Its lineage is basal to the other members of its genus, with the exception of the bidentate yellow-shouldered bat, Sturnira bidens.

The basal Sturnira lineages (S. nana, S. bidens, and S. aratathomasi) began to diverge from other members of the genus during the Late Miocene (5.2–8.1 million years ago).

It was initially placed in the subgenus Corvira, though this taxonomic rank is now viewed as synonymous to Sturnira.

It is the smallest member of its genus–a fact that is referenced several times in its initial description.

[2] This species was not detected outside of Peru until a 2011 report cited capturing nine individuals in southern Ecuador during April 2009.