Shore Earwig
Labidura riparia
This record describes Labidura riparia (species). Recorded family: Labiduridae. Recorded order: Dermaptera.
Identification and Appearance
Extremely variable over its global range Emits repulsive odor
Identification notes
Extremely variable over its global range
Wikipedia reference for Labidura riparia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labidura_riparia.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Dermaptera (Earwigs)
- Family
- Labiduridae (Striped Earwigs)
- Genus
- Labidura
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Coastal/riparian (along margins of various water bodies)
Geographic Range
Cosmopolitan; introduced in NA, occurs across the southern states
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Preys on various invertebrates, but may occasionally switch to plant material
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Labidura riparia ( Pallas 1773)
About Earwigs: the wider group
Order-level background for Dermaptera, the group containing Labidura riparia. 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 Shore Earwig (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Chuck Entz , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Shore Earwig
What is Shore Earwig?
Shore Earwig (Labidura riparia) is a species in the family Labiduridae, within the order Dermaptera.
How do you identify Shore Earwig?
Extremely variable over its global range
Where is Shore Earwig found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Coastal/riparian (along margins of various water bodies) |
| Range | Cosmopolitan; introduced in NA, occurs across the southern states |
What does Shore Earwig eat?
The diet of the Shore Earwig includes Preys on various invertebrates, but may occasionally switch to plant material.