Oviparity

Pronunciation: /oh-vuh-PAIR-uh-tee/

Category: Reproductive Behavior

Singular: Oviparity

Plural: Oviparities

Definition

The reproductive method in which animals lay eggs, with embryos developing outside of the mother's body.

Etymology

From Latin 'ovum' meaning 'egg' and 'parere' meaning 'to bring forth'.

Example

Oviparity is commonly observed in insects like butterflies and grasshoppers, where females lay fertilized eggs that develop and hatch outside the maternal body.

Synonyms

Egg-laying

Related Terms

Viviparity
Ovoviviparity
Embryo
Egg

Usage Notes

Oviparity is contrasted with other reproductive strategies like viviparity and ovoviviparity, where the offspring develop inside the mother's body.