Toothed Earwig
Vostox apicedentatus
This record describes Vostox apicedentatus (species). Recorded family: Spongiphoridae. Recorded order: Dermaptera.
Identification and Appearance
males can be identified by a single preapical tooth of forceps
Wikipedia reference for Vostox apicedentatus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vostox_apicedentatus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Dermaptera (Earwigs)
- Family
- Spongiphoridae (Little Earwigs)
- Subfamily
- Spongiphorinae
- Genus
- Vostox
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Deserts; mostly in rotting cacti
Geographic Range
s.CA‒w.TX; Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Vostox apicedentatus (Caudell 1904)
About Earwigs: the wider group
Order-level background for Dermaptera, the group containing Vostox apicedentatus. 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 Toothed Earwig (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chuck Entz; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothed Earwig
What is Toothed Earwig?
Toothed Earwig (Vostox apicedentatus) is a species in the family Spongiphoridae, within the order Dermaptera.
How do you identify Toothed Earwig?
males can be identified by a single preapical tooth of forceps
Where is Toothed Earwig found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Deserts; mostly in rotting cacti |
| Range | s.CA‒w.TX; Mexico |