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Where were patrilineal descent systems common in Melanesia?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Map of the Pacific Ocean region showing three major culture areas highlighted in different colors: Micronesia in purple, Melanesia in green, and Polynesia in yellow. The map includes labeled islands and island groups such as Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, New Zealand, Guam, and the Marshall Islands, with the culture area boundaries spanning across the central and southern Pacific.
Melanesian culture

In Melanesia, patrilineal descent systems are common in the following regions:

Additionally, societies in the central and western Highlands of New Guinea are characterized by segmentary patrilineal descent systems. While these areas are noted for patrilineal organization, it is important to note that there is considerable variation throughout Melanesia, and even in patrilineally organized societies, connections to a mother's group and ancestors often remain significant in ritual and social support.1