DotPopulation Genetic Analysis of Puma concolor Using Microsatellites

Authors

Eric Swenson, Brigham Young University
Dr. Keith A. Crandall, Brigham Young University

Keywords

Puma concolor, mountain lion, microsatellites, hunting

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Abstract

The mountain lion, Puma concolor, is the last widespread species of top predator remaining in the United States (2). Despite this, P. concolor is the subject of annual hunts, except in Florida and South Dakota, where they are threatened, and California (4). The impact of hunting on these populations is not well understood, but sport hunting constitutes the highest source of mortality in Utah (5). Indications are that increased hunting activity over the past few years may be causing a decline in the P. concolor population in Utah (1). The impact of hunting practices on the genetic variation of mountain lion is unknown.

Recommended Citation

Swenson, Eric and Crandall, Dr. Keith A. (2013) "DotPopulation Genetic Analysis of Puma concolor Using Microsatellites," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1584.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1584