The smallest known insect in the world is the parasitic wasp, Dicopomorpha echmepterygis.
These tiny wasps, also referred to as fairyflies, are incredibly small. Here's a breakdown of what makes them so unique:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dicopomorpha echmepterygis |
| Common Name | Fairyfly, Parasitic Wasp |
| Size (Male) | 0.005 inches (0.127 mm) |
| Wings (Male) | Wingless |
| Eyes (Male) | Blind |
| Lifestyle | Larvae feed inside other insect eggs |
Key Features of Dicopomorpha echmepterygis
- Parasitic Lifestyle: These wasps are parasitic, meaning their larvae develop by feeding inside the eggs of other insects.
- Size: The males, which are the smallest, are only 0.127 millimeters (0.005 inches) in length. To put that into perspective, that's about the same width as a human hair.
- Male Characteristics: Male Dicopomorpha echmepterygis are wingless and blind, a stark contrast to the females of the species.
Therefore, based on current scientific knowledge, the Dicopomorpha echmepterygis parasitic wasp is the smallest insect in the world.
