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Consistent Choice of Prey Source Habitat Across Diverse Landscapes by a Selective Insectivorous Bat
Miren Aldasoro1, Oihane Diaz de Cerio1, Danilo Russo2
1Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, The Basque Country.
Integrative Zoology
|October 9, 2025
Summary
The greater horseshoe bat
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Zoology
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- The greater horseshoe bat ( *Rhinolophus ferrumequinum* ) is a significant insectivorous predator vital to ecosystem balance.
- Previous trophic ecology studies are limited, focusing on northern ranges and morphological fecal analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate seasonal dietary shifts in greater horseshoe bats within the Northern Iberian Peninsula.
- To analyze dietary variations across diverse landscapes, urbanization levels, and climates.
Main Methods:
- Metabarcoding analysis of bat guano samples.
- Seasonal sampling from three maternity colonies.
Main Results:
- Significant spatial and temporal dietary differences were observed.
- A notable reliance on riparian habitats was found in Mediterranean regions.
- The bats demonstrated high ecological adaptability and prey habitat plasticity.
Conclusions:
- Habitat preservation, including forests, riparian zones, shrubs, and grasslands, is crucial for greater horseshoe bat conservation.
- Understanding dietary plasticity is key for effective conservation management strategies.
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