Mating

Mating is the pairing of individuals for the purpose of sexual reproduction, resulting in the combination of genetic material from two organisms to produce offspring. In animals, mating often involves courtship, copulation, and fertilization, which may be internal or external. In plants, fertilization typically occurs after pollen transfer to a receptive ovule, mediated by biotic or abiotic vectors. In fungi and some microorganisms, mating can involve compatible mating types that must encounter each other to initiate sexual reproduction.

Courtship and mate choice: Many species use signals such as visual displays, songs, dances, and chemical cues called pheromones to attract mates and assess compatibility. Sexual selection favors traits that increase mating success, which can lead to sexual dimorphism and elaborate behaviors in some taxa.

Mating systems: Species exhibit diverse mating systems. Monogamy involves a long-term pairing of two individuals; polygyny and polyandry involve one sex mating with multiple partners; promiscuity describes mating with multiple partners without enduring pair bonds. Social structure, parental care, and ecological factors influence these systems. Some species form lekking gatherings where females choose among solitary males.

Reproduction and fertilization: Following mating, fertilization may be internal or external, depending on the species. Offspring viability is influenced by parental investment, sperm competition, and cryptic female choice. Parental care varies widely, from no care to substantial care by one or both parents.

Evolutionary context: Mating behavior shapes genetic diversity and adaptation, balancing sexual selection with survival and fecundity. Environmental factors such as resource availability, population density, and predation influence mating timing, strategies, and reproductive success.