The Effect of Eggshell Thickness on Hatching Traits of Partridges

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Yamak U. S., Sarica M., BOZ M. A., UÇAR A.

BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE, pp.13-17, 2016 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2016
  • Doi Number: 10.1590/1806-9061-2015-0039
  • Journal Name: BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.13-17
  • Keywords: Eggshell thickness, partridge, incubation, ultrasound, hatching time, EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS, CHUKAR PARTRIDGE, ALECTORIS-RUFA, HATCHABILITY, GRAECA, PERFORMANCE, WEIGHT, BIRDS
  • Ondokuz Mayıs University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Incubation is an important factor in poultry production, particularly in species with relatively low fertility and hatchability rates. This study examined the effect of eggshell thickness on hatching traits of partridges (A. chukar). A total of 462 eggs from intensively reared partridges were separated into three groups according to eggshell thickness, which was measured ultrasonically before incubation. Hatchability, chick weight, and chick length were assessed at the end of the incubation period. Hatching times were recorded during hatching. Embryonic mortalities in unhatched eggs were classified according to mortality stage at the end of incubation. The effect of eggshell thickness on hatchability was found to be insignificant for all groups. Moreover, eggshell thickness had no significant effect on chick weight or length.