chiropterophily

Chiropterophily refers to the pollination of plants by bats. Over 500 species of tropical plants are chiropterophilous, meaning they have evolved features to attract nectar- and pollen-eating bats.12

These plants often have large, white flowers that are visible at night and emit a musky or fermented odor. They typically open after sunset to coincide with bats' feeding times. The flowers are shaped to accommodate a bat's face, with some being vase-like and others flat and brushy to collect pollen on a bat's whiskers.2

The pollen of these plants is rich in protein and contains amino acids like tyrosine and proline, which are beneficial for bats' health and milk production. Bats, in turn, have adaptations such as fleshy bristles on their tongues to collect pollen and nectar, keen eyesight, and a strong sense of smell to locate these flowers. Some plants also produce large amounts of nectar or special food bodies for their bat pollinators.23