If an egg drops off a berried female will it still hatch?

[BostonJill]

I was wondering if you don't have snails or anything that might eat a fallen egg could it still hatch?

[KenCotigirl]

I would say no. I have read numerous posts where dropped eggs or eggs from dead females have been collected with the intent to hatch (not opae ula). The results have been overwhelmingly negative. The female is cleaning the eggs. Her swimmerets move and provide water circulation. Very hard to recreate. So the dropped egg is doomed.

[BostonJill]

I figured it was something with circulation. Perhaps they would have a small chance if it was a day or so before hatching.

[Mustafa]

This is a very interesting question actually. I'll write a more comprehensive reply tin "tooth's" (Brad's) thread as he provides more of a background, which will make it easier for future readers to understand what's going on.