Bat Species Richness (Mammalia, Chiroptera) Along an Elevational Gradient in the Atlantic Forest of Southeastern Brazil

The effect of elevational gradients on the richness and composition of communities are reflected by different biotas. The objective of this study was to document changes in the species richness and composition of bats along a tropical elevational gradient between 500 and 2,500 m of elevation in southeastern Brazil. We carried out fieldwork from June 2009 to December 2012 with the use of mist nets. During 32 sampling nights we recorded 270 bats from 22 species. Species richness peaked around low-elevation (500–1,000 m a.s.l.) and there was richness decrease at higher elevations. The analysis of bat assemblage between the elevational range showed a significant difference in species composition along an elevational gradient. Bat richness and abundance were negatively related to altitude.