Polygynandry

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Polygynandry occurs when two or more males have an exclusive relationship with two or more females. The numbers of males and females need not be equal, and in vertebrate species studied so far, the number of males is usually lower. Polygynandry can occur in polygynous mating systems when the population gets too large for males to successfully keep exclusive harems.^[1] Polygynandrous groups will often contain related males. The advantage of this form of polygamy is greater genetic diversity, less need for males to compete with each other and greater protection for the young. ^[2]

Animals

Bonobos

In bonobos society polygynandry is commonplace. Every female may be approached by and copulate with any male with the exception of her adult sons.^[3]

See also

• Promiscuity
• Group marriage
• Polyamory

References

1. ^ http://www.ratbehavior.org/WildRats.htm#MatingSystem
2. ^ http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/adaptations/Polygynandry
3. ^ http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Pan_paniscus.html Fourth paragraph discussing reproduction.

External links

• Bonobo Sex and Society

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