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Viviparous Reproduction

Viviparous animals give birth to live young, with embryos developing inside the parent’s body and receiving nutrients directly through a placenta or yolk sac placenta. This mode of reproduction is most commonly associated with mammals, but it is also found in some reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

Viviparity offers igher survival rates for offspring, as they are born in a more developed state and receive parental care in many species. However, since gestation requires significant energy investment, fewer offspring are produced per reproductive cycle compared to oviparous species.

Examples of viviparous species include:

  • Mammals – Most species, from humans to whales, develop their young inside the mother, with nourishment provided via a placenta.
  • Some sharks – Species like hammerhead sharks nourish their embryos through a placental connection before giving birth.
  • Some reptiles – Certain lizards and snakes, like boa constrictors, retain their embryos and give birth to live young.
  • Some amphibians – A few species of frogs, like the Surinam toad, carry embryos internally until they hatch.

Viviparity is considered an advanced reproductive strategy, increasing the chances of survival for newborns but requiring greater parental investment and longer gestation periods.