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Australia Discovers Heaviest Insect, Acrophylla alta, Weighing 44g

8/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In the heart of an Australian rainforest, researchers unveiled Acrophylla alta, the country's heaviest insect, tipping the scales at 44 grams—smaller than a golf ball. Its elusive nature, hidden in dense foliage, kept it under wraps until now. Thanks to James Cook University’s Angus Emmott, who identified its unique eggs, two specimens now call the Queensland Museum home.

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Story summary

In the heart of an Australian rainforest, researchers unveiled Acrophylla alta, the country's heaviest insect, tipping the scales at 44 grams—smaller than a golf ball. Its elusive nature, hidden in dense foliage, kept it under wraps until now. Thanks to James Cook University’s Angus Emmott, who identified its unique eggs, two specimens now call the Queensland Museum home.