Ovoviviparous
Ovoviviparity is a mode of reproduction in animals in which embryos develop inside eggs that are retained within the mother's body until they are ready to hatch. This method of reproduction is similar to viviparity, but differs in that there is no placental connection and the unborn young are nourished by egg yolk; the mother's body does provide gas exchange (respiration), but she does not supply nutrients to her unborn offspring.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Ovoviviparous animals are similar to viviparous species in which there is internal fertilization and the young ones are born alive, but differ in that there is no placental connection and the unborn young are nourished by egg yolk. The mother's body does provide gas exchange (respiration), but she does not supply nutrients to her unborn offspring.
Examples[edit | edit source]
Examples of ovoviviparous organisms include many species of reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. Some examples of ovoviviparous fish include the guppy, and angel shark. Some reptiles and invertebrates that are ovoviviparous include certain species of cockroach and scorpion.
Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]
The main advantage of ovoviviparity over oviparity (egg-laying) is that the developing embryos are protected from predators and environmental conditions. However, this method of reproduction can be more energetically costly to the mother than oviparity.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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