Question

Followings are the statements regarding selection of hatching eggs
A. Medium sized eggs are preferred
B. Shape of hatching eggs should be oval
C. Hatching eggs should be free from blood and meat spots
D. Shape index does not affect hatchability of eggs
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A only
• B. A and B only
• C. A, B and C only
• D. A, B, C and D

Hint:

The ideal shape index for hatching eggs is approximately 74%.
Deviations from this value can lower hatchability and should be avoided during selection.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Hatching egg selection is a critical management practice in poultry hatchery operations.
Selecting eggs based on specific physical and internal quality traits directly improves hatchability rates and chick quality.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each statement individually to determine its scientific validity:
- Statement A: Medium-sized eggs are preferred.
This is correct. Extremely large or small eggs exhibit significantly lower hatchability.
Large eggs often suffer from poor gas exchange and shell quality, while small eggs produce small, weak chicks.
- Statement B: Shape of hatching eggs should be oval.
This is correct. Normal, symmetrical oval eggs align correctly in setter trays and allow the developing embryo to position its head under its right wing for proper hatching.
- Statement C: Hatching eggs should be free from blood and meat spots.
This is correct. Internal defects like blood or meat spots indicate oviduct abnormalities and increase the risk of bacterial contamination, reducing overall hatchability.
- Statement D: Shape index does not affect hatchability of eggs.
This is incorrect. The shape index (defined as $\frac{\text{width}}{\text{length}} \times 100$) determines the physical structure of the egg.
Abnormal shape indices (resulting in excessively round or elongated eggs) alter the position of the air cell and compromise embryonic development, significantly reducing hatchability.
Therefore, statements A, B, and C are correct, while statement D is incorrect.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements regarding the selection of hatching eggs are A, B, and C, corresponding to Option (C).