Dimensions and composition of eggs from captive bustards (Gruiformes: Otididae): houbara (Chlamydotis undulata), rufous-crested (Eupodotis ruficrista), and kori (Ardeotis kori)
Abstract This study sought to increase understanding of the size and composition of eggs from two subspecies of houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii and C. u. undulata). Eggs from the rufous-crested bustard (Eupodotis ruficrista) and kori bustard (Ardeotis kori) were also examined for comparison. Infertile eggs were collected from captive birds; egg mass and linear […]
Yolk androgens and embryo sex: Maternal effects or confounding factors?
Maternal effects occur when offspring phenotype is affected by environmental factors experienced by the mother and, in egg-laying species, are often mediated via egg resources. There is currently great interest among behavioural ecologists in maternally allocated yolk androgens, especially their relationship with offspring sex and development. Such studies need embryonic tissue for sexing, however, requiring […]