The Impact of Different Egg Weights on External Egg Quality Characteristics in Turkish Native Geese of the Kars Region

Abstract

HIS aims to assess the impact of varying egg weights on the external egg quality traits of Turkish native geese from the Kars region. A carefully selected set of 250 incubation eggs was utilized, with a focused subset of 60 eggs chosen for a detailed analysis of shell characteristics. Precise egg weight measurements were conducted, followed by categorization into three distinct weight classes: 'light' (<136 g), 'medium' (136-164 g), and 'heavy' (>164 g). Measurements of egg length, width, and other parameters provided the basis for subsequent analyses. Key parameters, including eggshell weight, thickness, density, volume, ratio, and pore number, were calculated and subjected to rigorous statistical analysis. Results revealed statistically significant differences among groups in various aspects, such as egg weight, width, length, volume, and surface area (P<0.001). Similar statistically significant differences were observed for eggshell weight, thickness, and density (P<0.001). The eggshell volume also exhibited significant variations among groups (P<0.001). Eggshell ratio and pore number displayed noteworthy differences between groups, particularly in the comparison between the 'light' and 'heavy' groups (P=0.003). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was identified between egg weight and shell thickness. In conclusion, this comprehensive investigation of egg and eggshell characteristics across different weight categories of Turkish native geese elucidates substantial variations and underscores the intricate interplay between these attributes.