Nuclear DNA microsatellite analysis of genetic diversity and gene flow in the Scandinavian brown bear (Ursus arctos)

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-294x.2000.00892.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T10:38:26Z
• Authors: Lisette Waits; Pierre Taberlet; Jon E. Swenson; Finn Sandegren; Robert Franzén
• Keywords: Nuclear DNA; Nuclear gene

Abstract In the 1930s, Scandinavian brown bear was close to extinction due vigorous extermination programmes in Norway and Sweden. Increased protection of Scandinavia has resulted recovery four subpopulations, which currently contain 1000 individuals. Effective conservation management requires knowledge current levels genetic diversity gene flow among subpopulations. Earlier studies mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) revealed extremely low variation, population structure that grouped three northern subpopulations one clade southernmost subpopulation a second highly divergent clade. this study, we extended analysis using data from 19 nuclear microsatellite loci. Results loci were strikingly different than mtDNA results. Genetic equivalent nonbottlenecked populations North America, significantly higher other bottlenecked isolated populations. Gene between ranged moderate correlated with geographical distance. The substantial difference results obtained markers stresses importance collecting both types before interpreting making recommendations for natural Based on sets, propose evolutionarily significant unit units Scandinavia.