Seed dispersal by the Lesser Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus brachyotis, Pteropodidae, Megachiroptera)

Abstract

<i>Cynopterus brachyotis</i> is a very common, medium-sized (37 gm) fruit bat in Singapore. Information on feeding habits was obtained by direct observation of wild bats, collection of seed and fruit remnants under feeding roosts, netting wild bats and collecting faeces samples, and observing caged bats. Seed fate is determined by fruit weight, seed dimensios and fruit texture. Fruits &lt; 20 gm are usually carried off to a feeding roost for processing. The smallest seeds (&lt; 2.3 mm length) are swallowed and subsequently defecated in flight or while roosting. Larger seeds are dropped undamaged under feeding roosts.