Animals of all shapes, sizes and color make our wondrous planet what it is. Without true biodiversity the world would be a very different place as all animal species each play a vital role in ensuring and maintaining successful and habitable eco-systems.Most people could answer simple quiz questions about what the biggest animal species are as blue whales, anacondas and ostriches easily spring to mind. However, what about the smallest animal species? Their tiny size often means that they are less well known than the animals that claim the giant titles but they play just as an important role in making up our world as we know it.
World's Smallest Mammal The Bumblebee Bat is the smallest mammal in the world. Found in Western Thailand and South-East Myanmar, this tiny creature measures just 30mm in length and weighs only 2 grams.
World's Smallest Bird The Bee Hummingbird is the smallest bird in the world. Found only in the forests of Cuba and on the Isle of Pines, this little bird is only 5.7cm long and weighs just 1.6 grams.
World's Smallest Fish The Paedocypris fish is the smallest fish in the world. A member of the carp family, they are found in the forest swamps on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Measuring just 7.9mm long, this tiny fish was also the world's smallest vertebrate species until recently.
World's Smallest Reptile A Leaf Chameleon known as Brookesia micro is the smallest reptile in the world. Recently discovered in 2012 on the island of Madagascar, these miniature creatures are only known in one area. Measuring just 29mm in length, they have beaten the Dwarf Gecko to take the smallest reptile title.
World's Smallest Amphibian A tiny frog known as Paedophryne amauensis is the smallest amphibian in the world. Recently discovered in the dense forests of Papua New Guinea, they are well camouflaged amongst the leaf litter on the forest floor. Measuring just 7mm in length, this little frog is currently the world's smallest vertebrate species.
World's Smallest Insect The Fairyfly is thought to be the smallest insect in the world. Found in temperate and tropical regions around the world they are a type of chalcid wasp. With a body length of only 0.139mm these microscopic creatures are very hard to spot.
World's Smallest Spider Patu digua is the smallest species of spider in the world. Found mainly in Colombia they have a slightly odd appearance compared to other spider species. With a body size of only 0.37mm, these tiny spiders are about the size of a pinhead.
