Final answer:
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is critical to fetal brain and eye development, and although it can be synthesized from ALA, direct consumption through dietary sources is recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fatty acid that is critical to fetal brain and eye development is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid is important for lowering blood triglycerides and blood pressure, reducing inflammation, preventing blood clot formation, and endorsing normal growth and development. It is particularly vital for the development of the brain and eyes in infants.
DHA can be synthesized in the body from ALA, but due to limited conversion efficiency, it is beneficial to intake through the diet. Good sources of DHA are fish, shellfish, fish oils, seaweed, algae, and human breast milk, contingent on the mother's own DHA intake.