The Natural History of the Egyptian Fruit Bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, in Turkey (Mammalia: Chiroptera)

Authors: İRFAN ALBAYRAK, NURSEL AŞAN, TARKAN YORULMAZ

Abstract: Aspects of the ecology, karyology, and taxonomic status of the Egyptian fruit bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, in the Mediterranean region of Turkey were investigated based on 41 specimens obtained between 1977 and 2003. Distribution, external and cranial morphometrics, pelage coloration, baculum morphology, karyology, colony size, roosting and feeding ecology, and conservation and management issues were recorded. The fruit bat in Turkey is represented by the nominate subspecies, R. a. aegyptiacus. Sexual dimorphism was recorded in pelage coloration and morphometric data. The diploid number of chromosomes (2n) is 36. Records of feeding behavior were obtained from both field and laboratory studies. Seasonal changes in diet were recorded in both wild and cultivated fruits, including Persian lilac (Melia azadirachta), rubber tree (Ficus elastica), plum (Prunus sp.), loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), apple (Malus sp.), fig (Ficus carica), pomegranate (Punica granatum), grape (Vitis viniferia), persimmon (Diosyros kaki), date (Phoenix dactylifera), mulberry (Morus sp.), cherry (Prunus sp.), peach (Prunus persica), apricot (Prunus sp.), and citrus (Citrus sp.). It was determined that the fruit bats in Turkey reproduce in late August.

Keywords: Bioecology, karyotype, taxonomy, Rousettus aegyptiacus, Turkey

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