The largest-ever insect on Earth was the size of a crow
Recommended for Preparatory Grades
Did you know that the biggest insect to ever roam Earth was the size of a crow?
This insect was an ancient dragonfly. It lived during the late Permian era, about 275 million years ago. These dragonflies had a wingspan close to 2.5 feet (75 cm). They were also quite heavy, about 450 gram (this is similar to the size and weight of a crow).
What are dragonflies?
Dragonflies are insects that have long bodies, transparent wings, and large eyes. You can find over 5,000 species of dragonflies today.
Today, Earth is home to over a million insect species. But truly giant insects (like the crow-sized dragonfly) no longer exist. One important reason for this is that our atmosphere has changed.
Millions of years ago, the air surrounding our planet was warmer, moister, and contained more oxygen. So, it is believed that ancient bugs grew to be big because of the extra oxygen.
Fossils show that giant dragonflies and huge cockroaches were also common about 359 to 299 million years ago.
Are you interested in learning about fossils? Fossils are parts of an animal or plant that lived thousands or millions of years ago which has turned into rock. They include bones, shells, exoskeletons, objects preserved in amber, hair, and even oil and coal. The study of fossils is called palaeontology. Studying fossils helps us understand more about life in ancient times and its connection to our world today. Keep reading Curious Times to know what scientists are discovering about Earth’s past.
Curious Times is committed to providing the best experience and news to children. We bring to you the Curious Times Weekly with the top news of the week. You can also check out The Curious Magazine, written by the children, for the children. We also would love for you, dear children, to write and get your stories, art, thoughts and more published at My Expressions. Write to us at hello@curioustimes.in. You can also follow us on WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Youtube, Twitter, LinkedIn.
0 (Please login to give a Curious Clap to your friend.)