The Microstratification of Tomocerus (Collembola) in a Beech-Maple Forest of North Carolina

Microstratification of Tomocerus flavescens separatus and T. lamelliferus in a beech-maple forest of eastern North Carolina indicates a definite preference for the fermentation and humus micro- strata of the forest floor. Four layers (litter, fermentation, humus and soil) were investigated and populations in each stratum were recorded throughout a year. Small individuals (0.75 mm to 1.5 mm in length) were dominant for both trivial groups. The largest populations were removed from the forest soil profile in late spring (April through June). Smaller groups, were isolated from mid-November to mid-December. Very small individuals (less than 0.75 mm) were found from late Decem- ber through early April in fermentation and humus levels, indicating that oviposition and subsequent hatching occurred prior to this period.