DNA reveals polar bear's ancient origins (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

By Helen Briggs
BBC News

The polar bear is much older than previously thought, according to new genetic evidence.

DNA studies suggest the Arctic predator split from its ancestor, the brown bear, about 600,000 years ago.

Previous estimates put the polar bear at about 150,000 years old, suggesting the mammal adapted very rapidly to Arctic life.

Conservationists say the new study, published in Science, has implications for bear conservation.

Polar bears are listed as threatened under the US Endangered Species Act.
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more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-17762196
free abstract, $$$ full paper: http://www.sciencemag.org/content/336/6079/344
http://www.polarbearsinternational.org/

[xchrom]

1. Du rec. Nt

[BlueJazz]

2. I thought the bears were made 15 December 1791

Had something to do with their arms.