

How to get springtail seed to culture. Where it was available sir?.

[@lungwort_]

hi, new to your channel, can you please explain why soil mites are bad? I understand keeping them out of a springtail culture for the sake of keeping the springtails safe, but are they not just as good of a clean up crew? why not keep a culture of mites too? I don't know enough about either so I would appriciate information on this, sorry if it's a silly question

[@Aquarimax]

Great question! Grain mites can be a pest and harm some invertebrates if their population becomes too dense, and can outcompete springtails in a springtail culture, but a few soil mites in an isopod culture are rarely a problem…I think people overreact to them In many cases.

[@ridealonghappiness6199]

I have a culture box of isopods which I recently started. Now 2 days back I saw some very tiny dots moving on the moist leaves and the wood pieces I have put in the container. I suppose they are springtails. Now how do I seperate them into a new container I want to make for them. Should I put charcoal in the container and they will cling on to it then maybe move it to the new culture bin. Will that work ?

[@Aquarimax]

The Green Resolution the first thing to do is determine if the small moving dots are mites or springtails. Do they hop when disturbed? If so, they are not mites and are likely springtails. Damp charcoal should work to attract them, especially if you sprinkle a very small amount of yeast on it.

[@ridealonghappiness6199]

@@Aquarimax Thank you so much brother.

[@jelleotter]

I can't find any springtails in my yard. Looked up a lot of video's on where to find them but i just can't find any. Do you have any tips?

[@Aquarimax]

A layer of damp, decaying litter will almost always hold springtails.

[@ScaryFear]

Hello. I just got a culture of tropical springtails. I have my set up just like you do in this video. Went to the dollar store got plastic bins with lids and added charcoal and distilled water. But my springtails came in coconut coir. I don't know how to get them out and into my charcoal box. Any advice? This is my second attempt. I have not had luck with these little guys. I need to establish the colony before putting them in bioactive. Last time I didn't know this and my frogs ate them all.

[@Aquarimax]

If the cocofiver container is small enough, you can clean off the outside well (to avoid introducing mites) and then set the cocofiver culture down in the other culture. If not, set a small piece of charcoal On the cocofiber. Leave it there for a few weeks and use it as a feeding/misting station, then carefully transfer it to the new culture.

[@ScaryFear]

@@Aquarimax Ok thanks. I will try using a single piece of charcoal. It was sent in an 8 ounce deli fill to the top with coco fibers. They are probably hungry after being in the mail for two days.

[@PeaceOnEarth39]

It is working. They are multiplying. Does it matter what type of hardwood lump charcoal? Is Maple lump charcoal ok too?

[@Aquarimax]

Should be just fine!

[@suerostoni561]

Do you rinse the charcoal before using? I’ve been using horticultural charcoal and it’s extremely dusty.

[@Aquarimax]

sue rostoni I don’t usually rinse the lump charcoal, but it would make dealing with horticultural charcoal less messy. 👍

[@streetdog75]

Is the point of the charcoal just to have a substrate that will be free of bacteria and fungus? Is this the issue one would have with using bits of wood from the yard?

[@Aquarimax]

streetdog75 I would say that the charcoals pore structure helps provide a uniform humidity and absorbs waste, as well as providing a substrate that is relatively free of unknown organisms. Some people do fine with wood chips...I have experimented with that. And found that they do better for me on charcoal. 👍

[@xyrus85]

Have you ever tryed to add a ventilation hole covered with some micropore? I do that to ventilate fungal cultures, they dont need a lot of air so its sufficent.

[@Aquarimax]

I have done something similar with filter floss, I imagine micropore would work well 👍🏼

[@oliverrowe2840]

What would happen if some soil got into the container? Would it harm the springtails after sitting in the water for a while?

[@geertgietman]

No.

[@basementpets5327]

Do you think it is too cold out to ship isopods?

[@Aquarimax]

Carter's Critters it depends on the species and the shipping method. I use 72-hour heat packs. I wouldn’t ship tropical species, but most of the others are still ok this month if it doesn’t get too cold.

[@oryanmartin5625]

Does this work for tropical pinks too?

[@Aquarimax]

It seems to work for many springtail species 👍🏽

[@sebastianjungle]

are they good to have then in your house plants. ?? or will they eat the new roots

[@Aquarimax]

Tuberface They can nibble the tips of the roots, but it has the same effect that pruning does...the roots branch out and grow more.

[@sebastianjungle]

Aquarimax Pets i am osrry i dont undestand. please could you explain in more deteos i have a very expensive plant and i seen this ones inside the soil. looks. weird dont know what to do.

[@sebastianjungle]

Aquarimax Pets also how do i get rid if them please as the inside the soil potting mix. is botthering me. a lot

[@Aquarimax]

Tuberface They are good for plant roots in general, they help the plants to grow strong, bushy roots.

[@mebreevee1997]

Can I culture springtails in the same container as my isopod culture? I have some dairy cows, and spanish orange culture I really only planned to put them in my leo’s tank

[@Aquarimax]

Yes, springtails usually thrive with isopods!

[@mebreevee1997]

@@Aquarimax Thank you!

[@PlecsExotics3]

Can there be any other substrate used for springtails? I can't seem to find any lump charcoal.

[@Aquarimax]

You can used the bentonite clay sold for springtails, various organic substrate mixes, organic compost, or even simple coconut fiber.

[@PlecsExotics3]

@@Aquarimax Thanks, I used Coconut fiber and they do amazing!

[@pillumunauhah]

One of my madagaskar hissing cocroatched have weird yellow spots at her side back and i have no idea what they are and the cocroatch is very slow can you help me? And sorry my english

[@Aquarimax]

I have very little experience with cockroaches...but someone at Arachnoboards.com may be able to help. There are many experienced roach keepers there. 👍

[@pillumunauhah]

@@Aquarimax thank you 👍

[@xsupninja8228]

I have a question, i cannot get the water in my country is normal tapwater also ok?

[@Aquarimax]

It depends on what is in your tap water. Do you have access to dechlorinator?

[@DPowered2]

This is a random video for me and i got a question. Why charcoal?

[@Aquarimax]

DPowered Smith charcoal provides a LOT of surface area, which helps ensure good water absorption for the high humidity springtails need. It also adsorbs wastes, making a clean environment for the springtails. Finally, it is easy to harvest nothing but springtails from the culture...no other creatures, and no dirt, whether you tap them off the pieces of charcoal, or float them out with water. 👍

[@joseramonagueraaceves4205]

Hi, I like your videos but I can not see the option of your video to translate to my Spanish language. Long ago KZbin makes update to be able to see videos in the desired language. I would like if it is so kind to be able to see that option

[@Aquarimax]

Jose Ramon Agüera Aceves thank you for watching! I would like to have captions available for all available languages. KZbin is unable to caption certain videos, that may be the problem in this case. Are any of my other videos available in aSpanish?

[@raymundoberres-moreno4180]

Hey how expensive is your food mix when u buy it🤔😅

[@user-gf5bz3ey1i]

Can you reuse the charcoal that filters a fish tank for this purpose?

[@Aquarimax]

Good question…the charcoal will have accumulated some toxins, but at the same time is is likely to have accumulated a biofilm which might be beneficial to the springtails. Hard to say!

[@petramatkovic4122]

How quicky do springtails reproduce and how do I tell male from female if you know? Can I give them bakers yeast and bread too?

[@Aquarimax]

Delta-8 Reproductive speed depends on the species, but Folsomia candida is very fast. Within a week or two of good care, they will produce hundreds of tiny springtails. I have never learned how to distinguish males from females, as they are so tiny, and there are always plenty of both in a starter culture. They will eat baker!s yeast, but use it sparingly, as too much can cause a buildup of CO2 and kill the culture. They woll eat small amounts of bread, but grain-based products can sometimes introduce mites to the culture.

[@petramatkovic4122]

@@Aquarimax Off alright I better clean some yeast i placed there. I only have about 5 springs in there so it important to me.

[@Aquarimax]

Delta-8 Ah! I see! Well, if you don’t see any reproduction within a few weeks, I would recommend getting a starter culture, but with 5 individuals you have a good chance. Best of luck getting them to reproduce 👍

[@petramatkovic4122]

@@Aquarimax thanks...

[@michaelzazzaro7525]

What would be the best species of springtails for an pavement ant formicarium ?

[@Aquarimax]

Great question! I have only had one any colony, and that was a couple of decades ago, so I am not sure

[@michaelzazzaro7525]

Thank you! I plan to go ahead and create my 1st springtail culture from your methods which looks precise and organized

[@straightfifty4202]

I have started getting some weird fuzzy mold/ fungus in my cultures. I'm clearly overfeeding.. Im just feeding yeast ATM. Should I worry? Or will they eat it when I stop feeding for a few days?

[@Aquarimax]

Definitely reduce feeding, and see if they will eat the mold after a few days.. If not, you can remove those pieces of charcoal.

[@straightfifty4202]

@@Aquarimax thanks rus! The mold in general won't kill them I'm guessing? Does your food mix tend to be more mold resistant because of the spirulina?

[@bobshikalob4990]

How often should I often the enclosure for air?

[@Aquarimax]

Every day, ideally, though if you miss a day here and there, it isn't an issue.

[@Incognita421]

Does springtails kill orchids? Since I bought new pine barks and repotting mine I have a lot of fungus gnats and springtails in all my pots. I do vase glass method. Looking on KZbin tube about that little white bugs found out it is springtails. But could find any video saying if it is harm for orchid. Could I try to kill them? Or just let it be?

[@Aquarimax]

I am far from an orchid expert, but I would let them live. Springtails help control mold, and even help some plants grow.

[@Incognita421]

@@Aquarimax thanks

[@mookmoonaruk]

What about Red springtail ? Same way ?

[@merlinambrosius4398]

Can you use spring water instead of distilled? Tyia

[@Aquarimax]

That should work!

[@merlinambrosius4398]

@@Aquarimax thanks very much.

[@BrainFreezeMC]

Hello, I don't have charcoal and I don't have the money for charcoal (I'm a kid who wants to make terrariums), and I was wondering if springtails culture on anything I can find outside. Any ideas?

[@Aquarimax]

They culture reasonably well on leaf litter. Just sanitize it first, so that you don’t introduce springtail predators. 👍🏽

[@BrainFreezeMC]

@@Aquarimax thank you for this. How do I sanitize the leaf litter?

[@Aquarimax]

Personally, I hear it to 200 F for 30 mins. As a kid, you’d want adult assistance and permission of course.

[@BrainFreezeMC]

@@Aquarimax yes I will definitely ask my parents. Should it be boiled in water or on a tray in the oven?

[@Aquarimax]

People do both.

[@devous987]

can we use RO water instead of distilled?

[@Aquarimax]

Yes!

[@MJ-ct3gv]

Can you use wheat grass powder with nutritional yeast?

[@Aquarimax]

I haven’t tried wheatgrass powder with mine, you could try a little and see if they will eat it

[@MJ-ct3gv]

Thank you so much for answering. They sold me the starter cup of springtails but they just said to put leaf litter. I think I am going to buy some charcoal. If you have time I was also wondering if you know of a good way to clean/sterilize gum tree pods, magnolia leaves and wood pieces with lichens. I found them at a park and I don't think they use a ton (or any) of pesticides on the trees, but I don't know best way to clean lichens. 😊

[@Aquarimax]

@@MJ-ct3gv I usually heat them to 200 F for 30 minutes. The downside is that it kills the good microorganisms as well as the pests. Leaf litter is a great substrate for springtails, aldeoending on species it can be better than chad oak. Charcoal is great for harvesting nothing but springtails though.

[@robertriso9156]

Is too much distilled water in the container bad for the springtails. How much is too much food in the culture?

[@Aquarimax]

Robert Riso The idea is to provide maximum humidity and maximum charcoal surface area. I wouldn’t have more than 2 inches of distilled water, but if you accidentally add too much, it is easy to pour off the excess. As far as feeding goes, try to give them an amount they will either finish or nearly finish within 24 hours. 👍

[@lek0mania]

Can spring tails be used as fish food?

[@Aquarimax]

lek0mania yes indeed, they are great for smaller fish as long as the fish will eat from the surface. Fish tend to prefer Folsomia candida, as they are smoother. I can’t imagine that the fuzzier Sinella are very tasty. 🦐

[@Andreas-gh6is]

What is fish food and what is not is mostly defined by the size of the fish's forward orifice.

[@Aquarimax]

Andreas Klostermann funny but pretty true!

[@neonclyd5268]

Sir where can i get springtails? I dont have any..

[@pauljs75]

Look for an outdoor mulch pile, or perhaps under half-rotten logs. (Might not be the species mentioned here, but they'd be a free source.) Tend to be common in moist micro-environments where you'd also find millipedes and isopods.

[@dinand4784]

Hi, I have a springtails culture, in a bin with sand, how can i transport them to a bin with cole?

[@Aquarimax]

Boozer I would put several large, flat pieces of charcoal on the surface of the culture. Feed them on the charcoal and mist the charcoal pieces. After a week or so, you can movie the charcoal pieces to into a charcoal-style culture like the one in the video. 👍

[@dinand4784]

Aquarimax Pets tnx for yout awnser, but i already found a way to do it: just put water in the bin and put the wather with the charcole😂. I had to remove them because of some mites

[@Aquarimax]

Boozer That works too!

[@Pirate_Tone_]

Can you use spring water instead of distilled?

[@Aquarimax]

That would probably work

[@bigfishboss2103]

Whats the best way to eliminate springtails thats not fire?

[@Aquarimax]

Big Fish Boss if you can dry out the area where they live, they cannot survive there. If that won’t work, try researching food-grade diatomaceous earth.

[@Scorponox93]

So... to start a springtail culture, I need a springtail culture?

[@Aquarimax]

Yep! That is generally how cultures work 🤣👍