An allometric study of the development of the cloacal bursa in the domestic fowl.

The allometric relation between the increment of the body weight and the relative growth of the cloacal bursa shows that the bursal growth is greater than the body growth, during the period analysed (from the 16th d of embryonic development through the 28th post-hatched day). No statistical difference in the mean relative bursal weight between male and female birds was achieved in the above mentioned period analysed. The advantages of using an allometric study for the evaluation of an organ's growth during development are discussed.