Protodiplatyidae

Aneuroderma oiodes dorsal (cropped)

Protodiplatyidae is an extinct family of earwigs that lived during the Mesozoic era. This family is known from fossil records and is significant for understanding the early evolution of earwigs.

Description

Members of the Protodiplatyidae family are characterized by their unique morphological features, which distinguish them from other earwig families. These features include specific adaptations in their cerci, which are the pair of appendages on the rear of their abdomen, and their wing structures. The cerci of Protodiplatyidae are often more robust and less segmented compared to modern earwigs.

Fossil Record

Fossils of Protodiplatyidae have been discovered in various locations, providing valuable insights into the diversity and distribution of earwigs during the Mesozoic era. These fossils are primarily found in amber and sedimentary rock formations, which have preserved the delicate structures of these insects.

Evolutionary Significance

The study of Protodiplatyidae contributes to the understanding of the evolutionary history of earwigs. By examining the morphological traits of these ancient insects, researchers can infer the evolutionary pathways that led to the diversity of modern earwigs. The Protodiplatyidae family is considered a crucial link in the evolutionary chain, bridging the gap between primitive and more derived earwig families.

Classification

The classification of Protodiplatyidae within the order Dermaptera is based on both morphological and genetic data. This family is one of several extinct families that provide context for the evolutionary relationships among earwigs.

Related Pages

• Earwig
• Dermaptera
• Mesozoic
• Amber
• Fossil