Extant Earwigs (Suborder Neodermaptera)

Neodermaptera is the largest and most diverse suborder within the order Dermaptera, encompassing the vast majority of modern earwig species. Members of this suborder are distributed worldwide and occur in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, agricultural lands, gardens, wetlands, and urban environments. They are typically associated with moist, sheltered microhabitats such as leaf litter, under bark, beneath stones, and within soil crevices.

Earwigs of the suborder Neodermaptera are generally small to medium-sized insects characterized by an elongated, flattened body and a pair of forceps-like cerci at the end of the abdomen. These cerci are used for defense, courtship, prey handling, and interactions with other individuals. Males often possess more strongly curved or asymmetrical cerci, while females usually have straighter forceps.

The head bears chewing mouthparts and long, segmented antennae. Most species possess short, leathery forewings that cover folded membranous hind wings, although many species are flightless or have reduced wings. When present, the hind wings are among the most intricately folded wings found in insects.

Neodermapterans undergo incomplete metamorphosis, with development progressing through egg, nymph, and adult stages. A notable feature of many species is maternal care. Females often guard and clean their eggs and may continue to protect newly hatched nymphs, increasing offspring survival.

Feeding habits are highly variable. Most species are omnivorous, feeding on decaying plant material, fungi, algae, fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates. Some are active predators of soft-bodied insects such as aphids, while others function primarily as scavengers.

The suborder includes most modern earwig families, such as Forficulidae, Chelisochidae, Spongiphoridae, and Anisolabididae, representing a broad diversity of forms and ecological adaptations.

Ecologically, Neodermaptera plays important roles in decomposition, nutrient recycling, and biological control of small arthropods. They contribute to ecosystem balance as both predators and scavengers and serve as prey for a variety of vertebrates and invertebrates. Despite occasional interactions with crops and ornamental plants, most species are beneficial or neutral components of their ecosystems.