We know, we know, we’ve been on a bit of a bug high lately… but we can’t help ourselves, bugs are cool! Anyways, it’s recently been announced that an insect known as the water boatman is officially the loudest animal on the planet.
Strangely enough, the insect, found across Europe, doesn’t make the noise with its throat, or its legs like the grasshopper. The bug makes the noise with its penis (pause for giggles).
Scientists have recorded these two millimeter long tiny insects “singing” at 99.2 decibels, about the same volume as sitting front row at an opera. The sound is made by the insect rubbing his penis on his stomach, a process better known as “stridulation.” They make the noise as a mating call, hoping to attract a partner.
Take a listen below! (Don’t worry, it’s been cranked down a bit):