What's happened
Recent research reveals that vampire bats uniquely metabolize amino acids from their blood meals for energy, a process typically reserved for last-resort fuel in most animals. This adaptation allows them to sustain high levels of activity, including running and flying, despite their low-carbohydrate diet.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the study published in Biology Letters highlights that vampire bats metabolize amino acids from their blood meals, a process not common in most animals. Kenneth Welch, a biologist involved in the research, noted, 'In most animals, amino acids are a fuel of last resort. It’s what the body burns when there’s not much left, but these bats burn it right away.' The New York Times elaborates on the bats' unique running ability, stating, 'Unlike most bats, which largely avoid the ground, vampire bats are capable runners, using their folded wings to propel them forward.' This ability aids in stealthily stalking their prey, which is essential for their survival.
How we got here
Vampire bats, native to the Americas, are the only mammals that exclusively feed on blood. Previous studies indicated their reliance on proteins due to a lack of insulin genes necessary for metabolizing sugars, leading researchers to investigate their unique energy metabolism.
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