How is polygyny defined in animal breeding practices?

Polygyny is defined in animal breeding practices as a mating system where one male mates with several females. This strategy allows males to increase their reproductive success by maximizing the number of offspring produced, as a single male can fertilize the eggs of multiple females. It's commonly observed in various species where males may compete for access to females, and it can lead to a skewed sex ratio in the offspring due to the reproductive focus placed on select males. This system can be advantageous for males in terms of genetic dissemination, while females may benefit from the genetic diversity provided by mating with a more dominant or superior male.

The other definitions represent different mating systems. One female mated with several males describes polyandry. Mutual mating between pairs refers to monogamy, while stable monogamous pairs signifies a lasting bond between a single male and female, contrasting with polygyny's focus on male access to multiple female partners.