Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
Soft Shelled Eggs Deficiency
Soft shelled eggs are due to deficiency of:
- Calcium in feed — Correct Answer
- Phosphorus in feed
- Carotene in feed
- None of these
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Calcium in feed
Soft-shelled or thin-shelled eggs are primarily caused by calcium deficiency in the diet. Eggshell is composed of 96% inorganic matter, of which calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) forms 94%.
Calcium Requirements in Poultry Feed (BIS 2007)
- Broiler feed: 1% calcium minimum
- Layer phase I: 3.0% calcium minimum
- Layer phase II: 3.5% calcium minimum
Eggshell Composition
- Inorganic matter: 96% (CaCO₃ 94%, MgCO₃ 1%, CaHPO₄ 1%)
- Organic matter: 4%
Layers need much more calcium than broilers because they deposit ~2 g of calcium into each eggshell. Vitamin D₃ is also critical for calcium absorption — its deficiency can also lead to soft shells.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Poultry Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
