Diversity and distribution of bat in the some caves of Fars Province

Fauna identification of animal taxon is one of the basic parameters for biodiversity protection. Bats are useful animal in the ecosystem that is threatened seriously duo to several reasons, as the destruction of their habitat. So in this study, the diversity of bats in 36 caves in the 4 climates of Fars province was investigated during 10 months. For this purpose, the bats were photographed in the cave during flying or capturing by mist net. The species were identified according special taxonomic keys and confirmed by local and foreign authorities some of bats were abandoned in the site and others were transferred to lab for exactly identification. The obtained results showed 15 species belonging to 8 genera of 7 families as the big colonies of different species lived in the mist and large caves with height and depth. Family Rhinolophidae with 5 species was the most diverse family, and Rhinopoma had the most density and diversity in the harm and temperature regions, respectively. According to obtained results, Fars province is the suitable roost for bats, so the conservation of these habitats must be done for protection of their population by Department of Environment, and their cooperation with caving teams is necessary.