Labiduridae

Definition

A family of earwigs in the suborder Neodermaptera, commonly called striped earwigs. Members are characterized by elongated bodies with contrasting pale and dark longitudinal stripes, forceps-like cerci of moderate length, and a cosmopolitan distribution with particular diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. The family includes both free-living ground-dwelling species and those associated with disturbed habitats.

Etymology

From Greek labis (forceps/tongs) and oura (tail), referring to the pincer-like cerci characteristic of earwigs, with the family suffix -idae.

Example

Labidura riparia, the striped earwig, is a widespread Labiduridae species often found in agricultural fields and coastal dunes, where it functions as both a scavenger and opportunistic predator of small insects.

Related Terms

• Dermaptera
• Neodermaptera
• Cerci
• Forficulidae
• Spongiphoridae
• Apterygote

Usage Notes

Distinguished from Forficulidae (typical earwigs) and Spongiphoridae (little earwigs) by body proportions, cerci structure, and color pattern. The common name 'striped earwigs' refers to the diagnostic pale longitudinal stripes on the dark exoskeleton. Some authors have historically placed certain genera in Labiduridae that are now assigned to other families, so older literature may contain conflicting classifications.