Abstract
The jumping movements of the water springtail were analyzed using the high-speed video camera system. First, details of jumping on the solid flat plate were studied. The maximum jump height was 44 times of the springtail body length. Second, details of jumping on the water surface were studied. Third, details of jumping from the bubble inside into the air were studied. It was found that they can jump from the water surface and from the inside of air bubble. In addition, microscopic observations of jumping organ of the water springtail were conducted with the 3D laser scanning microscope. The unique leaping organ has the hollow cavity with crack. The concavo-convex shape of ventral groove in the abdominal segment of the springtail and the concavo-convex shape of leaping organ fit each other. Jumping characteristics and performance of the water springtail were considered.
