Abstract
Globin gene mapping data enable Polynesians to be divided into three distinct groups: (i) Maoris, Cook Islanders, (ii) Tongans, Samoans, (iii) Niue Islanders. Unusual RFLPs detected by the restriction enzymes Apa I and Bgl I1 are found in Polynesians. A high frequency of α-thalassemia in this population is explained by genetic drift and a founder effect.