The slower you go the bigger your world gets • Spix’s disk-winged bat (Thyroptera tricolor) ...

Spix’s disk-winged bat (Thyroptera tricolor)

Spix’s disk-winged bat (Thyroptera tricolor), is an insectivorous^[2] species of bat in the family Thyropteridae.^[3] Although this species is unevenly dispersed, it is widespread and is therefore considered as having a “least concern” status on the conservation list.^[1] The most prominent anatomical feature of this bat, separating it from other bats, is the presence of disks on its thumbs and hind feet. These circular disks act as suction cups, allowing the bats to cling onto and move along smooth surfaces.^[3] Unlike most bats, T. tricolor clings head—up from its roost. This phenomenon is observed in six bat species which occur among two families, Thyroptera spp. and Myzopoda spp. The former are known as disk—winged, whereas the latter as sucker—footed. Although the two families represent an occurrence of parallel evolution, the manner in which their unique adhesive anatomy is utilized differs morphologically.^[4]These bats cling head—up to the smooth inner, ventral surfaces of the rolled up leaves with openings at the top, of Heliconia, sometimes Calathea, as well as other similar plants, using their adhesive disks.^[2] This manner of roosting is said to facilitate rapid escape in the event of a potential disturbance.^[5] The bat’s disks take the shape of concave cups, and are supported by an internal cartilaginous plate. An extrinsic muscle, the flexor pollicis brevis, attaches to the plate, such that contraction of the muscle alters overall disc shape,^[4]creating suction. In order to maintain the integrity of the disk, T. tricolor is observed to groom the disk, by frequently licking it. In addition to that, the disk contains sweat glands which discharge onto its peripheries, thereby maintaining it in a constantly moist condition.^[3]

source-wikipedia and calphoto database

Camera Nikon D200
ISO 320	Aperture f/22
Exposure 1/15th	Focal Length 105mm

Camera Nikon D90
ISO 200	Aperture f/9
Exposure 1/200th	Focal Length 150mm

Camera Nikon D200
ISO 100	Aperture f/22
Exposure 1/20th	Focal Length 105mm

Camera Canon EOS 60D
ISO 100	Aperture f/22
Exposure 1/200th	Focal Length 120mm