Polygynandry accurately describes the mating system in certain salamander species where male-female pairs have multiple partners in a breeding season.​

This CSIR NET Life Sciences question tests understanding of animal mating systems, specifically in amphibians like salamanders.​

Option Explanations

Monogamy involves one male pairing exclusively with one female for mating and often parental care. This does not fit salamanders with multiple partners.​

Polyandry features one female mating with multiple males, while males typically mate with one female. Salamander scenarios specify pairs with multiple partners on both sides.​

Polygyny occurs when one male mates with multiple females, but females mate with only one male. This excludes mutual multiple partnering.​

Polygynandry (also called promiscuity) means both males and females have multiple mates in a breeding season, leading to multiple paternity. Studies confirm this in salamanders like Salamandrina perspicillata and Ambystoma maculatum.​

Correct Answer

(D) polygynandry matches the description of male-female pairs having multiple partners.​

In salamander mating systems polygynandry, male-female pairs have multiple partners during breeding seasons, boosting genetic diversity. This system prevails in species like spotted and spectacled salamanders through spermatophore deposition and polyandrous female choices.​

Mating System Definitions

• Monogamy: Exclusive one-male-one-female pairing, rare in amphibians.​

• Polyandry: One female with many males, common but not mutual in salamanders.​

• Polygyny: One male with many females, seen in some territorial species.​

• Polygynandry: Both sexes with multiple mates, as in explosive group breedings.​

Benefits in Salamanders

Polygynandry enhances offspring heterozygosity via genetically diverse sires. Females store sperm from multiple males, selecting via cryptic choice. Males compete by covering rivals’ spermatophores.​

CSIR NET Relevance

Questions on salamander mating systems polygynandry test evolutionary biology and behavioral ecology for exams. Genetic studies using microsatellites confirm multiple paternity.​