Some Aspects of Growth, Moulting and Reproduction in Five Species of Surface Dwelling Collembola

Abstract

The individual growth form, the growth rate and moulting of some species of surface dwelling Collembola were studied at different temperatures in the laboratory and in the field. This provided data on longevity and sexual maturity in the laboratory and in the field and indicated that the growth rate, which is temperature dependent differs slightly from species to species. A distinct relationship between moulting and reproduction was demonstrated; eggs and spermatophores being produced in definite periods, which alternate with rest-phases.