Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which mating system involves one male and multiple females?

1. Monogamous

2. Polygamous

3. Harem

4. Random

The correct answer is: Harem

The mating system that involves one male and multiple females is known as a harem system. In this context, the term "harem" specifically refers to a social structure where a dominant male has exclusive rights to mate with several females within a given group. This arrangement often arises in species where males can defend a territory or group, allowing them to maintain control over access to multiple females. Harem systems are prevalent in various animal species, especially in some mammals and birds, where males exhibit behaviors such as displays or fighting to establish dominance, thereby attracting and retaining multiple mates. This type of mating strategy can increase the genetic fitness of the male while providing the females with more access to a mate that demonstrates high status or health, potentially leading to healthier offspring. In contrast, a monogamous system entails one male mating with one female. Polygamous refers to a broader category that can include males with multiple females or females with multiple males; however, it does not specifically denote the structure where one male dominantly mates with several females. Random mating involves individuals mating without a defined structure or pattern, lacking the hierarchical or territorial aspects seen in harem systems.