The researchers suggest marrying third and fourth cousins is so optimal for reproduction because they sort of have the best of both worlds. While first-cousin couples could have inbreeding problems, couples who are far-removed from each other could have genetic incompatibilities.

Are 3rd cousins considered family?

Third cousins are always considered to be relatives from a genealogical perspective, and there is about a 90% chance that third cousins will share DNA.

Can 3rd cousins marry?

Since third cousins share only a very small percentage of their DNA, there is no issue with third cousins dating from a genetic perspective. According to an article by The Spruce, marriage between second cousins and more distant cousins is legal throughout the United States.

What makes someone 3rd cousin?

It means that the closest ancestor that two people have in common is a grandparent. Second cousins means that the closest common ancestor is a great-grandparent. Third cousins, then, have a great-great-grandparent as their most recent common ancestor.

Does having a baby with your cousin cause birth defects?

Although the absolute risk is still considered very small, meaning that in general the majority of babies are unaffected, first cousin marriages greatly increase birth defects and the chance of a baby dying early.

What is the most inbred family?

THE sickening family tree of the worlds most inbred family reveals four generations of incest including at least 14 kids with parents all related to each other.