microarthropods

Microarthropods are a group of very small arthropods that inhabit soil, leaf litter, moss, decaying wood, and other microhabitats. The term refers to a functional rather than a formal taxonomic unit and includes several lineages such as Acari (mites and ticks), Collembola (springtails), Protura, Diplura, and, in some classifications, the minute myriapods Pauropoda and Symphyla. Most individuals are less than 2 millimeters long, with many well under 1 mm.

These organisms are widespread in terrestrial ecosystems and are especially abundant in forest and agricultural soils. They occupy diverse niches and trophic roles, including fungivores, bacterivores, detritivores, and predators. By feeding on fungi, bacteria, algae, and decaying organic matter, microarthropods help break down material, mineralize nutrients, and influence soil structure through bioturbation and the production of fecal pellets. Their activity supports soil fertility, moisture dynamics, and plant root health.

Microarthropod communities respond rapidly to changes in moisture, temperature, organic matter, and management practices, making them useful indicators of soil health and ecosystem functioning. They are commonly studied with Berlese or Tullgren extraction from soil or litter samples, followed by microscopy and identification to group or species levels. Taxonomic identification can be challenging due to high diversity and small size, and many groups are incompletely described in some regions.

In summary, microarthropods are a diverse, tiny but ecologically important component of soil biota, contributing to decomposition, nutrient cycling, soil structure, and overall ecosystem resilience.