Abstract: A method of microsatellite marker was employed to confirm multiple paternity in the Yangtze vole(Microtus fortis calamorum) distributed in Dongting Lake. Six pairs of primers were screened for better PCR products. After PCR, gel electrophoresis and silver staining, the alleles of seven mothers and their offspring were analyzed. The results showed that two litters were sired by more than two male voles, respectively. Mating behavior of the vole was characterized with multiple paternity. 

Key words: the Yangtze vole, mating behavior, microsatellite marker, multiple paternity