Ovulation is the process in the female reproductive cycle where a mature ovarian follicle ruptures and releases the secondary oocyte (ovum) into the fallopian tube.
Upon release, the secondary oocyte is surrounded by several layers. The innermost layer is the zona pellucida, which is a glycoprotein membrane secreted by the oocyte itself. Surrounding the zona pellucida are layers of follicular cells known as the corona radiata.
The question asks for the covering of the ovum at the time of ovulation. While the zona pellucida is a permanent covering, the corona radiata is the outermost layer of follicular cells that accompanies the ovum as it leaves the follicle. In the context of standard NEET biology textbooks (NCERT), the corona radiata is identified as the specific cellular covering present at ovulation.
Final Answer: zona radiata
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