Avian Production Management

Shell membranes

SHELL MEMBRANE

The shell membrane consists of

•  Air cell
•  Outer shell membrane 
•  Inner shell membrane
• Air cell is situated in between the two membranes at the broad end
• Air cell - formed as a result of contraction of the egg contents, soon after oviposition, due to differences in the temperatures exposed to by the egg prior to and after oviposition
• The outer shell membrane is attached firmly to the shell by numerous cones on the shell surface extending into the membrane
• The inner shell membrane closely surrounds the albumen