This week I have a really tricky mystery object for you to have a go at identifying:
It should be easy enough getting the Order, but beyond that it gets harder, especially with a photo like this.
If it makes things any easier, this was found on beach on the West of Ireland and it’s less than 4mm long.
Let me hear your thoughts!
No doubt many sill spring at the chance to ID this one.
I saw the “folded” abdomen extension and thought the same thing: an insect!
Or rather, NOT an insect!
a springtail? Collembola
Great leaping fleas! This is a mystery.
I have to say that’s a diabolical picture from which to have to guess: no colouring cues nor any body shape ones (in terms of disc-like, oval or long).
I could guess at a genus but it would be what they call a Hail Mary pass.
My guess so far is Collembola: Entomobryomorpha
Possibly Tomoceridae
When they get round to giving English names to springtails, I guess this will be the Lesser Curlyhorn!