Forward-time simulations of non-random mating populations using simuPOP.
Computer simulations play an important role in studies of non-random mating populations. Because of implementation difficulties, only very limited types of non-random mating schemes are provided in the currently available simulation programs. Starting with version 0.8.5, simuPOP provides a few mating schemes that can be used to simulate arbitrary non-random mating models. This article describes the concepts and methods behind these mating schemes and demonstrates their uses in a few examples, including partial self-mating, positive assortative mating, non-random outbreeding, and simulation of overlapping generations in age-structured populations.


BACKGROUND
simuPOP is freely available at http://simupop.sourceforge.net, distributed under a GPL license. Cited examples are in the doc/cookbook directory of a simuPOP distribution.
Peng
Bo
B
Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Pressler Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA. bpeng@mdanderson.org
Amos
Christopher I
CI
D000465:Algorithms; D000818:Animals; D003198:Computer Simulation; D017753:Ecosystem; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011157:Population Dynamics; D043762:Reproductive Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal / Q000502:physiology*; D012984:Software