Systematics, evolution, and genetics of bears

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Abstract

Molecular genetics are key to understanding current and historical relationships between isolated populations, including species’ colonizations during glacial–interglacial cycles, to determine viability of local populations, needs for habitat corridors, and other aspects of population management, especially where bears are harvested for sport, etc. As natural habitats shrink, some bear species will inevitably require high levels of management, perhaps combining captive and wild populations following the IUCN’s One Plan Approach. In this chapter we review the systematics of the Ursidae and its relationships with other Carnivora, the molecular phylogenetic of extant ursid species, the phylogeography of and morphological variation within each species, and the use of molecular genetics to monitor bear populations for management and conservation.

Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Systematics, evolution, and genetics of bears
Chapter 1
DOI 10.1017/9781108692571.002
Year Published 2020
Language English
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Contributing office(s) Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center
Description 18 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Monograph
Larger Work Title Bears of the world: Ecology, conservation and management
First page 3
Last page 20
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