Toothed Earwig vs Common Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Toothed Earwig | Common Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Spongovostox ghilianii | Forficula auricularia |
| Order | Dermaptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Forficulidae | Forficulidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 12-17 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Underground |
| Diet | Detritivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, worldwide (introduced) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Toothed Earwig
A large earwig with heavily toothed forceps found in southern European forests.
Did You Know?
Its forceps bear multiple teeth along the inner edge for gripping prey.
Common Earwig
Nocturnal omnivore with distinctive forceps-shaped cerci. One of the few non-social insects to show maternal care — females guard and clean their eggs, and feed hatchlings.
Did You Know?
Female earwigs are devoted mothers — they guard their eggs for months, licking them regularly to prevent fungal infection, and continue caring for nymphs after hatching.