What is the yolk for in a reptiles egg?

The yolk in a reptile egg serves a very important purpose: it provides nourishment for the developing embryo.

Here's a breakdown:

* Nutrient Reservoir: The yolk is essentially a large, nutrient-rich ball of fat, protein, and other essential substances.

* Energy Source: The embryo draws upon the yolk's nutrients and energy throughout its development, from the first cell divisions to hatching.

* Growth and Development: The yolk provides the building blocks for the embryo's growth and development of all its organs and tissues.

Think of the yolk as a kind of self-contained food supply that allows the reptile embryo to develop independently within its shell.