First record of albinism in Tadarida brasiliensis (Chiroptera: Molossidae) in South America and new records of leucism in central Argentina
Romano, Marcelo CMontani, María EugeniaCordini, M. CandelariaAuil, Sofia
Pigmentary disorders such as albinism and leucism are rare in bats. These phenomena are caused by genetic mutations resulting in complete absence of pigmentation in eyes, skin and fur (albinism) or partial or total deficiency of pigment in all the body or parts (leucism). While monitoring a maternal colony of Tadarida brasiliensis located in Rosario, central Argentina, one albino specimen and other 12 with different kinds of leucism were recorded. The albino T. brasiliensis represents the first record for Argentina and South America. Shapes and location of these pigmentary disorders were described in leucitic individuals and compared with previous records from other authors. Here we report a new type of leucism not described until now. These records constitute the first description for South America of many individuals with different leucitic patterns in the same colony. Possible ecological implications for these atypical patterns are discussed. Keywords: Bats; fur patterns; pigmentary disorders; Brazilian free-tailed bat.(AU)