Bats
Bats (Chiroptera)
Bats (/bæts/) are a group of mammals known scientifically as Chiroptera (/kaɪˈrɒptərə/). The name comes from the Greek words 'cheir' meaning hand and 'pteron' meaning wing, referring to the unique structure of their forelimbs which form webbed wings, making them the only mammals naturally capable of sustained flight.
Characteristics
Bats are characterized by their wings, which are formed by a thin membrane of skin, called the patagium, stretched between the elongated fingers of their forelimbs. They are the only mammals capable of sustained flight, as opposed to gliding or soaring like certain other mammals.
Classification
Bats are classified into two main suborders: the Megachiroptera (large fruit bats, also known as flying foxes) and the Microchiroptera (small bats, often insectivorous). These two suborders are distinguished by differences in size, structure, and diet.
Diet and Echolocation
Most bats are insectivores, feeding on insects which they locate using a sophisticated echolocation system, a trait more developed in bats than in any other group of animals. Some species are frugivores, or fruit eaters, and a few species such as the vampire bat feed on the blood of other animals.
Habitat and Distribution
Bats are found almost everywhere in the world, except for extreme desert and polar environments. They occupy a variety of habitats, from forests and mountains to urban areas. They are especially abundant in tropical rainforests due to the high number of insect and fruit species present.
Importance in Ecosystem
Bats play a crucial role in many environments around the world. Some plants depend partly or wholly on bats for pollination or seed dispersal. Bats also serve as a natural pest control by consuming large quantities of insects.
Health and Disease
Bats are known to harbor a variety of zoonotic diseases, including rabies and coronaviruses, but they also have a unique immune system that allows them to coexist with many viruses without showing symptoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bats
- Wikipedia's article - Bats
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