Anoura aequatoris (also known as the equatorial tailless bat)[2] is a species of microbat that lives in South America in the countries of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
When first described in 1921, Einar Lönnberg classified Anoura aequatoris as a subspecies of Anoura caudifer. In 2006, Mantilla-Meluk and Baker argued that there were enough differences between the two to elevate Anoura aequatoris to the level of distinct species.[1][2][3] This conclusion, however, has been challenged. Some believe that it is not distinct enough to warrant separation from A. caudifera, and that further analysis is needed.[4] A 2008 study challenged that elevating it to a species overstated the amount of diversity within the genus, and that it should remain a subspecies.[5]
A. aequatoris can be differentiated from A. caudifer on the basis of its morphology, including its densely furred uropatagium that has a fringe of long hairs along its edge. Additionally, A. aequatoris is smaller, with a skull length of approximately 22.5 mm (0.89 in) and forearm lengths of 34.3–35.9 mm (1.35–1.41 in).[3]
A. aequatoris is found in South America, where it has been documented in the following countries: Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. It is found at high elevations from 600–1,500 m (2,000–4,900 ft) above sea level. It is associated with montane forests.[1]
Anoura aequatoris (also known as the equatorial tailless bat) is a species of microbat that lives in South America in the countries of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
