Genomic characterization of a novel Hepatovirus identified in Maranhão state, Brazil.

Bats are efficient reservoirs of a number of viruses with zoonotic potential, and are involved directly in the transmission cycle of many zoonoses. In the present study, which is part of a larger project that is documenting the viromes of the bat species found in the Mid-North states of Maranhão and Piauí, we analyzed 16 pooled samples obtained from four species of bat of the genus Artibeus-Artibeus obscurus, Artibeus cinereus, Artibeus lituratus and Artibeus planirostris. We describe and identify a Hepatovirus, denominated Hepatovirus H isolate sotense, which was found in a pool of internal organs (liver and lungs) extracted from a specimen of A.

A novel hantavirus identified in bats (Carollia perspicillata) in Brazil.

Bats play an essential role in maintaining ecosystems. Their unique characteristics increase the likelihood of interactions with various species, making them a potential source for the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. Hantaviruses are continuously expanding their range of hosts.

Montani et al. 2021 (Chiroptera, Molossidae) in Brazil: new insights for distribuition, morphology and genetics.

Background: The species has been observed in both the Pampa and Spinal ecoregions of Argentina. Researchers have underscored that distinguishing from other species within the same genus relies primarily on craniometric and molecular analyses. Morphological measurements alone do not offer a clear differentiation between and other members of this genus.

New records of Niceforo's big-eared bat, (Sanborn, 1949) (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae), from the state of Maranhão, Brazil.

Niceforo's big-eared bat, (Sanborn, 1949), is a monotypic species which has been recorded in a number of Brazilian states, but has a disjunct distribution in this country. This study presents the first record of in the Brazilian state of Maranhão. The specimens were collected in the municipalities of Godofredo Viana and Cândido Mendes, in fragments of the Amazon forest.