Bat Earwig vs Toothed Earwig

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bat Earwig Toothed Earwig
Scientific Name Arixenia esau Spongovostox ghilianii
Order Dermaptera Dermaptera
Family Arixeniidae Forficulidae
Size 15-25 mm 15-25 mm
Habitat Caves Forests
Diet Omnivores Detritivores
Regions Southeast Asia, Borneo, Philippines Europe
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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Toothed Earwig

A large earwig with heavily toothed forceps found in southern European forests.

💡

Did You Know?

Its forceps bear multiple teeth along the inner edge for gripping prey.