Listen to a water boatman
How loud is a water boatman?
A water boatman is about 99 dB, with a typical range of 79–99 dB. A 2 mm insect that 'sings' by rubbing its penis on its abdomen – loudest relative to body size.
That is about 15 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 7.94e+03 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 99 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of 19 minutes. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as a water boatman
Some species exceed 100 dB at 50 cm.100 dBConstruction site
Mixed heavy machinery nearby.100 dBGarbage truck
Compactor running, at curbside.100 dBHeadphones at max volume
CDC: personal listening devices at maximum volume reach 94–110 dB.100 dBHelicopter
Flying overhead at about 30 m (100 ft).100 dBNightclub
On the dance floor.100 dBRooster crowing
Over 130 dB has been measured at the rooster's own ear canal.100 dBSnowmobile
Rider's ear at full throttle.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 93 dBA | 1.3 hours | 5.3 hours |
| 96 dBA | 38 minutes | 3.5 hours |
| 99 dBA | 19 minutes | 2.3 hours |
| 102 dBA | 9.4 minutes | 1.5 hours |
| 105 dBA | 4.7 minutes | 1.0 hours |
NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours with a 3 dB exchange rate; OSHA: 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. General information, not medical advice – see a hearing professional about ringing ears, muffled hearing or pain.
More recordings elsewhere
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Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a water boatman?
About 99 dB, with a typical range of 79–99 dB.
Is a water boatman louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while a water boatman is about 99 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.