lucerne flea

The lucerne flea, scientifically known as Sminthurus viridis, is a small, primitive, wingless arthropod, typically measuring between 1 to 10 mm in length. It is characterized by a forked appendage called a furcula, which allows it to jump, and a ventral abdominal tube called a collaphore that aids in water uptake and adhesion.1

While often referred to as a flea, it belongs to the order Collembola, distinct from the blood-sucking insects of the order Siphonaptera. The lucerne flea is found globally in various soil and leaf litter environments. It primarily feeds on decaying vegetable matter but can also damage crops, including alfalfa, making it a significant pest in regions like Australia. Insecticides are sometimes used for control.213