Internal fertilization is the process of fertilization that occurs within the body of a female organism. This type of fertilization is common in many species of animals, including humans. During internal fertilization, the sperm are released into the female reproductive tract and then travel to the egg, where it fertilizes the egg. This type of fertilization is advantageous because it allows the sperm to be protected from the environment and increases the chances of successful fertilization.
External fertilization is the process of fertilization that occurs outside of the body of a female organism. This type of fertilization is common in many species of aquatic animals, such as fish and amphibians. During external fertilization, the sperm are released into the water and then travel to the egg, where it fertilizes the egg. This type of fertilization is advantageous because it allows the sperm to be exposed to a larger number of eggs, increasing the chances of successful fertilization.
The main difference between internal and external fertilization is the location of the fertilization process. Internal fertilization occurs within the body of the female organism, while external fertilization occurs outside of the body of the female organism. Additionally, internal fertilization is more common in terrestrial animals, while external fertilization is more common in aquatic animals.
Internal fertilization is advantageous because it allows the sperm to be protected from the environment and increases the chances of successful fertilization. Additionally, internal fertilization allows for the development of a more complex reproductive system, as the sperm can travel through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg. This type of fertilization is also advantageous because it allows for the development of a more complex reproductive system, as the sperm can travel through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg.
External fertilization is advantageous because it allows the sperm to be exposed to a larger number of eggs, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. Additionally, external fertilization allows for the development of a more complex reproductive system, as the sperm can travel through the water and reach the egg. This type of fertilization is also advantageous because it allows for the development of a more complex reproductive system, as the sperm can travel through the water and reach the egg.
Internal Fertilization v/s External Fertilization
| S.No. | Internal Fertilization | External Fertilization |
| 1. | The fusion of male and female gametes takes place inside the body of the female animal | The fusion of gametes takes place outside the body of the female animal |
| 2. | The egg may be covered with a hard cell | The egg is either not covered with a hard cell or if covered then it has a hole called the micropyle |
| 3. | It takes place in ovoviviparous or viviparous animals | It takes place in oviparous animals |
In conclusion, the main difference between internal and external fertilization is the location of the fertilization process. Internal fertilization occurs within the body of the female organism, while external fertilization occurs outside of the body of the female organism.
Additionally, internal fertilization is more common in terrestrial animals, while external fertilization is more common in aquatic animals. Both types of fertilization have their advantages and disadvantages, and the type of fertilization used will depend on the species of animal.
