Troughton's Sheathtail Bat
Taphozous troughtoni
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Field work to establish the taxonomic status
of Troughton's Sheathtail Bat (Taphozous troughtoni) was carried out in
2000 and further work is planned for this year. The preliminary assessment
for this species was required before further decisions could be made in
relation to the planning of conservation measures. Work is being conducted
in the Mt Isa region, and Mount Isa Mines Ltd have provided access to their
lease area for the survey, which in March 2000, enabled collections of blood
and skin samples to be taken for DNA testing from the type locality and
other historic points of distribution. DNA and allozyme analysis is currently
being conducted by Mr Terry Reardon from the Evolutionary Biology Unit at
the SA Museum.DNA and allozyme analysis is currently being conducted by
Mr Terry Reardon from the Evolutionary Biology Unit at the SA Museum. |
| The Museum a
member of the Recovery Team for several species of endangered, cave-dwelling
bats, and will be providing genetic analysis and taxonomic advice
for all species which are treated by the Recovery Plan. Mount Isa
Mines staff have been very supportive and assisted with the field
work, making available their climbing equipment and vehicle. The Mt
Isa Mines, Mine Rescue Squad are also developing a bat logo, based
on pictures supplied by Bruce Thomson, to be incorporated in their
uniforms. Local promotion of this initiative will serve to publicise
the importance of bats and the involvement of MIM in bat conservation.
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