Sat Mar 01 13:39:02 UTC 2025: ## New Bat Species Discovered in Sri Lanka
**Hyderabad, March 1, 2025** – A team of international researchers, led by Osmania University’s Bhargavi Srinivasulu, has discovered a new species of leaf-nosed bat endemic to Sri Lanka. The bat, named *Hipposideros srilankaensis*, is distinguished by its unique morphological features, including a broad noseleaf and distinct ear shape, confirmed through genetic analysis. The findings, published in the journal *Zootaxa*, also revise the taxonomic status of *Hipposideros brachyotus*, confirming it as a distinct species endemic to India. The research, a collaborative effort involving institutions from India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the UK, highlights significant genetic diversity within the *Hipposideros galeritus* group across Southeast Asia, suggesting the existence of further undiscovered species. The study underscores the rich biodiversity of the region and the importance of continued research into bat populations.
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