Reproduction of the banana bat, Neoromicia nanus, in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, with a discussion on sperm storage and latitudinal effects on reproductive strategies

Abstract

The banana bat, Neoromicia nanus, is characterized by seasonal monoestrous breeding. This study examined the reproductive timing and strategies used by N.nanus in the Province of Mpumalanga, South Africa. Male and female bats were histologically examined to determine their reproductive condition throughout the year. Spermatogenesis in the banana bat began in late September and spermatozoa were released into the caudae epididymides from late April to late July. Spermatozoa remained present in the caudae epididymides throughout August. Mating was initiated in May and ovulation and fertilization occurred at the beginning of August. Implantations first occurred during early August and parturition followed from late October to the end of November. Lactating females were found until mid January. In contrast to the same species in Malawi, it appears that in Mpumalanga no sperm storage takes place in females and occurs for only a short period in males. Reproductive timing was approximately one month earlier in Mpumalanga than in Malawi.