Anoura fistulata
Overview
Anoura fistulata, commonly known as the tube-lipped nectar bat, is a rare species of bat found in the cloud forests of the Andes in Ecuador. It is especially notable for having the longest tongue relative to body size of any known mammal, allowing it to feed on deep tubular flowers.
Morphological Adaptations
The tongue of A. fistulata can extend over 1.5 times the length of its body, an adaptation that allows it to reach nectar deep within flowers such as Centropogon nigricans. When not in use, the tongue is stored inside the bat’s rib cage — an extraordinary evolutionary feature. Its slender body and elongated snout also support its nectar-feeding specialization.
Feeding and Pollination
As a nectarivorous species, A. fistulata plays an essential role in pollinating certain plants that rely exclusively on long-tongued bats for reproduction. The mutualistic relationship between this bat and deep-flowered plant species showcases a remarkable example of coevolution.
Habitat and Range
This bat is endemic to the Andean cloud forests of Ecuador, where it occupies high-elevation habitats. It is typically found in moist, montane forests and is considered elusive and difficult to observe in the wild.
Conservation Status
Due to its limited range and specialized ecology, Anoura fistulata may be vulnerable to habitat destruction and climate change. However, data about its population status remains limited, and more field research is needed to properly assess its conservation needs.