Aratathomas's yellow-shouldered bat
Aratathomas's yellow-shouldered bat is a species of bat in the family Phyllostomidae native to South America.
It was described as a new species in 1968. The first documentation of the species, however, had occurred almost 100 years prior in 1874. The authors received the specimens from Andrew Arata and Maurice Thomas—the species name "aratathomasi" is a portmanteau of their respective last names.
Description
In 1987, this species was called one of the largest frugivorous New World bat species, as well as the largest member of its genus. Individuals weigh. Its fur is dark gray in color. Its dental formula is for a total of 32 teeth.
Biology and ecology
Its diet likely consists of fruit, pollen, and nectar.
It is found in association with the Andes in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It is found at generally high altitudes from above sea level.
Conservation
As of 2016, it is evaluated as a least-concern species by the IUCN. It is threatened by agricultural conversion to grow opium poppies.