Failure to turn eggs during incubation: Effects on embryo weight, development of the chorioallantois and absorption of albumen

Abstract

1. Turning eggs during incubation is essential for good hatchability. In the present paper additional effects on the development of the chorioallantois, absorption of albumen and growth of the embryo are recorded.

2. The ability of an unturned egg to hatch was not affected by egg weight, egg shell porosity or water loss during incubation.

3. The ability of the chorioallantois to spread around the inner surface of the inner shell membrane and the degree of absorption of the residual albumen affected the growth of the embryo and its ability to hatch.

4. Unturned eggs hatched later than eggs which were turned throughout incubation.

Notes

Present address: The West of Scotland Agricultural College, Auchincruive, Ayr, KA6 5HW, Scotland.

Formerly AFRC Poultry Research Centre.