External and Internal Fertilization (Oviparity, Viviparity and Ovoviparity)

Topic Content:

Reproduction is a fundamental feature of life. Organisms exist as a result of reproduction.

Reproduction is a biological process by which new offspring are produced from their parents.

The reproductive processes in vertebrates vary depending on their environment whether aquatic or terrestrial. Most aquatic organisms require water for fertilization. Fertilization in animals may be external or internal.

External Fertilization:

External fertilization occurs commonly in aquatic habitats. In this mode of fertilization, the eggs and sperm are released into the water. After the sperm reaches the egg fertilization can then take place outside the body of the organism. This type of fertilization is common in fishes and amphibians, which usually lay many small eggs to ensure that they get fertilized since many of the eggs are eaten by other animals.

Internal Fertilization:

Internal fertilization