BackgroundSoutheast Asia is recognized as a region of very high biodiversity, much of which is currently at risk due to habitat loss and other threats. However, many aspects of this diversity, even for relatively well-known groups such as mammals, are poorly known, limiting ability to develop conservation plans. This study examines the value of DNA barcodes, sequences of the mitochondrial COI gene, to enhance understanding of mammalian diversity in the region and hence to aid conservation planning.Methodology and Principal FindingsDNA barcodes were obtained from nearly 1900 specimens representing 165 recognized species of bats. All morphologically or acoustically distinct species, based on classical taxonomy, could be discriminated with DNA barcodes except four closely allied species pairs. Many currently recognized species contained multiple barcode lineages, often with deep divergence suggesting unrecognized species. In addition, most widespread species showed substantial genetic differentiation across their distributions. Our results suggest that mammal species richness within the region may be underestimated by at least 50%, and there are higher levels of endemism and greater intra-specific population structure than previously recognized.ConclusionsDNA barcodes can aid conservation and research by assisting field workers in identifying species, by helping taxonomists determine species groups needing more detailed analysis, and by facilitating the recognition of the appropriate units and scales for conservation planning.

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ABSTRACT. The paper presents the results of a first attempt to document the mammals of the Babille Elephant Sanctuary (Eastern Ethiopia). Four species (Nycteris thebaica, Lavia frons, Mus tenellus, Helogale parvula) were documented for the first time in the Sanctuary, two species (Rhinolophus fumigatus, Mastomys awashensis) were found new for eastern Ethiopia and the presence of another species (Neoromicia zuluensis) was confirmed for the first time within the limits of Ethiopia. Moreover, genetic and chromosomal characteristics of two rodents (Acomys sp. and Gerbilliscus cf. robustus) suggested new undescribed species. In total, according to our current estimate based on original data and previously published literature, the mammal fauna of the Sanctuary includes 59 species belonging to 11 orders, 30 families and 51 genera. The Babille Elephant Sanctuary has significant conservation value due to its high mammal species diversity and complex structure of the fauna including elements with different zoogeographic affinities.

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