Lesser Earwig vs Japanese Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lesser Earwig | Japanese Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Labia minor | Anechura harmandi |
| Order | Dermaptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Spongiphoridae | Forficulidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Mountains |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lesser Earwig
The smallest European earwig and one of the few that readily flies. It is often found in compost heaps and manure piles where it feeds on fly larvae.
Did You Know?
Despite its tiny size, this earwig is one of the best fliers in the order and is regularly attracted to artificial lights.
Japanese Earwig
A montane earwig found in the mountains of Japan, known for extreme maternal care. Females guard eggs and first-instar nymphs in burrows under stones.
Did You Know?
Japanese earwig mothers sacrifice their own bodies as food for their young — the nymphs consume the mother after she dies.