Oviparity

Reproduction is a vital step in the sustainability of all living things, and the consequences of unsuccessful reproduction can be catastrophic for a species. Therefore, it is not surprising that multiple strategies have evolved over time in order to ensure offspring will be viable and competitive members of a population. One of the basic features of reproductive success is providing offspring an environment with the necessary features for effective development, such as nutrients and water, temperature control and protection from predators. Oviparity and viviparity are two methods that provide developing embryos with the environment they require to successfully develop. Oviparity can be defined as a reproductive mode where a portion of embryonic…

possum occurs internally, where the male tries to mate with the female and this take around 30-40 days before oestrus occurs but once the female accepts, then mating would occur (Mckay & Winter,1987,pg 11). If fertilization occurs internally within the female then parturition would occur on day 16 to day 18.While in the male possum a typical mammalian spermatogenesis occurs (Mckay & Winter, 1987,pg 11). The activity of reproduction depends on the change in the size of the prostate gland and this…