Miniopterus aelleni is a bat species belonging to the genus Miniopterus. This small brown bat is characterized by its forearm length, which typically ranges from 35 to 41 mm (1.4 to 1.6 in). One of its distinctive features is the long tragus, a projection in the outer ear, which sets it apart from other similar species.
Appearance
Miniopterus aelleni is a small, insectivorous bat with a wingspan of approximately 25 cm (9.8 in). Its fur is typically brown in color, and it possesses a unique long tragus, which aids in acoustic orientation and echolocation. The species exhibits remarkable adaptability to its environment, which is reflected in its physical characteristics and foraging behavior.
Distribution
Miniopterus aelleni is known to occur on Anjouan in the Comoros and in northern and western Madagascar. This distribution indicates its presence in specific island ecosystems, highlighting its adaptation to distinct geographical regions. The species’ population density may vary within these locations, and further research is necessary to understand its abundance and ecological dynamics.
Habitat Preferences
Miniopterus aelleni is commonly found in forested areas and caves within karstic landscapes. These environments, characterized by limestone formations and unique topography, provide essential roosting and foraging sites for the species. The bat’s reliance on such ecosystems underscores the significance of preserving these habitats for its survival and well-being.
As a conservation scientist, it is imperative to recognize the importance of safeguarding the natural habitats of Miniopterus aelleni to ensure the preservation of this unique bat species and the biodiversity of its associated ecosystems.
Facts About Miniopterus aelleni
- Miniopterus aelleni is known to live from 4 to 225 meters (13 to 738 feet) above sea level in northern and western Madagascar (source:ย Animalia.bio).
- This species can be found in deciduous forests, including “tsingy” habitat in lowland areas associated with limestone and karst landscapes in Madagascar, at elevations of 4 – 225 meters (source:ย GBIF).
- Aellen’s Long-fingered Bat occurs on Anjouan in the Comoros and in northern and western Madagascar (source:ย iNaturalist).
- The bat is a small brown bat with a head-body length of approximately 48-49 mm, tail length of 39-44 mm, ear length of 10-12 mm, hindfoot length of 5-7 mm, and forearm length of 35-38 mm (source:ย Plazi TreatmentBank).
- Miniopterus aelleni is a bat in the genus Miniopterus that occurs on Anjouan in the Comoros and in northern and western Madagascar (source:ย World Species).
- The species has been described based on substantial mitochondrial DNA divergence (8.46-9.27%) (source:ย ResearchGate).
- This bat has a weight ranging from 3.7-5.4 grams (source:ย Plazi TreatmentBank).
- Miniopterus aelleni occurs in upland areas of central and northern Madagascar (source:ย ResearchGate).
- The level of mitochondrial DNA divergence in this species equals or exceeds the divergence observed among recognized species of Miniopterus (source:ย ResearchGate).
- Miniopterus aelleni is a bat in the genus Miniopterus that occurs on Anjouan in the Comoros and in northern and western Madagascar (source:ย Mindat).