Viviparous reproduction can be defined as _____.

Viviparous reproduction is characterized by the development of embryos inside the body of the parent, leading to the birth of live offspring. This mode of reproduction is prevalent in various animal groups, including some fish, mammals, and certain invertebrates. In viviparous organisms, the young receive nutrients directly from the parent rather than from yolk stored in an egg. This method provides several advantages, such as increased survival rates for the offspring, as they are more developed when born and can adapt to their environment more quickly.

Understanding the essence of viviparous reproduction clarifies why it is distinct from egg-laying (oviparous) and other forms of reproduction. Egg-laying reproduction involves laying eggs that develop outside the parent, while mouth-brooding refers to a strategy where one parent (often the female) carries fertilized eggs or young in its mouth for protection. These definitions underscore that live-bearing encompasses the essential features of viviparity, making it the correct choice for defining this reproductive strategy.