Developmental Anatomy of Poultry Embryos: Insights for Hatchability and Early Chick Health
Keywords:
hatchability, organogenesis, embryo, epigenetic.Abstract
The developmental anatomy of the poultry embryo is a complex and carefully regulated process which has a direct influence on the hatchability, chick quality and early post hatch performance. The chapter describe the structural, physiological and molecular processes involved in avian embryogenesis in detail with special emphasis on their use in poultry production. The basic body plan is established during the early embryonic stages (cleavage and gastrulation) that involve cell differentiation and the establishment of germ layers. These are very sensitive to incubation conditions such as temperature, humidity, and oxygen availability and are tightly controlled by genetic and epigenetic controls. As the organogenesis continuous, the important organs and system develop, including cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, skeletal, immune, etc. systems. These systems need to mature in a proper manner to ensure the viability of the embryo and proper transitioning to post hatch life. The role of extra embryonic membranes and especially the chorioallontoic membrane in the gas exchange and uptake of nutrients is of special importance. Change in metabolism, increased requirement for oxygen and activities of hatching (internal and external pipping) indicate the late embryonic development. The hormonal control and environmental conditions are significant in the process of coordinating these events. Other concepts that have developed within the chapter are embryonic programming and epigenetic regulation that show the incubation conditions can have long term effects on growth, immunity and productivity. A crucial factor in advancing the knowledge of avian developmental biology have been the technologies, including molecular profiling, imaging, and precision incubation systems. Overall, this chapter unites the developmental anatomy and the basic poultry science with the information that is essential for optimizing hatchery performance, maximizing the development of the embryo and enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of the modern poultry production systems.
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