The Largest Stick Insect Has Been Discovered in Australia

• The new species of stick insect weighs 44 grams.
• The insect was discovered in the tropical rainforest of Queensland.
• Researchers note that the size of the insect may be an adaptation to environmental conditions.

In Australia, scientists have discovered a new species of stick insect, which is likely the largest in the country. This new species Acrophylla alta reaches 40 centimeters in length and weighs 44 grams, which is approximately equivalent to the weight of a golf ball.

The stick insect was found in the branches of trees in the mountainous region of the Wet Tropics in northeastern Australia. According to Engus Emmott from James Cook University, the habitat might be the reason this species remained unknown until now.

Emmott noted that the mass of the body likely helps the insect survive in cooler conditions, which promotes the development of large size over millions of years. "This is the largest insect in Australia. It is limited to a small territory of high-altitude rainforest and lives high in the branches of trees. Thus, if there are no predators or birds that prey on it, very few people will be able to see them," he added.

Researchers identified this species based on its characteristic appearance. Two specimens were added to the collection of the Queensland Museum for further research.

Tags: Research