#ENVIRONMENT ■ New species of bamboo-dwelling bat found in M | UPSC Environment Ecology PSIR

#ENVIRONMENT

■ New species of bamboo-dwelling bat found in Meghalaya-

Scientists have discovered a new species of bamboo-dwelling bat in Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya.

The species, found near the forested patch of Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary, has been named Glischropus meghalayanus

● About the newly discovered bat:

It is small in size and has a dark brown colour with sulphur yellow belly.

It is the first report of a thick-thumbed bat not only from India but also from South Asia.

The recently collected Glischropus specimens from Meghalaya State in northeastern India extend the known distribution range of the genus westward into South Asia

These bats are a particular kind of bats living in the internodes of bamboo with specialised morphological characters that help them to adapt to the life inside a bamboo.

The nomenclature of the newly discovered species celebrates the State of Meghalaya, where the new species was found.

A few of these bat species from Meghalaya are endemic to the region.

● Reasons behind Meghalaya being the largest harbour of bat population:

Unique terrain, vegetation and climate conditions

Unique caves provide roosting opportunities for a large number of bats.

Rich bamboo forests around the wildlife sanctuaries

There are a number of cave-dwelling bats species from Meghalaya, the most common being Horseshoe bat and Leaf-nosed bats.

● Prelims Takeaway:

Glischropus meghalayanus

Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary

Geographical location of Meghalaya

SOURCE - THE HINDU