Bat diversity in the middle course of the Uruguay river (Argentina)

Abstract The composition of the bat assemblage in the middle course of the Uruguay river (Argentina) was studied and compared with other assemblages along this same river. A total of 55 individuals belonging to 11 species from the families Molossidae (4), Phyllostomidae (3) and Vespertilionidae (4) were captured using mist nets at different sites. These species belong to six trophic guilds; the highest specific richness correspond to the insectivorous guild, but the most common bat was the frugivorous Sturnira lilium . Additionally, we reported the southernmost record in Argentina for the frugivorous bat Artibeus lituratus . Finally, we discussed the conservation, importance and distribution of these mammals in riparian environments.