Ring-legged earwigs

Definition

A common name for Euborellia annulipes, a cosmopolitan earwig species in the family Anisolabididae, recognized by the pale annulations (rings) on its dark legs. A facultative predator and scavenger, it inhabits soil litter, compost, and stored products, and is frequently encountered in greenhouses and agricultural settings worldwide. The species is parthenogenetic in many introduced populations, with females producing viable eggs without mating.

Etymology

From the distinctive pale rings encircling the tibiae and tarsi of the dark legs; 'earwig' from Old English ēarwicga, folk etymology suggesting insects entering ears.

Example

In Florida citrus groves, ring-legged earwigs prey on small caterpillars and pupae, contributing to biological control of lepidopteran pests.

Synonyms

• Euborellia annulipes

Related Terms

• earwig
• Anisolabididae
• Dermaptera
• Parthenogenesis
• cosmopolitan species
• greenhouse pest

Usage Notes

Refers specifically to Euborellia annulipes, not to other ring-legged earwig species such as Euborellia plebeja. The common name is widely used in agricultural and urban entomology literature. In field identification, leg annulations distinguish it from the uniformly dark European earwig (Forficula auricularia).