Effect of different egg storage periods on some egg quality characteristics and hatchability of partridges (Alectoris graeca)

The effect of 1 to 2-, 3 to 4-, 5 to 6-, 7 to 8-, 9 to 10-, 11 to 12-, and 13 to 14-d storage periods on quality characteristics and hatchability of partridge (Alectoris graeca) eggs was studied. There was no significant effect of storage period on egg weight, shell weight, shell ratio, and shell thickness as external quality characteristics of partridge eggs (P > 0.05). Storage periods affected internal quality characteristics of partridge eggs (P < 0.05). An increase in yolk ratio (P < 0.05) and decrease in albumen ratio, yolk index, albumen index, and Haugh unit (P < 0.001) occurred when storage periods were lengthened. However, storage period had no significant effect on hatchability (P > 0.05). This study shows that long storage periods do not have negative effects on hatchability of partridge eggs to the extent that occurs in other poultry species. Because of a lack of knowledge about this subject, these studies will be useful in terms of successful intensive partridge breeding. © 2009 Poultry Science Association Inc.