If our first set of animals you never knew existed didn’t blow your mind, we’re just getting to the best ones! Put your imagination in a tizzy with the biggest spider in the world, a fish that might just be a vampire, and more to discover.
Number Five: The Indian Purple Frog. This is a slimy, little amphibian we hope to never encounter. With a chubby look that is almost endearing, the Indian Purple Frog looks like a little purple bubble. In proportion to its body, the head of this frog is ridiculously small and pointed. They are famous for their impressive digging skills, which is why they are seldom seen in the wild.
Number Four: Goliath Birdeater. In one of your wildest nightmares, I’m sure you have asked yourself the question of how big a spider can realistically get. Well, the found the biggest spider in the world, as verified by the Guinness Book of World Records, and it is called the Goliath Birdeater. Native to South Africa, this gruesome spider’s legs can grow up to 30 centimeters long, and weigh up to 170 grams. The name was given to the spider after it was observed eating a hummingbird.
Number Three: The Panda Ant. Neither a panda nor ant, the Panda Ant is a misleading little insect that is actually a wasp. The name “Panda Ant” was given to the wasp because its appearance is that of a hairy ant with the color patterns of a panda. Although seemingly harmless, the Panda Ant has been nicknamed the “cow-killer”, due to its especially long stinger. The sting of the Panda Ant is one of the most painful of any insect.
Number Two: The Peacock Mantis Shrimp. While we are combining species, we may as well mention the Peacock Mantis Shrimp. This strikingly beautiful crustacean has a hard shell splattered with metallic, rainbow colors. Although small and beautiful, this creature is actually quite hazardous. The impact made by the Peacock Mantis Shrimp’s powerful claw is estimated to have the same effect as a gunshot. You’ll never see this captivating creature in an aquarium; they just break the glass.
Number One: Lamprey. The Lamprey is an eel-like, jawless fish that may be the most nightmarish sea creatures you could ever encounter. This creepy fish grows anywhere from 13-100 centimeters long and has a vampire-ish mouth. Circular rows of pointy little teeth fill its jawless lips, leading to a set of fangs before its throat. The Lamprey is said to be a sea-vampire, as it captures fish with its round mouth and sucks the blood right out of them.
