Saint Helena Earwig vs Toothed Earwig

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Saint Helena Earwig Toothed Earwig
Scientific Name Labidura herculeana Spongovostox ghilianii
Order Dermaptera Dermaptera
Family Labiduridae Forficulidae
Size 78 mm 15-25 mm
Habitat Underground Forests
Diet Omnivores Detritivores
Regions Africa Europe
Conservation Extinct Least Concern

Saint Helena Earwig

Was the worlds largest earwig at 78 mm. Endemic to Saint Helena island. Not seen since 1967 and declared extinct in 2014 due to habitat destruction and invasive species.

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Did You Know?

The Saint Helena giant earwig — the worlds largest earwig at 78 mm — went extinct without most people knowing it existed. It was last seen alive in 1967.

Toothed Earwig

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

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Did You Know?

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