Eukaryotic gut community of the bat <i>Myotis arescens</i> in anthropized landscapes in Chile

This study highlights the significant role of native vegetation in shaping the eukaryotic gut community of <i>M. arescens</i>, suggesting that gut eukaryotic composition can serve as a bioindicator of bat health and habitat quality. Among the dominant taxa, members of the genus <i>Eimeria</i> were frequently detected across sites with varying degrees of anthropogenic disturbance. Although <i>Eimeria</i> is generally considered host-specific and not zoonotic, its high prevalence in bat gut communities points to the need for further research into its ecological role and potential implications for wildlife health. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of conserving native habitats to maintain ecosystem integrity and support healthy bat populations.