SNAKES ARE OVIPAROUS BECAUSE THEY PRODUCE EGGS

Explanation:
Snakes are a diverse group of reptiles that belong to the suborder Serpentes. They can be found in various habitats worldwide, except in Antarctica. One of the significant characteristics of snakes is their reproductive method. Most snakes are oviparous, which means they reproduce by laying eggs. Let's explore why snakes are oviparous in detail.

Oviparous Reproduction:
Oviparous reproduction is a method of reproduction in which animals lay eggs that develop and hatch outside the mother's body. This reproductive strategy can be observed in various groups of animals, including snakes. Snakes lay eggs that contain the developing embryos, and these eggs are usually covered with a protective shell.

Advantages of Oviparity in Snakes:
There are several advantages to being oviparous for snakes, which have contributed to the evolution and success of this reproductive strategy. Some of these advantages include:

1. Protection: By laying eggs, the developing embryos are protected from external threats and predators. The eggs provide a safe and controlled environment for the embryos to develop.

2. Energy Conservation: Producing eggs requires less energy compared to carrying and nourishing live young within the mother's body. Snakes are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. By laying eggs, they can conserve energy that would otherwise be spent on internally incubating the embryos.

3. Dispersal: Oviparous reproduction allows for the dispersal of offspring. Snakes lay their eggs in various locations, such as underground burrows or hidden areas, which increases the chances of survival for the offspring. Once hatched, the young snakes can disperse and find suitable habitats.

Exceptions to Oviparity:
While most snakes are oviparous, there are exceptions to this rule. Some snake species are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. In viviparous snakes, the embryos develop inside the mother's body and receive nourishment directly from her through a placenta-like structure. This reproductive strategy is advantageous in colder climates where external incubation may not be feasible.

In conclusion, snakes are oviparous because they produce eggs. This reproductive strategy provides several advantages such as protection, energy conservation, and dispersal of offspring. While most snakes are oviparous, there are exceptions where some species give birth to live young.

Correct option is 'A'. Because oviparous means- animal producing eggs, and snakes are oviparous, so correct option is 'A'.