The Wild Kingdom Beneath Your Feet: Dr. Jill Clapperton on Soil Life, Mites & Springtails

Image representing one of the many tiny creatures living in this soil.

When we think about ecosystems, we often picture rainforests, coral reefs, or vast grasslands. But one of the most complex and vital ecosystems on Earth is right beneath our feet—in the soil.

In a fascinating video clip from our RegenFlix library, internationally recognized soil biologist Dr. Jill Clapperton opens the door to this hidden world, introducing us to the soil’s "wild kingdom”—a bustling community of microscopic creatures that keep our ecosystems functioning and our food systems thriving.

Dr. Jill Clapperton shares a glimpse into the wild kingdom beneath our feet: Collembola (springtails) and mites play vital roles in recycling nutrients and building healthy soil.

🕷️ Meet the Mites: The Spider-Like Soil Engineers -- Part of the Wild Kingdom Beneath Your Feet

Mites may be tiny, but they’re essential players in the soil ecosystem. Closely related to spiders, these creatures live mostly underground and have evolved to rely on touch rather than sight. Their bodies are covered in tiny hairs called setae, which help them sense their surroundings and interact with the organic matter around them.

Dr. Clapperton explains how these spider-like creatures quietly help decompose materials, recycle nutrients, and contribute to the overall health of the soil.

🪲 Say Hello to Collembola: The Jumping Springtails

Unlike mites, Collembola—also known as springtails—are true insects. These curious little critters often live above ground and can jump away quickly when disturbed thanks to a unique tail-like structure called a furcula, which acts like a spring.

They even have eye clusters that help them sense light—a major difference from the blind, touch-reliant mites. Springtails play an essential role in breaking down decaying plant matter, leaving behind perfectly round little droppings that fertilize the soil.

Who knew there was such an amazing wild kingdom beneath your feet?

🌱 Why This Matters: Soil Life Is the Foundation of Regenerative Agriculture

Understanding and supporting this underground ecosystem is key to building healthier soils and more resilient food systems. As Dr. Clapperton puts it, “Everybody is relying on everybody else in this system in order to work—to recycle.”

These tiny creatures are more than just interesting—they are indicators of soil health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.

Join us on a journey into the soil’s hidden world—and discover the science (and art) behind healthier soil and better food.