murina

Murina is a genus of bats in the family Vespertilionidae. Members of Murina are small to medium-sized insectivorous bats distributed across parts of Asia. The genus comprises numerous species that occupy a range of habitats, from temperate woodlands in the Himalayas to tropical forests in Southeast Asia. They commonly roost in tree crevices, rock fissures, caves, and sometimes human-made structures.

Taxonomy and identification within Murina have evolved with advances in molecular data. The genus contains a diverse group of species that differ in size, pelage, and skull morphology. In recent decades, researchers have described new species and reassigned others as understanding of their relationships improves, making Murina one of the more dynamic lineages in Asian bat fauna.

Ecology and behavior vary among Murina species but typically share an insectivorous diet and nocturnal activity. They use echolocation to locate prey and navigate in dense habitats. Roosting behavior ranges from solitary travelers to small colonies, depending on species and local conditions. Reproduction, growth, and lifespan are species-specific and influenced by ecological factors such as seasonality and resource availability.

Conservation considerations for Murina are tied to habitat quality and availability. Deforestation, forest fragmentation, and cave disturbance can impact roosting sites and prey abundance. Some species may be threatened or have restricted ranges, highlighting the need for regionally informed monitoring and habitat protection efforts.