#2265 - Forficula auricularia complex - European Earwig
One of at least four species from the complex - auricularia, dentata, mediterranea, and aeolica. They’re morphologically indistinguishable, but differ in their mitochrondria. This one is probably dentata, since that’s the species found in the UK, and since then distributed widely.
Earwigs are omnivorous and nocturnal, have been known to eat various garden plants, and on rare occasions are a pantry pest, but are predators of aphids and other pests.
They have fully developed wings intricately folded under the ear-shaped elytra - hence both the common name and ‘auricularia’ - but rarely fly. The pincers aren’t strong enough to harm human skin, but are used in courtship and threat displays.
After mating the females (this one is a female) exhibit extended parental care of the eggs and hatchlings, to a degree unusual among non-social insects.
Taupo, Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand
