Espostoa frutescens explained

Espostoa frutescens is a plant in the family Cactaceae.

Description

Espostoa frutescens grows as a cactus. The species relies on nectar bats (including Geoffroy's tailless bat) for pollination. To facilitate the bats' echolocation, the plant's flowers are surrounded with a sound-absorbent furry area resulting in stronger flower echoes.

Distribution and habitat

Espostoa frutescens is endemic to Ecuador and confined to Loja, El Oro and Azuay provinces. Its habitat is open areas in dry forests from 500m (1,600feet) to 2000m (7,000feet) altitude.