ing success. Sperm competition can have profound effects
on the most effective mating tactics of males, and males
have evolved precopulatory and postcopulatory strategies
to counter it, ranging from behavioral (e.g., mate guarding)
to physiological (e.g., modification of sperm investments).
However, a strong male precedence in fertilization success,
either as a first or last male, also may affect the resource
value of a receptive female, leading males to be more selec-
tive in their choice of mates.
The mating strategies of male rodents are influenced by
competition with other males and by the mating strategies
of females. Mating patterns of rodents, and likely mam-
mals in general, are dominated by promiscuous mating sys-
tems more than polygynous ones. Even when overt com-
bat among males appears lacking, intense sexual selection
among males may be occurring through less obvious forms
of competition.Male Mating Strategies in Rodents 41