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Study Reveals Bats Glow Green Under UV Light

10/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A University of Georgia study finds North American bat species glow green under UV light.
Researchers examined 60 specimens across six species and observed green photoluminescence on wings and hind limbs.
They conclude the trait derives from a common ancestor and may have had a function no longer relevant.
The glow on flight-visible body parts prompts live-bat research to assess behavioral significance.
The findings were published in Ecology & Evolution.

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Story summary

A University of Georgia study finds North American bat species glow green under UV light.
Researchers examined 60 specimens across six species and observed green photoluminescence on wings and hind limbs.
They conclude the trait derives from a common ancestor and may have had a function no longer relevant.
The glow on flight-visible body parts prompts live-bat research to assess behavioral significance.
The findings were published in Ecology & Evolution.