Life history of Oppiella nova (Oudemans) was studied using laboratory cultures and field observations. Developmental times from egg to adult were 59.5, 34.1 and 23.4 days in 15,20 and 25°C respectively. The lower threshold temperature of development from egg to adult was 8.6°C and the thermal constant was 386-3 degree • days. Abundances in cool temperate forest soils were 6455 ± 755 m-2 and 6200 ± 952 m-2 in 1982 and 1983 respectively in a mor type soil, and 536 ± 76 m·2 and 537 ± 95 m-2 in 1982 and 1983 respectively in a mull type soil. Reproduction occurred from June to August and two generations per year were estimated. Relationships between distribution and life history characteristics are discussed.