Fluctuating asymmetry of three bat species in extensive livestock systems of Córdoba Department, Colombia

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the degree of fluctuating asymmetry in wing traits and digits of three bat species in extensive livestock systems of Córdoba Department, Colombia. For this, specimens from Mammalian Collection at the Museo Javeriano de Historia Natural of the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Bogotá, Colombia) were analyzed. All specimens belonged to fragments of tropical dry-forest immersed in extensive livestock systems of Córdoba department. To analyze fluctuating asymmetry 11 wing traits were used. To assess the existence of asymmetry, nonparametric U test was applied. To evaluate the existence of significant differences among different digits, Analysis of Variance were carried out. In total, 114 specimens were analyzed (Artibeus planirostris= 40, Artibeus lituratus=33, Carollia perspicillata= 41). The results showed no statistical difference (p> 0.05) in most of wing traits. Little variation in wing traits was due to its relevance on flight performance and the high tolerance to perturbation of these bat species. “Differential-mortality” hypothesis and “Big Mother” hypothesis are discussed. Results of this work suggest that livestock systems do not severely affect these species. Further studies should consider the type of management to know which provides better conditions for bats