20 Animals that lay eggs

Egg-laying animals, also known as oviparous animals, are those animals that lay eggs as a means of reproduction. These animals produce and lay eggs outside of their bodies, and the eggs typically hatch into young animals after a certain period of incubation.

Egg-laying animals can be found in a variety of different classes and orders within the animal kingdom, including birds, reptiles, insects, fish, and even some mammals. The process of egg-laying is essential for the continuation of many species, as it allows them to reproduce without the need for a mate or direct contact with another individual of their species.

While the process of egg-laying can vary somewhat between different species of animals, it generally involves the female producing eggs within her body, which are then laid either on land or in water. The eggs are then fertilized by sperm from a male, either before or after they are laid, depending on the species.

Once the eggs are laid, they are typically left to develop and incubate on their own, either through natural environmental conditions or through the actions of the parent animal. This process can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

Egg-laying is a vital reproductive strategy for many animals, allowing them to produce and raise offspring in a wide range of different environments and circumstances.   

Benefits of egg-laying animals

There are several benefits of egg-laying animals, both for the animals themselves and for the ecosystems in which they live.

Here are some of the main advantages:

Increased reproductive efficiency: Egg-laying animals are able to reproduce without the need for direct contact with a mate, which can be particularly beneficial in environments where potential mates are scarce or difficult to find.

Protection for developing embryos: The eggs produced by egg-laying animals provide a protective environment for developing embryos, shielding them from external threats such as predators, parasites, and environmental stressors.

Adaptability to different environments: The ability to lay eggs allows animals to adapt to a wide range of environments, as they can lay their eggs in suitable locations such as soil, water, or vegetation, depending on their specific needs.

Reduced energy expenditure: In many cases, the act of laying eggs is less energetically demanding than carrying and giving birth to live young, allowing egg-laying animals to conserve energy and allocate more resources to other tasks such as foraging or parental care.

Increased genetic diversity: By producing large numbers of eggs, egg-laying animals are able to increase the genetic diversity of their offspring, which can help to promote adaptation and resilience to changing environmental conditions.

The ability to lay eggs is an important adaptation that has allowed many species of animals to thrive and survive in a variety of different environments, and has played a key role in shaping the diversity of life on our planet.   

1. Chicken

Chicken is a domesticated bird that is widely used for its meat and eggs. It is also one of the most common egg-laying animals in the world, with an estimated 300-400 eggs laid per year by each hen.

Here are some key facts about chicken eggs:

Size: Chicken eggs are oval in shape and typically measure around 5-6 cm in length and 4-5 cm in width.

Color: Chicken eggs can come in a range of colors, including white, brown, and even blue or green. The color of the eggshell is determined by the breed of chicken and has no impact on the nutritional value of the egg.

Nutritional value: Chicken eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein, as well as several essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, choline, and selenium.

Incubation: The incubation period for chicken eggs is around 21 days, during which time the embryo develops and hatches into a chick.

Uses: Chicken eggs are used in a wide range of culinary applications, from baking and cooking to breakfast dishes such as omelets and scrambled eggs.In addition to their nutritional value and culinary uses, chicken eggs are also an important economic resource, with the global egg industry valued at over $100 billion annually.   

2. Emu

The emu is a large, flightless bird native to Australia and is the second-largest bird in the world, after the ostrich. Emus are also egg-laying animals, with females laying large, dark green eggs that can weigh up to 1.5 pounds (700 grams).

Here are some key facts about emu eggs:

Size and appearance: Emu eggs are larger than chicken eggs, with an average length of around 13 cm (5 inches) and a diameter of around 9 cm (3.5 inches). They have a dark green shell that is rough and bumpy in texture.

Nutritional value: Emu eggs are high in protein and contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Incubation: The incubation period for emu eggs is around 50-60 days, during which time the embryo develops and hatches into a chick.

Uses: Emu eggs are used in a similar way to chicken eggs, although their larger size means they are often used for special occasions or in commercial food production. The eggshells are also sometimes used for decorative purposes.

In addition to their use as a food source, emus are also farmed for their oil, which is extracted from their fat and used in a range of cosmetic and medicinal products. Emus are also used for their meat, leather, and feathers, making them an important economic resource in some regions of Australia.   

3. Ostrich

The ostrich is the largest living bird species and is native to Africa. Like the emu, ostriches are flightless birds that lay eggs. Ostrich eggs are the largest of any living bird species and can weigh up to 1.4 kg (3 pounds).

Here are some key facts about ostrich eggs:

Size and appearance: Ostrich eggs are the largest of any living bird species, measuring around 15-18 cm (6-7 inches) in length and 12-15 cm (5-6 inches) in diameter. They have a smooth, glossy shell that is white in color.

Nutritional value: Ostrich eggs are rich in protein and contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and calcium. They also contain more total fat than chicken eggs.

Incubation: The incubation period for ostrich eggs is around 42-46 days, during which time the embryo develops and hatches into a chick.

Uses: Ostrich eggs are used in a similar way to chicken and emu eggs, although their larger size means they are often used for special occasions or in commercial food production. The eggshells are also sometimes used for decorative purposes.

In addition to their use as a food source, ostriches are farmed for their meat, leather, and feathers, which are used in a range of products such as fashion accessories and home decor. Ostrich farming is an important industry in some regions of the world, including South Africa and the United States.

4. Duck

Ducks are waterfowl birds that are commonly farmed for their meat, feathers, and eggs. Duck eggs are a popular alternative to chicken eggs in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia and Europe.

Here are some key facts about duck eggs:

Size and appearance: Duck eggs are larger than chicken eggs, with an average length of around 7.5 cm (3 inches) and a diameter of around 5 cm (2 inches). They have a slightly thicker shell than chicken eggs and range in color from white to light blue or green.

Nutritional value: Duck eggs are a good source of high-quality protein and contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and selenium.

Incubation: The incubation period for duck eggs is around 28-35 days, during which time the embryo develops and hatches into a duckling.

Uses: Duck eggs are used in a similar way to chicken eggs, although their larger size and richer flavor make them a popular choice for baking and cooking. They are also used in traditional dishes in many parts of the world, including Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine.

Duck eggs are also an important economic resource, particularly in countries where they are widely consumed. In addition to their use as a food source, ducks are farmed for their meat and feathers, which are used in a range of products such as down jackets and pillows.   

5. Turtle  

Turtles are reptiles that lay eggs on land, usually in a hole or a nest dug by the female turtle. While turtle eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, they are an important part of the diet for many animals, including birds, raccoons, and other predators.

Here are some key facts about turtle eggs:

Size and appearance: Turtle eggs vary in size and appearance depending on the species of turtle. Most turtle eggs have a round or oval shape and are covered in a soft, leathery shell.

Nutritional value: While turtle eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, they are a good source of protein for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for turtle eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of turtle. Some species hatch within a few months, while others may take several years to hatch.

Protection: Turtle eggs are vulnerable to predation by animals such as raccoons, foxes, and birds. In some regions, efforts are made to protect turtle nests from predation by fencing them off or relocating them to safer locations.

While turtle eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, they are an important part of the food chain and ecosystem. Turtles themselves are also an important resource for many cultures, who use their meat, shells, and other parts for food, medicine, and cultural practices.

However, many turtle species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and over-harvesting, making their conservation a critical priority.   

6. Crocodile

Crocodiles are large, aquatic reptiles that lay eggs on land. Crocodile eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, but they are an important food source for many animals, including predators such as monitor lizards and birds of prey.

Here are some key facts about crocodile eggs:

Size and appearance: Crocodile eggs vary in size depending on the species of crocodile. Most crocodile eggs have a spherical or elliptical shape and a tough, leathery shell.

Nutritional value: While crocodile eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, they are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for crocodile eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of crocodile. Some species hatch within a few months, while others may take more than a year to hatch.

Protection: Crocodile eggs are vulnerable to predation by animals such as monitor lizards, birds of prey, and other predators. Female crocodiles typically guard their nests and young to protect them from predators.

While crocodile eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, crocodiles themselves are an important resource for many cultures, who use their meat, skin, and other parts for food, medicine, and cultural practices. However, many crocodile species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

7. Alligator

Alligators are large, semi-aquatic reptiles that lay eggs on land. Alligator eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, but they are an important food source for many animals, including raccoons, birds of prey, and other predators.

Here are some key facts about alligator eggs:

Size and appearance: Alligator eggs are typically oval-shaped and have a tough, leathery shell. The size of the eggs depends on the size of the female alligator, with larger females laying larger eggs.

Nutritional value: While alligator eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, they are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for alligator eggs is typically around 60-65 days. Female alligators typically lay their eggs in a nest made of vegetation, which they guard and protect until the eggs hatch.

Protection: Alligator eggs are vulnerable to predation by animals such as raccoons, birds of prey, and other predators. Female alligators typically guard their nests and young to protect them from predators.

While alligator eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, alligators themselves are an important resource for many cultures, who use their meat, skin, and other parts for food, medicine, and cultural practices. However, many alligator species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

8. Snake  

Snakes are legless, elongated reptiles that are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs on land. Snake eggs are typically elongated and have a leathery or rubbery shell. Snakes are not commonly consumed by humans, but their eggs are an important food source for many animals, including birds, mammals, and other reptiles.

Here are some key facts about snake eggs:

Size and appearance: Snake eggs vary in size depending on the species of snake, but are typically elongated and have a leathery or rubbery shell. The color of the eggshell can vary greatly depending on the species of snake.

Nutritional value: Snake eggs are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for snake eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of snake. Some species hatch within a few weeks, while others may take several months.

Protection: Snake eggs are vulnerable to predation by animals such as birds, mammals, and other reptiles. Female snakes typically lay their eggs in a nest made of vegetation, which they may guard and protect until the eggs hatch.

While snake eggs are not commonly consumed by humans, snakes themselves are an important resource for many cultures, who use their meat, skin, and other parts for food, medicine, and cultural practices. However, many snake species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

9. Butterfly 

Butterflies are insects that go through a complete metamorphosis, including an egg stage. Butterfly eggs are usually small, round, and have a hard, smooth surface. Butterflies themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but their eggs play an important role in the ecosystem as a food source for predators such as birds, spiders, and other insects.

Here are some key facts about butterfly eggs:

Size and appearance: Butterfly eggs are typically small and round, and have a hard, smooth surface. The size, shape, and color of the eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of butterfly.

Nutritional value: Butterfly eggs are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for butterfly eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of butterfly. Some species hatch within a few days, while others may take several weeks.

Protection: Butterfly eggs are vulnerable to predation by animals such as birds, spiders, and other insects. Female butterflies typically lay their eggs on or near plants that will provide food and shelter for the developing larvae.

Butterflies themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but they are important pollinators of plants and play a critical role in many ecosystems. However, many butterfly species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

10. Ant

Ants are social insects that go through a complete metamorphosis, including an egg stage. Ant eggs are usually small, oval-shaped, and have a soft, slightly sticky surface. Ants themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but their eggs and larvae are an important food source for many animals, including birds, mammals, and other insects.

Here are some key facts about ant eggs:

Size and appearance: Ant eggs are typically small and oval-shaped, and have a soft, slightly sticky surface. The size and color of the eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of ant.

Nutritional value: Ant eggs and larvae are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for ant eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of ant. Some species hatch within a few days, while others may take several weeks.

Protection: Ant eggs and larvae are vulnerable to predation by animals such as birds, mammals, and other insects. Ants typically protect their eggs and larvae by carrying them to safe locations or by building protective nests.

Ants themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but they play an important role in many ecosystems as decomposers, pollinators, and predators. However, some ant species can become pests in homes and gardens, and may require management to prevent damage and health risks.   

11. Grasshopper  

Grasshoppers are insects that go through an incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they do not have a distinct larval stage but instead develop through a series of molts. Grasshoppers lay their eggs in soil, and the eggs go through a period of dormancy before hatching. Grasshoppers themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but their eggs and young are an important food source for many animals, including birds, reptiles, and other insects.

Here are some key facts about grasshopper eggs:

Size and appearance: Grasshopper eggs are usually small, oval-shaped, and have a hard, smooth surface. The size, shape, and color of the eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of grasshopper.

Nutritional value: Grasshopper eggs and young are a good source of protein and nutrients for animals that feed on them.

Incubation: The incubation period for grasshopper eggs can vary greatly depending on the species of grasshopper and the environmental conditions. Some species hatch within a few weeks, while others may take several months.

Protection: Grasshopper eggs and young are vulnerable to predation by animals such as birds, reptiles, and other insects. Female grasshoppers typically lay their eggs in soil, where they may be protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions.

Grasshoppers themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but they are an important food source for many animals and play a critical role in many ecosystems as herbivores and prey species. However, some grasshopper species can become pests in agricultural settings, and may require management to prevent damage to crops.   

12. Bee  

Bees are social insects that go through a complete metamorphosis, including an egg stage. Bee eggs are small and elongated, and are deposited in cells within the hive by the queen bee. Bees themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but their larvae are an important source of protein and nutrients for the developing adult bees.

Here are some key facts about bee eggs:

Size and appearance: Bee eggs are small and elongated, and are typically less than 1 mm long. They have a smooth, shiny surface and are white or cream-colored.

Nutritional value: Bee eggs are not consumed directly by humans, but they are an important source of protein and nutrients for the developing larvae.

Incubation: The incubation period for bee eggs can vary depending on the species of bee and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 3 and 5 days.

Protection: Bee eggs are protected within the cells of the hive, and are tended to by worker bees who feed them a special mixture of food known as royal jelly.Bees themselves are not commonly consumed by humans, but they play a critical role in many ecosystems as pollinators of plants.

However, many bee species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

13. Salmon  

Salmon are anadromous fish, meaning they are born in freshwater streams and rivers, and then migrate to the ocean to mature before returning to their natal streams to spawn. During spawning, female salmon deposit their eggs in gravel beds within the streams or rivers. Salmon eggs are an important food source for many aquatic and terrestrial animals.

Here are some key facts about salmon eggs:

Size and appearance: Salmon eggs, also known as roe, are small and spherical, and are usually about the size of a pea. They are typically orange or reddish in color, although the color can vary depending on the species of salmon.

Nutritional value: Salmon eggs are a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients.

Incubation: The incubation period for salmon eggs can vary depending on the species of salmon and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 30 and 90 days.

Protection: Salmon eggs are deposited in gravel beds within streams or rivers, where they are protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions. Salmon themselves are an important food source for many people around the world, and are also an important part of many aquatic ecosystems.

However, many salmon populations are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, overfishing, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

14. Trout  

Trout are a type of freshwater fish that belong to the salmon family. Like salmon, trout are also anadromous, meaning they migrate from freshwater to the ocean to mature before returning to freshwater streams to spawn.

During spawning, female trout deposit their eggs in gravel beds within the streams or rivers. Trout eggs are an important food source for many aquatic and terrestrial animals.

Here are some key facts about trout eggs:

Size and appearance: Trout eggs, also known as roe, are small and spherical, and are usually about the size of a pea. They are typically orange or reddish in color, although the color can vary depending on the species of trout.

Nutritional value: Trout eggs are a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients.

Incubation: The incubation period for trout eggs can vary depending on the species of trout and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 30 and 90 days.

Protection: Trout eggs are deposited in gravel beds within streams or rivers, where they are protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions.

Trout themselves are an important food source for many people around the world, and are also an important part of many aquatic ecosystems. However, like many other fish species, trout populations are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, overfishing, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.  

15. Catfish  

Catfish are a type of freshwater fish that are found in many rivers and streams around the world. Like most fish, catfish lay eggs, which are deposited in a nest created by the female catfish. Catfish eggs are an important food source for many aquatic and terrestrial animals.

Here are some key facts about catfish eggs:

Size and appearance: Catfish eggs are small and spherical, and are typically about 1 to 2 mm in diameter. They are usually translucent or pale yellow in color.

Nutritional value: Catfish eggs are a good source of protein and other nutrients.

Incubation: The incubation period for catfish eggs can vary depending on the species of catfish and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 4 and 7 days.

Protection: Catfish eggs are typically deposited in a nest created by the female catfish, which she guards and tends to until the eggs hatch.Catfish are an important food source for many people around the world, and are also an important part of many aquatic ecosystems.

However, like many other fish species, catfish populations are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, overfishing, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

16. Eel

Eels are a type of fish that are found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats around the world. Unlike most fish, eels undergo a unique life cycle in which they start their lives as small, transparent larvae that drift with ocean currents before metamorphosing into glass eels and eventually migrating into freshwater habitats to mature and breed. During spawning, female eels release their eggs into the water, where they are fertilized by the male eels.

Here are some key facts about eel eggs:

Size and appearance: Eel eggs, also known as ova, are small and spherical, and are typically about 1 to 2 mm in diameter. They are usually translucent or pale yellow in color.

Nutritional value: Eel eggs are a good source of protein and other nutrients.

Incubation: The incubation period for eel eggs can vary depending on the species of eel and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 20 and 60 days.

Protection: Eel eggs are typically laid in the substrate or attached to vegetation in freshwater habitats, where they are protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions.

Eels themselves are an important food source for many people around the world, and are also an important part of many aquatic ecosystems. However, like many other fish species, eel populations are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, overfishing, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

17. Platypus

The platypus is a unique egg-laying mammal that is native to Australia. Like all mammals, platypuses produce milk to nourish their young. However, instead of giving birth to live young, platypuses lay eggs, which are incubated outside of the body.

Here are some key facts about platypus eggs:

Size and appearance: Platypus eggs are leathery and soft, and are typically about 1 to 1.5 cm in diameter. They are white or cream-colored.

Number of eggs: Female platypuses typically lay one to three eggs at a time.

Incubation: The incubation period for platypus eggs is relatively long, lasting between 10 and 12 days.

Hatching: After hatching, the young platypuses are blind and helpless, and are fed milk produced by their mother.

The platypus is an important part of Australian ecosystems and has cultural significance for many Indigenous Australians. However, platypus populations are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

18. Seahorse

Seahorses are a type of fish that are found in shallow waters around the world. Unlike most fish, male seahorses are the ones who carry the developing eggs and give birth to live young. After mating, the female seahorse deposits her eggs into the male’s brood pouch, where they are fertilized and incubated until they are ready to hatch.

Here are some key facts about seahorse eggs:

Size and appearance: Seahorse eggs are relatively large and are about 3 to 4 mm in diameter. They are typically white or pale yellow in color.

Number of eggs: Female seahorses typically deposit between 50 and 1,500 eggs into the male’s brood pouch.

Incubation: The incubation period for seahorse eggs can vary depending on the species of seahorse and the environmental conditions, but is generally between 10 and 45 days.

Protection: While developing in the male’s brood pouch, seahorse eggs are protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions.

Seahorses are an important part of many marine ecosystems, and their unique reproductive biology has made them popular subjects for scientific study and aquarium exhibits. However, seahorse populations are threatened by habitat loss, overfishing, and other factors, making their conservation a critical priority.   

19. Octopus

Octopuses are fascinating marine creatures that are found in oceans around the world. While they are not egg-laying animals in the traditional sense, they do produce eggs as part of their reproductive process. Female octopuses lay large numbers of small eggs, which are attached to rocks, shells, or other hard surfaces where they are protected from predators.

Here are some key facts about octopus eggs:

Size and appearance: Octopus eggs are small and range in size from about 2 to 8 mm in diameter, depending on the species. They are usually translucent or white in color.

Number of eggs: Female octopuses typically lay hundreds or thousands of eggs at a time, depending on the species.

Incubation: The incubation period for octopus eggs varies depending on the species, but is generally several weeks to several months.

Protection: Octopus eggs are protected from predators by their hard outer shells and the places where they are attached, which are often hidden in crevices or under overhangs.

Octopuses are intelligent and adaptable animals that play an important role in marine ecosystems. However, they face threats from overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change, making their conservation a critical priority. Understanding the reproductive biology of octopuses, including their egg-laying behavior, is an important part of efforts to protect these remarkable animals.   

20. Scorpion  

Scorpions are arachnids that are found in many parts of the world. While they are not typically thought of as egg-laying animals, scorpions do lay eggs as part of their reproductive process. Female scorpions produce eggs in clusters, which are then carried on their backs until they hatch.

Here are some key facts about scorpion eggs:

Size and appearance: Scorpion eggs are relatively large and are about 1 to 3 mm in diameter. They are usually white or pale yellow in color.

Number of eggs: Female scorpions typically produce between 10 and 100 eggs at a time, depending on the species.

Incubation: The incubation period for scorpion eggs varies depending on the species and the environmental conditions, but is generally several weeks to several months.

Protection: Scorpion eggs are protected by the female, who carries them on her back until they hatch. During this time, the female will use her pincers to protect the eggs from predators and other threats.

Scorpions are important predators in many ecosystems and play an important role in controlling insect populations. However, they can be dangerous to humans, as many species are venomous and can deliver painful or even deadly stings. Understanding the reproductive biology of scorpions, including their egg-laying behavior, is important for understanding their ecology and for managing their interactions with humans.  

Recap of egg-laying animals  

Egg-laying animals are species that reproduce by laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young. Many different types of animals are egg-layers, including birds, reptiles, insects, and fish.

Some examples of egg-laying animals include chickens, ducks, turtles, crocodiles, butterflies, and salmon. The benefits of being an egg-laying animal include the ability to produce large numbers of offspring, the ability to reproduce in a variety of environments, and the ability to protect eggs from predators.

Understanding the reproductive biology of egg-laying animals is important for managing and conserving these species in a variety of ecosystems.

Egg-laying animals play an important role in ecosystems and have significant cultural and economic significance for humans.

Here are some key points about the significance of egg-laying animals:

Ecological role: Egg-laying animals are found in a variety of ecosystems and play important roles in maintaining the balance of those ecosystems. For example, birds help to control insect populations, turtles help to control algae growth, and fish help to distribute nutrients.

Cultural significance: Many egg-laying animals have cultural significance for humans, either as sources of food or as symbols of fertility or renewal. For example, in many cultures, eggs are a traditional food for Easter and other religious holidays.

Economic significance: Egg-laying animals are also economically significant for humans. For example, chickens are one of the most common sources of protein in the world, and the egg industry is a major contributor to the global economy.

Research importance: Egg-laying animals are important models for research in fields such as developmental biology and genetics. Understanding the reproductive biology of these animals can help researchers to better understand the mechanisms of embryonic development and genetic inheritance.

Egg-laying animals are important components of ecosystems and have significant cultural and economic value for humans. Understanding their biology and ecology is important for managing and conserving these species for the future.