Family structure: a general program for displaying complex pedigree data.

A general method for automated presentation of complex pedigree data is described. This method, called 'family structure,' allows presentation of genetic relationships for an unlimited number of individuals, and is well suited for description of both human and non-human animal populations. The method is especially useful for populations in which families are interrelated or individuals produce offspring by several mates. This method has been incorporated into a computer system for animal pedigree storage and analysis.