This proposed research is focused on elucidating the population genetics and connectivity of TRI-colored bats (perimyotis subflavus) and monitoring pseudogymnoascus destructans and white-nose syndrome…

This Project Grant award, provided by the Department of the Interior (DOI) Fish and Wildlife Service under the White-nose Syndrome National Response Implementation program (CFDA 15.684), focuses on elucidating the population genetics and connectivity of tri-colored bats (Perimyotis subflavus) and monitoring the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans and its impact, white-nose syndrome, across the southern leading edge of the disease. The $220,249.94 award to Kennesaw State University Research And Service Foundation, Inc. will be used to better understand the genetic diversity of southern tri-colored bat populations and predict sites of population overlap and intermixing. Additionally, the project will monitor seasonal trends of P. destructans in select hibernacula and examine any emerging population-level differences in susceptibility across the southern region. The 2-year project is scheduled to run from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2026, and aims to substantially improve understanding of the threatened tri-colored bat and its interactions with the white-nose syndrome transmission corridors.

This proposed research is focused on elucidating the population genetics and connectivity of TRI-colored bats (perimyotis subflavus) and monitoring pseudogymnoascus destructans and white-nose syndrome across the southern leading edge of white-nose syndrome. TRI-colored BAT, recently recommended for listing, is widespread in the southern united states and several hibernacula exist in proximity to pseudogymnoascus destructans endemic regions. Historically, TRI-colored BAT has been considered for sub-species designations based on the population genetic structure. This proposal will seek to use multiple genetic markers and stable isotope analysis to better understand the genetic diversity in southern TRI-colored BAT populations as well as predict sites of population overlap and intermixing. Additionally, we will monitor pseudogymnoascus destructans loads in select hibernacula to determine seasonal trends based on site time and pseudogymnoascus destructans population, as well as attempt to better understand any population level difference in susceptibility that may be emerging across the southern leading edge of white-nose syndrome. Cumulatively, this proposal will substantially improve our understanding of the threatened TRI-colored BAT and the interplay with pseudogymnoascus destructans transmission corridors connecting naive populations.