This research investigates echolocation call variation in bats and the role that sensory ecology plays in speciation, particularly in the bumble-bee bat (Craseonycteris thonglongyai) and also in other species of horseshoe bats. Bats use echolocation and/or passive listening to detect, locate and catch arthropods (e.g. insects, miilipedes and centipedes). Thus the arthropods size and behaviour are thought to be important factors shaping echolocation calls. For Craseonycteris and many species of horseshoe bats, populations in different regions show important differences in echolocation calls which suggest they could be many different species not described yet. However, the reasons of these changes in echolocation are unknown.
In this project, phylogenetic, population genetics and ecological approaches were combined to elucidate whether or not sensory ecology (through echolocation call variation) is playing a role in speciation. As our results suggest that indeed, sensory ecology plays a role in speciation, the research is now focusing on investigating the reasons for this change in echolocation. Is echolocation call change due to differences in arthropods communities, different environments (climatic conditions, habitat, etc.), intra-specific competition or drift?
This project involves collaborators in 4 countries:
