forficulid

Forficulid is a common name referring to insects in the order Dermaptera. These insects are commonly known as earwigs. The most distinctive feature of earwigs is a pair of cerci, which are forceps-like appendages at the end of the abdomen. These cerci are usually larger in males and are used for defense, mating, and sometimes for grasping prey.

Earwigs are typically nocturnal and scavengers, feeding on a variety of organic matter, including decaying plants, insects, and other small invertebrates. They are often found in damp, dark environments such as under logs, stones, leaf litter, and in cracks and crevices. Some species are also known to inhabit human dwellings.

Despite their common name and a persistent myth, earwigs do not crawl into people's ears to lay eggs or cause harm. This misconception likely arose from their appearance or their habit of hiding in dark, enclosed spaces.

The life cycle of an earwig involves incomplete metamorphosis, with eggs hatching into nymphs that resemble smaller versions of the adult. Nymphs molt several times before reaching maturity. While some earwig species can fly, their wings are often reduced or they are not strong fliers. The diversity within the Forficulidae family means that characteristics can vary between different species.