Mating status and kin recognition influence the strength of cannibalism

► We examined how kin recognition, mating status and sex influence cannibalism in flour beetles, Tribolium confusum. ► Kin recognition and postmating reduction of cannibalism reduced filial cannibalism. ► Mating status had a greater influence on cannibalistic behaviour than did sex. ► Change in cannibalistic behaviour was consistent with kin selection theory.