World's Largest Flying Water Insect Can Cover an Adult Human Face

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World's Largest Flying Water Insect Can Cover an Adult Human Face
Credit: Zhong Xin

Warning: Don't read this right before going to bed.

The largest flying aquatic insect on record was discovered in China's Sichuan province. The specimen was delivered to the Insect Museum of West China and determined to be a larger version of the dobsonfly.

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The creature has a wingspan of 8.27 inches. With its wings fully extended, this giant dobsonfly can completely cover an adult human face.

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Credit: Zhong Xin

These gigantic insects have never been spotted in Sichuan before. They have a keen sense for water cleanliness and will leave a body of water that is even a somewhat contaminated. They typically are found in Vietnam, parts of India and elsewhere in China.

Unfortunately for residents of those regions, the female dobsonflies have been known to bite and draw blood. Although teeth on males can have teeth up to one inch long, they are typically too ungainly to actually cause harm.

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Credit: Zhong Xin

The insects' venomous stings cause victims' bodies to swell and can lead to kidney failure and even death.

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