Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The mammalian egg is covered by a thick glycoprotein layer called the zona pellucida. Cells of the corona radiata lie outside it.
Step 2: Role of Fertilizin
Fertilizin is the sperm-receptor glycoprotein of the egg (ZP3 in mammals). It binds antifertilizin on the sperm head, which attracts and holds sperm of the same species.
Step 3: Locating the Receptors
These receptor proteins are part of the zona pellucida itself, and binding there triggers the acrosome reaction.
Final Answer:
The fertilizin receptor proteins are present on the zona pellucida.
\[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{zona pellucida}} \]