Geographic structuring and species limits in Phylloderma stenops (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae): Revalidation of P. septentrionalis in Central America

We investigated the taxonomic diversity of the pale-faced bat Phylloderma stenops (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) across South and Central America using morphological analyses and complete mitochondrial genomes. Phylogenetic reconstructions revealed two highly supported clades, with Central American populations showing consistent genetic divergence from South American lineages. Morphological comparisons corroborated this distinction, particularly in cranial and dental traits, supporting the recognition of the northern lineage as Phylloderma septentrionalis Goodwin, 1940.

Our results indicate that P. septentrionalis represents a valid species restricted to northern Central America, while P. stenops sensu stricto is distributed from Panama southwards. The genome skimming approach proved effective for recovering complete mitogenomes from both recent and historical specimens, enabling robust phylogenetic inference despite limited sample sizes. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that geographic features in Central America may have contributed to lineage divergence within Phylloderma, although the exact barrier and transition zone remain to be evaluated with samples from Costa Rica.

The results also underscore the importance of integrating morphological and molecular data to reassess taxonomic limits in poorly sampled Neotropical bats. The recognition of P. septentrionalis refines the taxonomy and geographic limits of Phylloderma in Central America and provides a framework for future studies using broader geographic sampling and genomic data.