Which specific North American subspecies is described as one of the largest extant wolf populations?
Answer
Northwestern wolf (*Canis lupus occidentalis*).
The species *Canis lupus* exhibits remarkable geographical variation leading to various subspecies, some of which are ecologically distinct. Among the key recognized North American forms, the Northwestern wolf, scientifically designated as *Canis lupus occidentalis*, is specifically noted for being one of the largest remaining populations of extant wolves. This contrasts with other forms like the Mexican wolf, which is noted for being smaller and ecologically distinct, or the Eurasian wolf, which is geographically separated across Europe and Asia.
Related Questions
What shared characteristics define *Canis lupus* belonging to Kingdom Animalia?Which feature is a hallmark of the Phylum Chordata placement for *Canis lupus*?Beyond diet, what anatomical basis defines the Order Carnivora for the wolf?Which mammals are grouped within the Family Canidae alongside wolves?What shared traits characterize members of the *Canis* genus?What reproductive capability defines the species classification *Canis lupus*?How is the domestic dog (*Canis familiaris*) often classified relative to *Canis lupus* today?Which specific North American subspecies is described as one of the largest extant wolf populations?What is NatureServe's global status designation for *Canis lupus* (G5)?What underlying behavioral trait in *Canis lupus* allowed for adaptation to domestication?What do genetic tests often reveal about many historical North American subspecies classifications?