Jumping behavior of the springtail Folsomia candida as a novel soil quality indicator in metal-contaminated soils

This study validates that the jumping ability of the springtail Folsomia candida may be used to evaluate the soil quality of Cu and Ni polluted sites. The jumping ability of the springtail F. candida exposed to metal-contaminated soil was evaluated by observing the frequency, distance, and direction of jumping. The jumping assay was performed using individuals that survived a chronic soil test, in which jumping was induced by chemical stress (methyl alcohol). The chronic soil test generated expected adverse effects on springtail reproduction and survival rates. In the jumping assay, the control group exhibited high jumping frequency and variable escape maneuvers. In contrast, the exposed group exhibited a significant decrease in jumping ability (with some individuals being unable to jump) and performed very simple escape maneuvers. The toxicity indicator values of the jumping assay were comparable to reproduction data, and were more sensitive compared to survival data. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the jumping ability of F. candida on metal-contaminated soils. The evaluation of jumping activity may represent a viable field screening technique for soil quality.