Ironclad Beetle vs Small Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ironclad Beetle | Small Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phloeodes diabolicus | Apterygida media |
| Order | Coleoptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Zopheridae | Forficulidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Ironclad Beetle
Has one of the toughest exoskeletons of any insect — it can withstand forces 39,000 times its body weight. Even entomological pins bend when trying to pierce its shell.
Did You Know?
This beetle is nearly indestructible — its exoskeleton can withstand being run over by a car. Engineers studied its shell design to develop stronger aircraft joints.
Small Earwig
A small reddish-brown earwig found in woodland leaf litter across Europe. Males have strongly curved forceps while females have nearly straight ones.
Did You Know?
The dramatic difference in forceps shape between males and females is one of the most pronounced sexual dimorphisms among earwigs.