Black Earwigs
Chelisochidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Dermaptera
- Family: Chelisochidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chelisochidae: /ˌkɛlɪˈsɒkɪˌdiː/
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Summary
Chelisochidae is a family of earwigs known as black earwigs, comprising about 96 species in 16 genera. They are primarily tropical and are identified by a specific morphological characteristic in their tarsi.
Physical Characteristics
Members are often dark in color and can vary in size. They have a characteristic ventral projection on the second tarsal segment.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinct ventral projection on the second tarsal segment of their legs.
Habitat
Primarily found in tropical environments, including Afrotropical, Australasian, and Oriental realms.
Distribution
Approximately 96 species across 16 genera, with some species being cosmopolitan, like Chelisoches morio.
Diet
Omnivorous; their diet includes larvae of leaf-mining insects and certain types of vegetation.
Ecosystem Role
They contribute to the ecosystem by helping control leaf-mining insect populations.
Tags
- earwigs
- Chelisochidae
- black earwigs
- insects
- dermaptera