Organisms Reproduction

Modes of Reproduction

There are three modes of reproduction that the organisms follow to give rise to the young one.

• Oviparity

Oviparity is the birth of young ones from eggs. Individuals lay eggs that contain the embryo which may or may not have undergone embryonic development within the mother. Oviparity may have fertilization externally where the fertilization occurs outside the bodies of the individuals and internally where, after the fertilization has taken place inside the body of an individual, it lays eggs that hatch into young ones.

Examples- Birds, fishes, reptiles, etc. 

• Viviparity

Viviparity is the growth of the embryo inside the maternal body till it reaches the larvae stage or s stage where it is capable of independent existence. In Viviparity, the embryo goes through various developmental stages, deriving nutrition from the mother through the placenta or other similar structure till it’s fully grown into a young one.

Humans are viviparous. Other examples like higher sharks, whales, amphibians, etc.

• Ovoviviparity

It is the mode of reproduction in which the embryo in the egg remains inside the mother’s body until it is ready to hatch. Animals like sharks, rays, some fishes, snakes, and insects are ovoviviparous. 

Reproduction- A Life process

All the processes which are necessary for the survival of an organism and must take place in order to continue life are called life processes. This includes Metabolism, Nutrition, Respiration, Growth, Movement, Sensitivity, Digestion, Excretion, and Reproduction.

Reproduction ensures continuity of life. It ensures the existence of species and biodiversity. It is the basis of evolutions. Therefore, reproduction is considered one of the life processes that must take place for life to exist on Earth.