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Abstract Neotropical leaf-nosed bats (family Phyllostomidae) underwent an impressive adaptive radiation characterized primarily by the diversification of dietary strategies in tandem with functional morphological diversification of their craniodental and sensory systems. In this perspective, we integrate information from extensive research across multiple fields to outline the interplay between extrinsic and intrinsic drivers of the phyllostomid adaptive radiation and the resulting ecomorphological diversity of the clade. We begin by exploring the relationship between phyllostomids and their environments, focusing on the ecogeographical drivers of their radiation. Then, we detail current knowledge about the role of genes and development in enabling morphological diversification of the group. Finally, we describe the breathtaking ecomorphological diversification of phyllostomids, trying to unveil functional connections underlying their diverse dietary niches.
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Putting the leaf-nosed bats in context: a geometric morphometric analysis of three of the largest families of bats
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Abstract Recently, Yohe and Krell (The Anatomical Record, vol. 306:2765–2780) lamented the incongruence between genetics and morphology in the vomeronasal system of bats. Here, we studied 105 bat species from 19 families using histology, iodine‐enhanced computed tomography (CT), and/or micro‐CT. We focused on structural elements that support a functional peripheral vomeronasal receptor organ (vomeronasal organ [VNO]), together comprising the “vomeronasal complex.” Our results support prior studies that describe a functional VNO in most phyllostomid bats, miniopterids, and some mormoopids (most knownPteronotusspp.). All of these species (or congeners, at least) have vomeronasal nerves connecting the VNO with the brain and some intact genes related to a functional VNO. However, some bats have VNOs that lack a neuroepithelium and yet still possess elements that aid VNO function, such as a “capsular” morphology of the vomeronasal cartilages (VNCs), and even large venous sinuses, which together facilitate a vasomotor pump mechanism that can draw fluid into the VNO. We also show that ostensibly functionless VNOs of some bats are developmentally associated with ganglionic masses, perhaps involved in endocrine pathways. Finally, we demonstrate that the capsular VNC articulates with the premaxilla or maxilla, and that these bones bear visible grooves denoting the location of the VNC. Since these paraseptal grooves are absent in bats that have simpler (bar‐shaped or curved) VNCs, this trait could be useful in fossil studies. Variable retention of some but not all “functional” elements of the vomeronasal complex suggests diverse mechanisms of VNO loss among some bat lineages.more » « less
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Bats have evolved unique methods of perception to navigate and catch prey using ultrasonic sounds. It has been observed that the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) rapidly move their pinna and noseleaf structures in coordination with pulse emission and echo reception during echolocation, with everything occurring on a 100ms time scale. Sensorimotor integration is not uncommon in neural systems but bats provide a unique case for auditory processing coinciding motion in the periphery. We have developed biomimetic robotic models to replicate the dynamic emission and reception elements of bat echolocation; current data have shown these dynamics introduce time-variant effects which encode information to inform object identification and location. We have planned experiments to understand how motor and auditory systems are integrated, which will be done by recording midbrain responses interacting with stimuli. These recordings will consist of field potential measurements taken from the inferior and superior colliculi; we hope this work will provide physiological events associated with sensorimotor integration for echolocation.more » « less
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Abstract This special issue of The Anatomical Record is inspired by and dedicated to Professor Kunwar P. Bhatnagar, whose lifelong interests in biology, and long career studying bats, inspired many and advanced our knowledge of the world's only flying mammals. The 15 articles included here represent a broad range of investigators, treading topics familiar to Prof. Bhatnagar, who was interested in seemingly every aspect of bat biology. Key topics include broad themes of bat development, sensory systems, and specializations related to flight and diet. These articles paint a complex picture of the fascinating adaptations of bats, such as rapid fore limb development, ear morphologies relating to echolocation, and other enhanced senses that allow bats to exploit niches in virtually every part of the world. In this introduction, we integrate and contextualize these articles within the broader story of bat ecomorphology, providing an overview of each of the key themes noted above. This special issue will serve as a springboard for future studies both in bat biology and in the broader world of mammalian comparative anatomy and ecomorphology.more » « less
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Accepted Manuscript1.0
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- https://doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyy101
