Chiroptera (Bats) Flashcards
1
Q
What is a patagium?
A
2 layers of thin membrane from shoulder to digits (except 1) of forelimb and distal hindlimb
2
Q
Describe forelimb
A
short humerus
long radius/ ulna
very long digits, 1 is clawed
3
Q
Describe hindlimb
A
5 clawed toes
leg bones rotated 180 degrees
4
Q
Distinguish between bird and bat skeletons
A
Birds support wing with 2nd digit whereas bats support wing with digits 2-5
5
Q
Why fly? Why nocturnal?
A
- forage widely and rapidly to escape terrestrial predators
- can access food with less competition
- conserve water/ energy by being active during cooler part of day
6
Q
Why does bat diversity decrease with latitude?
A
- bats evolved in tropical forests
- small body size, large body SA- therefore heat and water loss via radiation
- warm surroundings reduce heat loss and tropical enviros have plenty of water to compensate for water loss
7
Q
2 bat families
A
1) Megachiroptera
2) Microchiroptera
8
Q
Describe key features of megachiroptera
A
- digit 2 clawed
- NO membrane from hindlimb to tail
- primary flower and fruit eating
- vision and smell for foraging
- simple dentition and GI tract
- DO NOT USE ECHOLOCATION
9
Q
Describe key features of microchiroptera
A
- digit 2 NOT CLAWED
- membrane from hindlimb to tail
- varied dental and digestive anatomy
- USE ECHOLOCATION, with reflections collected by large pinnae
10
Q
What is a tragus?
A
small cartilaginous flap in front of external ear opening to increase directional sensitivity