MSU Extension Integrated Pest Management

European earwig

Insect

European earwig

Forficula auricularia

Dermaptera: Forficulidae

Distribution: Numerous species are widespread throughout the eastern fruit-producing states and provinces.

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The European earwig is dark brown with an elongated body, equipped with pincer-like forceps (A) at the rear of the abdomen. The short elytra do not entirely cover the abdomen.

• Crops Affected: apples, pears

  Damage

  Occurs in apple and pear, and occasionally other tree fruits. Occasionally feeds on leaves or damaged fruit, but is also a predator of aphids and caterpillars.

  Management

  This insect causes negligible problems and tolerance is probably more economical and better advised than intervention.