Opossum young attach after birth in a manner described in the material. Which option is correct?

• A. They ride on the mother's back
• B. They remain in the pouch without attaching
• C. They are carried in the mouth of the mother
• D. They attach to a nipple and stay there as they grow

Answer: (D)

Marsupial young are born very underdeveloped and must latch onto a nipple inside the mother's pouch to complete their development. In opossums, after birth the infant crawls to the pouch opening and attaches to a nipple, where it remains as it grows. This arrangement provides nourishment and protection until the young is ready to venture out. They do not ride on the mother’s back, and they are not carried in the mouth. The description that fits best is the infant attaching to a nipple and staying there as they grow.