Bat diversity in Parcani limestone mine, Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Introduction. The order Chiroptera is one of the most species-rich mammalian groups in the Republic of Moldova, represented by 21 species. Bats play a critical role in local ecosystems and have significant economic and public health importance by consuming invertebrate pests and insects that act as vectors for infectious diseases. In the Republic of Moldova, limestone mines represent the most important underground roosts for bats. These structures provide an environment similar to natural caves, with relatively constant microclimatic conditions. Due to low anthropogenic disturbance, their large surface areas, and the abundance of suitable shelters, these habitats offer favorable wintering conditions for approximately 12 bat species. Purpose of the study. This study describes a newly registered bat roost—the limestone mine near Parcani, Moldova—to elucidate bat diversity across different phenological periods and to assess the site's importance in preserving local chiropteran fauna. Material and methods. The study was conducted from 2023 to 2024 during different seasons at the Parcani limestone mine in the Soldanesti district of northern Moldova. Bats were surveyed using direct visual observation. All individuals were identified to species level, counted, and their locations within the mine were recorded. Results. The species diversity was high, with 10 bat species recorded during the study period: Rhinolophus hipposideros, Myotis blythii, M. nattereri, M. daubentonii, M. dasycneme, M. bechsteinii, M. mystacinus, Barbastella barbastellus, Plecotus auritus and P. auritus. The structure of the bat community varied seasonally. The highest diversity and abundance of individuals was observed during the hibernation period, when M. blythii was the dominant species, comprising over 80% of the community. During the summer season, M. blythii were dominant (55.1%), followed by M. daubentoniid (20.4%) and M. dasycneme (14.3%). In the mating season, the community was dominated by M. daubentoni and M. blythii, which accounted for more than 90% of all individuals. All recorded species are considered rare within the republic's fauna. Conclusions. In Parcani mine 10 bat species were registered. The highest diversity and largest number of individuals was registered in hibernation period, when Myotis blythii being the dominant species. The critically endangered species B. barbastellus, M. nattereri and M. bechsteinii were recorded only during hibernation. For M. nattereri and B. barbastellus, this location represents the second known site in the republic. All species recorded in the Parcani mine are protected at national level and in neighboring countries, while the species Myotis blythii, M. dasycneme, M. bechsteinii, Barbastella barbastellus and Plecotus austriacus are protected by IUCN.