Bacterial community of ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and mammals from Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia

Ticks are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites of vertebrates and are relevant worldwide due to the number of bacterial and other pathogens they can transmit. To date, the knowledge about the microorganisms that ticks harbor and transmit to their hosts is incipient. In this study, 24 samples of mammals belonging to four taxonomic orders and ticks of the genera Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus from the Orinoco region of Colombia were analyzed to described and compare the bacterial microbiome. Genetic extraction was performed, and the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified by PCR. Libraries were created, and those samples with adequate quality indices were sequenced using Illumina MiSeq technology. Bacterial taxonomic assignment analyses were conducted through Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) and Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs). The results correspond to 16 samples that passed the quality filters, with 3218 OTUs (415 families). Although a considerable number of unknown bacteria was found, Enterobacteriaceae, Beijerinckiaceae, Moraxellaceae, and Burkholderiaceae are the most prevalent families, and the presence of the genera Coxiella, Escherichia-Shigella, Enterobacter, which can harbor pathogenic species was confirmed. In individuals of Amblyomma mixtum found actively feeding on Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, bacteria of the genera Escherichia-Shigella and Enterobacter were documented. Similarly, Rhipicephalus microplus found actively feeding on Odocoileus virginianus cariacou shared Escherichia-Shigella. Ralstonia was shared among the blood samples of H. hydrochaeris, while Anaplasma and Eubacterium were shared in blood and liver samples of O. v. cariacou. Shared bacteria between A. mixtum and R. microplus included Bacillus, Coxiella, and Escherichia-Shigella. The results highlight the need of additional studies in other natural regions of Colombia and other American countries where tick-borne diseases have been detected. Likewise, the recorded data are the first at the level of bacterial communities in ticks of the family Ixodidae and provide valuable knowledge for the understanding host-tick and pathogen interactions.

A new species of terrestrial toad of the Rhinellafestae group (Anura, Bufonidae) from the highlands of the Central Cordillera of the Andes of Colombia

The genus Rhinella (Bufonidae) comprises 92 species of Neotropical toads. In Colombia, Rhinella is represented by 22 recognized species, of which nine belong to the Rhinellafestae group. Over the past decade, there has been increasing evidence of cryptic diversity within this group, particularly in the context of Andean forms. Specimens of Rhinella collected in high Andean forests on both slopes of the Central Cordillera in Colombia belong to an undescribed species, Rhinellakumandaysp. nov. Genetic analyses using the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene indicated that the individuals belong to the festae species group. However, they can be distinguished from other closely related species such as Rhinellaparaguas and Rhinellatenrec by a combination of morphological traits including the presence of tarsal fold, a moderate body size, and substantial genetic divergence in the 16S rRNA gene (> 5%). Through this integrative approach, the specimens from the Central Cordillera of Colombia are considered an evolutionary divergent lineage that is sister to R.paraguas, and described as a new species. Rhinellakumandaysp. nov. is restricted to the Central Cordillera of Colombia inhabiting both slopes in the departments of Caldas and Tolima, in an elevational range between 2420 and 3758 m. With the recognition of this new species, the genus Rhinella now comprises 93 species with 23 of them found in Colombia, and ten species endemic to the country.

Extensive Phylogenomic Discordance and the Complex Evolutionary History of the Neotropical Cat Genus Leopardus

Even in the genomics era, the phylogeny of Neotropical small felids comprised in the genus Leopardus remains contentious. We used whole-genome resequencing data to construct a time-calibrated consensus phylogeny of this group, quantify phylogenomic discordance, test for interspecies introgression, and assess patterns of genetic diversity and demographic history. We infer that the Leopardus radiation started in the Early Pliocene as an initial speciation burst, followed by another in its subgenus Oncifelis during the Early Pleistocene. Our findings challenge the long-held notion that ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and margay (L. wiedii) are sister species and instead indicate that margay is most closely related to the enigmatic Andean cat (L. jacobita), whose whole-genome data are reported here for the first time. In addition, we found that the newly sampled Andean tiger cat (L. tigrinus pardinoides) population from Colombia associates closely with Central American tiger cats (L. tigrinus oncilla). Genealogical discordance was largely attributable to incomplete lineage sorting, yet was augmented by strong gene flow between ocelot and the ancestral branch of Oncifelis, as well as between Geoffroy's cat (L. geoffroyi) and southern tiger cat (L. guttulus). Contrasting demographic trajectories have led to disparate levels of current genomic diversity, with a nearly tenfold difference in heterozygosity between Andean cat and ocelot, spanning the entire range of variability found in extant felids. Our analyses improved our understanding of the speciation history and diversity patterns in this felid radiation, and highlight the benefits to phylogenomic inference of embracing the many heterogeneous signals scattered across the genome.

Revising the diversity within the Dwarf Dog-faced Bat, Molossopstemminckii (Chiroptera, Molossidae), with the revalidation of the endangered Molossopsgriseiventer

The genus Molossops includes two monotypic species of insectivore bats distributed in South America: Molossopsneglectus and Molossopstemminckii. Both can be differentiated, based on sizes, M.temminckii being smaller (forearm less than 33 mm). Despite being monotypic, at least two additional subspecies have been described for M.temminckii, of which M.temminckiigriseiventer from the inter-Andean Valley of the Magdalena River in Colombia might represent a valid taxon. To test the taxonomic status of M.t.griseiventer, we reviewed specimens of M.temminckii from cis- and trans-Andean localities in Colombia. We used Cytochrome-b and Cytochrome Oxidase I comparisons to test the phylogenetic position of cis- and trans-Andean samples and compared qualitative morphology, morphometric and bioacoustics. Our results show that M.t.griseiventer is differentiated from cis-Andean specimens, providing further evidence of its validity at the species level. Furthermore, M.temminckii (sensu stricto) is also distributed in Colombia, but both M.griseiventer and M.temminckii are allopatric, with the Andes acting as a barrier. The specific identity of the specimens from the Caribbean Region of Colombia needs a new evaluation, but our results clearly show that the diversity of Molossops is underestimated.

Confirming the presence of Lasiurusfrantzii (Peters, 1870) (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in South America: more questions than answers

The western or desert red bat, Lasiurusfrantzii, is a cryptic insectivore species distributed in the Neotropics from Mexico south through Central America to Panama. L.frantzii was long considered a subspecies of the red bat, Lasiurusblossevillii, but recently it was elevated to full-species status based on genetic information. Here we present evidence of the presence of L.frantzii in the Andean Region of Colombia, confirming the species' presence in South America; the new record, from 3836 m a.s.l., is also the highest elevation known for the species. We suggest that L.frantzii might be widely distributed in trans-Andean areas of Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and perhaps Peru and Bolivia. However, a review and exploration of additional morphological traits to identify the species are necessary because of the uncertainty of the distribution of L.frantzii.

Exploring the relationship between bats (Mammalia, Chiroptera) and ectoparasitic flies (Diptera, Hippoboscoidea) of the Orinoquia Region in South America

Bat flies (Nycteribiidae and Streblidae) have been used to study co-evolutionary patterns between ectoparasites and bats. In the world, Nycteribiidae and Streblidae are represented by approximately 276 and 237 species, respectively. In regions such as the Orinoquia located in the north of South America (Colombia and Venezuela), the richness of bats is high (more than 100 documented species), but studies on Nycteribiidae and Streblidae are scarce and discontinuous. To contribute to the knowledge of ectoparasitic flies in the Orinoquia, records of flies and their interactions with bats were reviewed, including new records and associations using interaction networks. We documented 124 species of Streblidae and only 12 of Nycteribiidae for the Orinoquia in approximately 102 bat species reported in Colombia and Venezuela. New records for six species of bat flies in Colombia were found (Mastopteraguimaraesi, Noctiliostreblamaai, Paradyschiriaparvuloides, Trichobiusjubatus, Trichobiusparasiticus, and Basiliaferrisi) associated with six species of bats (Cynomopsplanirostris, Desmodusrotundus, Myotishandleyi, Molossusrufus, Noctilioalbiventris, and Phyllostomushastatus). The bat-ectoparasite interaction networks in the Orinoquia revealed a pattern of antagonistic relationships, with high specialization, modularity, and low connectivity and nesting. The identified networks are between bat fly species belonging to different ecomorphological groups with unique host species. This supports the idea of ecological niche partitioning among ectoparasitic bat flies and hosts. Our study expanded the knowledge of the distribution of some fly species and the associations with bat hosts in Colombia, by presenting morphological descriptions and new observations, which are key to understanding the ecology, diversity, and distribution of these species.

Morphological and molecular confirmation of Ornithodoros hasei (Schulze, 1935) (Acari: Argasidae) in Colombia

A large number of tick species are proven vectors for the transmission of bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. Soft ticks (Acari: Argasidae) in South America have been found to be the most frequent carriers of borreliae of the relapsing fever group (RFG); however, there are several information gaps specially on the taxonomy and distribution of some tick species. Here, we used light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and PCR amplification of a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene to evaluate 174 larvae of Ornithodoros (Argasidae) collected from three bat species (Eptesicus orinocensis, Molossus rufus and Noctilio albiventris) in the Orinoquia Region of Colombia. The morphological and molecular results confirmed that all the analyzed larvae corresponded to Ornithodoros hasei. Comparisons of mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequences showed low genetic divergence (0% - 0.3%) between larvae of the Department of Arauca in the Orinoquia Region and higher genetic divergence (3.4 - 4.7%) in sequences from other American countries. Our work represents the most recent collection of this species in Colombia and provides a molecular evaluation for the first time. Moreover, a new association of O. hasei with bats such as E. orinocensis is documented. Considering the wide distribution of O. hasei in the American Continent, and its putative role as vector for Borrelia, integrative studies that involve morphological, morphometric, molecular data and experimental crosses are needed to determine if the higher genetic distances are associated with cryptic speciation, as detected in other tick complexes, or represent genetic divergences among geographically different populations of O. hasei.

First records of the Truandó Toad, Rhaebo haematiticus (Cope, 1862) (Anura, Bufonidae) in the Middle Cauca river valley, Caldas, Colombia

We present the first records of the Truandó Toad, Rhaebo haematiticus (Cope, 1862), in the inter-Andean valley of the Middle Cauca River, Colombia, the second largest inter-Andean basin of the country. In Colombia, this species has been extensively documented in the Chocó biogeographic region, on the western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental, in the valley of Magdalena River, and the foothills of the western slope of the northern Cordillera Oriental. Our records help fill an expansive hiatus in the known distribution of this species and increases the number of amphibians known to occur in the basin of the Cauca River.

Colección de Anfibios, Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad de Caldas, Colombia

En Colombia, los anfibios se posicionan como uno de los grupos vertebrados con mayor riqueza taxonómica, y una alta representatividad de especies endémicas. En los últimos años, las colecciones regionales han contribuido a llenar vacíos de información sobre la biogeografía, la variación intra e interespecífica y la sistemática de los anfibios del país. En este trabajo presentamos la información de 1533 registros depositados en la Colección de Anfibios del Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad de Caldas, los cuales representan 143 especies distribuidas en 49 géneros y 19 familias. La mayoría de los especímenes (n = 1194) proceden del departamento de Caldas, sin embargo, se cuenta con registros (n = 339) de otros 16 departamentos del país. El orden más representado es Anura (n = 1487 registros), seguido por Caudata (n = 27 registros) y Gymnophiona (n = 19 registros). La colección alberga 152 especímenes que han sido referenciados en 13 publicaciones nacionales y extranjeras.

Updated distribution map and notes on the cranial morphometry of Dasyprocta azarae Lichtenstein, 1823, Azara’s Agouti (Mammalia, Rodentia, Dasyproctidae), in South America

Dasyprocta azarae Lichtenstein, 1823 is currently distributed in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, with controversial records in Bolivia. Recent records using trail cameras have expanded its distribution in the Chaco region of Paraguay, but its distribution remains unclear because of its morphological similarity to species in Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. We present an updated map of distribution of D. azarae based on the review of specimens in biological collections and literature. Our results show that D. azarae is distributed in four biomes, across 11 ecoregions, and has an extent of occurrence of 2,512,985 km2.

Infestation, histology, and molecular confirmation of Sarcoptes scabiei in an Andean porcupine (Coendou quichua) from the Central Andes of Colombia

Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious, worldwide disease that affects the skin of mammals, including humans. It is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, however, the information available in wild mammal populations in the world, and particularly in Colombia is limited. Here, we document a new case of sarcoptic mange in an Andean porcupine (Coendou quichua) from the Andean region of Colombia. We morphologically and molecularly confirmed the mite as S. scabiei and documented the histopathology associated with scabies, and show the different stages of the life cycle of S. scabiei from the Andean porcupine skin samples. Our review of reports of additional cases of scabies in wild mammal species in South America showed 15 species, mostly carnivores, artiodactyls, and rodents. Considering the limited information in Colombia, it is urgent to evaluate the risk of this condition on mammals which would contribute to the epidemiological knowledge and the potential implications of sarcoptic mange in the ecology and conservation of wild mammals in the country.

Bacteria related to tick-borne pathogen assemblages in Ornithodoros cf. hasei (Acari: Argasidae) and blood of the wild mammal hosts in the Orinoquia region, Colombia

Interest in research on soft ticks has increased in recent decades, leading to valuable insight into their role as disease vectors. The use of metagenomics-based analyses have helped to elucidate ecological factors involved in pathogen, vector, and host dynamics. To understand the main bacterial assemblages present in Ornithodoros cf. hasei and its mammalian hosts, 84 ticks and 13 blood samples from bat hosts (Chiroptera) were selected, and the 16S rRNA gene V4 region was sequenced in five pools (each one related to each host-tick pairing). Bacterial taxonomic assignment analyses were performed by comparing operational taxonomic units (OTUs) shared between ticks and their host blood. This analysis showed the presence of Proteobacteria (38.8%), Enterobacteriaceae (25%), Firmicutes (12.3%), and Actinobacteria (10.9%) within blood samples, and Rickettsiaceae (39%), Firmicutes (25%), Actinobacteria (13.1%), and Proteobacteria (9%) within ticks. Species related to potentially pathogenic genera were detected in ticks, such as Borrelia sp., Bartonella tamiae, Ehrlichia sp. and Rickettsia-like endosymbiont, and the presence of these organisms was found in all analyzed bat species (Cynomops planirostris, Molossus pretiosus, Noctilio albiventris), and O. cf. hasei. About 41-48.6% of bacterial OTUs (genera and species) were shared between ticks and the blood of bat hosts. Targeted metagenomic screening techniques allowed the detection of tick-associated pathogens for O. cf. hasei and small mammals for the first time, enabling future research on many of these pathogens.

A new threat for the rarest neotropical carnivore: the vulnerable Colombian weasel, Neogale felipei

The Colombian weasel, Neogale felipei, previously included in the genus Mustela, is considered the rarest carnivore in the Neotropics and is known from only eight localities in Colombia and Ecuador. It is currently classified as Vulnerable, but little is known about the direct threats that the species faces. We present a new locality record for N. felipei in the Andes of southwestern Colombia based on a road-killed specimen. The record is relevant because it provides additional information about morphological variation and describe a new threat to its populations that even affects individuals within protected areas such as the Puracé National Park, where the specimen was found.

Extension of the distribution of Amblyomma triste Koch, 1844: Morphological and molecular confirmation of Morphotype I in Colombia

Ticks of the Amblyomma maculatum (Acari: Ixodidae) group are represented by three species: Amblyomma maculatum, Amblyomma tigrinum, and Amblyomma triste. This group is widely distributed throughout the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, from the United States of America (USA) to Argentina. They parasitize several vertebrates, including domestic mammals and humans. Nonetheless, the identification and distribution of the species within the group have been controversial but can be solved with integrative studies on their taxonomy and ecology. In Colombia, a Neotropical country from which up to 58 tick species have been reported, only Amblyomma maculatum Koch, 1844 (sensu stricto - s.s.) - morphotype II - has been molecularly confirmed. Here, specimens of the A. maculatum group from three departments of Colombia were examined by morphological and molecular analyses. The results confirmed the wide distribution of A. maculatum s.s. in Colombia. Furthermore, the presence of A. triste s.s. - morphotype I was confirmed for the first time at the molecular level, which broadens the distribution of this species in the American continent. Considering that both taxa are vectors of pathogens such as Rickettsia parkeri s.s., additional taxonomic, reproductive compatibility and niche distribution studies are needed, as well as the application of new molecular markers due to the controversial taxonomy. This will allow us to explore cryptic diversity within the recently established putative groups.

Presentación del el libro de resúmenes del IV Congreso Colombiano de Mastozoología

Es un gusto para el comité editorial y comité científico presentar el libro de resúmenes de nuestro IV Congreso Colombiano de Mastozoología, realizado de forma virtual desde el 22 al 26 de Diciembre del 2021. Este evento representa un avance significativo en el crecimiento y consolidación de la Sociedad Colombiana de Mastozoología (SCMas) y  es un producto natural del crecimiento y desarrollo del estudio de los mamíferos tanto a nivel nacional como Latinoamericano, mostrando el fuerte crecimiento y avance de la ciencia de nuestra región. El evento contó con más de 200 ponencias orales y posters, de más de 10 países y cerca de 350 participantes. Este Congreso se convierte en el máximo evento de la mastozoología en Colombia y un muy significativo aporte a la mastozoología Latinoamericana.

Libro de resúmenes

Para el equipo organizador del IV Congreso Colombiano de Mastozoología es muy satisfactorio presentar este libro de resúmenes que recopila contribuciones sobre mamíferos de diversos países latinoamericanos, los cuales incluyen además de Colombia a Brasil, México, Perú, Chile, Argentina, Estados Unidos y Paraguay. Para este congreso las circunstancias de la pandemia global generada por la COVID-19 nos obligaron a realizar el congreso de forma virtual, un reto que asumimos desde la SCMas con mucha expectativa y un poco de temor. Muy a pesar del formato virtual estamos muy satisfechos, pues la participación fue amplia, con 305 personas atendiendo al evento, de las cuales 293 descargaron la plataforma Whova.  Esta plataforma y su aplicación móvil nos permitieron realizar un congreso virtual menos rígido, con algunos datos que presentamos gráficamente. Estos datos reflejan el constante interés en el evento a pesar del formato virtual, y habla del congreso en términos de su impacto en Colombia y la región. Desde el Comité Organizador esperamos que el congreso continúe realizándose en el futuro de forma presencial, aportando al conocimiento de diferentes aspectos concernientes a la mastozoología Neotropical y con el factor humano que genera la presencialidad.

Distribution update, male genitalia, natural history, and conservation of the stump-tailed porcupine Coendou rufescens in South America

The stump-tailed porcupine, Coendou rufescens, is a widely distributed but scarcely documented species inhabiting the Andean region of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and an isolated population in Bolivia. Despite the wide distribution different aspects on its biology and ecology are still unknown. We present an update to the distribution of C. rufescens, and recent observations on the anatomy, natural history, and conservation in Colombia. For this, we described the male genitalia and present data on reproductive periods, plants used and consumed, and threats. The distribution of C. rufescens comprises 12 ecoregions in an area of 376,225 km2 for the northern group (Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru) and 393 km2 for the southern group (Bolivia). The highest elevational record is in Ecuador (4387 m), being the porcupine inhabiting at highest elevations. The anatomy of the glans is similar to that observed in Coendou quichua and constitutes the second species of Coendou with available information on glans morphology. C. rufescens consumes fruits and leaves of potato cider (Sechium edule: Cucurbitaceae) and woody shrub (Bejaria: Ericacea), and usually perches even in exotic species such as pines. Finally, common treats for the species in Colombia are related to hunting pressures, predation by domestic dogs, and roadkills.

Actualización de la distribución e historia natural de Plecturocebus caquetensis (Mammalia: Pitheciidae) en Colombia

El tití del Caquetá, Plecturocebus caquetensis (Primates: Pitheciidae) es endémico del piedemonte Amazónico en los departamentos del Caquetá y Cauca, Colombia. Por ser una especie descrita recientemente, la información sobre su distribución e historia natural es aún limitada. Se actualiza la distribución y se presentan observaciones ad libitum sobre su historia natural e interacciones ecológicas en el departamento del Cauca. Se obtuvieron 129 registros de presencia para los departamentos de Caquetá (n=75) y Cauca (n=54), de los cuales 51 y 31, respectivamente, son nuevos para cada departamento. El área de ocupación (AOO) y la extensión de presencia (EOO) fueron de 196 km2 y 3741 km2, respectivamente. Plecturocebus caquetensis fue observada predominantemente en bordes de bosque secundario estacionalmente inundables con presencia de guadua (Guadua sp.). Las actividades diurnas incluyeron vocalizaciones, descanso, juego y alimentación. Las interacciones ecológicas con aves, reptiles y mamíferos incluyeron eventos de depredación de los titíes por parte de boas y aves. Otras actividades incluyeron el consumo de guadua y el uso de árboles del género Vochysia como dormideros. Se recomienda la exploración de la especie en el área protegida Serranía de los Churumbelos Auka-Wasi y la definición de planes de conservación con comunidades locales.

A ghost in the mist: extension of the known range of Colombian Weasel, Neogale felipei (Izor & de la Torre, 1978) (Carnivora, Mustelidae), in the Cordillera Occidental

The Colombian weasel, Neogale felipei (Izor & de la Torre, 1978), is one of the most enigmatic and threatened carnivores in South America, with only six confirmed records in the Andes of Ecuador and Colombia. During a long-term trail camera survey conducted at Mesenia-Paramillo Natural Reserve, we recorded the northernmost occurrence of the species, which extends its distribution by approximately 120 km to the north from the nearest previously known locality in Colombia. We also provide some comments on its natural history.

First record of the Northern Ecuadorian Shrew, Cryptotis niausa Moreno Cárdenas & Albuja, 2014 (Eulipotyphla, Soricidae), in Colombia

In Colombia, seven species of small-eared shrews of the genus Cryptotis Pomel, 1848 have been reported, and five of them endemic to the country. Here, we present the first confirmed record from Colombia of Cryptotis niausa Moreno Cárdenas & Albuja, 2014, a species that was previously known from only nine localities in Ecuador. The Colombian record comes from the Departamento de Nariño, in extreme southwestern Colombia, and it is supported by morphology and cytochrome-b gene evidence. This record increases to eight the number of species of Cryptotis from Colombia.

Mammals of the Natural National Park Selva de Florencia, Caldas, Colombia

The Department of Caldas, Central Andes of Colombia, has two National Natural Parks protecting strategic Andean ecosystems.  However, the available information on mammals in these protected areas has not been compiled or updated recently.  Here, we present an updated inventory of the mammals present in the Selva de Florencia National Natural Park.  To construct the inventory, we used historical (museum vouchers) and recent records obtained during field activities over the last 20 years.  We used several trapping methods including Sherman and Tomahawk traps, mist nets, and camera traps.  We documented 81 mammal species belonging to nine orders, 25 families and 59 genera.  Bats (Chiroptera: 30 spp.), rodents (Rodentia: 17 spp.), and carnivores (Carnivora: 13 spp.) were the most diverse groups, representing 73.2 % of recorded species.  We also recorded orders such as Didelphimorphia (8 species), Primates (5), Pilosa (3), Artiodactyla (2), Cingulata (2), and Eulipotyphla (1).  Also, we recorded two endemic species (Marmosops chucha and Cryptotis colombianus) and two new species for the Department of Caldas (Bassaricyon neblina and Heteromys aff. anomalus).  These species constitute elements of the Andean region and the Nor-Andean and Chocó-Magdalena biogeographic provinces.  We highlight the presence of four endangered primates (Aotus lemurinus, Ateles hybridus, Cebus versicolor, and Saguinus leucopus), two of which are endemic to Colombia: S. leucopus and C. versicolor. This work is the baseline to update the management plan of the protected area, from the review of its conservation targets, the definition of the specific management goals, to its effective monitoring.

A new species of Eptesicus (Mammalia: Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae), from the sub-Andean Forest of Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Bats of genus Eptesicus are represented in South America by nine species of short-eared taxa (subgenus Eptesicus), and 10 species of long-eared species (subgenus Histiotus).  Here we describe a new species of short-eared Eptesicus based on 19 specimens collected in the sub-Andean Bolivian-Tucumanian forest of Santa Cruz, between 1800-2020 masl.  For this, we include morphological, morphometric, and molecular comparisons; we use principal component, discriminant function and mitochondrial genes (cytochrome-b, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase) to compare the new species with other taxa of the subgenus Eptesicus from South America.  The new species is distinguished from its congeners by cranial shape, body measurements, and genetic distances.  Furthermore, the new species is similar in cranial morphology to Eptesicus andinus but presents a highly developed frontal preorbital process, poorly developed in other related species (i. e., E. andinus, E. furinalis, and E. brasiliensis).  All males were consistently darker than females in the new species.  This taxon increases to 10 the number of species of bats of the subgenus Eptesicus in South America.

Range extension of the Central American Red Brocket, Mazama temama (Kerr, 1792) (Artiodactyla, Cervidae), in Colombia

Mazama temama (Kerr, 1792) is a representative species of the northern Neotropics, but the geographic range limits for this species remain unclear. We report the southernmost record of M. temama from the southwestern Colombian Andes, increasing the previously known range of this species by more than 300 km. We obtained a cytochrome gene sequence (849 bp) which is 95% identical to samples from Mexico. This record raises the need for extensive sampling to obtain more complete information about the distribution of M. temama in northern Colombia.

Nuevos registros y observaciones sobre la historia natural del puercoespín pardo, Coendou vestitus (Rodentia: Erethizontidae)

El puercoespín pardo, Coendou vestitus, se encuentra entre los roedores endémicos más amenazados de Colombia, con presencia corroborada en pocas localidades de la cordillera Oriental, en los departamentos de Boyacá y Cundinamarca. Presentamos registros recientes para tres localidades y observaciones de historia natural, como horarios de actividad y el uso de la cola a manera de soporte durante el desplazamiento. Como parte del conocimiento local se ha identificado el uso de sus púas como defensa ante animales domésticos y el consumo de cañas de chusque (Chusquea sp.), al igual que el uso de las espinas por parte de pobladores de las zonas de registro, relacionado con sus creencias. Nuestros registros, amplían a diez el número de localidades para el flanco occidental de la cordillera Oriental, en la ecorregión Selvas Montanas del Valle del Magdalena. Los registros fueron obtenidos durante el día y la noche, lo que hace necesario estudiar los patrones de actividad de los Coendou, generalizados como nocturnos, y obtener nuevos datos sobre la historia natural de esta especie.

Colección de reptiles no aves (Reptilia), Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad de Caldas, Colombia

El conocimiento de los reptiles en Colombia es aún incompleto, aunque el país alberga una alta diversidad de este grupo. En los últimos años, las colecciones regionales han contribuido a llenar vacíos de información sobre la biogeografía, la variación intra e interespecífica y la sistemática de diversos grupos. Presentamos aquí la información de 613 registros depositados en la Colección de Reptiles del Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad de Caldas. La mayoría de los registros (527) proceden del departamento de Caldas, pero se cuenta con registros de 15 departamentos más. El orden más representativo es Squamata (603 registros). La colección alberga 108 especímenes que han sido referenciados en 20 publicaciones nacionales y extranjeras.

A new cryptic species of yellow-eared bat Vampyressa melissa species complex (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) from Colombia

The Vampyressa melissa species complex comprises three rare bat species poorly represented in museum collections. Vampyressa melissa and V. sinchi are restricted to the eastern slope of the Andes, while V. elisabethae only is known from Panama, in Central America. The species complex has received recent attention in terms of systematic reviews, which concluded in the description of two species: one from Panama (V. elisabethae) and one from Colombia (V. sinchi). Vampyressa melissa recently was reported from the eastern slopes of the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia, in the department of Casanare. However, morphological and genetic (Cytochrome b) comparisons showed that these specimens belong to an undescribed species of the genus. The new species is the smallest member of the V. melissa complex and has a unique set of morphological characters compared to other Vampyressa species. Molecular evidence shows that the new species is sister to V. melissa (sensu stricto) from Colombia and Peru, albeit with high genetic divergence (7.9%). Nevertheless, Cytochrome b sequences of V. elisabethae and V. sinchi still are unknown. This new species increases to six the number of species in the genus. Vampyressa melissa, V. sinchi, and the new species, exhibit restricted distributions in the eastern slopes of the Andean Cordillera, in specific altitudinal ranges. Because of geographic constraints, their biological rarity, and the high deforestation rates in their distributional area, we suggest that these three species must be considered as taxa threatened with extinction.

New records of mammals of the Coffee Region, Central Andes of Colombia using citizen science

The Coffee Region of Colombia is one of the most representative areas of the country due to its cultural appeal. 200 of the 528 mammal species in the country occur in this region. Pre-existing knowledge about the group in this region has been obtained through indirect and direct sampling methods. We present new records of mammals of the “Reserva Forestal Protectora Bosques de la Central Hidroeléctrica de Caldas (CHEC)”, located in the Coffee Region, based on vouchered citizen science records. To accomplish this, we held training workshops on the relevance of information provided by non-invasive vouchers for mammal collections that include bone remains, hairs, skin and other signs that can be found incidentally in the field by park rangers and other staff of the Reserve. In addition, we included photographic and video records of mammals taken by park rangers before and after the training workshops. We added vouchers obtained by the park rangers to the biological collection of the Natural History Museum of the Universidad de Caldas (MHN-UCa). Using this method, we obtained records of 34 mammalian species belonging to 20 families and 11 orders. We highlight the obtention of museum preserved vouchers of the Northern Naked-tailed Armadillo, Cabassous centralis (Miller 1899), and the Cauca Slender Opossum, Marmosops caucae (Thomas 1900), that had limited samples in national collections or had not been previously collected in the study area. With this work, a contribution network with the CHEC reserve staff was established, promoting the inclusion of these agents in the development of scientific research, and showing the relevance of collaborative science in assisting with filling information gaps about medium and large mammals.

What’s on the menu? A presumed attack of Andean bear on a Mountain tapir at the Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia

Two iconic and charismatic species that inhabit the northern Andes of South America are the Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and the Mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque). Both species can be found sympatrically in several areas of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. Despite their overlap in distribution, little is known about interactions between both species, with few reported cases of Andean bear attacks on the Mountain tapir. Here, we report a possible attack by an Andean bear on a Mountain tapir in the northern part of Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia based on strong wounds and marks on a tapir’s back and rump. The wounds match typical attack patterns generated by Andean bears and corroborates previous camera traps records of bears attacking tapirs in this locality.

Updating the distribution of Vampyrum spectrum (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in Colombia: new localities, potential distribution and notes on its conservation

The Spectral Bat (Vampyrum spectrum) is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In Colombia, it has not been included in any risk assessments, because it is a poorly documented species in the country. Using new occurrence data and ecological niche modelling we evaluate the distribution and analyze the species’ ecological and conservation needs in Colombia. With the new records, V. spectrum shows a distribution over six biogeographic provinces in the country, along an elevational range between 96 and 1750 m. The Spectral Bat has been reported in a wide variety of ecosystems from dry forest and fragmented landscapes, to forested areas. Predictive models suggest a wider presence of this species in the west of the country, center, and southern Andes. The limited number of specimens limits our attempt to evaluate morphometric variation among Colombian populations; however, we detect a variation in the mean value of the forearm and ear length regarding northeast South American populations. Areas with the greatest potential distribution detected in this study could be prioritized in conservation strategies, and make plans accordingly for this and other species that coexist in its range. Finally, we highlight the low representativeness of Protected Areas for the Spectral Bat and add some ecological notes about this rare species.

Body mass data set for 1,317 bird and 270 mammal species from Colombia

Body mass is one of the most important phenotypic attributes in animal ecology and life history. This trait is widely used in the fields of ecology and macroevolution, since it influences physiology, morphological functions, and a myriad of ecological and social interactions. In this data set, our aim was to gather a comprehensive bird and mammal body mass data set from northern South America. We report body mass, discriminated by sex, for 42,022 individual birds and 7,441 mammals representing 1,317 bird species (69% of Colombia's avifauna) and 270 mammal species (51% of Colombian mammals) from the Neotropics. The data were sourced from vouchers collected between 1942 and 2020 and from individuals captured and released at banding stations over the last two decades for birds (2000-2020) and the last decade for mammals (2010-2020), by 10 research groups and institutions in Colombia. This data set fills gaps identified in other similar databases, as it focuses on northern South America, a highly diverse Neotropical region often underrepresented in morphological data sets. We provide wide taxonomic coverage for studies interested in information both at regional and local scales. There are no copyright restrictions; the present data paper should be appropriately cited when data are used for publication. The authors would appreciate learning about research projects, teaching exercises, and other uses given to this data set and are open to contribute in further collaborations using these data.

Mamíferos, historia natural y colecciones

En este número de Mammalogy Notes presentamos tres notas sobre extensiones de distribución, siete notas de historia natural y tres inventarios de mamíferos. Las contribuciones provienen de Colombia, Perú, México, Brasil y Venezuela. Adicionalmente, incluimos tres nuevos trabajos de la serie especial sobre colecciones de mamíferos de Colombia. De esta forma Mammalogy notes continúa creciendo, mejorando y aportando al conocimiento de los mamíferos neotropicales

Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest in ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) of wild birds in Arauca, Orinoquia region of Colombia

Birds are important hosts for the development of the immature stages of several tick species that are vectors for disease-causing microorganisms in animals and humans. Colombia has the highest number of bird species worldwide; however, there is scarce data on the role of birds in the circulation of ticks and their associated pathogens, such as rickettsiae. The department of Arauca has a high diversity of resident and migratory (boreal and austral) birds and ticks associated with the transmission of Rickettsia. The objective of this research was to identify tick species parasitizing birds and to detect Rickettsia species in these ectoparasites. We conducted samplings in the municipalities of Arauca, Cravo Norte, and Tame between November of 2018 and August of 2019. Birds were captured using mist nets and examined for the presence of tick species. The collected ticks were morphologically and molecularly identified. Furthermore, we detected rickettsiae in ticks by amplifying fragments of the citrate synthase (gltA) and outer membrane protein (ompB) genes. We captured 606 birds belonging to 25 families and 115 species. Tick infestation rate was 3.3% (20/606) in the birds captured and eight new associations between wild birds and ticks are reported for the American continent. We identified four tick species: Amblyomma nodosum, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma mixtum, and Amblyomma sp.. Moreover, we confirmed the presence of Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic rainforest in A. nodosum, a medically-relevant rickettsia due to cases of rickettsiosis in the American continent. This finding manifests the importance of wild birds as hosts and dispersal agents of ticks infected with pathogenic rickettsiae, as well as the need to monitor migratory birds in the Orinoquia and other regions of Colombia and America.

Filling distribution gaps: first record of the Western Amazonian Dwarf Porcupine, Coendou ichillus Voss & Da Silva, 2001 (Mammalia, Rodentia), in the Napo Moist Forests ecoregion of Colombia

The Western Amazonian Dwarf Porcupine, Coendou ichillus Voss & Da Silva, 2001, is poorly known in South America. The species is known only from eight localities in the Amazon and Orinoquia regions of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. In Colombia, it is known from one locality in the Orinoquía region, based on a specimen collected in 1956. We present a new distribution record which adds information about the presence of C. ichillus in the Napo Moist Forests ecoregion, in the Department of Putumayo, Amazon region of Colombia. We suggest that C. ichillus is more widely distributed in the Amazon region of the country. However, based on the number of known records to date, C. ichillus is the rarest species of porcupine.

Notes on the natural history of the Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens (Rodentia, Erethizontidae), in Colombia

Porcupines of the genus Coendou are among the least studied mammals in the Neotropics. The Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens, is distributed in the Andean region from Colombia and south to Bolivia. Despite its wide distribution, nothing is known about its natural history, besides observation of banana consumption in captivity. Here we present new observations on the feeding habits, diurnal activity, and the use of the tail for support during feeding obtained by means of collaborative (citizen) science. We also comment on its locomotion on land and in trees. We observed five diurnal events of C. rufescens feeding on infructescences of trumpet tree (Cecropia angustifolia Trécul). During the feeding activities, the Stump-tailed Porcupine used the tail for stability and support. These are the first observations of such behavior in the wild for this species and suggest a more diurnal activity for this species which belongs to a group of rodents traditionally considered to be predominantly nocturnal.

The chiggerflea Hectopsylla pulex (Siphonaptera: Tungidae): infestation on Molossus molossus (Chiroptera: Molossidae) in the Central Andes of Colombia

Some species of mastiff bats, Molossus Geoffroy, 1805, inhabit human shelters such as houses and barns. Among them, the Pallas’s mastiff bat, Molossus molossus Pallas, 1766, is the most common species in South America. There are a few studies on this bat in Colombia, mostly on colony size, diet, ectoparasite records, and activity patterns in the Andean and Caribbean regions. Here, we provide information on the prevalence of chiggerfleas, Hectopsylla pulex (Haller, 1880), on M. molossus, along with molecular data on the flea, and its distribution in Colombia. In addition, we describe the size and sex ratio of the infested bat colony, located in the central Andes of Colombia. The bat colony was represented by ca. 45 individuals, of which 33 were captured. The colony had more females (25 individuals) than males (8 individuals). A total of four Pallas’s mastiff bats had chiggerfleas, H. pulex, most of which were attached to the bat’s faces and ears. The composition of the colony (sex ratio) and the observed activity times match those reported for other colonies of the species in Colombia. The cytochrome oxidase subunit 1, and the 12S rRNA mitochondrial gene obtained from H. pulex represent the second and first available sequences for the species, respectively. The level of infestation of individuals in the colony was low, similar to that observed in other South American countries, such as Brazil. Finally, the new locality is the seventh confirmed and the highest elevational record of H. pulex in Colombia.

Distribution of the dwarf dog-faced bat Molossops temminckii (Chiroptera: Molossidae) in Colombia and comments on its morphometry

The genus Molossops includes two species that are restricted to South America: Molossops neglectus and Molossops temminckii. The smaller dog-faced dwarf Molossops temminckii is distributed from Colombia to Argentina and has a wide morphological variation and vocal plasticity. In Colombia, this species remains poorly known. To fill distributional gaps, we present novel records from Arauca, Atlántico, Bolívar, Córdoba, and Huila departments. We also present an analysis of the morphometric variation in South America using Principal Component Analyses. These show an external and cranial difference of specimens of Colombia in respect of other and South America populations. In Colombian landscapes dominated by the floodplain savanna of the Orinoco region, Molossops temminckii is smaller than in the other regions of the country, and the previously suggested existence of cryptic diversity within the taxon should be evaluated. Therefore, we suggest further integrative analyses to investigate a possible subspecific status of some Colombian populations.

Eventos de electrocución de Aotus lemurinus (Primates: Aotidae) en los Andes Centrales de Colombia

Los primates que habitan en los ecosistemas de montaña de la cordillera de Los Andes en Colombia están expuestos a fuertes amenazas como consecuencia del desarrollo de la infraestructura y la transformación del uso del suelo en lo que corresponde a la región más densamente poblada de Colombia. Para el género Aotus cuyos hábitos son principalmente nocturnos las amenazas sobre sus poblaciones no han sido bien documentadas hasta la fecha, aunque especies como el mono nocturno andino (Aotus lemurinus) ha sido catalogado como Vulnerable a nivel nacional y global. En este estudio, compilamos registros recientes de individuos de Aotus lemurinus muertos por electrocución accidental en cuatro departamentos de los Andes Centrales de Colombia. Estos registros contribuyen al conocimiento previo sobre esta problemática a nivel nacional y resaltan la necesidad de formular e implementar estrategias de mitigación del riesgo de electrocución para esta y otras especies.

A record of hypertrophy of the tragus of great fruit-eating bat Artibeus lituratus (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

In this work, we report and describe evidence of an anomaly in the tragus of an individual of Artibeus lituratus, captured in the Central Andes of Colombia. During field work in the Department of Caldas, municipality of Aranzazu, one individual of A. lituratus with unusual tragus form was trapped. This individual had a tragus with cylindrical shape and asymmetry. The individual was collected and deposited at the Museum of Natural History of the University of Caldas (MHN-UCa). A literature review was conducted to find similar cases using searching engines, but no previous reports of the anomaly were find. Furthermore, we reviewed the tragus of vouchers at the MHN-UCa and none of these had similar malformations. We concluded that this anomaly has not previously registered in Chiroptera.

Filling distribution gaps: new records of the Brazilian Porcupine, Coendou prehensilis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Mammalia, Rodentia), in 10 departments of Colombia

The Brazilian Porcupine, Coendou prehensilis (Linnaeus, 1758), is the most widespread species of Coendou Lacépède, 1799 in South America, but little is known on its natural history, ecology and distribution. In Colombia, it has been reported in the lowlands and inter-Andean valleys of 18 continental departments, but there are still gaps on its distribution, natural history and ecology. We present new distribution records and add information of the presence of C. prehensilis in 10 additional departments of Colombia located at the Amazonia, Orinoco, Peri-Caribbean Arid Belt, and North Andean Biogeographic provinces. We suggest that C. prehensilis is the most widespread species in the lowlands of Colombia, although it does not occur in the Biogeographic Chocó and in the inter-Andean medium and high valleys of the Cauca and Magdalena rivers.

New records and confirmation of the presence of three species of primates (Mammalia, Primates) in southwestern Colombia

Cebus albifrons (Humboldt, 1812); Sapajus apella (Linnaeus, 1758) and Aotus lemurinus I. Geoffroy, 1843 are widely distributed primates in Colombia. Despite this, there are gaps in the occurrence of these species in the southwestern part of the country. Through the collection of specimen remains, molecular analyses and review of museum specimens, we reported new records for these species in the Department of Nariño, expanding their distribution range. Finally, we highlight some important notes for the conservation of these species.

Food habits of the Cougar Puma concolor (Carnivora: Felidae) in the Central Andes of the Colombian Coffee Region

The feeding habits of the cougar have been scarcely studied in Colombia, despite its importance in the ecosystems it inhabits. In this study, we analysed the diet of the cougar using 53 feces samples collected from several sites in the Central Andes of Colombia’s Coffee Growing Region. To identify prey species, we examined and compared bone fragments and hairs found in each sample with descriptions published in relevant literature and with specimens from the Natural History Museum of the Universidad de Caldas, Colombia. We found that rabbits (Sylvilagus sp.) provided half of the relative biomass consumed by the cougar (50%). Other preys identified belong to representatives of medium and large mammals such as marsupials (Didelphis: 10%), sloths (Choloepus: 9%), rodents (Coendou: 10%, Cuniculus: 9%), and deer (Mazama: 9%). Of the preys, Coendou rufescens has not, to our knowledge, been previously included in cougar diet literature. The curve of accumulation of species indicated that the number of samples obtained in this work fully describe the diet of this feline. Neither domestic species were recorded in this work, nor were there any relationships between the dry or rainy seasons and the consumption of prey species. The comparison of the information reported in this study and others carried out in the Andes may indicate the general nature of this feline’s diet and its adaptability to the prey species found in each area, since these vary in each one of them. It is probable that the obtained trophic niche value (0.33) is due to the abundance of rabbits present in the study area. It is also probable that the cougar has not consumed domestic species since, although it is close to cattle ranches, it has enough of wild prey in the area to supply its needs. The results of this study may help to improve our understanding of the feeding habits of this predator and its interaction with other species in this important region of Colombia. This will, in turn, promote major comprehension of the role of cougars in the Colombian Cordilleras and lead actions for their conservation.

New record for Colombia, updated distribution map, and comments on the defensive behavior of Thamnodyastes dixoni Bailey & Thomas, 2007 (Serpentes, Dipsadidae, Xenodontinae)

The original description of Thamnodynastes dixoni Bailey & Thomas, 2007 was based on few specimens, and the morphological variation, distributional range, and ecological aspects of this species are virtually unknown. The species is known to occur in the Llanos of Colombia and Venezuela. In Colombia, it was recorded only in four localities. We report a fifth occurrence of T. dixoni in Colombia and the first in the Department of Meta. The new record extends this species’ distribution nearly 150 km (in a straight line) from the nearest previously known occurrence at Paz de Ariporo, Department of Casanare. Additionally, we also provide comments about the species’ defensive behavior, not reported elsewhere, and a thorough revision on the species’ geographical distribution.

The Koepcke’s spear-nosed bat, Gardnerycteris koepckeae (Gardner and Patton, 1972) (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae), is not endemic to Peru: first record from the Amazon foothills of Colombia

We report the first record of the rare Koepcke’s spear-nosed bat Gardnerycteris koepckeae collected outside of Peru, based on morphological and cytochrome b data. The species was found at the National Natural Park Alto Fragua Indi-Wasi, Department of Caquetá, Colombia. This record extended the species distribution 1400 km north from the northernmost known locality in Huanhuachayo, Ayacucho, Peru. This finding suggests that G. koepckeae is distributed over middle elevations along the eastern slope of the Andean-Amazonia foothills in Peru and Colombia, similar to other Phyllostomid bats, such as Vampyressa melissa and Lonchophylla handleyi. We reviewed the threatened category of G. koepckeae, currently categorized as Data Deficient (DD), according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but considered as Endangered (EN) in recent papers. Based on this new record, we suggest that the species should be included in future assessments as Near Threatened (NT) or Vulnerable (VU) based on its wider distribution along the Andean-Amazonian foothills of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, and probably the Orinoco slope of the Andes of Colombia and Venezuela.

On the distribution of the Brazilian porcupine Coendou prehensilis (Erethizontidae) in Colombia

The Brazilian porcupine Coendou prehensilis is distributed from northwestern South America to northeastern Paraguay and northwestern Argentina. In Colombia, it is present mainly in the Caribbean, the eastern Llanos and the Andean regions, which correspond to six of the biogeographical provinces of the country. Its presence in the Colombian Amazon region has been suggested based on records from neighboring countries such as Ecuador, Venezuela and Brazil. However, no voucher specimens or additional evidence that corroborates the presence of the species in that region of Colombia is known. Based on the review of specimens deposited in Colombian collections, analyses of photographic records, and the literature, the presence of the species in the Colombian Amazon is confirmed, and its distribution in the country updated. Overall, we found 36 records of C. prehensilis in Colombia, of which seven correspond to the Colombian Amazon (four photographic records and three specimens). A genetic analysis based on cytochrome-b suggests that this species is genetically uniform throughout its distributional range. These new records make C. prehensilis the most widespread species of the genus among natural regions and biogeographic provinces of Colombia. Other species are restricted to one or two provinces.