Cuckolded Fathers Rare in Human Populations. (May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Larmuseau, Maarten H.D.; Matthijs, Koen; Wenseleers, Tom
• Is Part Of: Trends in ecology & evolution. Volume 31:Number 5(2016)
• Page Start: 327
• Page End: 329
• Publication Date: 2016-05
• Subjects: extra-pair paternity -- cuckoldry -- human behavioural ecology; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution (Biology) -- Periodicals; 576.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2016.03.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0169-5347

Abstract

Abstract : Contemporary data of extra-pair paternity (EPP) in human populations may be biased by the use of modern contraceptives. Studies have now estimated historical EPP rates in several human populations. The observed low EPP rates challenge the idea that women routinely 'shop around' for good genes by engaging in extra-pair copulations. Trends: Contemporary extra-pair paternity rates in humans may be biased. Genetic approaches are now developed to estimate historical cuckoldry rates. Rate of cuckolded fathers stayed low in the past across human societies. Extra-pair children may be rare in humans because of high potential costs.