Genetically, which bear lineage is noted as representing the first group to radiate out from the main *Ursinae* group along with the sun bear?
Answer
The sloth bear (*Melursus ursinus*)
Genetic sequencing studies indicate that the sun bear and the sloth bear represent the earliest lineages to split away from the main *Ursinae* group.
Related Questions
What taxonomic classification makes the sun bear unique among extant bears?Who initially described the sun bear species in 1821 under the name *Ursus malayanus*?Within which Order is the sun bear placed, grouping it alongside animals like seals and cats?What key morphological difference primarily distinguishes the Bornean subspecies (*H. m. euryspilus*) from the nominate subspecies?Genetically, which bear lineage is noted as representing the first group to radiate out from the main *Ursinae* group along with the sun bear?What key behavioral trait linked to environment prevents the sun bear from entering a period of dormancy?What is the taxonomic Class assigned to *Helarctos malayanus*?The genus name *Helarctos* is derived from Greek words combining *hēlios* (sun) and *arctos* (bear) and what other primary element?The nominate subspecies, *Helarctos malayanus malayanus*, is geographically distributed across which two primary areas?In what year did Thomas Horsfield formally separate the sun bear into its own genus, *Helarctos*?The sun bear's physical traits, such as short fur and inward-turned feet, are adaptations for what specific lifestyle in tropical forests?