| Direct development | Indirect development |
| In this type of development, embryo develops into a mature individual without involving a larval stage. | It this type of development, sexually-immature larval stage is present. |
| Metamorphosis is absent. | Metamorphosis is present. It involves development of larva to an adult. |
| It is seen in fishes, reptiles, birds, mammals. | It is seen in invertebrates and amphibians. |