Spatial genetic structure in American black bears (Ursus americanus): female philopatry is variable and related to population history.

ABSTRACT: Previously, American black bears (Ursus americanus) were thought to follow the pattern of female philopatry and male-biased dispersal. However, recent studies have identified deviations from this pattern. Such flexibility in dispersal patterns can allow individuals greater ability to acclimate to changing environments. We explored dispersal and spatial genetic relatedness patterns across ten black bear populations-including long established (historic), with known reproduction >50 years ago, and newly established (recent) populations, with reproduction recorded <50 years ago-in the Interior Highlands and Southern Appalachian Mountains, United States. We used spatially explicit, individual-based genetic simulations to model gene flow under scenarios with varying levels of population density,

SUBMITTER: Kristensen TV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5842220 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature