Sources of assimilated protein in five species of New World frugivorous bats

摘要: Fruits are N-poor items and their availability in the tropics varies throughout year. Field experimental studies debate whether frugivorous bats have to switch N-rich sources of food during part year or if they able subsist on a fruit-only diet. Different strategies meet N requirements may influence way which partition resources allowing coexistence numerous species tropical communities. We examined extent five relied plant insect assimilated protein using stable-N isotope analysis. assumed that only had access fruits insects our analysis but we also collected fecal samples examine presence other items. conducted study at least 1 full depending bat rain forest southern Mexico. In examined, (i.e. fruits) provided most year, although there was general trend for all show decrease relative contribution end rainy season beginning dry season. Artibeus jamaicensis, Uroderma bilobatum Dermanura phaeotis, plants were still major source this period, some individuals Sturnira lilium Carollia brevicauda represented an important Fecal presented fruit remains, pollen found small proportions. Bat reproductive activity detected middle season, period with exception pregnant S. lilum one D. phaeotis Our findings showed might differ satisfy demands relying almost completely switching when less abundant.