Aztec mastiff bat

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Aztec mastiff bat
Molossus aztecus.jpg

Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Chiroptera
Family: Molossidae
Genus: Molossus
Species:
M. aztecus
Binomial name
Molossus aztecus
Saussure, 1860
Molossus aztecus map.png
Aztec mastiff bat range
Synonyms
  • Dysopes aztecus Saussure, 1860
  • Molossus molossus aztecus Saussure, 1860

The Aztec mastiff bat (Molossus aztecus) is a species of bat in the family Molossidae.[2] It is found from Jalisco and Cozumel Island in southern Mexico to Nicaragua (it has been reported from Guatemala but not from El Salvador or Honduras) in a variety of forest habitats at elevations from near sea level to 1300 m.[1] It has also been reported from southern Venezuela.[1] The species' diet is insectivorous.[1]

Taxonomy and etymology[]

It was described as a new species in 1860 by Swiss scientist Henri Saussure.[3] Its species name "aztecus" refers to the indigenous Aztecs of Mexico, where this species was first documented.

Description[]

It is one of the smallest bats of the genus Molossus. Its fur is chocolate brown and its patagia, nose, and ears are very dark brown. Individuals weigh 12–16 g (0.42–0.56 oz). Its forearm length is 34–35 mm (1.3–1.4 in). Its dental formula is 1.1.1.31.1.2.3 for a total of 26 teeth.[4]

Biology and ecology[]

It is nocturnal, foraging for its insect prey at night and roosting in hollow trees during the day. Unusually for its genus, females may become pregnant while still nursing a pup.[4]

Range and habitat[]

It is endemic to Mexico. It is generally documented at elevations greater than 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level.[4]

References[]

  1. ^ a b c d Solari, S. (2019). "Molossus aztecus". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2019: e.T13645A22107522. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2019-1.RLTS.T13645A22107522.en. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  2. ^ Simmons, N.B. (2005). "Order Chiroptera". In Wilson, D.E.; Reeder, D.M (eds.). Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference (3rd ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press. p. 440. ISBN 978-0-8018-8221-0. OCLC 62265494.
  3. ^ Saussure, H. M. (1860). "Note sur quelques mammifères du Mexique". Revue et magasin de zoologie pure et appliquée. 2. 12: 285–286.
  4. ^ a b c Ceballos, G.; Cabrales, J. A.; Vazquez, D. (2014). Ceballos, G. (ed.). Mammals of Mexico. JHU Press. pp. 767–768. ISBN 978-1421408439. OCLC 900027107.
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