Cryptic myotis

Cryptic myotis (Myotis crypticus) is a species of vesper bat in the family Vespertilionidae. It is part of the genus Myotis, which is one of the most diverse and widespread genera of bats. The species was described in 2019 and is known to inhabit parts of Europe.

Taxonomy and Etymology

The species name crypticus is derived from the Greek word "kryptos," meaning hidden, reflecting the species' elusive nature and the difficulty in distinguishing it from other closely related species within the Myotis genus.

Description

The Cryptic myotis is a small bat with a forearm length ranging from 35 to 40 mm. It has a relatively short and broad skull, and its fur is generally dark brown on the dorsal side and lighter on the ventral side. The species is morphologically similar to the Whiskered bat (Myotis mystacinus) and the Alcathoe bat (Myotis alcathoe), making it challenging to identify based solely on physical characteristics.

Distribution and Habitat

The Cryptic myotis is found in various parts of Europe, including Spain, France, and Italy. It inhabits a range of environments, from lowland forests to mountainous regions. The species is often found roosting in tree cavities, buildings, and bat boxes.

Behavior and Ecology

Cryptic myotis is a nocturnal species, primarily active during the night. It feeds on a variety of insects, including moths, beetles, and flies. The species uses echolocation to navigate and hunt for prey. Roosting sites are typically shared with other bat species, and the Cryptic myotis is known to form small colonies.

Conservation Status

As of the latest assessments, the conservation status of the Cryptic myotis has not been fully evaluated by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many bat species, it is likely to be affected by habitat loss, pesticide use, and disturbances to roosting sites.

Research and Studies

Ongoing research is focused on better understanding the distribution, population size, and ecological requirements of the Cryptic myotis. Genetic studies are particularly important for distinguishing this species from other similar Myotis species.

See Also

• Vespertilionidae
• Myotis
• Whiskered bat
• Alcathoe bat