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Cerci

Cerci (singular Cercus) are paired appendages on the abdomen of many species of insect. Cerci perform a sensory function. The size of cerci varies between species with some having barely discernible cerci while others, like earwigs, having stout and obvious cerci (sometimes called pincers).

A photograph of a male earwig (_Forficula auricularia_).

The cerci are clearly visible at the end of this earwig's abdomen.

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