Cranial variation of the greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (Chiroptera: Rhinolophidae) from the central Balkans

摘要: a b s t r c Cranial size and shape variation of the greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum from territories in Serbia Montenegro was examined using geometric morphometric methods. Statistically significant differences among specimens distinct geographic regions (the Carpatho-Balkanides, Internal External Dinarides) were observed. Bats Carpatho-Balkanides have small- est crania, while those Dinarides largest ones. Compared to bats other two crania wider temporal elon- gated facial region, basicranial region is smaller. Our analysis sexual dimorphism revealed no statistically between males females. Even though sex- ual observed, cranial different exceeded sexes. We also found that vary with climatic factors. Allometry has effect on somehow contributes covariation environmental variables. Although relatively small territory, we provided new insights into important issues like variation,