Oviparous animals are those that lay eggs, which then develop into young ones. Viviparous animals, on the other hand, give birth to live young ones. Metamorphosis and binary fission are different reproductive processes.

Understanding Oviparous Animals
Oviparous animals are those that reproduce by laying eggs. This term is derived from the Latin words "ovum," meaning egg, and "parere," meaning to lay or produce.
Key Characteristics of Oviparous Animals:
- Egg Laying: Oviparous species lay eggs outside their bodies. These eggs often have protective shells and contain the developing embryo.
- Development Process: After laying, the eggs develop outside the mother's body. The duration of development varies across species, influenced by environmental factors like temperature and humidity.
- Examples: Common examples of oviparous animals include birds, reptiles, amphibians, and many fish. Each group has unique reproductive strategies and egg-laying behaviors.
Comparison with Other Reproductive Strategies:
- Viviparous: This term refers to animals that give birth to live young, with embryos developing inside the mother's body. Examples include mammals like humans and elephants.
- Metamorphic: This term describes animals that undergo metamorphosis, transforming from juvenile to adult forms. While many oviparous animals experience metamorphosis (e.g., frogs), the term itself does not define egg-laying.
- Binary Fission: This is a form of asexual reproduction common in unicellular organisms, such as bacteria, where the organism divides into two identical cells. It is unrelated to the egg-laying process.
Conclusion:
In summary, oviparous animals are characterized by their unique method of reproduction through egg-laying. This reproductive strategy is vital for many species and plays a significant role in the diversity of life on Earth. Understanding these concepts is essential for topics covered in UPSC examinations.