Meeting Abstract
Agricultural intensification and the consequent increase of pesticide use has been considered a major threat for bat populations in Europe. However, no research on this topic has been conducted in tropical agrosystems, where most of the arable land is frequently treated with pesticides, particularly large monoculture plantations like banana and pineapple. Considering that bats can eat more than 90% of their body mass every night, species that forage preferentially in crops could be highly exposed to pesticides through their prey. This study seeks to determine the sublethal effects of organophosphate pesticides on bat species foraging in or near crops. Organophosphate pesticides are commonly used neurotoxic chemicals that can impair vital functions such as the ability to feed, escape predation or reproduce. In order to assess the risk of exposure, we have studied foraging activity of bats in crops in Belize, Mexico and Costa Rica, countries known for their great bat diversity and extensive use of pesticides. To estimate intake by bats, we will analyze pesticide levels in insects collected in the same locations. Subsequently we will use an integrative approach to study the toxic effects of organophosphates on captive and wild bats. This approach involves measuring molecular (enzyme activity), physiological (metabolic rate, immune response) and behavioral (echolocation) biomarkers, aiming to extrapolate these responses across levels of biological organization. Understanding the mechanisms and effects at different scales will enable to better predict the implications on populations and communities and help to inform mitigation strategies.
