Most Poisonous Insect in the World
If you want to know the record holder for the most poisonous insect in the world, then you're in the right place. The Maricopa harvester ant ranks on top. Also called Pogonomyrmex maricopa, it is one of the most common species of harvester ant species found in Arizona, and is considered the most venomous insect in the world. The Maricopa harvester ant is best known for the toxicity of its venom. Its LD50 value is 0.12 mg/kg (injected intravenously in mice), which means that 12 stings can kill a 2 kg rat. In comparison, the LD50 of the honey bee is 2.8 mg/kg — more than 20 times weaker. In humans, a Pogonomyrmex sting produces intense pain that can last up to 4 hours. These types of ants are far more venomous than fire ants.
The genus Lonomia also famous for its toxicity. A typical incident involves a person unknowingly leaning against, placing their hand on, or rubbing their arm against a group of these caterpillars that are gathered on the trunk of a tree. The effects of a dose from multiple caterpillars can be dramatic and severe, including massive internal hemorrhaging, renal failure, and hemolysis. The resulting medical syndrome is sometimes called Lonomiasis.
You may notice that spiders and scorpions are not listed here, because they are not insects but arachnids. You can find the most venemous spiders and scorptions if you go back to the main menu.
Check also here the fastest insect or the oldest man. For a list of the most extreme known achievements in the planet, check our top world records.
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Did you know:
Sphingids or (hawk moths) are one of the fastest flying insects as well, some are capable of flying at over 50 km/h (30 miles per hour). They have a wingspan of 35-150 mm.
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