Description of M. uropataginalis (a new muscle), with additional comments from a microscopy study of the uropatagium of the fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes)

Abstract

We describe a bundle of skeletal muscle extending between the last caudal vertebrae and the calcar in the distal uropatagium of the fringed myotis, Myotis thysanodes, and we name this muscle M. uropataginalis. This discovery may elucidate the function of the fringe hairs of M. thysanodes and other bats with hairs projecting distally and ventrally along the trailing edge of the uropatagium.