Pronunciation: der-MAP-ter-a

Common name(s): earwigs

Mouthparts: chewing

Wings: 2 pr. - forewings short & thickened (= tegmina); hindwings folded fanwise and transversely to fit under tegmina

Metamorphosis:  paurometabolous

Body characteristics:

• forceps-like cerci
• narrow toughened body

Where found:  hide in leaf litter, soil during day, feed at night near hiding places

Economic impact: minor pest of flowers & in homes

Size of order: 1000 species (only 18 in N. America)

References: Peters pg. 415

• Gordon's Entomological Homepage
• University of Arizona Tree of Life Page (Very Interesting Site!)