Identification:
Bats of medium size, with a forearm length of 26-30 mm, tail length of 29-36 mm, ear length of 11 mm, and a weight of 6.5-8.5 mm (based on 11 specimens). Skull: 12.3-12.7 mm in length; upper molar tooth row length of 4.3-4.5 mm (based on 5 specimens from the Malay Peninsula). The dorsal fur is dark brown to light grey-brown; the ventral fur is slightly lighter in color. The fur is very smooth and glossy. A large, dark brown, disc-shaped pad is present at the base of the thumb and on the soles of the feet. The head (skull) and body are extremely flattened, enabling the bat to fit through a gap as narrow as 5 mm.
Biology and Ecology:
This species inhabits bamboo internodes, entering through small openings created by beetles. It can be found at elevations up to 1,000 meters. The diet consists of insects found within its distribution range.
Distribution:
Southern China to Southeast Asia, Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and small islands in Borneo. In Vietnam, this species has been found in the Quang Tri region (Phuoc Mon) but is very rare.
Value:
A rare species with scientific, aesthetic, and ecological value, controlling insect pests in nature.