Archaeognatha (Bristletails)

Bristletails are found around the world. Historically they were grouped with the similarly wingless and scale covered silverfish but they have been split off due to their ancient mandible structures.  The bristletails feed on lichen, algae and plant material and some will feed on other arthropods.  They are mainly nocturnal and have the ability to jump around 10cm when disturbed.  Females lay eggs into crevices and the hatching larvae are shaped like the adults, but progress through a series of instars until they reach maturity.

Family Meinertellidae

      


References:

CSIRO, 1990. Insects of Australia, Volume  1: A Textbook for Students and Research Workers. 2nd Edition. Melbourne University Publishing.