Men are more likely to be friends with those who fancy different types of women.
Men are more likely to be friendly with guys who fancy different types of women to themselves
A new study recruited male and female university students to complete an online survey where they listed preferences for ten characteristics in a potential partner - including physical attractiveness, intelligence and sense of humour.
The participants were also asked to rank photos of the opposite sex in terms of attractiveness and took part in a 'speed-friending' session held separately for the men and women before evaluating their new friendship at the end of each interaction.
An analysis revealed that men were more likely to be friendly with other chaps who had differing tastes in women, although this was not the case for the females.
Professor Kelly Campbell, author of the study from California State University, San Bernardino, said: "We found that for men, they experienced more interpersonal chemistry or connection with those who had dissimilar mate preferences.
"Men need to be sure any resulting child from their relationship is their own otherwise they risk investing a lot of time and resources toward raising someone else's kid.
"Therefore, they would prefer keeping male friends around them who do not find their mate/wife/girlfriend appealing!"