Earwigs belong to the order *Dermaptera*.
Dermaptera are an order of insects known as earwigs, famous for their distinctive rear pincers and secretive, nocturnal lifestyles.
- Belong to the insect order Dermaptera.
- Characterized by cerci, which are forceps-like pincers at the abdomen's end.
- Most are active at night (nocturnal) and hide during the day.
- Display both winged and wingless forms; some have intricately folded wings beneath short, protective elytra.
- Typically have elongated, flattened bodies facilitating movement in tight spaces.
The distinctive *cerci* (pincers) are a hallmark of Dermaptera.
Typical Dermaptera traits include forceps-like cerci, nocturnal behavior, and elongated bodies.
Cerci Features
Cerci in earwigs are used for defense, mating, and sensory perception.
Earwigs' cerci are multifunctional pincers used for defense, capturing prey, mating rituals, and sensing the environment.
- Cerci: Distinctive, movable pincers at the abdomen’s rear.
- Used for protection against predators and rivals.
- Assist in courtship and reproduction.
- Serve as sensory organs, detecting air currents and vibrations.
Earwigs belong to the order *Dermaptera*.
Typical Dermaptera traits include forceps-like cerci, nocturnal behavior, and elongated bodies.
Nocturnal Habits
Earwigs are nocturnal to reduce predation and avoid daytime heat, conserving moisture.
Dermaptera are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to feed and avoid daytime predators.
- Active during the night (nocturnal).
- Hide in soil, under bark, or in leaf litter during the day.
- Nocturnality helps avoid predators and extreme environmental conditions.
- Contributes to their ecological roles as scavengers and predators.
The distinctive *cerci* (pincers) are a hallmark of Dermaptera.
Typical Dermaptera traits include forceps-like cerci, nocturnal behavior, and elongated bodies.
Omnivorous Diet
Earwigs have an omnivorous diet including plant material, fungi, insects, and decaying matter.
Earwigs are omnivores, feeding on a wide range of materials including plants, insects, and organic debris.
- Consume live and dead plant material, small insects, and fungi.
- Some species can be minor agricultural pests; others help control pest populations.
- Their diverse diet aids in nutrient recycling within ecosystems.
Source Material
Author: University of Florida Entomology
Document: Earwigs (Dermaptera)
Date Published: 2024
Conclusion
Dermaptera are unique insects distinguished by their cerci, nocturnal habits, and omnivorous diets.
- Their characteristic pincers (cerci) serve multiple ecological functions.
- Nocturnal behavior helps them avoid predators and environmental stress.
- Omnivorous feeding supports both pest control and nutrient cycling.