On the Economic Status and Bionomics of Sminthurus viridis, Lubb. (Collembola)

Abstract

The inclusion of species of the order Collembola among the list of injurious insects has, from time to time, given rise to considerable scepticism among those concerned with economic entomology. It is, therefore, thought desirable to place on record controlled experiments which leave no doubt as to the depredations of one species, Sminthurus viridis, Lubb., of this primitive group of insects. Further, our knowledge of the bionomics of Collembola is so scanty that data obtained with reference to the life-history and habits of this particular species may be of interest.