Chelisochidae

Definition

A family of earwigs (order Dermaptera) comprising approximately 96 species across sixteen genera in three subfamilies, commonly referred to as black earwigs. Members are distinguished by their dark coloration and characteristic cerci morphology within the diverse earwig fauna.

Etymology

Example

Chelisochidae species such as those in the genus Chelisoches are frequently encountered in tropical and subtropical leaf litter, where they function as generalist predators and scavengers alongside members of the more speciose family Forficulidae.

Related Terms

• Dermaptera
• earwig
• Forficulidae
• cercus
• Pygidicranidae

Usage Notes

Use Chelisochidae to refer specifically to this family rather than as a general term for black-colored earwigs; some black earwigs belong to other families. The family is less diverse than Forficulidae but maintains distinct morphological and ecological characteristics. Specialist literature may reference the subfamilies Chelisochinae, Eulabiinae, and Metaxylabinae.