Phyllostomid Bats: A Unique Mammalian Radiation

The Phyllostomidae bat family is one of the world's most diverse mammalian families in terms of its trophic diversity, with over 200 species distributed across Mexico, Central, and South America, and the Caribbean. They have evolved into several dietary classes, including blood-feeding, vertebrate carnivory, and the consumption of nectar, pollen, and fruit. They are responsible for pollinating more than 500 species of neotropical shrubs, trees, vines, and epiphytes and dispersing the seeds of at least another 500 plant species. This family plays a crucial role in the regeneration of neotropical forests and is the subject of the first overview in over forty years of their evolution.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 512 pages
\n Publication date: 05 October 2020
\n Publisher: The University of Chicago Press
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The Phyllostomidae bat family, known as the American leaf-nosed bats, is one of the world's most diverse mammalian families in terms of its trophic diversity, or feeding habits. With over two hundred species distributed across most of mainland Mexico, Central and South America, and islands in the Caribbean Sea, these bats have evolved into a wide range of dietary classes over a period of approximately 30 million years. From their insectivorous ancestry, extant species have diversified into various feeding strategies, including blood-feeding, vertebrate carnivory, and the consumption of nectar, pollen, and fruit.

One of the remarkable features of Phyllostomidae bats is their plant-visiting behavior. These species play a crucial role in pollinating over five hundred species of neotropical shrubs, trees, vines, and epiphytes, many of which are economically and ecologically significant. They also disperse the seeds of at least another five-hundred plant species, contributing to the regeneration of neotropical forests. Fruit-eating and seed-dispersing members of this family are among the most abundant mammals in these habitats, making them vital for maintaining ecosystem balance.

Coauthored by leading experts in the field and incorporating the latest advances in molecular biology and ecological methods, "Phyllostomid Bats" provides the first comprehensive overview of the evolution of the many morphological, behavioral, physiological, and ecological adaptations in this family in over forty years. The book features abundant illustrations and details on the current conservation status of phyllostomid species, making it a valuable resource for researchers, conservationists, and anyone interested in these ecologically vital creatures.

In addition to its scientific value, "Phyllostomid Bats" offers a fascinating exploration of the evolutionary process of adaptive radiation. The family's diverse feeding strategies and adaptations have resulted in a wide range of physical and behavioral traits, such as specialized wings and echolocation abilities, that enable them to thrive in different environments and exploit a diverse range of prey. The book sheds light on the mechanisms behind these adaptations and their significance in the evolution of bats and other mammals.

Overall, "Phyllostomid Bats" is a must-read for anyone interested in bats, evolutionary biology, or conservation. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the family's history, behavior, and adaptations, and serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and enthusiasts alike.

\n Weight: 1566g\n
Dimension: 226 x 288 x 37 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780226696126\n \n