What defines a polygamous breeding system?

A polygamous breeding system is characterized by an arrangement in which one male mates with multiple females. This system is typical in various animal species where males can maximize their reproductive success by mating with several females, thereby increasing their chances of passing on their genes. In a polygamous system, the male often defends a territory or a group of females, ensuring that he has reproductive access to them.

This arrangement stands in contrast to monogamous systems, where a single male pairs with a single female, and polyandrous systems, where a female mates with multiple males. The other options describe different mating configurations. In option A, one male with one female indicates a monogamous relationship. Option B, one female with multiple males, refers to a polyandrous structure, and option D describes pair mating, which does not inherently define a polygamous context as it can involve single pairings or monogamous arrangements.

Overall, the definition of a polygamous breeding system is best captured by the scenario of one male with multiple females, reflecting the breeding dynamics that allow for multiple matings by the male.