Poultry Judging Practice Test

Which element is considered important for forming strong eggshells?

1. Iron

2. Protein

3. Calcium

4. Magnesium

The correct answer is: Calcium

Calcium is the key element important for forming strong eggshells in poultry. The eggshell is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which provides the necessary hardness and structural integrity to protect the developing embryo inside the egg. Poultry, particularly hens, require a sufficient amount of calcium in their diet to produce eggs with strong shells. Inadequate calcium intake can result in thinner, weaker shells, increasing the risk of breakage and affecting overall egg production and quality. While protein plays a role in overall poultry health, and minerals like iron and magnesium are essential for various bodily functions, they do not directly contribute to the formation of eggshells in the same way that calcium does. Thus, the critical importance of calcium in the structural composition of eggshells makes it the correct answer to this question.