What are Oviparous Animals?

Oviparous animals are species that reproduce by laying eggs, from which their offspring hatch after a period of development outside the mother's body. These animals typically do not give birth to live young, but instead, the eggs contain all the necessary nutrients for the developing embryos. The eggs are often laid in safe environments, such as nests or burrows, where they can develop without harm.

Explanation:

In the process of reproduction, oviparous animals produce eggs that contain the embryo in a protective covering, usually an eggshell. The development of the embryo takes place inside the egg, where it is nourished by the yolk. Once the embryo has fully developed, it hatches from the egg and emerges as a young organism.

Some well-known examples of oviparous animals include:

• Birds: Most birds, such as chickens, eagles, and sparrows, lay eggs that hatch outside the body.

• Reptiles: Snakes, lizards, and turtles are also oviparous, laying their eggs in nests.

• Amphibians: Frogs and salamanders lay eggs in water, where the larvae hatch and mature.

• Fish: Many species of fish, such as salmon and goldfish, lay eggs in aquatic environments.

The key characteristic that distinguishes oviparous animals is the external development of the offspring within eggs, contrasting with viviparous animals, which give birth to live young after internal development.

Thus, oviparous reproduction is an important biological strategy that allows many species to multiply and thrive in various environments.