Conservation Units of Pteronotus Davyi (Chiroptera: Mormoopidae) in Mexico Based on Phylogeographical Analysis

A phylogeographical analysis of the Davy's nakedbacked bat (Pteronotus davyi) in Mexico reveals three distinct conservation units, each with unique genetic diversity and conservation priorities. The study identified Gulf North, Pacific-Veracruz, and Southeastern regions as critical areas for preserving this cave-dwelling species' biodiversity. Populations in Playa de Oro, Arroyo del Bellaco, Catemaco (Pacific-Veracruz), and Agua Blanca, Sardina, Calakmul, Calcehtok, Kantemó (Southeastern) were flagged for high genetic diversity or unique haplotypes, while the Gulf North unit showed recent loss of variability. This research provides a model for conserving other cave-dwelling bat species in shared habitats.

Guevara-Chumacero, L. M., López-Wilchis, R., Juste, J., Ibáñez, C., Martínez-Méndez, L. A., & Barriga-Sosa, I. D. L. A. (2013). Conservation Units of Pteronotus Davyi (Chiroptera: Mormoopidae) in Mexico Based on Phylogeographical Analysis. Acta Chiropterologica, 15(2), 353–363. https://doi.org/10.3161/150811013x678973