Morphologically Uniform BatsHipposiderosaff.Ruber(Hipposideridae) Exhibit High Mitochondrial Genetic Diversity in Southeastern Senegal

Research in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, reveals that two morphologically uniform bat species, Hipposideros aff. ruber, exhibit high mitochondrial genetic diversity despite their similar appearance. Phylogenetic analysis using cytochrome b gene sequences indicates a paraphyletic relationship between the two forms, with one forming a monophyletic group with bats from Benin. While slight morphological differences were detected through skull measurements, sympatric occurrence and genetic divergence suggest these forms may represent cryptic species. However, further investigation into nuclear gene flow is required to confirm reproductive isolation.

Vallo, P., Benda, P., Martínková, N., Kaňuch, P., Kalko, E. K. V., Červený, J., & Koubek, P. (2011). Morphologically Uniform BatsHipposiderosaff.Ruber(Hipposideridae) Exhibit High Mitochondrial Genetic Diversity in Southeastern Senegal. Acta Chiropterologica, 13(1), 79–88. https://doi.org/10.3161/150811011x578633