In the world of pest management, knowledge is power. Understanding the biology of common pests is essential for effective control and management. Let us dive into the intriguing world of earwigs, those elusive insects that might make your clients shudder. Let's explore the fascinating biology of these creatures and how pest management professionals can apply this knowledge for more successful control.

Meet the Earwig

Earwigs, scientifically known as Order Dermaptera, are a diverse group of insects that often capture attention with their unique appearance. Their name is derived from an old European belief that these insects could crawl into the ears of sleeping individuals—a myth that has since been debunked. They typically measure between 0.4 to 2 inches in length and possess elongated bodies with flattened profiles. They are easily identifiable by the pair of pincer-like cerci protruding from their abdomens, which resemble forceps and serve various purposes in their lives.

Life Cycle

Understanding the life cycle of earwigs is crucial for effective management. Earwigs undergo simple metamorphosis, meaning they have three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Females lay their eggs in underground burrows or damp crevices, guarding and caring for them until they hatch. Nymphs look like miniature versions of adults but lack wings. They molt several times before reaching adulthood.

Diet and Behavior

Earwigs are omnivores, consuming a wide variety of organic matter, including plants, dead insects, and smaller invertebrates. While they are generally considered beneficial for their role in breaking down organic matter, they can become pests when they feed on crops, flowers, or ornamental plants. Their nocturnal behavior often goes unnoticed, as they hide during the day in dark, damp places.

Habitat Preferences

Understanding where earwigs thrive is key to controlling them. Earwigs prefer dark, damp environments like under leaves, rocks, or within crevices. They are nocturnal creatures, primarily active during the night. Being omnivorous, their diet consists of a variety of organic materials, including decaying vegetation, fungi, and small insects.

Control Strategies

As pest management professionals, it's important to offer customers effective solutions for earwig infestations, and using the steps of Assessment-based Pest Management will help you provide effective control. Also advise customers to reduce earwig-friendly habitats by cleaning up debris and maintaining dry, well-drained gardens, and provide ongoing maintenance services using materials that are labeled for the control of earwigs as well as for the site where you will be applying the material.

Understanding the biology of earwigs is essential for pest management professionals. Armed with knowledge about their life cycle, behavior, and habitat preferences, you can provide effective solutions to your customers. Remember to approach these fascinating insects with professionalism to ensure your customers feel confident in your expertise and services.

Gain More Knowledge 

Learn more about other pest control-related topics by signing up for the pest control industry's only continuous training solution, Pest Posse Academy. This online training solution that is part of the Pest Posse TV membership will provide you with the fundamentals and principles of pest control that will help you learn, grow, and succeed in the professional pest control industry.