A team of researchers at the University of Queensland rediscovered the New Guinea big-eared bat, a species that has not been documented since 1890. The elusive species was found in 45 specimens captured more than 100 years ago and has long been thought to be extinct as it was found in a rapidly changing region of Papua New Guinea.
In 2012, researchers Julie and Catherine Hughes conducted a fauna survey in an area of Papua New Guinea's central province. One day, while inspecting some bat traps, they removed an individual they couldn't easily identify. The two decided to preserve the specimen and place it in the National Museum of Papua New Guinea.
The specimen was not formalized until March 2014, when it was lent to the Australian Museum, where Harry Panabee and colleagues were able to confirm that it was the first New Guinean big-eared bat on record in more than a century.
Julie said: "We are excited to share our findings with the global community, Papua New Guinea is an under-researched area, and our findings really highlight the importance of basic animal surveys. We know nothing about the biology or ecology of the species – only the assumptions we can make based on its morphology are important for further study of species that are now "rediscovered". ”
Papua New Guinea is a biodiversity hotspot that is under serious threat from rapid population growth and habitat loss. The discovery highlights the poor knowledge of the region and the importance of scientific investigation. In 2007, the Wildlife Conservation Society conducted a rapid assessment of the Hindenburg Wall area and found 89 new species of flora and fauna.
120 years later, the New Guinea big-eared bat was rediscovered, a very important development. It is now imperative to conduct effective research and conservation to understand the current status of the species and ensure its future survival.