Apachyidae

Definition

A small family of earwigs in the order Dermaptera, suborder Neodermaptera, comprising two genera of primarily tropical species. Members of this family are distinguished by reduced or absent wings and characteristic forceps-like cerci, representing a relatively basal lineage within the earwig radiation.

Etymology

Example

Apachyidae includes the genus Apachyus, found in tropical regions of Africa and Asia, where these wingless or short-winged earwigs inhabit leaf litter and soil microhabitats.

Related Terms

• Dermaptera
• Neodermaptera
• earwig
• cercus
• Forficulidae
• Labiduridae

Usage Notes

Use Apachyidae when referring specifically to this family-level grouping; the broader term 'earwig' or order name Dermaptera is preferred for general discussion. The family's small size and restricted distribution make it less commonly encountered in temperate entomological surveys than the more speciose Forficulidae or Labiduridae.