Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
First taxonomically valid description published by
Carolus Linnaeus in the 1758 10th edition of his
Systema naturae using the name
Forficula auriculariaExplanation of Names
auricularia is Latin for "of or pertaining to the ear" (auricula="ear")
Identification
Male forceps 4 to 8 mm (Figs. 1-2); female forceps 3 mm, tegmina 2 mm. Male forceps vary from about half as long to longer than the abdomen, broadened basally, with crenulate teeth basally and on beginning of curvature of inner margin. Antennae have 14 or 15 segments. The adult is rich reddish-brown, with wing covers and legs dull yellow brown, and the wings completely developed. Males are readily distinguished from other North American species of earwigs by their distinctive forceps.
Male (below left), Female (below right):
Range
Widespread throughout our area
Remarks
Introduced from Europe, probably in the early 1900's.
Internet References
Systema Naturae, p.423 Linnaeus' 1758 description (in Latin)
