Part of Oviduct Where Egg Stays Longest

Question

The egg stays for the maximum time in which part of the oviduct?

Select an answer

The egg stays for the maximum time in which part of the oviduct?

  1. Infundibulum
  2. Uterus — Correct Answer
  3. Isthmus
  4. Magnum
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Uterus

The egg spends the maximum time in the Uterus — approximately 21 hours. This is where the hard shell, shell pigments, and cuticle are deposited over the egg.

Time Spent in Each Part of the Oviduct
Part Time Function
Infundibulum 15 min Collects yolk; fertilization
Magnum 3 hours Secretes albumin
Isthmus 1 hr 15 min Secretes shell membranes
Uterus 21 hours Secretes shell, pigments, cuticle
Vagina Holds egg until oviposition

Total time for egg formation = 24–26 hours (length of the ovulatory cycle).

Why the Uterus Takes So Long
  • Shell formation is a complex mineralisation process: calcium carbonate crystals are deposited layer by layer around the egg.
  • The hen must mobilise large amounts of calcium from medullary bone and dietary sources every day.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
  • Infundibulum → only 15 minutes (fertilization and yolk pickup).
  • Isthmus → 1 hr 15 min (shell membrane deposition).
  • Magnum → 3 hours (albumin deposition; longest AFTER uterus, but still shorter).

📚 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.

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