Micronecta scholtzi

Micronecta scholtzi is a species of lesser water boatman. With a length of 2 to 2.5 mm Micronecta scholtzi is generally larger than the other species of Mirconecta and has a distinctive pattern of brown markings on the vertex, sometimes described as a trident, with one central stripe and a stripe bordering each eye.

Found in open shallow waters over silt and sand.

Unlike most water bugs which overwinter as adults Micronecta species overwinter as nymphs, second or third instar in the case of M. scholtzi, which develop into adults by June. A summer generation becomes adult in August and this second generation gives rise to the nymphs which overwinter.

This tiny water boatman is claimed to be the loudest animal on the planet relative to its body size. The male can create mating calls as loud as 99.2 decibels. To achieve this he rubs his penis (or "genitalia appendage") against the ridged surface of his abdomen. 

Mainly recorded from the southern half of Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.