Vespertilio pipistrellus Schreber, 1774 and V. pygmaeus Leach, 1825 (currently Pipistrellus pipistrellus and P. pygmaeus; Mammalia, Chiroptera): proposed designation of neotypes

Abstract

The purpose of this application is to provide neotypes for two broadly sympatric cryptic species of pipistrelle bats; until recently only a single taxon was recognised and known as Pipistrellus pipistrellus (Schreber, 1774). The species were first distinguished by their ultrasonic echolocation calls but also differ in other ways. It is proposed that the species with the lower-pitched call should be denoted by the name P. pipistrellus, and that the name P. pygmaeus (Leach, 1825), which has been regarded as a synonym of P. pipistrellus, should be used for the smaller species which calls at a higher frequency.