Vampire bats are the only mammals that feed exclusively on blood. To reveal
“We found the loss of 13 different genes, about 10 ofwhich were not previously known. “These genetic changes reflect, for example, reduced insulin secretion, limited cellular storage of polysaccharides, the unique stomach physiology, and the ability of these animals’ immune systems to fight a large number of pathogens that are transmitted through the blood of prey.”
Blood is a complex diet ofseveral reasons, scientists say. This is not the most high-calorie food source due to the high liquid content. Bats have to drink blood almost one and a half times their own weight in one meal. In order to adapt to such a diet, the bat stomach has evolved to be able to stretch and work primarily on fluid intake.
In addition, the blood has a high iron content, andThe main nutrients are proteins (about 93%). Genetic changes, scientists believe, allow bats to remove excess iron from their bodies more quickly. The share of fats and carbohydrates is about 1% for each of these substances. A small amount of carbohydrates consumed led to a decrease in the cells' susceptibility to insulin secretion, the same as in people with type 2 diabetes.
Stores of glycogen (polysaccharide) and fats inthe body of desmods is also significantly reduced. This makes them vulnerable to prolonged starvation. Without food, these bats die in two to three days. To compensate for this vulnerability, bats have learned to socialize. Successful hunters share some of their prey with mice that are unlucky that day.
Scientists also noted that bats“disabled” cone or day vision. These strictly nocturnal bats are most active during the darkest periods of the night and even avoid moonlight. In addition, in order to find their prey, vampire bats have developed additional sensory apparatus and developed the ability to perceive infrared radiation.
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