Bat Earwig vs Black Earwig

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bat Earwig Black Earwig
Scientific Name Arixenia esau Chelisoches morio
Order Dermaptera Dermaptera
Family Arixeniidae Chelisochidae
Size 15-25 mm 15-20 mm
Habitat Caves Farmland
Diet Omnivores Fruit Feeders
Regions Southeast Asia, Borneo, Philippines Asia, Oceania
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Bat Earwig

A remarkable wingless earwig that lives exclusively in bat caves, clinging to the bodies and roosting areas of naked bulldog bats. It has reduced eyes and modified forceps.

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Did You Know?

Arixeniidae and Hemimeridae are the only earwig families that are viviparous, giving birth to live young.

Black Earwig

A glossy black earwig with reddish legs commonly found in tropical regions. It is often associated with banana plantations and palm trees.

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Did You Know?

The black earwig has been spread throughout the tropics via the banana trade and is now pantropical in distribution.