A Study of Symbiosis Involving the Fish-Eating Bat (Myotis vivesi), the Least Petrel (Halocyptera microsoma), the Black Petrel (Oceanodroma melania), and the Lizard (Cnemidophorus tigris)

Author

Joel King, Eastern Illinois University

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1978

Thesis Director

Jaime A. Maya

Abstract

A field study was conducted on Partida Island in the Gulf of Mexico on the dates May 26 through July 26, 1977, inclusive.

Field observations were made of the lizard (Cnemidophorus tigris) preying on eggs and hatchlings of the least petrel (Halocyptena microsoma), and the black petrel (Oceanodroma melania). The petrels roost among rock slides with the fish-eating bat (Myotis vivesi).

In 24 trials of experimental boxes with lizards, bats, and petrels as subjects, 16 trials resulted in aggression of bats to lizards.

A symbiosis is postulated between bats and petrels.

Recommended Citation

King, Joel, "A Study of Symbiosis Involving the Fish-Eating Bat (Myotis vivesi), the Least Petrel (Halocyptera microsoma), the Black Petrel (Oceanodroma melania), and the Lizard (Cnemidophorus tigris)" (1978). Masters Theses. 3257.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/3257