What protective layer forms around the developing embryo in hens?a)Amn...
In hens, a hard shell forms around the developing embryo as a protective layer. This shell protects the embryo and provides a stable environment for its development until the chick is ready to hatch.
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What protective layer forms around the developing embryo in hens?a)Amn...
Protective Layer Around the Developing Embryo in Hens
The correct answer is the egg shell, which serves as a vital protective layer for the developing embryo in hens. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Structure of the Egg
- The hen's egg consists of several key components, with the egg shell being the outermost layer.
- The egg shell is primarily made of calcium carbonate, giving it strength and rigidity.
Functions of the Egg Shell
- Protection: The egg shell acts as a barrier against physical damage and environmental threats, such as bacteria and pathogens.
- Gas Exchange: Tiny pores in the shell allow for the exchange of gases, enabling the developing embryo to receive oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.
- Moisture Regulation: The shell helps to retain moisture, crucial for the embryo's development, while still allowing for necessary gas exchange.
Comparison with Other Options
- Amniotic Sac: This structure is found in mammals, providing cushioning and a fluid environment, but it is not present in birds.
- Placenta: This is a mammalian feature that facilitates nutrient and waste exchange between mother and embryo, absent in bird reproduction.
- Uterine Lining: Relevant to mammals, this structure supports embryo implantation and nourishment, which does not apply to avian reproductive processes.
Conclusion
The egg shell is essential for the survival and development of the embryo in hens, offering protection, facilitating gas exchange, and maintaining moisture, which are all critical for successful incubation and growth.