Marsupials are found in Australia and are

Options

A. viviparous
B. oviparous
C. ovo-viviparous
D. omnivorous

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Marsupials**: Marsupials are a group of mammals known for their unique reproductive system. They are characterized by having a pouch in which they carry and nurse their young.

**Hint**: Remember that marsupials are often referred to as "pouched mammals."

2. **Reproductive Characteristics**: Marsupials are classified as viviparous animals. This means that they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.

**Hint**: Viviparous means live birth; think about how this differs from oviparous (egg-laying) and ovoviviparous (eggs that hatch inside the mother).

3. **Gestation Period**: Marsupials have a short gestation period. This means that the embryo develops only for a brief time inside the mother's body before being born at a very early stage of development.

**Hint**: Consider how the short gestation period affects the development of the young marsupials.

4. **Development After Birth**: After birth, the young marsupials continue their development outside the mother's body, often in the safety of the pouch where they can nurse and grow.

**Hint**: Think about the advantages of having a pouch for the young marsupials.

5. **Examples of Marsupials**: Common examples of marsupials include kangaroos, koalas, and bandicoots. These animals are primarily found in Australia and are known for their distinctive reproductive habits.

**Hint**: When thinking of marsupials, visualize the iconic kangaroo and its pouch.

6. **Geographical Distribution**: Marsupials are endemic to Australia, meaning they are native to this region and not found naturally in other parts of the world.

**Hint**: Remember that "endemic" refers to species that are unique to a specific geographic area.

**Final Answer**: Marsupials are found in Australia and are viviparous animals.

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