Forficula

Linnaeus, 1758

earwigs

Species Guides

2

Forficula is the largest of , containing at least 68 . The genus was established by Linnaeus in 1758 and is native to Afro-Eurasia, primarily Europe, though it now occurs on all continents except Antarctica. The best known species is Forficula auricularia, a common household and agricultural pest that has been introduced to North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Members of this genus exhibit maternal care of and nymphs, a rare trait among insects.

Forficula auricularia by (c) Judy Gallagher, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Forficula auricularia by (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Forficula by (c) katunchik, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by katunchik. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Forficula: //fɔrˈfɪk.jʊ.lə//

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Distribution

Native to Afro-Eurasia, primarily Europe; introduced to North America, Australia, New Zealand, and other regions. Occurs on all continents except Antarctica.

Human Relevance

Forficula auricularia is a common household pest and has been identified as a potential pest in citrus groves and other fruit crops. It can damage seedlings, soft fruits, and corn silks, though it also functions as a of aphids and other soft-bodied insects.

Similar Taxa

  • LabiduraBoth are of in the Forficulidae; Labidura have more elongated bodies and different structure
  • EuborelliaAnother forficulid ; Euborellia typically lack well-developed wings and have different abdominal segmentation patterns
  • NalaSmaller forficulid with reduced wing development and distinct male genitalia

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Sources and further reading