DIVERSITY OF BATS (CHIROPTERA) IN VARIOUS HABITATS IN BUALEMO SUB-DISTRICT, CENTRAL SULAWESI, INDONESIA
Keywords:
bat diversity, conservation, habitat preference, SulawesiAbstract
Bats play an important role in ecosystems as pollinators, seed dispersers, and insect pest
controllers. Indonesia has the highest bat diversity in Southeast Asia, with Sulawesi as a global
endemicity hotspot. However, data from Central Sulawesi remain limited, particularly amid threats of
habitat degradation and hunting toward bats. This study aims to assess the diversity and habitat
preferences of Yangochiroptera and Yinpterochiroptera in Bualemo sub-district, Central Sulawesi. Data
were collected for 31 nights in June and July 2024 using mist nets and harp traps across plantations
near cave, plantations, secondary forests, and rivers. A total of 474 individuals from 5 families and 23
species were identified. Yangochiroptera consisted of 113 individuals from 4 families and 13 species.
Meanwhile, Yinpterochiroptera consisted of 361 individuals from one family and 10 species, with
Cynopterus luzoniensis and Rousettus amplexicaudatus as the most frequently found species. The
Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H' = 1.534-2.210), indicating moderate diversity, while the evenness
index (E = 0.489-0.705), suggesting more balanced distribution in vegetated habitats.
Yinpterochiroptera were mainly found in plantations rich in food sources, such as Ficus trees, while
Dobsonia exoleta and Harpyionycteris celebensis were restricted to secondary forests. Yangochiroptera
displayed distinct habitat preferences. Rhinolophus sp.a dominated plantations near cave, whereas
Rhinolophus sp.b occurred only in secondary forests. These preferences were influenced by food
availability, vegetation structure, and environmental conditions such as rainfall and moon phase. These
findings emphasize the importance of conserving various habitat types to maintain the diversity and
stability of bat populations, while raising public awareness of their ecological role.
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