The air cell of the egg

Conteúdo disponível em: Português (Portuguese (Brazil))

The air cell phenomenon, when properly understood, is very relevant for anyone who wants to improve the productivity of their hatchery. 

The content of this article aims to produce insights for the reader so that we can help you at some point: 

Or by the strategy of defining egg handling routines, from broiler breeder farms to the hatchery, 

Or by improving the embryo diagnosis, remembering that it starts with observing the air cell. 

PROPERLY DEFINED FEATURES

When the egg is laid, it does not contain an air cell. The membranes and the eggshell are taking up the space. 

The air cell is located between the inner and outer shell membranes, which remain in contact with the albumen and the shell, respectively. 

Its shape resembles a double convex lens. 

The curvature of its outer boundary is the same as that of the shell. The opposite side may be less convex if the air cell is small. But it resembles the curvature of the outer boundary if the air cell is large. 

The air cell is sometimes called the air space or air chamber. 

The size of the air cell varies according to: 

The permeability of the shell, the age of the egg, and the temperature and humidity conditions to which the egg is subjected.

The size of the air chamber is also related to the size of the egg. The larger the size of the egg, the larger the air chamber. 

How quickly the air cell form depends on how the egg is cooled after being laid. 

If the air temperature is low, the air cell may appear within a short time, such as two minutes. 

In a hot and humid environment, it may take several hours to form.

In most chicken eggs, they appear in 6 to 10 minutes. 

Immediately after emergence, its average diameter is 0.5 to 0.9 cm, and the volume is 0.1 to 0.2 cc, depending on

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