A consequence of free spawning in marine species. Due to water currents, obstructions, and other unpredictable variables that control the mixing of eggs and sperm, a few individuals may end up contributing their genes to a large proportion of the next generation. These individuals are analogous to the "winners" of the sweepstakes, since their genes have been selected for, though not necessarily through any functional benefit. In fact, sweepstakes recruitment may end up causing more problems for the population since it increases the chances of inbreeding.