Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Heaviest Insect Species Discovered in Australian Rainforest
Scientists in Australia found the heaviest insect ever recorded in the country!
It's a stick insect called Acrophylla alta, and it lives high up in the rainforest.
It weighs about as much as a golf ball and is about as long as a ruler.
Scientists think it got big and heavy to survive in its special environment.
The insect was hard to find because it lives high in the trees.
Now, researchers are studying it to learn more about insects and protect the rainforest.
Scientists discovered a new, heavy stick insect species in Australia.
Named Acrophylla alta, the insect weighs about 44 grams and is 40 cm long.
It was found in the high-altitude rainforests of Millaa Millaa, Queensland.
The insect's size and weight are believed to be adaptations to its environment.
Two specimens have been sent to the Queensland Museum for further study.
- Who
- Scientists discovered Acrophylla alta, a new species of stick insect.
- What
- Discovery of the heaviest insect in Australia, Acrophylla alta.
- When
- The discovery was recently made and announced on August 07, 2025.
- Where
- Found in the high-altitude rainforests of Millaa Millaa, Queensland, Australia.
- Why
- The insect's size and weight are likely adaptations to survive in its challenging environment.
- Insect Name
- Acrophylla alta
- Weight
- Approximately 44 grams (1.55 ounces)
- Length
- 40 cm (15.75 inches)
- Location
- Millaa Millaa, Queensland, Australia
- Habitat
- High-altitude rainforests
- Significance
- Heaviest insect species recorded in Australia