The cherry-smasher is an extraordinary form of insect that has only recently been discovered. Its abilities have made it renowned amongst the scientific community. Would you recognise one of these creatures if you saw it?

Interestingly, the cherry-smasher looks similar to an actual cherry fruit due to its bald abdomen and stalk like tail. The majority of cherry-smashers have three eyes that allow them to see in all directions. Although, some are almost completely blind and use their incredible hearing to navigate. Amazingly, they are able to consume an entire cherry tree in three seconds, helping cherry trees to disperse their seeds far and wide.

To prevent the creature from being eaten, it has evolved to have the appearance of mould growing on its body. If the cherry-smasher is ingested by a mammal a poison is released by the insect. However, birds, reptiles and amphibians are safe from this creatures poison. Scientists believe that after two days of excruciating convulsions, the mammal will die. Some brave people keep these creatures as pets and use this poison to their advantage by putting it on the weeds in their garden.