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Picture taken 06/03/10.
This is a much magnified image of a "raft" of tiny, tiny beasties floating in some water in a bucket outside my door. Somebody tell me what they are please.
View Large VersionPicture added on 09 March 2010 at 09:29
They look like springtails. Also a spider and a fly.
Added by Neil Johnstone on 09 March 2010
Having given them hours of careful study and due consideration, I conclude that they are... peedie gablos!
Added by Dr B. Tologist on 09 March 2010
Just how small is 'tiny,tiny' Ann? Are they small enough to be thrips (eg thunderbugs, etc)? I'm no entomologist, and I'm lost for an explanation why a raft of thrips or any other small insects would suddenly go for a swim in your bucket.
Added by Ian Hourston on 09 March 2010
After further contemplation (ie looking up books & the internet) I have to agree with Neil Johnstone that a species of water springtail is the most likely diagnosis.
Added by Ian Hourston on 11 March 2010
These creepie-craalies look wingless. Do they have hard backs and hairs? The water must have been quite warm to attract them.
Added by Barbara on 12 March 2010
"Tiny, tiny" means 3-4mm. I think they have possibly grown a little bit but they are still gey small. Just rain water in the bucket and if you give it a wee shake, they dart aboot then go back together. Maybe not so lively now though, so should I tip them out?
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Added by Ann Sutherland on 12 March 2010
Kirkwall
