Due to the chance that they may be eaten during or after copulation, male spiders use genital mutilation to increase their chances of successful mating. The male can increase his chances of paternity if the female's copulatory organs are blocked, which decreases sperm competition and her chances of mating with other males. In one study, females with mating plugs had a 75% lower chance of re-mating.
To safeguard against being consumed during or after mating, male spiders utilize genital mutilation to augment their chances of successful copulation. By hindering the female's reproductive capabilities, the male can decrease sperm competition and elevate his own paternity prospects. Studies have demonstrated that females with mating plugs exhibit a 75% lower inclination for re-mating.