CHAPTER XI. 
Order Euplexoptera (Eu-plex-op'te-ra). 
The Earwigs. 
The members of this order have usually four wings; 
the first pair of which are leathery , very small , without veins , 
and when at rest meet in a straight line on the back; the 
second pair are large , with radiating veins , and when at rest 
are folded both lengthwise and crossivise. The mouth-parts are 
formed for biting. The caudal end of the body is furnished 
with a pair of appendages which resemble forceps. The meta¬ 
morphosis is incomplete . 
The name of the order is from three Greek words : eu t 
well; pleko , to fold ; and pteron , wing. The word is not well 
formed, but it cannot now be changed. It refers to the 
unusual folding of the hind wings. This order is termed 
the Dermaptera by many entomologists, but this name was 
first applied to certain other insects, and so should not be 
used for these. The fore wings of these insects resemble 
the wing-covers of beetles, and like them differ greatly from 
the usual form. The hind wings are very different from 
those of any other insects. Figure 111 represents one of 
these; they are furnished with radi¬ 
ating veins, which extends from a 
point some distance from the base 
of the wings. When the wing is not 
in use that part over which these 
Fig. 111.—Wing of Earwig. veins extend is folded in plaits like a 
fan, after which the wing is folded twice crosswise. Al- 
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