Overview

• Researchers detailed Acrophylla alta in the journal Zootaxa, highlighting unique egg morphology to confirm its status as a new species.
• At approximately 40 cm long and 44 g, the species surpasses all previously known Australian insects in weight.
• Two female specimens are now curated at the Queensland Museum to support ongoing taxonomic and ecological studies.
• Scientists propose the insect’s large size evolved as an adaptation to the cold, humid, high-altitude rainforest canopy of the Atherton Tableland.
• Field teams are planning targeted searches for male specimens, mapping its restricted habitat and evaluating its conservation status.