Little earwigs

Definition

A subfamily of small, winged earwigs (Labiinae) in the family Spongiphoridae, typically under 15 mm in length and distributed worldwide. Distinguished from larger earwig subfamilies by reduced body size, well-developed wings, and cosmopolitan habitat range.

Etymology

From English 'little' + 'earwig', referring to the notably small size of adults compared to other earwig groups.

Example

Little earwigs in the genus Labia are frequently collected in leaf litter and decaying vegetation across temperate and tropical regions, where their small size and wings facilitate dispersal.

Synonyms

• Labiinae

Related Terms

• Spongiphoridae
• Earwigs
• Dermaptera
• Spongiphorinae
• Apterous
• brachypterous
• cosmopolitan distribution

Usage Notes

The common name refers specifically to the subfamily Labiinae, not merely any small earwig. Labiinae is one of two subfamilies in Spongiphoridae, contrasted with Spongiphorinae (which includes the familiar striped earwig, Labidura riparia). The subfamily contains both winged and secondarily wing-reduced species; 'little' refers to body size, not wing development. Some regional faunas lack native Labiinae, making the term useful for distinguishing introduced versus endemic earwig assemblages.