Paraguayan bats of the genus Myotis with a redefinition of M. simus (Thomas, 1901)

Abstract

Based on measurements and odontology taken from more than 180 specimens of Myotis spp. from Paraguay and nearby areas of Argentina and Brazil, the systematics of members of this genus is reviewed. Four species are found in Paraguy : M. nigricans, albescens, levis and ruber. M. simus auct. from Bolivia to Argentina in fact refers to various other species; it is not found within the borders of Paraguay. This species, i. e. M. simus, is easily recognizable and seems to be restricted to the Amazon basin.