What type of immunity involves the transfer of antibodies from one animal to another?

The type of immunity that involves the transfer of antibodies from one animal to another is known as passive immunity. This form of immunity occurs when one organism receives antibodies produced by another organism, providing an immediate, but temporary, level of protection.

For example, maternal antibodies are transferred to newborns through colostrum in mammals, offering them immediate protection against infections until their own immune systems can develop and produce antibodies effectively. Passive immunity does not require the recipient's immune system to be activated, as it is directly given to them through the antibodies from another source.

Active immunity, in contrast, involves the organism's own immune system producing antibodies in response to an infection or vaccination. Natural immunity refers to the protection an organism develops through exposure to various pathogens during its lifetime, while inherited immunity generally relates to genetic factors rather than transferring antibodies. Therefore, the correct identification of passive immunity highlights its unique role in offering short-term protection through acquired antibodies.