On some genetic consequences of social structure, mating systems, dispersal, and sampling

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1414463112
• Publication Date: 2015-06-17T03:00:49Z
• Authors: Bárbara R. Parreira; Lounès Chikhi
• Keywords: Sociality; Inbreeding avoidance; Population Genetics

Significance Many species live in socially structured populations, forming cohesive units with kin structure. Yet, sociality has been neglected by population geneticists under the assumption that social groups can be seen as small demes subjected to significant genetic drift. Such are usually considered susceptible inbreeding, inbreeding avoidance becoming a major force explaining dispersal strategies. We find structure is highly effective maintaining high genotypic and diversity levels, without invoking sex-biased or mechanisms. These findings should change way we perceive groups.