List of Dermapterans of Australia facts for kids

Did you know that Australia is home to many different kinds of earwigs? These interesting insects are found all over the world, and Australia has quite a few unique types. Earwigs are small insects known for the pincers, called cerci, at the end of their bodies. Don't worry, these pincers are mostly used for defense or catching tiny prey, and they rarely harm humans!

What are Earwigs?

Earwigs are part of an insect group called Dermaptera. They are usually small to medium-sized. Most earwigs are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. During the day, they hide in dark, damp places. You might find them under rocks, logs, or in leaf litter.

Earwig Appearance

Earwigs have a flattened body and short, leathery front wings. These wings cover their larger, fan-shaped hind wings, which are folded up neatly. Not all earwigs can fly, even if they have wings. Their most famous feature is their pair of pincers at the back. These pincers can look different between male and female earwigs, and also between different species.

What Do Earwigs Eat?

Earwigs are often omnivores. This means they eat a mix of things. They might munch on decaying plants, fungi, or even small insects. Some earwigs can be helpful in gardens by eating pests like aphids. Others might sometimes nibble on plants, but they usually don't cause much damage.

Earwig Families in Australia

Scientists group living things into families based on how similar they are. Australia has many different families of earwigs. Each family contains various species, which are specific types of earwigs. Here are some of the main earwig families found across Australia:

Anisolabididae Family

This is one of the largest earwig families in Australia. Earwigs in this group often live in soil or under rocks. Many species in this family do not have wings. They are known for their strong pincers.

Apachyidae Family

Earwigs from the Apachyidae family are quite unique. They have very flat bodies. This flat shape helps them hide under bark or in tight cracks. They are less common than other earwig families.

Chelisochidae Family

Members of the Chelisochidae family are often found in tropical areas. Many of them have shiny, black bodies. They are known for having well-developed wings and strong pincers.

Forficulidae Family

This family includes some of the most common earwig species around the world. One well-known species, Forficula auricularia, is an introduced species in Australia. This means it came from another country and now lives here.

Labiduridae Family

Earwigs in the Labiduridae family are often larger than other types. They are found in many different habitats, including sandy areas. They are known for their long, slender bodies and strong pincers.

Pygidicranidae Family

This family includes some of the more ancient types of earwigs. They often have thick, strong bodies. Many species in this family live in forests and feed on decaying wood or fungi.

Spongiphoridae Family

The Spongiphoridae family is another diverse group found in Australia. These earwigs are often smaller. They can be found in various places, including under bark or in leaf litter.

Where Do Australian Earwigs Live?

Australian earwigs live in many different environments. You can find them in gardens, forests, grasslands, and even coastal areas. They prefer places that are moist and have plenty of hiding spots. Their ability to adapt helps them thrive in various parts of Australia.