Sources: Information compiled from various online articles and scientific sources (see full references at the end).
When it comes to weight, two insect species stand out: the Giant Weta (Deinacrida heteracantha) from New Zealand and the Goliath Beetles (Goliathus spp.) from Africa.
Giant Weta (Deinacrida heteracantha) | Photo: © Gary Webber / Alamy Stock Photo
The Giant Weta (Deinacrida heteracantha), particularly gravid (egg-carrying) females, can weigh up to 71 grams – heavier than a small bird or mouse. These flightless crickets, part of an ancient lineage, are among the heaviest adult insects ever recorded. Despite their formidable size, they are gentle herbivores, feeding on leaves, fruit, and flowers. However, their typical weight is lower, with non-gravid females averaging around 32 grams. Once widespread, habitat loss and introduced predators have significantly reduced their numbers, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival.
Goliath Beetle (Goliathus orientalis) | Photo: © Papilio / Alamy Stock Photo
In contrast, the Goliath Beetles (Goliathus spp.) hold the title for the heaviest insect larvae. Before metamorphosis, their larvae can weigh up to 110 grams – surpassing even the Giant Weta in mass. These beetle grubs, which feed on decaying wood and plant matter, undergo a dramatic transformation during pupation. Once they reach adulthood, their weight decreases significantly. Fully developed Goliath Beetles, despite growing up to 10 cm, typically weigh between 50 and 100 grams, making them the heaviest flying insects. With their robust build and striking patterns, these beetles are not only among the largest but also among the most visually impressive insects in the world.
The extreme size differences within the insect world are truly fascinating. While some species push the boundaries of weight and strength, others rely on minimalism for survival. In stark contrast to these heavyweight champions, the lightest known insect is the fairy wasp (Dicopomorpha echmepterygis) – as we described in the first post of our Insect Records series. Measuring just 0.139 mm, this minuscule species is so small and delicate that its weight is nearly immeasurable.
Sources:
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Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Giant wētā/wētāpunga. Retrieved January 31, 2025, from https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/invertebrates/weta/giant-weta-wetapunga/
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Insectbox.ch. (n.d.). Goliathkäfer. Retrieved January 31, 2025, from https://insectbox.ch/products/goliathkafergoliathus-orientalis-mannlich
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TierWelt.ch. (2023). Diese Insekten brechen Rekorde. Retrieved January 31, 2025, from https://www.tierwelt.ch/artikel/wildtiere-zoo/diese-insekten-brechen-rekorde-499832
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University of Florida. (2001). Book of Insect Records – Chapter 30: Largest insect (by mass). Department of Entomology & Nematology, UF/IFAS. Retrieved January 31, 2025, from https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/walker/ufbir/chapters/chapter_30.shtml#giant_weta
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Inside Ecology. (2019). The real Tinkerbell: Don’t mess with these tiny fairy wasps. Retrieved January 31, 2025, from https://insideecology.com/2019/07/08/the-real-tinkerbell-dont-mess-with-these-tiny-fairy-wasps/