Forficula dentata
This record describes Forficula dentata (species). Recorded family: Forficulidae. Recorded order: Dermaptera.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Forficula dentata: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forficula_dentata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Dermaptera (Earwigs)
- Family
- Forficulidae (Common Earwigs)
- Genus
- Forficula
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AK‒w.YT to CA‒w.UT‒w.AZ to S.America; parts of Western Europe; Oceania
Seasonal Activity
Year-round, slightly less active early in the year.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Forficula dentata Fabricius 1775
About Earwigs: the wider group
Order-level background for Dermaptera, the group containing Forficula dentata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Dermaptera (earwigs) includes ~2,000 described species. Despite their fearsome-looking pincers (cerci), earwigs are harmless to humans. The name 'earwig' comes from the Old English 'earwicga' meaning 'ear creature' - an old superstition that they crawl into ears.
Ecological role of the group
Earwigs are among the few insect orders where mothers actively care for their eggs and young - female earwigs guard their eggs, clean them to prevent mold, and protect nymphs until their second molt.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Earwigs can be minor garden pests, feeding on seedlings and soft fruits, but they also consume large numbers of aphids and other pest insects, providing natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Entomological research, University extension services. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Forficula dentata (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Connor E.J. Graham; Additional contributions by v belov , Nathaniel Green
Frequently Asked Questions About Forficula dentata
How big is Forficula dentata?
10‒18.3 mm
Where is Forficula dentata found?
Range: AK‒w.YT to CA‒w.UT‒w.AZ to S.America; parts of Western Europe; Oceania
When is Forficula dentata active?
Forficula dentata: seasonal activity - Year-round, slightly less active early in the year..