Biology 130

Marsupials are mammals that give birth to premature mammals. This means that it is a underdeveloped mammal from birth. Many scientist have wondered why these marsupials just do not wait until is is fully developed. This question has riddled scientists since this discovery. Why not just wait for the mammal to be fully developed. theories have arisen why. For example, some scientists believe that because it is not at full size, it is easier for the mother to give birth. They think that because it is not at full size the mother can conserve energy and keep moving. Other theories say that they do this to not produce placenta. To produce placenta requires an enormous amount of time and energy by the mother. By not producing placenta it is believed again the mother is saving as much energy as possible. Even though the the mammal at birth is small, there is a benefit to the mother, as energy is conserved.