Paternity in primates: genetic tests and theories

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Numerous interpretations of primate social systems include assumptions about the paternity of primates, but only the recent development of new techniques has made it possible to test these assumptions in both captive and wild populations. This volume brings together the findings of a group of scientists involved in the first studies applying DNA fingerprinting and similar techniques to non-human primates. Suitable methods for determination of paternity are discussed and a special feature of the book is the appendix summarizing different approaches and their advantages and limitations. Emphasis is also placed on associated theoretical aspects and practical applications of the methods to captive and wild social groups of primates. The book makes available to primatologists a synthesis of genetic methods and applications and also evaluates their significance for interpreting patterns of primate social organization. At the current stage of research, this pooling of information and experience is necessary for channeling future work in the most promising directions and as an aid to newcomers.