This species was formerly included in N. stramineus, but is clearly distinct from that species; see Morgan (1989), Morgan and Czaplewski (2003) and Simmons (2005).

This species is listed as Vulnerable because it is only known from a single cave (and therefore, one location), with an area of occupancy (AOO) under 20 km², and with a continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat that might result in the taxon becoming Critically Endangered or Extinct in a very short time.

Rediscovered in 1992, this species was previously thought to be extinct. A recent subpopulation of this species is known from one cave on the western tip of Cuba (Tejedor et al. 2004, Mancina 2012), but fossils occur at several sites on Cuba and the Isla de Pinos (Silva Taboada 1979).

This species is known from a single cave, probably including a few thousand individuals (Tejedor et al. 2005). Fossil remains suggest a former wider distribution throughout Cuba and Isla de Pinos (Silva-Taboada 1979), the Bahamas and Cayman Islands (Tejedor 2011).

This species roosts in caves. It is known from a single cave (Tejedor et al. 2005). This species is moderately to highly gregarious with cave colonies estimated at fewer than 100 individuals (Tejedor et al. 2005). Copulation in N. primus has been observed to take place in April, and pregnant females of this species have been captured in May (Tejedor et al. 2004). It has been found to feed mostly on moths, crickets and beetles, and less frequently on other insect orders: Hymenoptera (Formicidae), Neuroptera, Diptera, Homoptera and Hemiptera (Tejedor et al. 2004).

Habitat loss and human intrusion in the cave are the main threats (Tejedor et al. 2004, Mancina 2012). In addition the ongoing collapse of the roof of the cave can upset the thermal balance in this hot cave. Climatic changes could also interrupt the thermal cave balance and result in extinction of this species (L. Dávalos pers. comm.)

This species is not used.

Protecting the cave is the most important priority, this must include limitation of access by non-authorized personnel (Tejedor et al. 2004, Mancina 2012).