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New species of bamboo-dwelling bat found in Meghalaya

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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.

Exam Track

Prelims Takeaway

  • Glischropus meghalayanus
  • Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Geographical location of Meghalaya

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