Researchers have recently made a new discovery near the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary: a new species of bamboo-dwelling bat. The newly discovered species has been named Glischropus meghalayanus. These bats live within the internodes of bamboo plants, adapted with specialized morphological characteristics suitable for life inside such a unique environment.
The Glischropus meghalayanus is petite in size, sporting a dark brown color contrasting with a sulphur yellow belly. This discovery is significant as it marks the first report of a thick-thumbed bat originating not only from India but also from the entire South Asian region.
Understanding the Thick-Thumbed Bats
This type of bat possesses fleshy pads on the thumb and soles of feet, a characteristic that allows them to navigate smoothly over the surfaces of bamboo internodes. Currently, there are four recognized species of thick-thumbed bats, or Glischropus, in Southeast Asia: G. aquilus endemic to Sumatra, G. javanus limited to western Java, while G. bucephalus widely inhabiting northern areas up to the Isthmus of Kra, and lastly, G. tylopus found south of this zoogeographic boundary.
Recent Bat Discoveries in Meghalaya
In the forest patches surrounding the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary, a distinctive species of disk-footed bat, Eudiscopus denticulus, was also discovered, marking a novel record in India. Over the past years, three bamboo-dwelling bats have been found in the region, indicating its ecological richness. This biodiversity-rich area is under conservation efforts due to its significance.
Bat Diversity in India
With this latest finding, the total number of identified bat species in India now stands at 131. Meghalaya takes the lead when it comes to bat diversity in the country, with 67 species accounting for about 51% of the total bat species in India.
Meghalaya’s unique landscape, vegetation, and climate make it a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The state’s caves provide perfect roosting spots for various bats, with Horseshoe bat and Leaf-nosed bats being the most commonly found species.
The Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Ri-Bhoi district near Lailad village and spread over an area of 29 sq. kms, the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary is a famous attraction in Meghalaya. Falling within the Eastern Himalayan Global biodiversity hotspot, the sanctuary supports varied fauna including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Indian Bison, and Himalayan Black Bear, among others. The rare bird species found here include the Manipur Bush Quail, Rufous Necked Hornbill, and Brown Hornbill.
Other Wildlife Sanctuaries in Meghalaya
Besides Nongkhyllem, Meghalaya is home to several other wildlife sanctuaries, including Siju Wildlife Sanctuary, Narpuh Wildlife Sanctuary, Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary, and Nokrek National Park.
In conclusion, Meghalaya has proven itself as a biodiversity-rich region with numerous unique species, including the newly discovered Glischropus meghalayanus. The state’s continued conservation efforts have led to new discoveries, shedding more light on the region’s immense ecological significance.