Dynamic Changes in Egg Quality, Heritability and Correlation of These Traits and Yolk Nutrient throughout the Entire Laying Cycle

Abstract

Egg quality and nutritional value are becoming increasingly important to consumers, offering a new direction for the development of high-quality eggs. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of egg quality and nutrient profiles in native breeds at different ages, integrating pedigree data. Our results reveal dynamic changes in egg qualities, stronger associations among eggshell-related traits, and the effect of onset production and body weight on egg qualities. The heritability of different traits was estimated, ranging from 0.05 to 0.62. Subsequently, we elucidated that the moisture and nutritional content in the egg yolk were not influenced by the percentage of yolk but were indeed subject to age regulation. There was a notable decrease in moisture, an elevation in crude fat, and an increase in the diversity of fatty acids of yolk with advancing age. In summary, investigating the trends and interrelationships in egg quality, nutrient content, and heritability across the whole laying cycle offers valuable insights for breeders to optimize feeding management strategies and aids consumers in meeting their expectations of egg quality.