Common Earwigs
Forficulidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Dermaptera
- Family: Forficulidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Forficulidae: //fɔrˈfɪkjʊlɪˌdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Forficulidae is the largest family of earwigs, with over 490 described species and 71 genera worldwide. It includes well-known species such as the common earwig (Forficula auricularia) and exhibits notable characteristics in morphology and life cycle.
Physical Characteristics
The family Forficulidae features three tarsal segments where the second one extends under the outermost one and is wider.
Identification Tips
In the family Forficulidae, the second tarsal segment is distinguishable as it extends under the outermost segment and is wider. Unlike Chelisochidae, which also has a similar structure, the second tarsal segment in Chelisochidae is the same width or narrower than the one it extends under and has a brush of bristles on the underside.
Habitat
Earwigs are commonly found in both plant and animal matter, including organic matter in soil and leaf cover.
Distribution
The distribution of Forficulidae includes most of North America, with specific species such as Doru aculeatum occurring in the eastern United States and southern Ontario, while others are found in the southern United States and adventive Forficula species are widespread, particularly common.
Diet
Forficulidae are omnivorous, feeding on both plant and animal matter, with a preference for insects and other invertebrates, particularly ground-dwelling termites.
Life Cycle
The female earwig lays her eggs together in one location and tends to them until they hatch. The nymphs resemble smaller versions of the adults but lack wings. As they mature, the developing wings become visible on the thorax, reaching full development at the last molt.
Reproduction
Earwigs exhibit maternal care where females tend to their eggs and nymphs, providing protection until they can fend for themselves.
Ecosystem Role
Forficulidae play a dual ecological role; while they can be minor pests consuming fruits and vegetables, they primarily contribute to pest control by predating on insects and invertebrates.
Economic Impact
Some species in this family can be considered minor pests; however, their role in pest control generally outweighs any negative impact they might have in agricultural settings.
Evolution
Forficulidae was previously classified as a suborder of Dermaptera (Forficulina), which has since been reclassified as a family in the suborder Neodermaptera.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Earwigs are often thought to crawl into people's ears, but such occurrences are extremely rare and not typical behavior for these insects.
Tags
- Forficulidae
- earwigs
- insects
- Dermaptera