Patareides

Patareides is a genus of small to medium-sized, long-snouted, and long-tailed bats found in the Americas. The genus includes two species: Patareides egregius and Patareides noacki. Both species are known for their distinctive appearance, with a long, pointed snout and a long, tapering tail. They are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, inhabiting a variety of habitats including forests, savannas, and caves.

Patareides bats are insectivorous, feeding primarily on flying insects such as moths and beetles. They are known to roost in colonies, often in caves or under the eaves of buildings. The genus is named after the Greek word "patareides," which means "to be long-tailed," reflecting the distinctive tail of these bats.

The taxonomy of Patareides is somewhat controversial, with some researchers suggesting that the genus may be more closely related to other long-tailed bats, such as those in the genus Molossus. However, genetic studies have supported the placement of Patareides within its own genus, distinct from other long-tailed bats.

Patareides bats play an important role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. Despite their ecological importance, they are not well-studied, and more research is needed to better understand their biology and behavior. Conservation efforts for these bats are limited, but they are not currently considered threatened or endangered.