BETWEEN INCUBATORS AND EMBRYOS: A DESCRIPTIVE REVIEW ON THE DETERMINANTS OF SUCCESS AND FAILURE IN THE ARTIFICIAL INCUBATION OF MUSCOVY DUCK EGGS

The production of domestic Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata domesticus) has increased in productive relevance due to their economic value, rusticity, and efficient use of by-products, although it remains underexplored in Brazil. One of the main constraints on sector development is the lack of technical and scientific information on reproductive management and artificial incubation, both of which are critical stages for continuous duckling production. Incubation, whether natural or mechanical, requires strict control of temperature, humidity, ventilation, egg turning, and pre-incubation storage, all of which are decisive for embryonic viability. In Muscovy ducks, specific characteristics such as thicker eggshells, a prolonged incubation period (34–35 days), and strong brooding behavior make the process more complex than in gallinaceous species. Although artificial incubation provides greater production predictability, hatchability rates remain below optimal levels, mainly due to the absence of species-specific protocols. Factors including egg sanitation, shell structure, turning angle, and environmental control directly influence embryonic mortality and hatchability. Temperature is the most critical variable, as minor fluctuations can impair embryonic growth, metabolism, and survival. Practices such as periodic cooling and water spraying simulate natural maternal behavior and show promise for waterfowl. Relative humidity, ranging from 60% to 80% depending on the incubation stage, regulates water loss and chick quality at hatch. Reproductive efficiency also depends on genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors, including breeder management, seasonality, and thermal stress. Therefore, establishing specific incubation protocols and integrating critical variables are essential to enhance productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness in Muscovy ducks’ production systems.