Bats in wetlands: Composition and structure of assemblage in Reserva Natural Don Luis, Esteros del Iberá, Argentina

Abstract

We report diversity data and ecological aspects (richness, abundance and guilds) of bat assemblages in the Esteros del Iberá. We sampled four sites at Reserva Natural Don Luis, with an effort of 75 nights, 256 nets and 12 harp traps over six years. We made a species accumulation curve, Whittaker diagram, and calculated inventory completeness. A complete inventory for the area included 471 individuals belonging to 14 species of Phyllostomidae, Vespertilionidae, and Molossidae families. Insectivorous guilds present the greatest richness and abundance. Esteros del Iberá shelters a diversity of guilds, one threatened species, and a new bat record for the region.