The interrelationship of chromosome banding patterns in the giant panda <i>(Ailuropoda melanoleuca)</i> hybrid bear <i>(Ursus middendorfi</i> × <i>Thalarctos maritimu</i><i>s</i>), and other carnivores

The banded chromosomes of the giant panda <i>(Ailuropoda melanoleuca</i>) and a hybrid bear <i>(Ursus middendorfi </i>× <i>Thalarctos maritimus</i>) have been studied and compared to those of other carnivores. The giant panda shares only a few apparently homologous chromosome arms with the bear (Ursidae) and equally few with the lesser panda, <i>Ailurus julgens </i>(Procyonidae). Chromosomal evidence suggests appropriate placement of the giant panda in a family separate from the Ursidae and the Procyonidae.