The structure of the eggshell of the laughing dove Streptopelia senegalensis

Abstract

The morphology of the eggshell of Streptopelia senegalensis was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Thirty eggs from various parts of southern Africa, dating from 1899 to 1983, were used in this study. Thickness of the eggshell was determined directly from the micrographs. The eggshell has a low pore density and no cuticula. The three-layered structure of the membranes appears to consist of a network of small tubes. The external layer is closely associated with the protein nucleus of the mammillary nodules of the eggshell, while the inner membrane borders on the albumine layer. The mean length, breath, thickness and mass of the eggshell of this species is 25,78 mm, 19,97 mm, 0,088 mm and 0,324 g respectively.