VIVIPAROUS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "viviparous" is an adjective that derives from the Latin words "vivus" meaning "alive" and "parere" meaning "to bring forth." It refers to a mode of reproduction in certain animals where the offspring are born alive, rather than hatching from an egg. Viviparity is observed in various species across the animal kingdom, including mammals, some reptiles, and some fish. It is the opposite of oviparity, where animals lay eggs.
In viviparous reproduction, the embryo develops inside the mother's body, receiving nourishment through a specialized structure such as a placenta or yolk sac. This allows for direct transfer of nutrients and waste products between the mother and the developing offspring. The mother's body provides a protected environment for the embryo to grow and develop until it is ready to be born. After a gestation period, the offspring is typically delivered live, either through live birth or hatching from an egg within the mother.
Viviparity is most commonly found in mammals, where it is the predominant mode of reproduction. Humans, whales, dogs, and cats are all examples of viviparous mammals. In reptiles, viviparity can be observed in certain species of snakes and lizards. It is considered an advantageous reproductive strategy in some environments, as it allows for greater parental care and protection of the developing offspring. However, it also requires more energy from the mother to support the growth and development of the embryo, making it a selective trait in certain circumstances.
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Giving birth to living young, in distinction to oviparous.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Producing young alive and perfectly developed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for VIVIPAROUS
Etymology of VIVIPAROUS
The word viviparous has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the combination of two Latin words: vivus, meaning alive, and parere, meaning to bring forth or to bear. Thus, viviparous essentially means giving live birth or bearing live offspring.
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