A new Pipistrelle bat from the oceanic Island of Principe (Western Central Africa)

We describe a population of pipistrelle-like bats from Principe Island (Gulf of Guinea, Western Central Africa) as a new species based on the molecular and morphological characteristics of six specimens collected more than 30 years ago. The description of this new species was not possible until the traditionally entangled systematics of the whole pipistrelle group was clarified in recent years with the inclusion of molecular techniques and adequate species sampling. In this new taxonomic framework, the new species was clearly included within the dark-winged group of the recently described genus Pseudoromicia. The pipistrelles from Principe Island present a moderately inflated skull in lateral view with inner upper incisors that are moderately bicuspids and a baculum distinctly long with expanded tips. Besides these morphological characters, the new bat species is distinguished by its dwarfism, being the smallest species recognized within the genus. The ecology and conservation status of this endemic island species are unknown and field studies are urgently needed to evaluate the situation and conservation threats to this new species in its natural habitat.

Automated summary

We identify a new species of pipistrelle-like bats from Principe Island in Western Central Africa based on molecular and morphological characteristics. The inclusion of molecular techniques and appropriate species sampling has allowed for a clearer understanding of the systematic classification of the whole pipistrelle group. This new species has been placed within the dark-winged group of the recently described genus Pseudoromicia, exhibiting distinct morphological traits and being the smallest recognized species within the genus. Urgent field studies are needed to assess the ecology and conservation status of this endemic island species.