Aplacental meaning

Aplacental refers to animals that lack a placenta connection to nourish their young during gestation.


Aplacental definitions

Word backwards latnecalpa
Part of speech Adjective
Syllabic division a-pla-cen-tal
Plural The plural of aplacental is aplacentals.
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) a,e
Consonants (5) p,l,c,n,t

Within the animal kingdom, there exists a fascinating group of creatures known as aplacental mammals. These unique animals belong to the order Marsupialia and are characterized by their distinctive reproductive system.

The Absence of Placenta

Unlike placental mammals, which nourish their developing offspring through the placenta in the uterus, aplacental mammals lack this structure. Instead, these animals give birth to highly underdeveloped young that continue to mature outside the womb in a pouch or nest.

Example of Aplacental Animals

One well-known example of an aplacental mammal is the kangaroo. Female kangaroos have a pouch where their young, known as joeys, complete their development after being born at a very early stage of development.

Reproductive Strategy

Due to the absence of a placenta, aplacental mammals have evolved unique reproductive strategies to ensure the survival of their offspring. This includes early birth and the protection of young in specialized pouches or nests.

Evolutionary Adaptations

The evolution of aplacental mammals showcases the incredible diversity of reproductive strategies within the animal kingdom. By adapting to their environment through specialized reproductive adaptations, these animals have thrived in various ecosystems.


Aplacental Examples

  1. The aplacental lizard gave birth to live young instead of laying eggs.
  2. The scientist's research focused on the evolutionary implications of an aplacental reproductive system.
  3. The mammal's aplacental development allowed for a more intimate connection with its mother.
  4. In some species, an aplacental reproductive strategy can be advantageous in harsh environments.
  5. The lack of a placenta in aplacental species necessitates alternative methods for nutrient transfer during pregnancy.
  6. Aplacental mammals have different physiological adaptations compared to placental mammals.
  7. Some researchers argue that the aplacental condition in certain animals may have evolved to minimize maternal investment.
  8. The presence of a placenta can influence the reproductive success of aplacental species.
  9. Aplacental development in reptiles has been a topic of interest for evolutionary biologists.
  10. The evolutionary origin of aplacental reproduction remains a subject of ongoing study.


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  • Updated 20/05/2024 - 09:36:29