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Home > Lesser earwig

Photo By judygva , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Lesser earwig

Labia minor

A species of Labia, Also known as Little earwig

Labia minor is about half the size of Forficula auricularia, at 4–7 millimetres (0.2–0.3 in) long. It is chocolate brown, and less shiny than the chestnut brown F. auricularia. The whole body is covered with fine yellow setae, and the antennae are a paler color. The forceps (pincer) at the animal's tail are used to help unfurl the wings, in preparation for flight. Unlike F. auricularia, Labia minor flies frequently.

General Info About Lesser earwig

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Attributes of Lesser earwig

Colors

Brown

Black

Habitat

Warm area; compost heap; manure; flower; debris

Adult Food Sources

Decaying plant material, insect larvae, aphids, dead animals, fungal spores

Larva Food Source

Decaying organic matter, algae, fungi, small invertebrates, plant tissues

Biting/stinging

Not reported

Allergy-causing

Not reported

Defensive attack

Not reported

Venomous

Not reported

Non-poisonous

Not reported

Borer

Not reported

Pollinator

Not reported

Pest-Eating Predatory

Not reported

Phytophagous

Not reported

Predatory

Not reported

Biting animal or pet

Not reported

Mouthparts Type

Chewing mouthparts

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Distribution Area of Lesser earwig

Labia minor is widespread in temperate zones around the world. It is unclear whether it is a native species in North America, or an early adventive species. The first record from the United States dates from 1838, but the species may have been present for a long time before that. It ranges further north, into British Columbia and Quebec than any other earwig species, and is the only earwig in Quebec. It has also been introduced to Australia, Madeira, the Galápagos Islands and the Philippines. The species is probably often overlooked, however, due to its small size, and may be more widespread than is currently known.

Life Cycle of Lesser earwig

Egg The egg stage of lesser earwig features small, laid clusters of eggs. The eggs are typically deposited in protected locations, and no discernible limbs or other body structures are present.

Nymph When the nymphs of lesser earwig hatch, they resemble miniature adults but without wings. Subsequent molts gradually increase their size and begin forming wing pads.

Adult Emerging as adults, lesser earwig display fully developed wings and reproductive organs. At this stage, their body changes to the definitive coloration, size is maximized, and they become focused on reproduction.

Predators of Lesser earwig Larvae

Frogs and toads, birds, jumping spiders, ants

Predators of Adult Lesser earwig

Birds, spiders, mantis, rodents

Interesting Facts About Lesser earwig

Lesser earwig can use their forceps to deter predators, manipulate prey, and aid in the intricate folding of their wings under their short forewings.

Scientific Classification of Lesser earwig

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Tips for Finding Lesser earwig

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Youth Habitat of Lesser earwig

Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter

Adult Habitat of Lesser earwig

Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter

How Can You Attract Lesser earwig

Since lesser earwig are omnivorous, a variety of baits ranging from decaying fruit, vegetable matter, to small insects can be used to attract them.

Habitat Preferences of Lesser earwig Through Different Life Stages

The nymphs of lesser earwig typically inhabit moist soil, under logs, or leaf litter where they can find organic material to feed on. As they grow into nymphs, they often remain in similar environments that provide protection and food sources, such as decaying vegetation or in crevices of bark. To find these stages, one would search in garden areas, compost piles, or forest floors. Adults, which are quite mobile, are usually found in the same general locations as their younger stages, but they may also be attracted to lights at night. An effective search for adults would include examining outdoor lighting fixtures, windowsills, and patios during the evening.

When is the Best Time to Observe Lesser earwig

The best time to find lesser earwig is during the night or evening hours as they are nocturnal creatures.

What is the Best Weather to Observe Lesser earwig

Mild, damp conditions are ideal for locating lesser earwig, especially after a rain when they might come out of hiding to hunt or feed.

How and Where Can You Find Lesser earwig at Different Life Stages

Nymph Lesser earwig nymphs are smaller and mimic the adult's shape but lack wings. They can be found in sheltered, moist areas such as under logs, stones, or leaf litter. Look for them by carefully turning over potential hiding spots.

Adult Adult lesser earwig can be located by setting up a light trap at night to attract them since they are attracted to light. Alternatively, inspecting under loose bark, in crevices, or garden debris can also lead to encounters with adult lesser earwig.