Small Earwig vs Striped Earwig

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small Earwig Striped Earwig
Scientific Name Apterygida media Labidura riparia
Order Dermaptera Dermaptera
Family Forficulidae Labiduridae
Size 7-10 mm 16-26 mm
Habitat Woodlands Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, 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.

Striped Earwig

A large, pale sandy-brown earwig with dark longitudinal stripes, commonly found near water. It is one of the most widespread earwig species globally.

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Did You Know?

Striped earwigs are strong fliers and are frequently attracted to lights at night, unlike most earwig species.