Potential ecological corridors for remnant Asiatic black bear populations and its subpopulations linked to management units in Japan

Two case studies are introduced. First, a quantitative method for assessing the need for ecological networks through modeling the potential geographic distributions of species based on a case study of local populations of Asiatic black bear is presented. Second, genetic variation of Asiatic black bear in Tohoku region, Japan, are reported. To determine how population subdivision relates to management units proposed by the Ministry of the Environment, genetic variation in the mitochondrial DNA control region and seven autosomal microsatellite loci was assessed in bears captured in northern Japan. Geographic distribution of the subpopulations was assessed using landscape analyses to find the best-fit model based on maximum entropy prediction and cost of movement. Finally, how human–bear conflicts, nuisance control, and traditional hunting may affect conservation and management of Asiatic black bears in southern Tohoku area, where large suitable habitats for this species exist, are also shown.