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No. 20 · Hemimetabolous
Earwigs
Dermaptera
~2,000
Described species
~12
Families
Introduction
Despite the folklore, earwigs do not crawl into ears. The pincers (cerci) are used in defense, prey capture, and male-male combat.
Field marks
Key ID traits.
Pincer-like cerci at the rear of the abdomen (forceps). Short leathery forewings that cover intricately fan-folded hindwings. Mothers display rare maternal care of eggs.
Etymology
Greek derma 'skin' + pteron 'wing'
Wings
Variable
Diet
Omnivore · Detritivore · Predator
Habitat
Terrestrial · Soil
Notable examples
European earwig, ring-legged earwig, Saint Helena earwig (extinct).
Where to look