Cub adoption by polar bears (Ursus maritimus): determining relatedness with microsatellite markers

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2000.tb00589.x
• Publication Date: 2006-02-28T12:06:29Z
• Authors: N. J. Lunn; D. Paetkau; W. Calvert; S. Atkinson; M. Taylor; C. Strobeck
• Keywords: Ursus maritimus

Abstract Sixteen microsatellite markers were used to determine the genetic relatedness between adult female polar bears and their accompanying cubs for three recent occurrences of natural adoption recorded in Canadian Arctic. The estimation degree was powerful provided a high separation first order relatives unrelated individuals with loci used. analysis showed that adoptive mothers one another. Although circumstances mechanisms whereby these events occurred are unknown, data do not support kinship theory as an explanation exchange cubs. We suggest probably represent instances misidentification by bears.