Poultry Judging Practice Test

What hormone stimulates ovulation for the most mature ovum in birds?

1. Estrogen

2. Progesterone

3. Luteinizing hormone

4. Follicle-stimulating hormone

The correct answer is: Luteinizing hormone

The hormone that stimulates ovulation for the most mature ovum in birds is luteinizing hormone. Luteinizing hormone (LH) plays a crucial role in the reproductive process by triggering the release of the mature egg from the follicle in the ovaries. This is a critical step in the reproductive cycle, as it marks the transition from the follicular phase, where the follicles grow and mature, to the ovulatory phase, where the actual release of the ovum occurs. In birds, the secretion of LH is regulated by the hypothalamus, which releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). When LH levels peak, this surge encourages the ovary to release the ovum, enabling fertilization to occur if sperm is present. This mechanism is essential for reproduction in birds, making luteinizing hormone a key player in their reproductive physiology. Other hormones mentioned in this context also play roles in reproduction but do not directly trigger ovulation. Estrogen contributes to the development and maturation of the follicles, while progesterone is more involved in maintaining pregnancy after fertilization. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles but does not directly cause ovulation. Therefore, lute