Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
Optimum CO₂ and O₂ Concentration in Incubator
Optimum concentration of CO₂ & O₂ in incubator should be respectively:
- 0.5% & 21% — Correct Answer
- 1% & 21%
- 2% & 21%
- None of these
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 0.5% & 21%
The optimal gas concentrations in a chicken egg incubator are:
- O₂: 21% — same as normal atmospheric oxygen. For every 1% fall below 21%, hatchability drops by 5%. For every 1% rise above 21%, hatchability rises by 5%.
- CO₂: 0.5% — the safe threshold. For every 1% rise in CO₂ beyond 0.5%, embryonic mortality rises. If CO₂ exceeds 5% for a prolonged period, all embryos die and hatchability reaches 0%.
CO₂ Levels and Impact
- 0.5% → Optimum
- >0.5% → Increasing embryonic mortality
- >5% prolonged → All embryos dead (hatchability = 0%)
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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.