Is there a canonical reason why the One must choose an unequal number of males and females to rebuild the population? I would have expected an equal number of males and females. Or, if the purpose was more females for a quicker rebuilding, 2 females for every male, but this isn't the case... So where do these numbers come from? Quote below...
The Architect: The function of the One is now to return to the Source, allowing a temporary dissemination of the code you carry, reinserting the Prime program, after which you will be required to select from the Matrix 23 individuals - 16 female, 7 male - to rebuild Zion. Failure to comply with this process will result in a cataclysmic system crash, killing everyone connected to the Matrix, which coupled with the extermination of Zion will ultimately result in the extinction of the entire human race.