A Review on Life Cycle, Behaviour and Pathogenic Role of the Great Indian Fruit Bat
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59436/jsiane.v6i1.20.2583-2093Keywords:
Great Indian Fruit Bat, Pteropus medius, behavior, life cycle, pathogenic role, zoonosis, ecology, bats, disease surveillanceAbstract
The Great Indian Fruit Bat, scientifically known as Indian Flying Fox, is one of the largest bat species found in the Indian subcontinent and serves an important ecological role in maintaining ecosystem stability through pollination and seed dispersal activities. Fruit bats are widely distributed across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, inhabiting urban, rural, and forest ecosystems. Their feeding behavior, social organization, reproductive patterns, and movement ecology contribute significantly to forest regeneration and biodiversity maintenance. However, increasing interactions between bats and human populations have generated concern regarding their potential role as reservoirs of various pathogenic microorganisms. Fruit bats have been associated with several viral pathogens of public health importance. Understanding the life cycle, behavior, and pathogenic significance of the Great Indian Fruit Bat is therefore essential for balancing conservation and disease management approaches. The present review summarizes current knowledge regarding taxonomy, distribution, reproductive biology, behavioral ecology, ecological significance, pathogenic roles, and conservation concerns associated with the species. Major anthropogenic factors including habitat destruction, urbanization, climate change, and human disturbance continue to influence population dynamics and habitat utilization. Improved surveillance programs, ecological monitoring, and public awareness strategies may contribute to effective management and conservation of bat populations while reducing potential disease transmission risks.
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