About Black Earwig
A glossy black earwig with reddish legs commonly found in tropical regions. It is often associated with banana plantations and palm trees.
Did You Know?
The black earwig has been spread throughout the tropics via the banana trade and is now pantropical in distribution.
How to Identify Black Earwig
Black Earwig (Chelisoches morio) belongs to the order Dermaptera, family Chelisochidae. Adults typically measure 15-20 mm.
Black Earwig Habitat
Black Earwig is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Asia, Oceania. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Black Earwig Diet and Feeding
Black Earwig feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.
Where Is Black Earwig Found?
Black Earwig can be found in Asia, Oceania, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Black Earwig can be found
Is Black Earwig Dangerous?
Black Earwig is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Black Earwig Role in Nature
Black Earwig is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Earwig
What does Black Earwig look like?
The Black Earwig typically measures 15-20 mm.
Where is Black Earwig found?
The Black Earwig is found in Asia, Oceania and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Black Earwig eat?
The Black Earwig feeds on fruits.
Is Black Earwig dangerous to humans?
The Black Earwig is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Black Earwig?
The black earwig has been spread throughout the tropics via the banana trade and is now pantropical in distribution.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Black Earwig (Chelisoches morio). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-earwig
MLA:
"Black Earwig." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-earwig.