Supersized Stick Insect Discovered in Australia
Queensland, Australia – A remarkable discovery has been made in the high-altitude rainforests of North Queensland, where researchers have identified a new species of stick insect believed to be the heaviest in Australia. Named Acrophylla alta, this supersized insect measures approximately 15.75 inches (40 cm) in length and weighs around 44 grams—roughly the weight of a golf ball. The finding, detailed in a peer-reviewed study published in Zootaxa, highlights the incredible biodiversity of Australia’s Wet Tropics region.
The discovery was led by Professor Angus Emmott of James Cook University, in collaboration with wildlife expert Ross Coupland. The team’s breakthrough began with a social media post featuring a photo of an unusually large stick insect, which sparked their curiosity. After numerous nights searching the dense rainforest canopy near Millaa Millaa and Mount Hypipamee, they located a female Acrophylla alta at an elevation above 900 meters. The insect was so high in the trees that researchers used a long stick to retrieve it for closer examination.
“This is likely Australia’s heaviest insect,” Emmott said in a statement. “While there are longer stick insects in the region, they tend to be lighter. The sheer weight of Acrophylla alta—about the same as a golf ball—is what makes it stand out.” The insect’s substantial body mass is believed to be an evolutionary adaptation to its cool, wet high-altitude habitat, helping it survive colder conditions.
A key factor in confirming Acrophylla alta as a new species was the unique characteristics of its eggs. “Every stick insect species has a distinct egg style,” Emmott explained. “Their eggs have unique surfaces, textures, and shapes, which helped us verify this was something new.” The female specimen was kept in a cage, where it laid eggs that were studied to confirm the species’ distinct identity.
The elusive nature of Acrophylla alta likely contributed to its late discovery. Living high in the rainforest canopy, these insects are rarely seen unless knocked down by a storm, cyclone, or bird. “Its habitat is incredibly hard to access,” Emmott noted. “Unless something brings them down, they remain hidden in the treetops.”
So far, only two female specimens have been collected, with a third photographed but released by locals. The search for a male continues, as male stick insects are often smaller and visually distinct, sometimes mistaken for entirely different species. Queensland Museum entomologist Nicole Gunter emphasized the discovery’s significance, stating, “Australia is home to immense biodiversity, with up to 70% of our insect species still undescribed. Recognizing this species is crucial for its conservation.”
Two specimens of Acrophylla alta have been added to the Queensland Museum’s collection to aid future research. The discovery underscores the need for continued exploration and protection of Australia’s rainforests, which face threats from invasive species like yellow crazy ants. Professor Peter Valentine, former chairman of the Wet Tropics Management Authority, highlighted the broader implications: “Canopies are not well studied, and there’s likely much more to uncover. Protecting these ecosystems is vital to preserving species we don’t even know exist yet.”
The Acrophylla alta discovery has captured global attention, with footage showcasing its impressive size and wingspan, comparable to that of a small bird. Social media reactions have ranged from awe to playful horror, with some likening the insect to a creature from a science fiction film. As researchers continue to study this remarkable find, Acrophylla alta stands as a testament to the hidden wonders of Australia’s rainforests.