Discovered a huge species of sticker insect never seen before: its dimensions will leave you breathless

A giant insect hidden among the foliage of the rain forests of north-eastern Queensland: this is the surprising discovery of the Australian scientists, who have identified a new species of sticker insect called High ACOPHYLLA. The specimen, up to 40 centimeters long and weight of 44 grams, is among the largest and heavy ones ever documented on the continent.

Why had he never been seen before?

The fact that such an impressive being has remained unknown to date has an explanation: High ACOPHYLLA It lives in very high and difficult areas, between branches that exceed 900 meters above sea level. The researchers sighted only two females, found in the mountainous area of Millaa Millaa and Mount Hypipamee. The very name of the species recalls the “high” habitat in which it hides. His robust wings are not suitable for the fly: at most, he can hardly plan.

Is it really the largest in the world?

Despite the impressive dimensions, High ACOPHYLLA does not hold the world record. The longest insect ever recorded remains the Chinensis Phryganistria of China, which exceeds 60 cm. In terms of weight, the primacy goes to insects such as the megasoma Actaeon of South America or wet giants of New Zealand, which can weigh over 70 grams. However, in the Australian panorama, High ACOPHYLLA It ranks among the giants of local biodiversity.

In search of the male (who perhaps does not exist)

For now, only female specimens have been identified. The male remains a mystery, also because in many similar species the male is smaller, rare or even absent, due to the partnership, a reproduction method in which the female reproduces without the need for fertilization.

Being able to find it would help to understand if this species is actually rare or only elusive. This discovery shows how much still there is to learn about Australian insects. It is estimated that 70% of the species on the continent is not yet classified. High ACOPHYLLA It is just an example of how much it can hide in the folds of nature, waiting to be discovered.

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