"Earwigs Unveiled: Their Global Diversity, Life Cycle, and Surprising Role in Fly Fishing"
Latin: Dermaptera — Relevance to Fly Fishing
Earwigs are insects recognized for their pincer-like cerci and the widespread myth that they crawl into human ears.
Where to Find Earwigs
The map below shows global observations of earwigs, illustrating their widespread distribution. Note that the order Dermaptera includes numerous families and thousands of species.
Diversity and Distribution
The insect order Dermaptera, commonly called earwigs, comprises around 2,000 known species. These insects are distinguished by their elongated bodies and forceps-like cerci at the abdomen’s tip. Dermaptera is divided into roughly 12 families, with Forficulidae being the most well-known.
Earwigs inhabit diverse environments worldwide, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Their range spans North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Life Cycle of Earwigs
Earwigs undergo four life stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The duration of each stage varies by species and is influenced by temperature, humidity, and food availability.
Females lay eggs in soil or leaf litter, depending on the species. Nymphs hatch and feed on plant matter, fungi, and small insects, molting several times before reaching adulthood. Adults maintain similar diets and are primarily nocturnal.
Earwigs and Fly Fishing
While not a primary fish food source, earwigs near water may attract opportunistic fish. Fly fishers can benefit from carrying patterns that imitate these insects:
- Earwig Patterns: Designed to replicate the insect’s elongated body and cerci, these flies feature slim bodies and tail-like appendages, often tied with dubbing and hackle fibers. Though uncommon, they’re useful in areas where earwigs are prevalent.
- Nymph Patterns: Similar to adult patterns but adjusted in size and color to match local nymphs. Many existing nymph flies can effectively imitate earwigs with minor modifications.
Including a few earwig-inspired flies in your box could prove advantageous in the right conditions.
