Common earwig

The common earwig (Forficula auricularia) belongs to the order Dermaptera and the family Forficulidae. It is easily identified by the pair of forceps-like pincers at the end of its abdomen, which are used for defense, mate competition, and folding the insect's hind wings.

This pest is a generalist feeder that affects a wide variety of horticultural and agricultural crops. It frequently attacks fruits like peaches, plums, and apples, as well as vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, and root crops. They often target floral parts, leaving ragged holes in petals and leaves.

The biology of the earwig involves incomplete metamorphosis. They typically overwinter as adults in the soil or protected crevices. During the spring, females create nesting burrows in the soil and provide maternal care to their eggs. The nymphs go through several instars before reaching adulthood.

Damage is primarily caused at night, as earwigs are nocturnal. They feed on soft plant tissues, often causing secondary infections or decay in fruits and vegetables due to the wounds they create. In high populations, they can cause significant aesthetic and economic damage to produce.

• Sanitation: Remove garden debris, leaf litter, and mulch piles.
• Trapping: Use rolled-up wet newspapers or cardboard tubes as shelters to catch and remove insects.
• Encouraging predators: Birds, toads, and ground beetles are natural enemies.
• Chemical control: Apply bait stations or contact insecticides only when necessary.

Integrated pest management is crucial for minimizing earwig impact. Keeping plants healthy and reducing moist, dark habitats around the garden foundation helps prevent population spikes. Regular monitoring and physical removal are often sufficient to keep damage within acceptable limits for home gardens.