non-random mating

Non-random mating occurs when individuals choose mates based on certain traits or preferences, rather than pairing randomly. This can happen through behaviors like selecting mates that are similar to oneself (assortative mating) or seeking traits that provide specific advantages. Such selective pairing influences the genetic makeup of a population by increasing the likelihood that certain genes are passed on more frequently. Unlike random mating, where every individual has an equal chance to mate with any other, non-random mating shapes traits and can lead to greater variation or uniformity within a species over time.