What is the world's longest insect?

• A. Phryganistria chinensis
• B. Phobaeticus chani
• C. Megaloptera gigantea
• D. Phasmatodea sp.

Answer: (A)

The longest insect is determined by body length, measured from the front of the head to the end of the abdomen when the insect is held straight or extended. A Chinese stick insect, Phryganistria chinensis jin, holds the current record at about 62 centimeters, which makes it longer than other well-known long insects such as Phobaeticus chani (which is in the mid-50s centimeters). Stick insects (order Phasmatodea) can reach extraordinary lengths through their slender, elongated bodies, a trait that evolved for camouflage in vegetation. The measurement typically used is the straight body length, not including legs or antennae, which is why Phryganistria chinensis jin stands as the record holder. The other options either refer to different groups or to a generic stick insect without a specific, longer specimen, so they don’t surpass this record.