Arthrospira (Spirulina) Platensis Can Be Considered as a Probiotic Alternative to Reduce Heat Stress in Laying Japanese Quails

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina platensis, SP) on feed intake, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, hen day egg production, intestinal microflora, heat stress biomarkers, and HSP70 gene expression in laying Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) suffering heat stress condition. A total of 250 female quails were allocated to 5 treatments, 5 replicates and 10 birds in each replicate in a completely randomized design. Experimental treatments included: 1) basal diet, 2) basal diet+ 0.03 % probiotic, 3) basal diet+ 0.1 % SP, 4) basal diet+ 0.3 % SP, 5) basal diet+ 0.5 % SP. During the last 6 days of the experiment, the quails were exposed to 8h of 34±1°C. The birds had free access to feed and water during the experiment. The results showed that using probiotic and different levels of Spirulina had no significant effect on laying performance of Japanese quails (p>0.05). Probiotic supplement increased Lactobacil bacteria population in laying quails ileum under heat stress (p 0.05). Different levels of SP decreased Escherichia coli population in laying quails ileum suffering heat stress (p 0.05).SP at the level of 0.5% caused the lowest blood Malondialdehyde level, heterophil, and H/L ratio (p 0.05).However, HSP70 gene expression in the heart or the liver of laying quails was not different (p>0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study revealed that SP at the level of 0.5 % has the potential to be considered as a probiotic alternative in the diet of laying quails suffering heat stress condition.(AU)

Arthrospira (Spirulina) Platensis Can Be Considered as a Probiotic Alternative to Reduce Heat Stress in Laying Japanese Quails

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina platensis, SP) on feed intake, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, hen day egg production, intestinal microflora, heat stress biomarkers, and HSP70 gene expression in laying Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) suffering heat stress condition. A total of 250 female quails were allocated to 5 treatments, 5 replicates and 10 birds in each replicate in a completely randomized design. Experimental treatments included: 1) basal diet, 2) basal diet+ 0.03 % probiotic, 3) basal diet+ 0.1 % SP, 4) basal diet+ 0.3 % SP, 5) basal diet+ 0.5 % SP. During the last 6 days of the experiment, the quails were exposed to 8h of 34±1°C. The birds had free access to feed and water during the experiment. The results showed that using probiotic and different levels of Spirulina had no significant effect on laying performance of Japanese quails (p>0.05). Probiotic supplement increased Lactobacil bacteria population in laying quails ileum under heat stress (p 0.05). Different levels of SP decreased Escherichia coli population in laying quails ileum suffering heat stress (p 0.05).SP at the level of 0.5% caused the lowest blood Malondialdehyde level, heterophil, and H/L ratio (p 0.05).However, HSP70 gene expression in the heart or the liver of laying quails was not different (p>0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study revealed that SP at the level of 0.5 % has the potential to be considered as a probiotic alternative in the diet of laying quails suffering heat stress condition.

Evaluation of biochemical parameters and productive performance of japanese quail in response to the replacement of soybean meal with canola meal / Avaliação de parâmetros bioquímicos e desempenho produtivo de codornas japonesas como resposta à substituição de farelo de soja por farelo de canola

The present study was conducted to evaluation the different levels canola meal (CM) replacement by soybean meal (SBM) in Japanese quails diets on productive performance, egg quality trails and blood parameters including blood protein, minerals concentration, liver enzymes and thyroid hormones. In this study, 160 of Japanese quails in second laying phase from 46 to 56 weeks of age were divided in four treatments with four replicates and 10 quail in each per replicate, on a completely randomized design (CRD).Treatments consisted:T1) control (without CM), T2, T3 and T4) replacing 30, 60 and 90% of SBM with CM respectively. The results were shown no significant variation in body weight between treatments in initial and end of the experiment (p > 0.05). There was significant decrease in feed intake by increasing level of CM (p 0.05). Results indicated that significant increase in egg production, egg weight and egg mass in the T1 (control group) and T2 (contained 10% CM) (p 0.05). No significant differences were found in egg quality parameters in the all period of experiment (p > 0.05). However, the egg shell thickness showed significantly decreased with increasing levels of canola meal in the diet (p 0.05). According to this study results, 30% replacement of SBM by CM in the diet (contained 10% CM) has no adverse effect on quails performance.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou a substituição de diferentes níveis de farelo de canola por farelo de soja nas rações de codornas Japonesas sobre o desempenho produtivo, qualidade de ovos e parâmetros sanguíneos, inclusive proteína sanguínea, concentração mineral, enzimas de fígado e hormônios de tiroide. Cento e sessenta codornas japonesas na fase da segunda postura, de 46 a 56 semanas, foram divididas aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos, com quatro repetições e 10 codornas por repetição. Os tratamentos foram: T1) controle (sem FC), T2, T3 e T4), substituindo 30, 60 e 90% de FS com FC, respectivamente. Os resultados não revelam variação significante no peso corporal entre os tratamentos no início e no final do experimento (p > 0.05). Houve uma redução significativa no consumo de dieta com o aumento de nível de FC (p 0.05). Os resultados mostram um aumento significativo na produção de ovos, peso de ovos e massa de ovos em T1 (controle) e T2 (com 10% de FC) (p 0.05). Não houve diferença significativa nos parâmetros de qualidade de ovos durante todo o experimento (p > 0.05). Todavia, a espessura da casca dos ovos reduziu-se significativamente com níveis crescentes de canola na dieta (p 0.05). Os resultados mostram que a substituição de 30% em FS por FC na dieta (com 10% de FC) não tem efeitos adversos no desempenho das codornas.(AU)

Evaluation of biochemical parameters and productive performance of japanese quail in response to the replacement of soybean meal with canola meal / Avaliação de parâmetros bioquímicos e desempenho produtivo de codornas japonesas como resposta à substituição de farelo de soja por farelo de canola

The present study was conducted to evaluation the different levels canola meal (CM) replacement by soybean meal (SBM) in Japanese quails diets on productive performance, egg quality trails and blood parameters including blood protein, minerals concentration, liver enzymes and thyroid hormones. In this study, 160 of Japanese quails in second laying phase from 46 to 56 weeks of age were divided in four treatments with four replicates and 10 quail in each per replicate, on a completely randomized design (CRD).Treatments consisted:T1) control (without CM), T2, T3 and T4) replacing 30, 60 and 90% of SBM with CM respectively. The results were shown no significant variation in body weight between treatments in initial and end of the experiment (p > 0.05). There was significant decrease in feed intake by increasing level of CM (p 0.05). Results indicated that significant increase in egg production, egg weight and egg mass in the T1 (control group) and T2 (contained 10% CM) (p 0.05). No significant differences were found in egg quality parameters in the all period of experiment (p > 0.05). However, the egg shell thickness showed significantly decreased with increasing levels of canola meal in the diet (p 0.05). According to this study results, 30% replacement of SBM by CM in the diet (contained 10% CM) has no adverse effect on quails performance.

Este estudo avaliou a substituição de diferentes níveis de farelo de canola por farelo de soja nas rações de codornas Japonesas sobre o desempenho produtivo, qualidade de ovos e parâmetros sanguíneos, inclusive proteína sanguínea, concentração mineral, enzimas de fígado e hormônios de tiroide. Cento e sessenta codornas japonesas na fase da segunda postura, de 46 a 56 semanas, foram divididas aleatoriamente em quatro tratamentos, com quatro repetições e 10 codornas por repetição. Os tratamentos foram: T1) controle (sem FC), T2, T3 e T4), substituindo 30, 60 e 90% de FS com FC, respectivamente. Os resultados não revelam variação significante no peso corporal entre os tratamentos no início e no final do experimento (p > 0.05). Houve uma redução significativa no consumo de dieta com o aumento de nível de FC (p 0.05). Os resultados mostram um aumento significativo na produção de ovos, peso de ovos e massa de ovos em T1 (controle) e T2 (com 10% de FC) (p 0.05). Não houve diferença significativa nos parâmetros de qualidade de ovos durante todo o experimento (p > 0.05). Todavia, a espessura da casca dos ovos reduziu-se significativamente com níveis crescentes de canola na dieta (p 0.05). Os resultados mostram que a substituição de 30% em FS por FC na dieta (com 10% de FC) não tem efeitos adversos no desempenho das codornas.

Effects of Dietary Protein Level and Betaine Supplementation on Nutrient Digestibility and Performance of Japanese Quails

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of dietary protein levels and betaine supplementation on nutrient digestibility and performance of Japanese quails. In total, 765 Japanese quails were randomly assigned to a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with five replicates of 17 quails each. Three basal diets were formulated to contain three crude protein levels (16.5, 18.0, and 19.5%). Each protein level was supplemented with 0, 0.06, and 0.12% betaine. The diet with 16.5% dietary crude protein with no betaine supplementation resulted in the lowest crude fiber digestibility, while the 18.0% CP diet supplemented with 0.12% betaine generated the highest crude fiber digestibility (p 0.05). The diets with 18.0 and 19.5% crude protein increased crude fiber digestibility, but reduced ether extract digestibility (p 0.01). Moreover, betaine supplementation increased dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and crude ash (p 0.01) digestibility and tended to increase ether extract digestibility (p=0.09). The increase in egg weight for the 18.0 and 19.5% protein diets was correlated with a decrease in feed conversion ratio (p 0.05). However, feed intake and egg production were not affected by protein levels. Betaine supplementation enhanced all performance variables (p 0.01). The diets with 18.0 and 19.5% crude protein resulted in heavier yolks and eggshells than the 16.5% crude protein diet (p 0.05), whereas betaine supplementation increased yolk, albumen, and eggshell weight (p 0.01). The 18.0 and 19.5% protein diets produced similar responses in most evaluated parameters. Laying Japanese quails can be fed diets with 18.0% crude protein. Moreover, betaine supplementation provided several benefits, and particularly improved nutrient digestibility, performance, and egg quality.(AU)

Effects of Dietary Protein Level and Betaine Supplementation on Nutrient Digestibility and Performance of Japanese Quails

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of dietary protein levels and betaine supplementation on nutrient digestibility and performance of Japanese quails. In total, 765 Japanese quails were randomly assigned to a 3×3 factorial arrangement, with five replicates of 17 quails each. Three basal diets were formulated to contain three crude protein levels (16.5, 18.0, and 19.5%). Each protein level was supplemented with 0, 0.06, and 0.12% betaine. The diet with 16.5% dietary crude protein with no betaine supplementation resulted in the lowest crude fiber digestibility, while the 18.0% CP diet supplemented with 0.12% betaine generated the highest crude fiber digestibility (p 0.05). The diets with 18.0 and 19.5% crude protein increased crude fiber digestibility, but reduced ether extract digestibility (p 0.01). Moreover, betaine supplementation increased dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and crude ash (p 0.01) digestibility and tended to increase ether extract digestibility (p=0.09). The increase in egg weight for the 18.0 and 19.5% protein diets was correlated with a decrease in feed conversion ratio (p 0.05). However, feed intake and egg production were not affected by protein levels. Betaine supplementation enhanced all performance variables (p 0.01). The diets with 18.0 and 19.5% crude protein resulted in heavier yolks and eggshells than the 16.5% crude protein diet (p 0.05), whereas betaine supplementation increased yolk, albumen, and eggshell weight (p 0.01). The 18.0 and 19.5% protein diets produced similar responses in most evaluated parameters. Laying Japanese quails can be fed diets with 18.0% crude protein. Moreover, betaine supplementation provided several benefits, and particularly improved nutrient digestibility, performance, and egg quality.

Available phosphorus in diet of meat quail in the growth phase / Fósforo disponível na ração de codornas de corte em fase de crescimento

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the requirement of available phosphorus (aP) for meat quails in the growth phase (22 to 42 days old). A total of 650 birds were used, the levels of available phosphorus distributed in randomized block in a factorial design 5 x 2 (levels of aP x gender) with six replications of 13 birds per pen. The available phosphorus levels were studied: 0.11, 0.21, 0.31, 0.41 and 0.51%. We evaluated the feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion, the amount of calcium, phosphorus and tibia ash of birds. No effect (p>0.05) interaction between the levels of aP and gender or the isolated effect of gender. It was found that aP levels only affected the body weight gain of quail (p0.05) by aP studied. Except tibia ash all bone variables were influenced for interaction (p0.01) among the factors and gender. For quail females recommended level of 0.51% available phosphorus in the diet, given the best results, and for males was not possible to recommend a level of available phosphorus(AU)

Este experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar a exigência de fósforo disponível (Pd) para codornas de corte na fase de crescimento (22 a 42 dias de idade). Foram utilizadas 650 aves, sendo os níveis de fósforo disponível distribuídos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 5 x 2 (níveis de Pd x sexo) com seis repetições de 13 aves por parcela. Os níveis de fósforo disponível estudados foram: 0,11; 0,21; 0,31; 0,41 e 0,51%. Avaliou-se o consumo de ração, o ganho de peso, a conversão alimentar, o teor de cálcio, fósforo e cinzas na tíbia das aves. Não foi observado efeito (p>0,05) da interação entre os níveis de fósforo disponível e sexo ou o efeito isolado de sexo para o desempenho das aves. Verificou-se que os níveis de Pd influenciaram somente o ganho de peso das codornas (p0,05). Com exceção das cinzas na tíbia, todas as variáveis ósseas foram influenciadas pela interação (p(AU)

Available phosphorus in diet of meat quail in the growth phase / Fósforo disponível na ração de codornas de corte em fase de crescimento

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the requirement of available phosphorus (aP) for meat quails in the growth phase (22 to 42 days old). A total of 650 birds were used, the levels of available phosphorus distributed in randomized block in a factorial design 5 x 2 (levels of aP x gender) with six replications of 13 birds per pen. The available phosphorus levels were studied: 0.11, 0.21, 0.31, 0.41 and 0.51%. We evaluated the feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion, the amount of calcium, phosphorus and tibia ash of birds. No effect (p>0.05) interaction between the levels of aP and gender or the isolated effect of gender. It was found that aP levels only affected the body weight gain of quail (p0.05) by aP studied. Except tibia ash all bone variables were influenced for interaction (p0.01) among the factors and gender. For quail females recommended level of 0.51% available phosphorus in the diet, given the best results, and for males was not possible to recommend a level of available phosphorus

Este experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar a exigência de fósforo disponível (Pd) para codornas de corte na fase de crescimento (22 a 42 dias de idade). Foram utilizadas 650 aves, sendo os níveis de fósforo disponível distribuídos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 5 x 2 (níveis de Pd x sexo) com seis repetições de 13 aves por parcela. Os níveis de fósforo disponível estudados foram: 0,11; 0,21; 0,31; 0,41 e 0,51%. Avaliou-se o consumo de ração, o ganho de peso, a conversão alimentar, o teor de cálcio, fósforo e cinzas na tíbia das aves. Não foi observado efeito (p>0,05) da interação entre os níveis de fósforo disponível e sexo ou o efeito isolado de sexo para o desempenho das aves. Verificou-se que os níveis de Pd influenciaram somente o ganho de peso das codornas (p0,05). Com exceção das cinzas na tíbia, todas as variáveis ósseas foram influenciadas pela interação (p

Recovery of Salmonella Gallinarum in the Organs of Experimentally-Inoculated Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix)

Salmonellosis is an infection caused by specific or non specific serotypes of theSalmonella genus, responsible for losses in the poultry industry. Fowl typhoid, caused by S. Gallinarum (SG) is important because it causes elevated mortality in adult birds, leading to economic losses in the poultry industry. This study aimed at quantifying the number of viable SG cells in the liver, spleen, lung, cecum, and reproductive tract (ovary and testicles) of experimentally inoculated Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix), as well as SG shedding in their feces. One hundred and two Japanese quails, with four months of age at the beginning of the experiment, were used. The birds were inoculated with three bacterial cultures containing different concentrations (6x104CFU/0.1mL, 2x105 CFU/0.4mL, or 5x106CFU/0.2mL) of SG resistant to nalidixic acid. On days 1, 4, 7, and 14 after the inoculation (dpi) individual cloacal swabs were collected from six birds per group, which were subsequently sacrificed for organ sampling. The swab samples were streaked directly on plates containing brilliant green agar and nalidixic acid (VBNal). Samples that were negative after 24h, were streaked again. The collected organs were individually macerated and transferred to buffered peptone water at 0.1%. The solutions were immediately diluted serially for CFU counting in VBNal. SG was successfully recovered from one quail, which was inoculated with 2x105 CFU/0.4mL, and from five quails of the group inoculated with 5x106CFU/0.2mL inoculum. All of the analyzed cloacal swab samples were negative. Therefore, this study demonstrated it was difficult to isolate SG from the analyzed organs and that it was not possible to recover thepathogen in the cloacal swabs collected from inoculated quails. These results may be explained by the absence of flagella in SG, inducing weak intestinal immune response in the beginning of the infection and preventing its isolation in cloacal swab samples. The low positivity rate of the analyzed organs may be due to the immune status of the euthanized birds, since the SG dissemination in the animal organism occurs mostly close to death, which was observed in the birds found dead during the experiment.(AU)

Recovery of Salmonella Gallinarum in the Organs of Experimentally-Inoculated Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix)

Salmonellosis is an infection caused by specific or non specific serotypes of theSalmonella genus, responsible for losses in the poultry industry. Fowl typhoid, caused by S. Gallinarum (SG) is important because it causes elevated mortality in adult birds, leading to economic losses in the poultry industry. This study aimed at quantifying the number of viable SG cells in the liver, spleen, lung, cecum, and reproductive tract (ovary and testicles) of experimentally inoculated Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix), as well as SG shedding in their feces. One hundred and two Japanese quails, with four months of age at the beginning of the experiment, were used. The birds were inoculated with three bacterial cultures containing different concentrations (6x104CFU/0.1mL, 2x105 CFU/0.4mL, or 5x106CFU/0.2mL) of SG resistant to nalidixic acid. On days 1, 4, 7, and 14 after the inoculation (dpi) individual cloacal swabs were collected from six birds per group, which were subsequently sacrificed for organ sampling. The swab samples were streaked directly on plates containing brilliant green agar and nalidixic acid (VBNal). Samples that were negative after 24h, were streaked again. The collected organs were individually macerated and transferred to buffered peptone water at 0.1%. The solutions were immediately diluted serially for CFU counting in VBNal. SG was successfully recovered from one quail, which was inoculated with 2x105 CFU/0.4mL, and from five quails of the group inoculated with 5x106CFU/0.2mL inoculum. All of the analyzed cloacal swab samples were negative. Therefore, this study demonstrated it was difficult to isolate SG from the analyzed organs and that it was not possible to recover thepathogen in the cloacal swabs collected from inoculated quails. These results may be explained by the absence of flagella in SG, inducing weak intestinal immune response in the beginning of the infection and preventing its isolation in cloacal swab samples. The low positivity rate of the analyzed organs may be due to the immune status of the euthanized birds, since the SG dissemination in the animal organism occurs mostly close to death, which was observed in the birds found dead during the experiment.

Efeito do farelo de canola na dieta de codornas japonesas / Effect of feeding canola meal to laying Japanese quails

This study evaluated the effect of different levels of canola meal in the diet to laying Japanese quails on productive performance, egg quality and economic viability. A total of 120 80-day-old Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) with average weight 146.54 ± 12 g were evaluated during 84 days. Dietary treatments consisted of the replacement of soybean meal with canola meal at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50%. We evaluated economic viability, productive performance, internal and external quality of eggs. Data were analyzed by polynomial regression at 5%. Body weight decreased linearly as the level of canola meal increased (p = 0.0055). Egg weight (p = 0.0032) and diameter (p = 0.0398) showed a quadratic response, increasing up to 30% substitution with subsequent reduction. Yolk color increased linearly as the level of canola meal increased (p = 0.0039). Canola meal can substitute soybean meal up to 30% without impairing productive performance, egg quality and diet cost.

Este estudo avaliou o efeito de níveis dietéticos de farelo de canola para codornas japonesas em postura sobre o desempenho produtivo, a qualidade dos ovos e a viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizadas 120 codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) com peso médio de 146,54 ± 12 g e 80 dias de idade foram avaliadas por 84 dias. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de níveis de substituição do farelo de soja pelo farelo de canola em 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 ou 50% na dieta. Foi avaliada a viabilidade econômica, o desempenho produtivo, a qualidade interna e a externa dos ovos. Os dados foram analisados por meio de regressão polinomial com 5% de significância. O peso corporal diminuiu linearmente com o aumento do nível de farelo de canola (p = 0,0055). O peso do ovo (p = 0,0032) e o diâmetro (p = 0,0398) apresentaram respostas quadráticas, aumentando até o nível de 30% de substituição e reduzindo posteriormente. A cor da gema aumentou de forma linear com o aumento do nível de farelo de canola (p = 0,0039). O farelo de canola pode substituir o farelo de soja em até 30% sem prejudicar o desempenho produtivo, qualidade do ovo e custo de dieta.

Efeito do farelo de canola na dieta de codornas japonesas / Effect of feeding canola meal to laying Japanese quails

This study evaluated the effect of different levels of canola meal in the diet to laying Japanese quails on productive performance, egg quality and economic viability. A total of 120 80-day-old Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) with average weight 146.54 ± 12 g were evaluated during 84 days. Dietary treatments consisted of the replacement of soybean meal with canola meal at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50%. We evaluated economic viability, productive performance, internal and external quality of eggs. Data were analyzed by polynomial regression at 5%. Body weight decreased linearly as the level of canola meal increased (p = 0.0055). Egg weight (p = 0.0032) and diameter (p = 0.0398) showed a quadratic response, increasing up to 30% substitution with subsequent reduction. Yolk color increased linearly as the level of canola meal increased (p = 0.0039). Canola meal can substitute soybean meal up to 30% without impairing productive performance, egg quality and diet cost.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou o efeito de níveis dietéticos de farelo de canola para codornas japonesas em postura sobre o desempenho produtivo, a qualidade dos ovos e a viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizadas 120 codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) com peso médio de 146,54 ± 12 g e 80 dias de idade foram avaliadas por 84 dias. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de níveis de substituição do farelo de soja pelo farelo de canola em 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 ou 50% na dieta. Foi avaliada a viabilidade econômica, o desempenho produtivo, a qualidade interna e a externa dos ovos. Os dados foram analisados por meio de regressão polinomial com 5% de significância. O peso corporal diminuiu linearmente com o aumento do nível de farelo de canola (p = 0,0055). O peso do ovo (p = 0,0032) e o diâmetro (p = 0,0398) apresentaram respostas quadráticas, aumentando até o nível de 30% de substituição e reduzindo posteriormente. A cor da gema aumentou de forma linear com o aumento do nível de farelo de canola (p = 0,0039). O farelo de canola pode substituir o farelo de soja em até 30% sem prejudicar o desempenho produtivo, qualidade do ovo e custo de dieta.(AU)

Thermal comfort zones for starter meat-type quails

The objective of this study was to determine thermal comfort ranges, as evaluated by air temperature and black-glove temperature and humidity index (BGTHI), for starter meat-type quails. Nine hundred quails were randomly distributed into five environmental chambers. Each chamber was programmed to provide different temperatures weekly. The following thermal environments were provided: SC - severe cold, MC - moderate cold, TC - recommended comfort environment, MH - moderate heat, and SH - severe heat. The best live performance was obtained when quails were submitted to temperatures of 36-39 ºC and BGTHI of 87.1 ± 0.4 and 91.4 ± 0.6 during the first week of rearing. Temperatures of 27-30 ºC and BGTHI of 75.8 ± 0.4 and 79.9 ± 0.6, during the second week, and temperature of 24 ºC and BGTHI of 70.8 ± 0.5 during the third week of rearing.(AU)

Prebiotic levels in the diet on performance and egg quality of Japanese quail / Níveis de prebiótico na dieta sobre o desempenho e a qualidade de ovos de codornas japonesas

Aimed to evaluate the benefits of adding the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (CWSC) and its best level in the diet on the performance and quality of eggs produced by Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), during the production phase. 400 Japanese quails, were distributed in a complete random design, with five treatments and 10 replicates with 8 birds each. It was used five diets with different levels of cell wall of S. cerevisiae (0 kg/t; 0.5kg/t; 1.0kg/t; 1.5kg/t; 2.0kg/t). To analyze the performance of birds and egg quality, the variables evaluated were: feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed conversion per dozen of eggs produced, feed conversion per mass of eggs produced, viability, percentage of the yolk, percentage of the albumen, percentage of the shell and shell thickness. Egg weight, percentage of yolk and percentage of albumen were not influenced by the inclusion of cell wall of S. cerevisiae in the diet of Japanese quails. The increasing levels of cell wall of S. cerevisiae to the level of 1.5kg/t in the diet improved production, feed conversion per dozen, feed conversion per mass and shell quality of eggs produced by Japanese quail during the production phase.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os benefícios da adição da parede celular de Sacharomyces cerevisiae (PCSC) e seu melhor nível de inclusão na dieta sobre o desempenho e a qualidade dos ovos produzidos por codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) na fase de produção. Foram utilizadas 400 codornas japonesas distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e 10 repetições com 8 aves cada. Foram utilizadas cinco dietas com diferentes níveis de parede celular de S. cerevisiae (0 kg/t; 0.5kg/t; 1.0kg/t; 1.5kg/t; 2.0kg/t). Para análise do desempenho das aves e da qualidade dos ovos, as variáveis avaliadas foram: o consumo de ração, a produção de ovos, o peso médio dos ovos, a massa de ovos, a conversão alimentar por massa, a conversão alimentar por dúzia de ovos produzidos, a viabilidade, a percentagem dos constituintes do ovo (gema, albúmen e casca) e a espessura de casca. O peso dos ovos, a massa de ovos, a viabilidade, a percentagem da gema e a percentagem do albúmen não foram influenciadas pela inclusão de parede celular de S. cerevisiae na dieta das codornas japonesas. A inclusão de níveis crescentes de parede celular de S. cerevisiae até o nível de 1,5kg/t na dieta melhorou a produção, a conversão alimentar por dúzia, a conversão alimentar por massa e a qualidade da casca de ovos produzidos por codornas japonesas durante a fase de produção.(AU)

Prebiotic levels in the diet on performance and egg quality of Japanese quail / Níveis de prebiótico na dieta sobre o desempenho e a qualidade de ovos de codornas japonesas

Aimed to evaluate the benefits of adding the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (CWSC) and its best level in the diet on the performance and quality of eggs produced by Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), during the production phase. 400 Japanese quails, were distributed in a complete random design, with five treatments and 10 replicates with 8 birds each. It was used five diets with different levels of cell wall of S. cerevisiae (0 kg/t; 0.5kg/t; 1.0kg/t; 1.5kg/t; 2.0kg/t). To analyze the performance of birds and egg quality, the variables evaluated were: feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed conversion per dozen of eggs produced, feed conversion per mass of eggs produced, viability, percentage of the yolk, percentage of the albumen, percentage of the shell and shell thickness. Egg weight, percentage of yolk and percentage of albumen were not influenced by the inclusion of cell wall of S. cerevisiae in the diet of Japanese quails. The increasing levels of cell wall of S. cerevisiae to the level of 1.5kg/t in the diet improved production, feed conversion per dozen, feed conversion per mass and shell quality of eggs produced by Japanese quail during the production phase.

Objetivou-se avaliar os benefícios da adição da parede celular de Sacharomyces cerevisiae (PCSC) e seu melhor nível de inclusão na dieta sobre o desempenho e a qualidade dos ovos produzidos por codornas japonesas (Coturnix coturnix japonica) na fase de produção. Foram utilizadas 400 codornas japonesas distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e 10 repetições com 8 aves cada. Foram utilizadas cinco dietas com diferentes níveis de parede celular de S. cerevisiae (0 kg/t; 0.5kg/t; 1.0kg/t; 1.5kg/t; 2.0kg/t). Para análise do desempenho das aves e da qualidade dos ovos, as variáveis avaliadas foram: o consumo de ração, a produção de ovos, o peso médio dos ovos, a massa de ovos, a conversão alimentar por massa, a conversão alimentar por dúzia de ovos produzidos, a viabilidade, a percentagem dos constituintes do ovo (gema, albúmen e casca) e a espessura de casca. O peso dos ovos, a massa de ovos, a viabilidade, a percentagem da gema e a percentagem do albúmen não foram influenciadas pela inclusão de parede celular de S. cerevisiae na dieta das codornas japonesas. A inclusão de níveis crescentes de parede celular de S. cerevisiae até o nível de 1,5kg/t na dieta melhorou a produção, a conversão alimentar por dúzia, a conversão alimentar por massa e a qualidade da casca de ovos produzidos por codornas japonesas durante a fase de produção.

Influence of environmental temperature and electrolyte balance on the performance of quails (Coturnix Coturnix Coturnix)

High environmental temperatures have a negative effect on the production efficiency of poultry reared in hot climates. This study evaluated the efficiency of electrolyte supplementation under high environmental temperature conditions by manipulating water and feed electrolyte balance (EB) on the survival and performance of European quails. In experiment 1, a completely randomized experimental design was applied in a 4 x 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted in four feed EB values (0, 120, 240, 360 mEq/kg), and two environmental temperatures (25 and 34 ºC). Feed electrolyte balance was manipulated by the addition of sodium bicarbonate and ammonium chloride. In experiment 2, birds were randomly distributed according to a 5 x 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted in five BE values in the drinking water (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 mEq/L) and two environmental temperatures (25 and 34 °C). Only sodium bicarbonate was added to the water to obtain the different BE values. The experiments were carried out simultaneously in environmental chambers at constant temperatures with 20- to 37-d-old quails. Most evaluated parameters were influenced by temperature in both experiments. In experiment 1, EB affected water intake and intestinal length. In experiment 2, EB values influenced (p 0.05) water intake and heart and liver relative weights. Electrolyte balance values of 120 mEq/kg of feed and of 30 mEq/L of drinking water are recommended to increase water intake of grower European quails reared under hot temperature.

Influence of environmental temperature and electrolyte balance on the performance of quails (Coturnix Coturnix Coturnix)

High environmental temperatures have a negative effect on the production efficiency of poultry reared in hot climates. This study evaluated the efficiency of electrolyte supplementation under high environmental temperature conditions by manipulating water and feed electrolyte balance (EB) on the survival and performance of European quails. In experiment 1, a completely randomized experimental design was applied in a 4 x 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted in four feed EB values (0, 120, 240, 360 mEq/kg), and two environmental temperatures (25 and 34 ºC). Feed electrolyte balance was manipulated by the addition of sodium bicarbonate and ammonium chloride. In experiment 2, birds were randomly distributed according to a 5 x 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted in five BE values in the drinking water (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 mEq/L) and two environmental temperatures (25 and 34 °C). Only sodium bicarbonate was added to the water to obtain the different BE values. The experiments were carried out simultaneously in environmental chambers at constant temperatures with 20- to 37-d-old quails. Most evaluated parameters were influenced by temperature in both experiments. In experiment 1, EB affected water intake and intestinal length. In experiment 2, EB values influenced (p 0.05) water intake and heart and liver relative weights. Electrolyte balance values of 120 mEq/kg of feed and of 30 mEq/L of drinking water are recommended to increase water intake of grower European quails reared under hot temperature.(AU)

Determination of upper limits of the thermal comfort zone for quails acclimatized in Brazil 22-35 days old / Determinação de limites superiores da zona de conforto térmico para codornas de corte aclimatizadas no Brasil de 22 a 35 dias de idade

The objective of this research was to determine the temperature comfort, evaluated in terms of temperature and indices Black Globe Temperature and Humidity (BGTH), appropriate to the creation of quails in the final phase. Were housed 300 quails in different thermal environments. Each group of 60 birds were distributed randomly into 03 chambers, with 10 birds per pen (cage), totaling 15 treatments. The treatments were: CP - Comfort Pressed (temperatures of 26 and 25 oC, respectively, for fourth and fifth week of creation); MH - Moderate heat (30 C for the fourth and fifth week of creation) and HS - Heat Severus (33 oC for the fourth and fifth week of creation). During the fourth week of creation quail (22-28 days), the best value of BGTH was 75.8 ± 0.9 and for the fifth week of creation (29-35 days) BGTH 75.3 ± 0, 7 (indicative of thermal comfort for this age). It was found that: quail maintained in thermal stress (either hot or cold) during the initial phase can not recover the end of the life cycle, even when reared under conditions of thermal comfort in the initial stage after this period, while kept at temperatures of heat stress is moderate or severe chronic, can not keep up with the normal performance, demonstrating the need to ensure that the thermal environment of poultry is kept in accordance with the appropriate requirements for each age of the quail.(AU)

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa determinar as faixas de conforto térmico, avaliadas em termos de temperatura e Índices de Temperatura de Globo Negro e Umidade (ITGU), adequadas à criação de codornas de corte na fase final de criação. Foram alojadas 300 codornas de corte, em diferentes ambientes térmicos. Cada grupo de 60 aves foi distribuído, aleatoriamente, em 03 câmaras climáticas, sendo 10 aves por unidade experimental (gaiola), totalizando 15 tratamentos. Os tratamentos foram: CP Conforto Preconizado (temperaturas de 26 e 25 oC, respectivamente, para quarta e quinta semana de criação); QM Calor Moderado (30 oC para a quarta e quinta semana de criação) e QS - Calor Severo (33 oC para a quarta e quinta semana de criação). Durante a quarta semana de criação das codornas (22 a 28 dias), o melhor valor de ITGU foi de 75,8 ± 0,9 e para a quinta semana de criação (29 a 35 dias) ITGU de 75,3 ± 0,7 (indicativos de conforto térmico para esta idade). Verificou-se que: codornas mantidas em estresse térmico (seja por frio ou calor) durante a fase inicial de criação não se recuperam ao final do ciclo de vida; mesmo quando criadas em condições de conforto térmico na fase inicial, após este período, quando mantidas em temperaturas de estresse seja por calor moderado ou severo crônicos, não conseguem se manter com a performance normal, demonstrando a necessidade de se garantir que o ambient(AU)

Determination of upper limits of the thermal comfort zone for quails acclimatized in Brazil 22-35 days old / Determinação de limites superiores da zona de conforto térmico para codornas de corte aclimatizadas no Brasil de 22 a 35 dias de idade

The objective of this research was to determine the temperature comfort, evaluated in terms of temperature and indices Black Globe Temperature and Humidity (BGTH), appropriate to the creation of quails in the final phase. Were housed 300 quails in different thermal environments. Each group of 60 birds were distributed randomly into 03 chambers, with 10 birds per pen (cage), totaling 15 treatments. The treatments were: CP - Comfort Pressed (temperatures of 26 and 25 oC, respectively, for fourth and fifth week of creation); MH - Moderate heat (30 C for the fourth and fifth week of creation) and HS - Heat Severus (33 oC for the fourth and fifth week of creation). During the fourth week of creation quail (22-28 days), the best value of BGTH was 75.8 ± 0.9 and for the fifth week of creation (29-35 days) BGTH 75.3 ± 0, 7 (indicative of thermal comfort for this age). It was found that: quail maintained in thermal stress (either hot or cold) during the initial phase can not recover the end of the life cycle, even when reared under conditions of thermal comfort in the initial stage after this period, while kept at temperatures of heat stress is moderate or severe chronic, can not keep up with the normal performance, demonstrating the need to ensure that the thermal environment of poultry is kept in accordance with the appropriate requirements for each age of the quail.

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa determinar as faixas de conforto térmico, avaliadas em termos de temperatura e Índices de Temperatura de Globo Negro e Umidade (ITGU), adequadas à criação de codornas de corte na fase final de criação. Foram alojadas 300 codornas de corte, em diferentes ambientes térmicos. Cada grupo de 60 aves foi distribuído, aleatoriamente, em 03 câmaras climáticas, sendo 10 aves por unidade experimental (gaiola), totalizando 15 tratamentos. Os tratamentos foram: CP Conforto Preconizado (temperaturas de 26 e 25 oC, respectivamente, para quarta e quinta semana de criação); QM Calor Moderado (30 oC para a quarta e quinta semana de criação) e QS - Calor Severo (33 oC para a quarta e quinta semana de criação). Durante a quarta semana de criação das codornas (22 a 28 dias), o melhor valor de ITGU foi de 75,8 ± 0,9 e para a quinta semana de criação (29 a 35 dias) ITGU de 75,3 ± 0,7 (indicativos de conforto térmico para esta idade). Verificou-se que: codornas mantidas em estresse térmico (seja por frio ou calor) durante a fase inicial de criação não se recuperam ao final do ciclo de vida; mesmo quando criadas em condições de conforto térmico na fase inicial, após este período, quando mantidas em temperaturas de estresse seja por calor moderado ou severo crônicos, não conseguem se manter com a performance normal, demonstrando a necessidade de se garantir que o ambient

Período de permanência de espermatozoides em glândulas hospedeiras de espermatozoides e glândulas infundibulares em codorna de corte / Stay period of sperm in sperm-storage glands and in infundibular glands in quails

Para determinar o tempo de permanência de espermatozoides nas glândulas hospedeiras de espermatozoides (GHEs) e nas glândulas infundibulares (GIs) de codorna de corte (Coturnix coturnix coturnix), foram utilizados 12 machos e 66 fêmeas, totalizando 78 codornas em fase reprodutiva. As fêmeas foram distribuídas em 11 grupos e acasaladas por 24 horas em gaiolas individuais. Os machos, utilizados de modo intercalado, foram separados do contato com as fêmeas e colocados em descanso. As aves do grupo-controle (G0 - seis fêmeas) foram abatidas no início do experimento, enquanto as 60 fêmeas acasaladas foram distribuídas em 10 grupos (G1 a G10, com seis fêmeas cada) e abatidas a cada período de 24 horas, de forma sequencial. Fragmentos foram obtidos da região uterovaginal e do infundíbulo e submetidos às análises histológica, histoquímica e histométrica com técnicas de rotina. Os resultados morfométricos mostraram que 46% das GHEs continham espermatozoides em seu lume no primeiro dia após o acasalamento, diminuindo gradativamente nos dias posteriores chegando a 3% no quinto dia. Nesse período, os espermatozoides ascendem em direção às GIs, onde permanecem viáveis e férteis por, pelo menos, 96 horas após deixarem as GHEs, possibilitando a postura de ovos férteis por 10 dias, em média, após o acasalamento.(AU)

Sperm-Storage Tubules (SSPs) and Infundibular Tubules (ITs) are the structures responsible for sperm storage in the oviduct of birds, snakes, alligators and turtles after mating. Aiming to determine length of stay of sperm-storage tubules (SSPs) and infundibular tubules (ITs) cutting quail, Coturnix coturnix coturnix, we used 12 males and 66 females, totaling 79 quails in the reproductive phase. The females were allocated into 11 groups and mated for 24 hours in individual cages. The males used were merged and separated from contact with females and placed at rest. The poultry of the control-group (G0 six females) was slaughtered at the beginning of the experiment, the 60 previously mated females were allocated into 10 groups (G1 to G10, with six females each) and were slaughtered sequentially. On the 10th day, the last group (G10) was shot. The fragments obtained from the utero-vaginal region and the infundibulum of each female underwent histological techniques, immunohistochemistry and morphometry routine. The morphometric results showed that GHEs had 46% of the sperm in his heat on day 1 after mating, decreasing gradually in the after days reaching 3% on day 5. At this time they increase toward the infundibular tubules, where they remain viable and fertile for at least another 96 hours (4 days) after leaving the SSPs, allowing these birds to lay fertile eggs for 10 days on average after mating.(AU)