Albinism in Artibeus planirostris (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in the Caatinga biome and updated list of albino bats in Brazil

Abstract

Albinism is a genetic disorder that results in a deficiency in melanin production. This type of chromatic alteration may affect several vertebrate species, but is rarely observed in nature. In Brazil, for the bat group, only 15 albino individuals have been registered. Here we present a new case for Artibeus planirostris. A pregnant female of this species with alopecia was captured in the Caatinga biome. A compilation of the distribution of albino bats in Brazil is presented.

Key words
bat; chromatic alteration; mammals; Northeastern Brazil; semi-arid zone