Giant Dobsonfly With Wingspan Over 8 Inches Found in China
Posted on July 23, 2014
Scientists have found a giant dobsonfly species with a wingspan of 8.27 inches (21 centimeters) found in China's Sichuan province. Researchers from the Insect Museum of West China discovered the species. A specimen is shown next to a man's hand in the above photograph.
CNN reports that the large insects were long known to local villagers who described it as "giant dragonflies with long teeth." Fortunately, the insect's large mandibles are reportedly incapable of piercing human skin. However, the insects can spray you with a foul smelling spray.
Another interesting thing about the giant dobsonfly is they can be used to indicate water quality. CNN says the insect is very sensitive to its aquatic environment and will relocate to a different water source if the body of water it is living in becomes polluted or the pH level changes.