Abstract:

Eggs of emperor penguin from Amanda Bay,Antarctica were measured and analysed in statistics and eco-biology.The results show that the eggs were typical ovum in the shape,and it was 121.3 mm in mean length and 83.8 mm in breadth,with mean volume of 409.3 ml(range of 322.6—506.4 ml)and mean thickness of 1.11 mm(range of 0.94—1.32 mm).Because of dry Antarctic weather and embryonic metabolism as well,the inner materials of egg would be changed and lost with the time.In comparison of the eggs of Emperor Penguin,Southern Giant Petrel,Papua Penguin and South Polar Skua,their egg size has quite positive relationship with egg volume.Meanwhile,the egg which has larger volume could homologically have thicker shell to enhance egg strength.Eco-biological parameters of birds' eggs in Antarctic,such as egg size,colour and speckles,as well as thickness,are important species features,which could be well coordinated with clutch size and breeding habits by adults,so as to adapt and survive in severe environment condition in Antarctica.