Stick bug, world's longest insect
Sat, 18 Oct 2008 22:35:22 GMT
Scientists have identified a stick bug from the island of Borneo at the center of Maritime Southeast Asia as the world's longest insect.
Discovered by the Malaysian naturalist, Datuk Chan Chew Lun, the bug is 22 inches long with its legs and has a 14-inche-long body.
The specimen is now displayed at Britain's Natural History Museum, AP reported.
Three stick bugs of this species have been found so far, the last of which to hold the title was about an inch shorter.
The species has been named Phobaeticus chani, meaning 'Chan's megastick,' in honor of the Malaysian discoverer.
Stick bugs look like twigs and are mostly found in tropical areas.
TE/HGH