Genetic similarity and mate selection in Brazil

RESUMO

Mating patterns in humans may be affected by many variables. Previous findings, in paternity tests, of a higher average blood group genetic similarity for nonexcluded a compared to excluded or randomly paired individuals prompted the present studt, to verify if these results could be confirmed. A total of 769 couples was considered, the comparisons being made in relation to 14 loci which are expressed on blood. Excluded and nonexcluded, real couples and random pairs showed minimal differences in degree of genetic similarity. Humans choose their mates prefenrially but, as far these results indicate, independently of the genetic systems tested.