Question

A group of animals having marsupium:
A) Monotremata
B) Eutheria
C) Metatheria
D) Prototheria

Answer 1

Marsupium is a specialized pouch which protects, carries, and nourishes the newborn marsupials. It is found in most of the members of the Marsupialia Order (class Mammalia).

Complete answer:
The largest class in the animal kingdom is of Mammalia. On the basis of their reproduction abilities, they are categorised into these 3 subclasses:
->Eutheria
->Metatheria
->Prototheria

Option A: Monotremata - These are also known as Protherians. This subclass - Prototheria - consists of egg-laying mammals. It has one order, which has around 6 species.This option is incorrect.
Option B: Eutheria - Eutheria includes the placental mammals. The young ones develop inside their mothers and derive their nutrition through the placenta.This option is incorrect.
Option C: Metatheria - They develop and protect their young ones, in the Marsupium or marsupial pouch, which is a characteristic feature of metatherians. These mammals give birth to undeveloped embryos / immature young ones called “Joey”, who thus they stay in their mother’s pouch, until they mature. For example - Kangaroos and marsupials.Thus, this is the correct option.
Option D: Prototheria - Prototherians include platypus and echidna. The only animals that have survived in this subclass, are the Monotremata. The name “Prototheria” comes from Greek word - “prōtos” meaning - “first”; and “thēr” meaning - 'beast'. This option is also incorrect.

Thus, the correct option (C) Metatheria.

Note: All the modern mammals are classified into three subclasses :-

Holotheria, which include - the egg-laying mammals or monotremes.
Metatheria, which include the marsupials, or pouched mammals.
Eutheria, which include the placental mammals.