A polytypic species revisited: Phylogenetic and morphological variation, taxonomic status, and geographical distribution ofTrachops(Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

Abstract

AbstractThe taxonomic status of the neotropical bat genusTrachopshas been reevaluated through an integrated study that incorporates morphological, morphometric, and molecular data across its extensive geographic range. Our research, which included previously unexamined regions, revealed substantial insights into the diversity withinTrachops. The results support the elevation ofT. cirrhosus ehrhardtito species status, due to genetic and morphological differences in southeastern Brazil specimens. Conversely, our comprehensive analysis found insufficient evidence to maintain the subspecific distinction ofT. c. coffini, which lacks diagnosable morphological characters and is not genetically distinct fromT. c. cirrhosusacross its distribution range. Additionally, our findings challenge the previous belief of a latitudinal differentiation in body size forTrachops cirrhosus, as specimens from western South America and northeastern South America exhibit similar sizes to those from Central America. These results underscore the importance of revising the taxonomic framework for this bat genus, contributing to a more precise understanding of its evolutionary relationships, and further enhancing conservation efforts, considering the potential threats to the newly recognizedT. ehrhardtiin the imperiled Atlantic Forest of Brazil.