Social structure and gene dynamics in mammals

Abstract

A few studies have suggested that social structure can have major influences on genetic properties, or "gene dynamics," of populations. This Special Feature investigates this suggestion with new empiricism and modeling. Standard statistical methods for describing genetic structuring of local populations that is caused by social structure are presented, and several new methods are both introduced and applied. With these methods, genetic properties of populations can be investigated using biochemical data, pedigrees, and behavioral-demographic models (called "breeding-group models"). New data from black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus), red howling monkeys (Aloutta seniculus), and humans indicate that social structure of populations can produce significant influences on gene dynamics. In addition, new modeling shows that genetic structuring caused by social breeding groups produces constraints on further social evolution. Many characteristics of social systems might influence gene dynamics, such as group composition with respect to sex and kinship, mating preferences, and dispersal movements. Mammalian species exhibit a wide variety of social systems, and thus provide opportunities for investigation of the sensitivity of gene dynamics to behavioral and demographic characteristics.