Final answer:
The unique mating strategy of some anglerfish, where smaller males permanently attach to a larger female and supply sperm for fertilization, is an example of polyandry. This form of mating, where a female has multiple male partners, is also seen in species like seahorses and pipefish, and is generally less common than other mating systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anglerfish mating strategy serves as an example of polyandry, where one female mates with multiple males. Unlike polygynous systems, where a single male mates with many females, or promiscuous systems where many males mate with many females without forming bonds, polyandry involves a female being central to the reproductive process with several males. Anglerfish exhibit a clear polyandrous pattern, as one female has multiple smaller males attached to her, which supply sperm when she is ready to reproduce.
Examples of polyandry can also be seen in other species such as pipefishes and seahorses, where the females can supply eggs to multiple males. In these species, males play a prominent role in carrying and birthing the offspring. This biological strategy allows for the diversification of genetics as the female mates with multiple males, enhancing the reproductive success of the species.