European earwig

Forficula auricularia

Overview:

The European Earwig, scientifically known as Forficula auricularia, is an insect that is often considered both a pest and a beneficial predator. While they feed on aphids and other pests, they can also cause damage to certain crops and ornamental plants. Recognizable by their distinctive pincer-like appendages, European earwigs are commonly found in gardens and agricultural settings.

Detailed Appearance:

  • Adults: European earwigs are dark brown to black in color, with a length ranging from 1 to 2 centimeters (0.4 to 0.8 inches). They are characterized by their flattened bodies and prominent pincer-like appendages at the posterior end.

  • Nymphs: Immature earwigs resemble adults but are smaller and lack fully developed wings.

Life Cycle:

  • Egg Stage: Female earwigs lay clusters of eggs in protected locations, such as beneath soil or in plant debris.

  • Nymphal Stage: The eggs hatch into nymphs, which undergo several molts before reaching adulthood.

  • Adult Stage: Adult earwigs emerge and can live for several months to a year. They reproduce during the warmer months.

Identifying Crop Infestation:

  • Feeding Damage: European earwigs can feed on plant material, particularly on the leaves and flowers of certain crops and ornamental plants.

  • Hiding in Plant Debris: During the day, earwigs hide in damp, dark places such as mulch, plant debris, or cracks in the soil.

Management:

  1. Cultural Practices: Reduce hiding places by cleaning up garden debris, mulch, and leaf litter. Proper spacing of plants can also limit favorable hiding spots.

  2. Trap Crops: Planting specific crops that earwigs prefer as trap crops can help protect more valuable plants.

  3. Beneficial Insects: Encourage natural predators, such as birds and predatory beetles, which feed on earwigs.

  4. Insecticides: If earwig populations become problematic, insecticidal treatments can be considered. Focus on applying treatments in the evening when earwigs are active.

Monitoring:

  • Conduct regular inspections of plants, especially during the growing season, to identify signs of feeding damage.

  • Use traps, such as rolled-up newspapers or cardboard tubes, placed in the garden to collect earwigs. Check these traps in the morning.