alcinus

Alcinus is a genus of large fruit bats found in Southeast Asia and Australia. These bats, also known as the "flying foxes" or "fox bats" due to their dog-like faces, are characterized by their large size and broad wingspans. There are several species within the Alcinus genus, with common examples including the large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus) and the spectacled flying fox (Pteropus conspicillatus). They are primarily frugivorous, meaning their diet consists mainly of fruits, though they may also consume nectar and pollen. Alcinus bats play a crucial role in their ecosystems as pollinators and seed dispersers. They are nocturnal, emerging at dusk to forage for food. During the day, they roost in large colonies, often in trees. These bats are important to local economies and environments, though some species face conservation challenges due to habitat loss and hunting.