title: Extrinsic microbial degradation of the alligator eggshell.
abstract: The outer, densely calcified layer of the alligator eggshell shows progressive crystal dissolution, with the production of concentrically stepped erosion craters, as incubation progresses. This dissolution is caused by the acidic metabolic by-products of nest bacteria. Extrinsic degradation serves to gradually increase the porosity and decrease the strength of the eggshell.
authors.forename: M W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Ferguson