Why It’s Good to Find this ‘Creepy’ and Painful Insect in New York

There's all types of creatures crawling around New York, but one of the creepiest species might actually be a good sign for your local neighborhood.

While a fear of insects may be common, there's only a few local critters that are actually worth being scared of. Giant water bugs, for example, have received the nickname "toe-biters" for a very obvious (and painful) reason, and can unfortunately be found hanging out in many backyard pools.

Hellgrammites in New York State

The insect in question today isn't really an insect at all, but the larval stage of the dobsonfly. While the dobsonfly has large pincers that look intimidating, humans are generally safe from getting bitten. The larval stage creature is called a hellgrammite, and it is as dangerous as it looks (below).

Are Hellgrammites Dangerous?

The hellgrammite looks like a cross between a centipede and that traumatizing robot that burrowed into Neo's stomach in the first Matrix movie (below). While they are perfectly capable of delivering painful bites from a variety of pincers, seeing one in New York waters is actually a very good sign.

Why It's Good to Find Hellgrammites in New York State

As a fish and wildlife organization explains below, hellgrammites can only flourish in clean, well-oxygenated water. This means that they can be an unofficial litmus test of local streams and creeks. So while they may look dangerous, hellgrammites are actually a sign of a clean and healthy environment.

Unfortunately for people with entomophobia (fear of insects), hellgrammites aren't the only creatures to send shivers down your spine. Check out more creatures that won't win any beauty contests below.