Earwigs are small, elongated insects recognized by the prominent pincer-like appendages, known as cerci, located at the rear of their abdomen. These insects are common residents in gardens and around homes, often found in damp and dark environments. While their appearance can be intimidating, these nocturnal creatures possess a unique set of features that contribute to their survival and various behaviors.
The Multifaceted Role of Earwig Pincers
Earwig pincers serve a range of functions, playing a role in defense, hunting, mating, and even wing folding. The cerci are hardened structures made of chitin, the same material forming their exoskeleton. These flexible appendages are utilized for protection against potential predators, allowing the earwig to deter threats by raising its abdomen and presenting the pincers. Some species can also squirt a foul-smelling liquid from scent glands on their abdomen as a defensive maneuver, aiming it with their body and pincers.
Beyond defense, earwigs employ their pincers in acquiring food. While many earwig species are omnivorous scavengers, consuming decaying plant and animal matter, some are predatory. These predatory earwigs use their cerci to capture and subdue small prey, such as aphids, mites, or caterpillars. The pincers act as grasping tools, helping them hold onto their meals.
The pincers also exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning their shape differs between males and females, and they play a role in courtship and copulation. Male earwigs generally possess more curved and robust pincers, while female pincers are typically straighter and narrower. During mating, males use their curved cerci to grasp the female’s abdomen. Males also engage in wrestling matches with other males, using their pincers to assert dominance and gain access to females.
A unique function of the earwig’s pincers involves the meticulous folding of their delicate hind wings. Most earwigs have two sets of wings; hardened forewings protect the membranous hind wings. The hind wings are intricate, designed to fold compactly like an origami fan. Earwigs use their cerci to carefully fold these complex wings back into place beneath the forewings after flight, a behavior not commonly observed in other insects.
Are Earwig Pincers Dangerous to Humans?
Despite their intimidating appearance, earwig pincers pose minimal threat to humans. While they can administer a pinch if the insect feels threatened or is handled carelessly, any discomfort is usually mild and temporary. The pincers are generally not strong enough to break human skin, rarely causing a slight scratch or redness. If the skin is broken, cleaning the area with soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment is recommended, similar to treating any minor scratch.
The common folklore that earwigs crawl into human ears to lay eggs or burrow into the brain is a common myth with no scientific basis. The name “earwig” likely derives from Old English words referring to an “ear insect” or possibly due to the ear-like shape of their hindwings. Earwigs are not venomous and do not transmit diseases to humans. They are primarily considered nuisance pests when found indoors, often seeking damp, dark environments.