Entomobrya intermedia

About 2 mm in length but sometimes more. This group is characterised as having an enlarged fourth abdominal segment. Entomobrya intermedia is pale yellow with burgundy markings. The 'U' shaped markings at the end of the abdomen are missing the 'corners', unlike E. nivalis where the 'U' is complete.

E. intermedia is frequently confused with E. nivalis but they can be separated by close examination of the abdominal markings. Photo comparison (E. nivalis above, intermedia below). Diagrammatic comparison.

Anywhere where food can be found including compost heaps and leaf litter.

All year round.

Feeds on living and dead vegetation.

Common throughout Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.