Nowadays, Yanbaru whiskered bat is a topic that is at the center of attention and debate in different areas. Its implications and repercussions are of great importance, which is why it is essential to analyze it from various perspectives. In this article, we will explore different aspects related to Yanbaru whiskered bat, examining its impact on society, its evolution over time and possible solutions or approaches that can be considered. This topic is of general interest and its relevance cannot be ignored, so it is crucial to understand it comprehensively to make informed decisions and foster a constructive dialogue about it.
Yanbaru whiskered bat | |
---|---|
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Mammalia |
Order: | Chiroptera |
Family: | Vespertilionidae |
Genus: | Myotis |
Species: | M. yanbarensis
|
Binomial name | |
Myotis yanbarensis Maeda & Matsumura, 1998
| |
The Yanbaru whiskered bat (Myotis yanbarensis) is a species of vesper bat in the genus Myotis.
It is known only from three islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago, south of Japan, Okinawa (where the Yanbaru forest is situated), Amami Ōshima, and Tokunoshima. The species has been classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
When described, it was placed into the subgenus Selysius, although some have argued that it is not a valid subgenus. It is closely related to the frosted myotis, which is found on mainland Japan. Its species name, yanbarensis, is a reference to Yanbaru, the forested part of northern Okinawa Island where this species is found.
Its dorsal hair, ears, and flight membranes are black. Its guard hairs are metallic silver at the tips. Its fur is overall soft and silky. Its snouts are long and horizontal. The uropatagium attaches to the first toe. The forearm is 36.5–37.5 mm (1.44–1.48 in) long. Its ears are 14 mm (0.55 in). Its tragi are 7 mm (0.28 in), and tapers gradually at the tip. The braincase is small relative to its skull.
It is only found in the fragments of mature forest remaining on Okinawa Island, Tokunoshima, and Amami Ōshima. On Okinawa Island, it is found on United States military property. On Amami Ōshima, its habitat occurs within Amami Guntō Quasi-National Park. During the day, it roosts in hollow trees.
This species was evaluated for the first time by the IUCN in 2000, when it was described as data deficient. It was listed as critically endangered in 2008, which was maintained in the 2019 evaluation. It is listed as critically endangered because it only occurs on three islands, its extent of occurrence is less than 100 km2 (39 sq mi), and its habitat size and quality is being lost. Deforestation is a major threat to its continued existence.