The
Insect Order Dermaptera contains the earwigs. The name earwig
comes from the Anglo-Saxon word meaning "ear creature," probably
because of the wide-spread superstition that they crawl into the ears of
sleeping people. The order contains about 1,100 species. Earwigs
are characterized by large membranous hind wings that lie hidden under short,
leathery forewings. The earwig varies from .2 to 2 inches in length.
It is flat, slender and dark colored. It has a shiny outer covering
and simple biting mouth parts. It undergoes incomplete metamorphosis
(i.e. - egg, nymph, and adult stages). Earwigs are nocturnal and usually
herbivorous. It has a pair of horny, forceps-like tail filaments,
or pincers cerci at the posterior end of the abdomen. It has been
suggested that the pincers can be used to catch small insects and
them them while easting.
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