Paralabella curvicauda
This record describes Paralabella curvicauda (species). Recorded family: Spongiphoridae. Recorded order: Dermaptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Dermaptera (Earwigs)
- Family
- Spongiphoridae (Little Earwigs)
- Subfamily
- Labiinae
- Genus
- Paralabella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
circumtropical, with some records in temperate zone; in our area, recorded in FL
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paralabella curvicauda (Motschulsky 1863)
About Earwigs: the wider group
Order-level background for Dermaptera, the group containing Paralabella curvicauda. 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.