Theory question 108
Animal Reproduction(a) Describe the process of egg-formation in poultry.
(b) Enumerate six functions/roles of the reproductive hormones in animals.
Show the model answer
(a) Ovary releases the yolk (ovum) into the infundibulum, where fertilisation takes place (about 15–30 minutes)
Magnum: thick albumen (egg white) added (about 3 hours)
Isthmus: inner and outer shell membranes added and egg shaped (about 1¼ hours)
Uterus (shell gland): thin albumen and water added, shell and pigment laid down (about 19–20 hours)
Vagina/cloaca: egg passes out and is laid; whole process about 24–26 hours
(b) Any six: oestrogen brings on heat and female secondary sex characters; progesterone prepares the uterus and maintains pregnancy; testosterone/androgen develops male characters and sperm production; FSH stimulates follicle growth/sperm formation; LH causes ovulation; oxytocin causes uterine contraction at birth and milk let-down; prolactin starts milk secretion
Follow the egg down the oviduct in order, naming what each part adds.