Predator vs. Prey: Snoutmite vs. Springtail

Needle Nose

Once prey is down, the tiny mite can jab in its sharp, hollow snout and suck its victim dry.

Silk Shooter

Strands of sticky silk help the snout mite snare its prey.

Trigger Tail

At the slightest touch, the soil-dwelling springtail can flick its fast-action forked tail and flip out of the mite’s reach.

And the winner is…

Although the springtail can launch itself sky-high, the mite’s sticky trap keeps it earthbound. The mite’s sharp snout plunges in.