The effect of calcium depletion on the chemical composition of bone minerals in laying hens

Abstract

In a previous experiment (Taylor & Moore, 1954) progressive mineral depletion was induced in pullets by allowing them to lay two, four or six eggs while on a calciumdeficient diet, and the degree of depletion suffered by individual bones was assessed by comparing their total ash content with that of corresponding bones from control birds which did not receive the deficient diet. Great variations were found in the extent to which the different bones had been affected. Whereas, for example, the skull, metatarsi and toes lost only small quantities of minerals, the ribs, sternum, ilia, ischia and pubis suffered severely.