Giant Stick Insect Species Discovered in Australia

A remarkable new species of giant stick insect has been discovered in the rainforests of North Queensland , adding yet another unique organism to Australia’s rich biodiversity. The species, named “Acrophylla alta,” stands out as possibly the heaviest stick insect ever recorded in the country. Its discovery highlights how even large organisms can remain undetected in remote and inaccessible habitats.

Discovery in Queensland’s Mountain Rainforests

Researchers identified the species during biodiversity surveys in the high-altitude rainforests of tropical North Queensland. Although the insect reaches an extraordinary size, it remained unknown for years due to its highly effective camouflage and its habitat high in the forest canopy , an area seldom explored by scientists. Canopy-level biodiversity studies remain limited, making this discovery particularly significant.

Size and Distinctive Features

“Acrophylla alta” can grow up to 40 centimetres , making it one of the longest insects documented in Australia. However, what sets it apart is its unusually heavy body mass —with one specimen weighing approximately 44 grams . This makes it significantly heavier than other known Australian stick insects, which are typically long but lightweight.

Adaptation to High-Altitude Environments

The insect lives at elevations between 500 and 1,200 metres in cool, moist rainforest environments. Scientists believe its large size supports Bergmann’s rule , which suggests that animals in cooler climates tend to develop larger bodies to retain heat. The insect’s remote, elevated habitat also helps explain why it escaped scientific detection until now.

Importance of the Discovery

The identification of “Acrophylla alta” reinforces the ecological value of Australia’s rainforests and the potential for discovering more elusive species. It underscores the importance of continued field research and canopy exploration to better understand hidden biodiversity.

Exam Points

• New species: “Acrophylla alta.”

• Discovered in North Queensland high-altitude rainforests .

• Grows up to 40 cm , weighs ~ 44 grams .

• Likely heaviest stick insect recorded in Australia.

• Size adapted to cool climates (supports Bergmann’s rule ).