Anti-bat ultrasound production in moths is globally and phylogenetically widespread

Moths have been evading echolocating bat attack for tens of millions of years. Here, we show that the ultrasonic defensive sounds of moths are, in fact, widespread across the planet and the tree of life. Our decade-long investigation reveals that perhaps 20% of moths produce anti-bat sounds, with at least 6 independent origins of sonar-jamming behavior and more than 10 origins of acoustic aposematism (warning of noxious taste). The sheer number of lepidopterans that produce ultrasonic warning sounds indicates that moth acoustic emissions might create the most diverse mimicry rings (groups of species that converge on similar warning signals) on Earth. Comprehending this ultrasonic symphony is central to understanding insect biodiversity.