Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
Off-Coloured Egg Production Cause
Off coloured egg production by a layer is mainly due to:
- Feeding of cotton seed cake — Correct Answer
- Feeding of maize
- Feeding of biotin
- None of these
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Feeding of cotton seed cake
Feeding cotton seed cake (CSC) to layers causes off-coloured eggs, particularly discolouration of the yolk. This is due to gossypol, a toxic polyphenolic pigment naturally present in cottonseed.
Effects of Gossypol on Eggs
- Yolk discolouration (dark olive-green or mottled)
- Reduced hatchability
- Rubbery egg white due to gossypol binding to albumin proteins
Other Cottonseed Cake Effects
- Can cause cyclopia in chick embryos at high levels
- Reduces feed palatability
- The safe level of CSC in poultry feed is limited due to gossypol toxicity
In contrast, maize feeding enhances yolk colour (deepens yellow-orange) due to its high carotenoid content.
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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.
