What Is Sham Mating In Animals
By: NDTVNewsDesk
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Sham mating is when animals engage in sexual behaviour without any actual reproduction occurring.
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This means eggs are not released, or fertilisation does not happen.
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This behavior is observed in various species such as lampreys, octopus and squid.
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This can include a range of behaviours that mimic actual mating, such as courtship rituals, mounting, or simulated copulation.
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Researchers have discovered that many female lampreys engage in sham mating.
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This allows them to assess potential mates in crowded spawning areas before actual reproduction.
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For other species, like some squid, sham mating may be a form of practice to improve their mating skills or establish dominance.
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According to scientists, this phenomenon may serve various social or evolutionary functions beyond reproduction.
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