Ch 12, Layer B Name:

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Ch 12 Virtual Lab
Title: Tracking Grizzlies

Purpose:
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Question:
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Hypothesis:
If I compare collect and analyze random samples of Grizzly Bear hairs, then _____________________
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Variables:
Idependent:

Dependent:

Controlls:

Materials (List the virtual materials you will use in this investigation.):

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Ch 12, Layer B Name:
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Procedure (Write a numbered list explaining the steps you will take to investigate grizzly
populations.)

Data
Hair Trapping Hair Samples Total # of Repeat Estimated Total #
Field Trips Identified Bears of Bears
(S) (T) (St) (N)
Initial

2nd Trip
3rd Trip

4th Trip

Analysis
Tell what each variable means in the following equation:

N = (T x S1) / St1

Calculate the average (mean) number of total bears in the area based on your four trips.

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Ch 12, Layer B Name:
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Conclusion
Answer the following in complete sentences. Your answers may require multiple sentences to be
complete.

1. DNA fingerprinting identifies individual bears and also allows for determining the gender of the
bear. What information does it not provide that might be useful for deciding on conservation
efforts?

2. Bear hair may also be collected from trees that the bears rub themselves on or against. In a
study using DNA fingerprinting of hair collected from rub trees, it was found that the population
in the area contained more male bears than female bears. Explain this outcome.

3. What other problems might DNA fingerprinting of bear hair solve?

4. The police arrested three suspects and obtained DNA fingerprints from each individual. What
does the investigator need to establish which of the three might be the culprit in the crime?
Explain your answer.

5. How could DNA fingerprinting technology be used to establish that a highway cutting through
grizzly bear habitat stops the bears from moving from one side to the other? Explain your
answer.

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Ch 12, Layer B Name:
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6. Monarch butterfly populations are found east and west of the Rocky Mountains. How could
DNA fingerprinting technology be used to establish that they constitute one breeding population
or two separate breeding populations? Explain you answer.

7. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of both radiotelemetry and DNA fingerprinting
methods for obtaining wildlife population data.

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