Earwig is in which order?

• A. Dermaptera
• B. Dragonfly
• C. Dobsonfly
• D. Damsel Bug

Answer: (A)

Earwigs are classified in Dermaptera, an order defined by a combination of distinctive features. The forewings are short and hardened (tegmina) and mainly protect the hind wings, which are folded fan-like when not in use. At the tip of the abdomen, earwigs carry pair of forceps-like pincers, a hallmark that helps place them in this order. These traits set Dermaptera apart from other insect groups.

Dragonflies belong to Odonata and have long, slender bodies with two large pairs of often clear, veined wings and very large eyes. Dobsonflies are in Megaloptera and also have sizable wings, but belong to a different order with other larval and adult characteristics. Damsel bugs are in Hemiptera, which feature piercing-sucking mouthparts and a distinct wing structure different from Dermaptera.