mating systems

Mating systems refer to the ways in which animals reproduce and establish pair bonds or reproductive groups. They describe patterns like monogamy (one partner), polygyny (one male with multiple females), polyandry (one female with multiple males), or promiscuity (multiple partners without lasting bonds). These systems are influenced by factors such as resource availability, parental investment needs, and environmental conditions. They shape social structures, behaviors, and reproductive success in different species, helping ensure their survival and genetic diversity.