1755-0998/asset/olbannercenter.gif?v=1&s=461bba13dc862037c63fd362e625b54da4c20f13)
Microsatellite loci for distinguishing spotted owls (Strix occidentalis), barred owls (Strix varia), and their hybrids
Article first published online: 9 NOV 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-8286.2006.01581.x
Additional Information
How to Cite
FUNK, W. C., MULLINS, T. D., FORSMAN, E. D. and HAIG, S. M. (2007), Microsatellite loci for distinguishing spotted owls (Strix occidentalis), barred owls (Strix varia), and their hybrids. Molecular Ecology Notes, 7: 284–286. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-8286.2006.01581.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 20 DEC 2006
- Article first published online: 9 NOV 2006
- Received 31 July 2006; revision accepted 18 September 2006
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- backcross;
- F1;
- hybrid identification;
- microsatellites;
- Strix occidentalis;
- Strix varia
Abstract
We identified four diagnostic microsatellite loci that distinguish spotted owls (Strix occidentalis), barred owls (Strix varia), F1 hybrids and backcrosses. Thirty-four out of 52 loci tested (65.4%) successfully amplified, and four of these loci (11.8%) had allele sizes that did not overlap between spotted and barred owls. The probability of correctly identifying a backcross with these four loci is 0.875. Genotyping potential hybrid owls with these markers revealed that field identifications were often wrong. Given the difficulty of identifying hybrids in the field, these markers will be useful for hybrid identification, law enforcement and spotted owl conservation.