Why are the eggs of most terrestrial animals surrounded by a shell, while the eggs of aquatic species are not surrounded by a shell?
Question #72184. Asked by zh1322.
Brainyblonde
Answer has 6 votes
Currently Best Answer
Brainyblonde 24 year member
1455 replies
Answer has 6 votes.
Currently voted the best answer.
The most common reproductive strategy for fish is known as oviparity, in which the female lays undeveloped eggs that are externally fertilized by a male.
The greatest concern of terrestrial animals is breaking or maybe drying out. The creatures inside also need more support for a longer time. There are probably many small reasons for it.
Aquatic species, frogs, fish, amphibians, are have other problems. Many of them are coated in goo so that they will stick to plants and rocks and not float away. The structure must also keep the nutrients for the offspring from leeching out of the egg into the surrounding water.