Variation in incubation periods and egg metabolism in mallards: Intrinsic mechanisms to promote hatch synchrony
January 1, 1997
We investigated factors affecting incubation time and metabolic rates of Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) eggs incubated under constant environmental conditions. Time required to reach the star-pipped stage of hatch varied significantly among females, but not with laying sequence or egg size. Metabolic rate of eggs varied positively with position in the laying sequence and tended to vary among females. Metabolic rate did not vary with egg volume or incubation length. Our results indicate metabolic rate may act as one synchronization mechanism for hatch. The role of maternal effects in development time should be considered in subsequent studies of incubation time in ducks.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1997 |
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Title | Variation in incubation periods and egg metabolism in mallards: Intrinsic mechanisms to promote hatch synchrony |
DOI | 10.2307/1370245 |
Authors | Margaret C. MacCluskie, Paul L. Flint, James S. Sedinger |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | The Condor |
Index ID | 70182057 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Alaska Science Center; Alaska Science Center Biology WTEB |