Small Earwig vs Black Earwig

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small Earwig Black Earwig
Scientific Name Apterygida media Chelisoches morio
Order Dermaptera Dermaptera
Family Forficulidae Chelisochidae
Size 7-10 mm 15-20 mm
Habitat Woodlands Farmland
Diet Detritivores Fruit Feeders
Regions Europe Asia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

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Did You Know?

The dramatic difference in forceps shape between males and females is one of the most pronounced sexual dimorphisms among earwigs.

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.