Which term describes mammals that reproduce multiple times during their life?

• A. Iteroparous
• B. Semelparous
• C. Monogynous
• D. Polygynous

Answer: (A)

Reproductive strategy across a lifetime is what this term captures: some mammals reproduce more than once during their lives, while others invest in a single, big reproductive effort. The term that describes mammals that reproduce multiple times is iteroparous. It contrasts with semelparous, which means giving birth or reproducing just once and often dying afterward. The other two options describe mating systems rather than timing of reproduction: monogynous refers to one mate in a social or reproductive pairing, and polygynous means one sex has multiple mating partners. Among mammals, iteroparous species commonly reproduce across several seasons or years, providing repeated opportunities for offspring.