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The world's largest flying insect has been discovered in China - and it's bigger than a human hand.

The huge aquatic bug has a wingspan of 8.27 inches and has pincers as well as long teeth.

After being discovered in Sichuan Province , it was examined by experts at the Insect Museum of West China where it was found to be an unusually big specimen of the giant dobsonfly.

It measured 21cm, breaking the previous record held by the South American helicopter damselfly which had a wingspan of 19.1cm.

(Image: Caters)

Giant dobsonflies are normally found elsewhere across China, India and Vietnam but one had never been found in Sichuan province before.

Researchers at the museum reported that the insect is known among entomologists as an indicator of water quality.

The giant dobsonfly is highly sensitive to any change in the pH of water, as well as the presence of trace elements of pollutants.

(Image: Caters)

It is known to thrive in clean water and if the water is contaminated, the fly will move away to seek a new home.

Dobsonflies get their nourishment from water and nearby plants. The larvae shelters in the water to increase their chances of survival.