Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What type of mating system maximizes production with the fewest breeders?

1. Cohousing

2. Harem mating

3. Pair mating

4. Sequential mating

The correct answer is: Harem mating

The harem mating system is particularly effective in maximizing production with the fewest breeders because it involves pairing one male with multiple females. This setup allows for the male to breed with several females concurrently, significantly increasing the number of offspring produced without requiring a large number of breeding males. In contrast, pair mating involves one male and one female, which limits the number of offspring to only two potential parents. Sequential mating requires specific timing and management, which can complicate breeding efficiency. Cohousing, where different breeding pairs are kept together in a communal environment, may lead to competition and aggression, impacting successful breeding rates. Thus, harem mating provides a practical and efficient approach to animal breeding in laboratory settings where maximizing output while minimizing the number of breeders is essential.