Influence of holm oak leaf decomposition stage on the biology ofOnychiurus sinensis Stach (Collembola: Onychiuridae)

The trophic attractiveness of different stages of development and decomposition of holm oak leaves and the influence of their nutritional quality on the biology of the springtail Onychiurus sinensis were studied. Collembola fed preferentially on leaves at an advanced stage of decomposition. Biological parameters such as moulting, fecundity, survival rate and linear growth, indicated the influence of the quality of food upon the biology of these microarthropods. Whole parameters were maximized when the leaves were more decayed and when the nitrogen content was the highest.