The Smallest Animal in the World Weighs Less Than 1 Milligram

1. Fairyfly

Fairyflies, a type of wasp, are the smallest insects, measuring just 0.006 inches (0.015 centimeters) in length. Despite their name, they are parasitic and play a role in controlling other insect populations.

2. Paedocypris Fish

In addition to being lightweight, the Paedocypris fish measures just 0.3 inches (0.76 centimeters) in length. It’s often considered the smallest known fish and vertebrate by body length. Its translucent body adds to its unique appearance.

3. Tiny Frog

This amphibian measures only 0.3 inches (0.76 centimeters) long, making it the smallest known amphibian in size. Its diminutiveness allows it to navigate the leaf litter undetected.

4. Brookesia nana

Brookesia nana, the world’s smallest chameleon, is so tiny it could comfortably perch on the tip of your finger. Just like its larger relatives, it’s a master of camouflage, blending into leaf litter with microscopic precision

5. Bumblebee Bat

With a body length of about 1.1 to 1.3 inches (2.8 to 3.3 centimeters), the bumblebee bat is incredibly compact. Its small wingspan allows it to flutter through dense forests with ease.

6. Pygmy Seahorse

Pygmy seahorses measure about 0.9 inches (2.29 centimeters) in length. These creatures are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly with the coral they inhabit.

7. Pygmy Shrew

This light animal’s body is about 1.4 inches (3.5 centimeters) long. Despite its size, the itty-bitty mammal has an incredibly high metabolism and must eat frequently.

8. Bee Hummingbird

The bee hummingbird measures only 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) in length from beak to tail. Despite its tiny size, it plays a crucial role as a pollinator in its ecosystem.

9. Madame Berthe’s Mouse Lemur

This mouse lemur measures about 3.6 to 3.9 inches (9.14 to 9.91 centimeters) in body length. These animals, found in the forests of southwestern Madagascar, are considered the world’s smallest living primate.