Order Dermaptera

Greek "derma" meaning skin and "ptera" meaning wings, refers to the thickened forewings that cover and protect the hind wings; Common name: earwigs. [also known as Euplexoptera]

1. Small to medium (up to 2 inches) narrow, elongate insects with prominent cerci that form forceps used in defense, prey capture, and mating
2. Chewing mouthparts
3. Compound eyes only
4. No ocelli
5. Long slender antennae
6. Forewings short, truncate, leathery tegmen; hindwings semicircular and membranous with radial veins
7. Abdomen not covered by wings

• Dermaptera - from NCSU
• Gordon's Earwig Page