The Onthophagus taurus dung beetle has been crowned the world’s strongest insect, capable of pulling 1,141 times its body weight. Researchers say this is like a human pulling several elephants at once.
Dung beetles use their incredible strength to roll large dung balls across rough terrain, creating ideal sites for laying eggs. Found worldwide except in Antarctica and the Arctic, these insects play a key role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by recycling nutrients and aiding seed dispersal.
Experts warn that habitat loss, pesticide use, and farming practices are threatening dung beetle populations, stressing the need for conservation efforts. The beetle’s unmatched strength highlights the surprising power of nature’s smallest creatures.
