Adjusted Thr: Lys Ratio Improved the Performance and Efficiency of Japanese Quail

Two hundred and forty Japanese quail aged 125 days were randomly allocated to five treatment groups based on laying (%) and quail's weight (90.71 ± 1.8% egg/day × 100 and 178.05 ± 9.38 g, respectively), each of which included six replicates of eight quails. The diets were formulated based on corn, soybean meal, and industrial amino acids. An optimal diet achieves 100% of amino acids required by the quail requirements, except for threonine. Five treatments were made: 20% less amino acid; 10% less amino acid; optimal diet; 10% more amino acid; and 20% more amino acids than those in the optimal diet. The increase in amino acid levels in a fixed Lys: amino acid ratio led to histological alterations in the liver and uterine epithelium, reduction in blood lipid peroxidation, lower hepatic HSP70 gene expression, and the performance of laying Japanese quail. The optimal diet based on the NRC with an adjusted Thr: Lys 78 ratio (Lys 1.0%) improved the performance and efficiency of Japanese quail from 125 to 230 days of age.(AU)

Daily Egg-Cycle in Japanese Quail: Serum Biochemistry, Bones, and Oviduct Changes

This study described changes in the serum biochemistry, morphology of genital organs, long bone, and eggshell during the daily egg formation cycle in Japanese quails. Sixty quails (18-wk) were distributed in 6 groups according to hours post-oviposition (POV): 0 hr POV (16h00), 2 hrs POV (egg in magnum), and 4, 8, 14, and 20 hrs POV (egg in uterus). The magnum had higher relative weight before the next ovulation (20 and 0 hr POV), and its tubular glands showed functional variation through periods: abundant eosinophilic, PAS+, and negative Alcian blue secretion at 0 and 2 hrs, empty glands aspect at 4 hrs, and filled again at 20 hrs POV. Serum albumin and total Ca had the highest value in the 2 hrs group, and the lowest in 8 and 14 hrs groups. Egg-cycle period affected the Ca% of the medullar bone of the femur and tibiotarsus, with the lowest mean at 14 hrs POV (06h00), and the highest mean after oviposition (0 hr POV), showing the recovery of Ca stores in long bones for the next egg cycle. Analysis of the eggshell using scanning electron microscopy evidenced that palisade layer formation starts during the night (8­14 hrs POV), and most parts are secreted during the day period. In conclusion, eggshell secretion in light periods, high magnum activity and medullary bone Ca deposition during midday and afternoon, as well as the ovulation/oviposition in the afternoon, are the main characteristics of the distinct physiological aspects of the egg cycle in quails.(AU)

Emulsifier in Diets with Different Alternative Lipid Sources: Effects on the Health of Japanese Quails

The present research aims to evaluate the inclusion of an emulsifying additive based on mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids in diets with different lipid sources, studying its effects on duodenum histology, biometry of the digestive and reproductive tract, and blood biochemical profile of Japanese quails. The study was carried out in the experimental aviary of the Federal University of Grande Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized, with diets in a 3x2 factorial design with three different lipid sources (soybean oil, poultry fat, and beef tallow), either supplemented or not with an emulsifier. The birds that received a diet composed of poultry fat and an emulsifying additive had a larger gizzard. Animals that received a diet containing an emulsifier, regardless of the lipid source, had greater heart weight. The duodenum of animals that received bovine tallow in their diet showed a greater height and villus:crypt ratio. Biochemical parameters were not affected by either the lipid source or the inclusion of emulsifier in quail diets. The biochemical blood profile of birds in treatments did not show significant changes among all diets used. The use of soybean oil, bovine tallow, and poultry fat with or without the inclusion of an emulsifier does not show changes in the health and development of the quails' organs, which also indicates that the health of Japanese quails in the laying phase is kept in good standards.(AU)

Determination of the Gastrointestinal Passage Rate Using Dexa Technology and Barium Sulfate As a Marker in Japanese Quails

The objective of this study was to characterize the dynamics of food passage in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of Japanese quail. A randomized design was used with four treatments and four experimental units with one bird each, nine of which were measured in time. The ingredients used were albumin, starch, cellulose, and soybean oil. Suspensions containing barium sulfate and saline were prepared, except for soybean oil. For each bird, 2.5 mL of the suspension was administered directly to the crop. Dual-energy absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to quantify the passage of food. The birds were sedated and maintained under inhalation anesthesia during the scan. Measurements were taken at intervals of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 24 h. The variables identified were passage time, first quality, and the average time of each variable. Based on these results, the ingredients may show differences in dynamic passing on the Japanese quail GIT. The duration of the first attempt was 32 min, ranging from 21 to 44 min. The average time value of food choice was close to 10.8 h and varied according to the ingredient from 8.45-12.16 h. Among the variables, soybean oil presented values ​​that denote a fast passage in the GIT, while albumin presented values ​​that denote a slower passage. The dynamics of food passage in the GIT of Japanese quails varies according to the chemical composition of the ingredients.(AU)

Grãos secos de destilaria de milho na dieta de codornas japonesas na fase de cria / Dried corn distillery grains in the diet of japanese quailsin the brooding phase / Granos secos de destilería de maíz en la dieta de las codornices japonesas en fase de cría

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho de codornas japonesas na fase de cria emfunçãodosníveis de inclusão de grãos secos de destilaria (DDG) de milho na dieta. Foramutilizadas 720 codornas poedeiras (Coturnix coturnix japonica) com 1 dia de vida até 21 dias de idade, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos eseisrepetições, com 24 codornas por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos utilizados foram: dietacontrole com 0% de DDG, dieta com 5% de inclusão de DDG, dieta com10%de inclusãodeDDG, dieta com 15% de inclusão de DDG e dieta com 20% de inclusão de DDG. Foi avaliado o consumo de ração (g/ave/dia), o ganho de peso (g/ave/dia), conversão alimentar(kg/kg) e a viabilidade das aves. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de regressão a 5%deprobabilidade e pelo teste de Dunnet. Foi observado efeito (P<0,05) para ganho empeso, maspara o consumo de ração e conversão alimentar não houve diferença entre as dietas (P>0,05). Conclui-se que a inclusão de 14,8% de DDG de milho na dieta de codornas japonesas maximizou o ganho de peso e não prejudicou o consumo de ração e conversão alimentar dasaves.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate the performance of Japanese quails in the brooding phaseasafunction of the levels of inclusion of corn distillers dried grains (DDG) in the diet. Weused720 laying quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) with 1 day of life and 21 days of age, distributed in internally randomized delineation with five treatments and six repetitions, with24 quails per experimental unit. The treatments used were control diet with 0%DDG, diet with 5% inclusion of DDG, diet with 10% inclusion of DDG, diet with 15% inclusion of DDG and diet with 20% inclusion of DDG. feed intake (g / bird / day), weight gain (g/ bird/ day), feed conversion (kg / kg) and bird viability were evaluated. The data were submittedtoregression analysis at 5% probability and by the Dunnet test. There was an effect (P<0.05) forweight gain, but for feed intake and feed conversion there was no difference between the diets (P>0.05). It was concluded that the inclusion of 14.8% corn DDG in the diet of Japanesequails maximized weight gain and did not affect feed intake and feed conversion of the birds.(AU)

El objetivo fue evaluar el desempeño zootécnico de las codornices japonesas en la etapadecrianza en función de los niveles de inclusión de grano seco de destilería (DDG) de maízenladieta. Se utilizaron 720 codornices ponedoras (Coturnix coturnix japonica) de 1 día a 21díasde edad, distribuidas en un diseño completamente al azar con cinco tratamientos yseisrepeticiones, con 24 codornices por unidad experimental. Los tratamientos utilizados fueron: dieta control con 0% de DDG, dieta con 5% de inclusión de DDG, dieta con 10%de inclusiónde DDG, dieta con 15% de inclusión de DDG y dieta con 20% de inclusión de DDG. Seevaluó el consumo de alimento (g/ave/día), la ganancia de peso (g/ave/día), la conversiónalimenticia (kg/kg) y la viabilidad del ave. Los datos fueron sometidos a análisis de regresiónal 5% de probabilidad y mediante la prueba de Dunnet. Hubo un efecto (P<0,05) paralaganancia de peso, pero para el consumo de alimento y la conversión alimenticia nohubodiferencia entre las dietas (P>0,05). Se concluyó que la inclusión de 14,8%de DDGdemaízen la dieta de las codornices japonesas maximizó la ganancia de peso y no afectó el consumode alimento ni la conversión alimenticia de las aves.(AU)

Relationship of Linoleic and Alpha-Linolenic Acids on the Productive Performance and Serum Biochemical Profile of Japanese Quail Breeders

Linoleic (LA, 18:2) and alpha-linolenic (ALA, 18:3) acids are omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids considered essential to human and animal health. The optimum LA/ALA ratio for the production of fertile eggs in Japanese quail breeders has been little investigated. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effects of LA/ALA ratio on productive performance, egg quality, serum biochemical profile, body composition, and organ weight in Japanese quail. A completely randomized design was used. Birds were distributed into five treatments consisting of different LA/ALA ratios (1.48:1, 4.57:1, 7.63:1, 10.69:1, and 13.75:1), obtained by adding soybean (LA) and flaxseed (ALA) oils to the feed. Productive performance and egg quality were assessed in three cycles of 28 days each. At the end of the experiment, the birds were slaughtered and evaluated for biochemical profile, genital organ weights, and body composition. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression (p<0.05). LA/ALA ratio had no effect on productive performance or egg quality. Blood cholesterol in females and males and total triglycerides in females showed a quadratic response. Breeders fed the highest level of flaxseed oil (1.48:1) had the best serum levels of cholesterol and total triglycerides. Live weight and relative organ weights were not influenced by LA/ALA ratio. Differences in ash and crude protein levels were observed between groups, with LA increasing the deposition of these nutrients. It was concluded that LA/ALA ratio didn't affect productive performance or egg quality. However, based on the results of body composition, serum triglycerides, and cholesterol, it is recommended to use an LA/ALA ratio of 1.48:1 in diets.(AU)

Vegetable lipid sources in the diet of japanese quails in the rearing phase and effects on the initial phase of production / Fontes lipídicas vegetais na alimentação de codornas japonesas em fase de recria e sua repercussão na fase inicial de produção

This study aims to evaluate the residual effect of different lipid sources in the diet of Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) in the rearing phase on the performance and egg quality in the initial phase of egg-laying. In the first stage, 400 Japanese quails aged 21 days were used, being distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with five treatments and ten replicates of eight birds/replicate Treatments consisted of basal ration (BR) with 2.5% soybean oil; BR with 2.5% corn oil; BR with 2.5% cottonseed oil; BR with 2.5% sunflower oil; and BR with 2.5% canola oil.At 42 days, maintaining the initial design, all quails received a basal ration with soybean oil, in order to evaluate the residual effect of the previous phase on the performance and egg quality in the initial phase of egg-laying (43 - 84 days). The different lipid sources did not affect the performance of quails in the initial phase of production. For egg quality, yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk index, gravity, and Haugh unit (HU) showed better results in the treatment using sunflower oil. There was a residual effect of the use of lipid sources of vegetable origin in the rearing phase diet of Japanese quails on egg quality traits. Lipid sources from soybean, corn, cottonseed, canola, and sunflower seeds can be used as energy sources in the rearing diet of egg-laying quails for not being harmful to their initial performance. The longevity in egg production of quails fed with different lipid sources in the rearing phase was similar.

A pesquisa foi conduzida com objetivo de avaliar o efeito residual de diferentes fontes lipídicas na dieta de codornas japonesas (Coturnix japonica) na fase de recria sob o desempenho e a qualidade de ovos na fase inicial de postura. Na primeira etapa foram utilizadas 400 codornas japonesas com idade de 21 dias, as aves foram distribuídas em tratamentos seguindo um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com dez repetições, de oito aves, em cinco tratamentos: ração basal (RB) com 2,5% de óleo de soja, RB com 2,5 % de óleo de milho, RB com 2,5% de óleo algodão, RB com 2,5% de óleo de girassol e RB com 2,5% de óleo de canola. Aos 42 dias mantendo o delineamento inicial, todas aves receberam ração basal com óleo de soja, para que fosse avaliado o efeito residual da fase anterior sobre o desempenho e a qualidade dos ovos na fase inicial de postura (43 - 84 dias). As diferentes fontes lipídicas não afetaram o desempenho das aves na fase inicial de produção. Para a qualidade dos ovos, os parâmetros de altura, diâmetro e índice de gema, gravidade e UH foram melhores no tratamento com utilização de óleo de girassol. Houve efeito residual da utilização de fontes lipídicas de origem vegetal na dieta em fase de recria de codornas japonesas sobre as características da qualidade dos ovos. As fontes lipídicas oriundas das sementes de soja, milho, algodão, canola e girassol podem ser utilizadas como ingredientes energéticos na dieta de recria de codornas poedeiras por não serem prejudiciais ao desempenho inicial das aves. A longevidade na produção dos ovos das aves alimentadas com diferentes fontes lipídicas na fase de recria foi semelhante.

Performance and Carcass of Broiler Quails Fed Distillers' Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS)

This study determined the metabolizable energy of DDGS for broiler quails (Experiment I) and evaluated the effect of different dietary levels of DDGS on performance, carcass, organ weight, meat quality, and economic viability (Experiment II). In Experiment I, 72 broiler quails were randomly distributed into two treatments (reference or test diets). The experimental period consisted of 5 days of adaptation, followed by 5 days of total excreta collection. Experimental diets consisted of a reference or a test diet containing 800 g/kg reference diet and 200 g/kg DDGS. In experiment II, 432 unsexed broiler quails were randomly distributed into groups fed six levels of DDGS (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 250 g/kg). At 43 days of age, birds were slaughtered and evaluated for carcass yield, organ weight, and meat quality. Apparent metabolizable energy values corrected for nitrogen retention of DDGS were 2,488 and 2,466 kcal/kg for males and females, respectively. In the growth phase and the overall period, feed intake increased linearly (p=0.015 and 0.040) and feed conversion ratio worsened (p=0.038 and 0.001) with the inclusion of DDGS in the diet, respectively. A linear increasing (p=0.001) of gizzard weight was observed with increasing dietary DDGS levels, while the economic variables were affect depending on seasonal feedstocks prices. It is concluded that dietary levels up to 250 g/kg DDGS do not affect growth, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of broiler quails. However, the prices of ingredients in the harvest and off-season period should be considered to determine the level of inclusion of DDGS.(AU)

The effects of 1a(OH)D3 individually or in combination with phytase, and different levels of cholecalciferol on performance, tibia criteria, and plasma minerals of Japanese quails

The aim of studywas to compare efficacy of 1-α(OH)D3alone or in combination with phytase and 1-α(OH)D3in combination of phytase and different concentration of cholecalciferol on performance, tibia parameters,andplasma minerals of quails fed Ca-P deficient diet. A total of 280 mixed sex 5-d-old quails were allocated to 7 treatments with 5 replicates.The vitamin supplement which incorporated to basal diet did not contain cholecalciferol.The dietary treatments were as follows: Ca-P deficient diet (basal diet); basal diet + 500 FTU phytase/kg of diet; basal diet + phytase + 5 µg of 1-α(OH)D3kg-1of diet;basal diet + phytase + 5 µg of 1-α(OH)D3and 250, 500, 750 and 1,000 IU of cholecalciferol kg-1of diet. The highest final body weight and the best feed conversion ratioobtained in the group supplemented with 1,000 IU cholecalciferol kg-1of diet (p < 0.05). Supplementation of 1-α(OH)D3 alone or in combination with phytase and phytase and different concentration of cholecalciferol could improve tibia parameters (p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of 1-α(OH)D3alone to Ca-P deficient diet could maximize tibia mineralization, whereas it couldn't maximize performance, performance criteria were maximized by supplementation of 1,000 IU cholecalciferol kg-1of diet.(AU)

Protein and energy for maintenance and gain of European quail fed different energy sources and housed at two temperatures

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether replacing corn starch (CS) energy with isolated soy protein (ISP) and soybean oil (SO) and the ambient temperature affect the protein and energy requirements for maintenance and gain of European quail. Thus, a total of 432 European quail from 10 to 30 days of age, distributed in a completely randomized design, were used to estimate the protein and energy requirements for maintenance through the comparative slaughter methodology. The treatments consisted of three diets formulated with the replacement of CS, corresponding to 15% of the metabolizable energy in the diet, with ISP and SO, two controlled temperatures (26 and 35 °C), and three levels of feed supply (ad libitum, and 70 and 40% of ad libitum intake), with four replicates of six birds. Protein and energy requirements for weight gain were determined from 160 European quail, slaughtered every five days at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 days of age. Birds were housed in four groups of 40 birds in a room with thermoneutral temperature (26 °C). The energy sources of the feed and temperatures studied affected protein and energy requirements for maintenance and gain of European quail. Replacing CS energy by 15% of dietary energy with SO results in lower protein and energy maintenance requirements for European quail at both temperatures. The protein and energy weight gain requirements of quail fed SO as an energy source is higher than CS and ISP.(AU)

The Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae and Citric Acid on Productive Performance, Egg Quality Parameters, Small Intestinal Morphology, and Immune-Related Gene Expression in Laying Japanese Quails

This experiment evaluated the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) and citric acid on production performance, egg quality, intestine histomorphology, and avian ß-defensin 1 and 2 (AvBD 1 and 2) gene expressions in laying Japanese quails. A total of 400 48-day-old quails were randomly assigned to a 2×2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments with 5 replicates (each containing 10 quails) for 7 weeks. Variable factors consisted of S. cerevisiae (0 and 100 mg/kg diet), citric acid (0 and 5 g/kg diet), and Virginiamycin (0 and 50 mg/kg diet). At the completion of the trial, one bird per replicate was randomly killed, and jejunal tissue samples were removed to evaluate intestinal morphometric characteristics. Samples were taken from the midpoint of the jejunum to measure the gene expression of AvBD 1 and 2. Dietary inclusion of both S. cerevisiae and citric acid resulted in increased egg weight, egg mass, reduced feed intake, and improved FCR (p<0.05). The addition of S. cerevisiae to diets containing citric acid reduced feed intake, increased egg weight, and improved FCR (p<0.05). Shell weight and shell thickness were increased in birds fed each of S. cerevisiae and citric acid supplements (p<0.05). Dietary S. cerevisiae and citric acid similarly increased intestinal villus height, width, surface area, and the villus height to crypt depth ratio (p<0.0001). Results showed that AvBD 1 and 2 genes expression were up-regulated on quails fed S. cerevisiae-supplemented diets (p<0.0001). In conclusion, these results suggest that supplementation of S. cerevisiae and citric acid as functional feed additives either alone or in combination could be a potential alternative to antibiotics in the diet of Japanese laying quails.(AU)

The Effects of Dietary Clinoptilolite Supplementation on Fattening Performance, Some Blood and Visceral Organ Parameters in Japanese Quails

This study was aimed at determining the effects of dietary zeolite (clinoptilolite) supplementation on fattening performance, slaughter characteristics, and some blood and visceral organ parameters in Japanese quails. For this purpose, 140 (4x35) four-day-old Japanese quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were randomly assigned to 4 groups with 4 replicates (9+9+9+8), and the study was continued for a period of 31 days. The groups were fed on a basal diet supplemented with 0% of clinoptilolite (control group), 1.5% of clinoptilolite (Z1.5), 3% of clinoptilolite (Z3) and 6% of clinoptilolite (Z6). For the female quails, the best blood TOS and liver TAS levels were detected in Z3 and Z1.5, respectively. For the male quails, the best blood TAS and liver TOS levels were determined in Z1.5. Histopathological examination demonstrated that dietary supplementation with 1.5% of zeolite had increased the height of the intestinal villi in both male and female quails, and had reduced hepatic lipidosis in female quails. Female quails displayed significantly increased levels of hepatic lipidosis in Z3 and Z6, and liver hepatitis in Z3. In result, it is suggested that zeolite, a hydrated aluminosilicate, in its form containing 90.2% of clinoptilolite, can be incorporated as a feed supplement into quail basal diets at a rate of 3%, owing to its positive effect on fattening performance. Furthermore, the use of zeolite may also contribute to maintaining animal health by reducing humidity in poultry houses and feed.(AU)

Calcium Requirement and Vitamin D Supplementation in Meat-Type Quail at First Stage of Growth

Currently, feed formulations for quail are based on foreign data or data from other species; this undermines productivity with the use of excessive or deficient levels of some nutrients. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the nutritional requirement levels of calcium (Ca) and supplementation vitamin D in meat-type quail from 1 to 14 d of age. The experiment was a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments (levels of Ca: 0.42, 0.58, 0.74 and 0.90% and levels of vitamin D: 1,000, 2,000, 3,000 and 4,000 IU) with 3 replicate pens and 43 quails per pen. Weight gain increased quadratically with increased levels of Ca and vitamin D; this variable yielded estimated levels of 0.73% Ca and 2,883 IU vitamin D. There was no Ca x vitamin D interaction effect on bone variables. Bone Ca, bone phosphorus, bone ash, femoral bone strength, tibial bone strength and the femoral Seedor index increased quadratically with an increase in Ca levels. These variables yielded estimated values of 0.78, 0.71, 0.78, 0.77, 0.83, and 0.71% Ca, respectively. It is concluded that the requirements of Ca and vitamin D for the maximum weight gain of meat-type quails, in the period from one to 14 days of age, were 0.73% Ca (p=0.001) and 2,883 IU vitamin D (p=0.02), respectively.(AU)

Calcium Requirement and Vitamin D Supplementation in Meat-Type Quail at First Stage of Growth

Currently, feed formulations for quail are based on foreign data or data from other species; this undermines productivity with the use of excessive or deficient levels of some nutrients. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the nutritional requirement levels of calcium (Ca) and supplementation vitamin D in meat-type quail from 1 to 14 d of age. The experiment was a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments (levels of Ca: 0.42, 0.58, 0.74 and 0.90% and levels of vitamin D: 1,000, 2,000, 3,000 and 4,000 IU) with 3 replicate pens and 43 quails per pen. Weight gain increased quadratically with increased levels of Ca and vitamin D; this variable yielded estimated levels of 0.73% Ca and 2,883 IU vitamin D. There was no Ca x vitamin D interaction effect on bone variables. Bone Ca, bone phosphorus, bone ash, femoral bone strength, tibial bone strength and the femoral Seedor index increased quadratically with an increase in Ca levels. These variables yielded estimated values of 0.78, 0.71, 0.78, 0.77, 0.83, and 0.71% Ca, respectively. It is concluded that the requirements of Ca and vitamin D for the maximum weight gain of meat-type quails, in the period from one to 14 days of age, were 0.73% Ca (p=0.001) and 2,883 IU vitamin D (p=0.02), respectively.

Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) and Cymbopogon winterianus (citronella) essential oils to replace a growth promoter in the diet of European quails / Óleos essenciais de Foeniculum vulgare (erva doce) e Cymbopogon winterianus (citronela) em substituição a um promotor de crescimento na dieta de codornas europeias

The objective of this study was to evaluate the replacement of a growth-promoting antibiotic by fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) essential oils in the quail diet on performance variables (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion), as well as the carcass and cut yield. To do so, 240 one-day-old male and female European quails were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments, five replications and 12 animals per experimental unit. The treatments consisted of: PC ­ positive control diet without fennel or citronella essential oils and with the growth promoter (zinc bacitracin); NC ­ negative control diet without essential oils and without growth promoter; CEO - Diet with +0.078% citronella essential oil without the growth promoter; and FEO - Diet with +0.078% fennel essential oil without the growth promoter. The experiment lasted 42 days, in which the performance variables were analyzed in three periods (1-14 days; 14-21 days; and 22-42 days) and the carcass and cut yield in two periods (at 21 and 42 days). The observed data were submitted to analysis of variance and the comparison of means was performed using the Tukey's test at 5% significance. The presence of essential oils positively influenced (P<0.05) the performance variables and the carcass and cuts yield in all analyzed periods. The use of fennel and citronella essential oils to replace zinc bacitracin in the diet of European quails improves performance and the carcass and cut yield.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a substituição de um antibiótico promotor de crescimento por óleos essenciais de erva-doce (Foeniculum vulgare) e citronela (Cymbopogon winterianus) na dieta de codornas sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça e cortes. Para isso, foram utilizadas 240 codornas europeias machos e fêmeas de um dia de idade distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso com quatro tratamentos, cinco repetições e 12 animais por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos consistiram em: CP- Dieta sem os óleos essenciais de erva-doce ou citronela e com o promotor de crescimento (bacitracina de zinco); CN- Dieta sem os óleos essenciais e sem o promotor de crescimento; OC- Dieta com + 0,078% de óleo essencial de citronela sem o promotor de crescimento; OED- Dieta com + 0,078% de óleo essencial de erva-doce sem o promotor de crescimento. O experimento teve duração de 42 dias, no qual as variáveis de desempenho foram analisadas em três períodos (1-14 dias; 14-21 dias e 22-42 dias) e o rendimento de carcaça e cortes em dois períodos (aos 21 e 42 dias). Os dados observados foram submetidos à análise de variância e a comparação das médias foi realizada pelo teste de Tukey a 5%. A presença dos óleos essenciais influenciou positivamente (P<0,05) as variáveis de desempenho e o rendimento de carcaça e cortes em todos os períodos analisados. A utilização de óleos essenciais de erva-doce e citronela em substituição a bacitracina de zinco na dieta de codornas europeias melhora o desempenho e o rendimento de carcaça e cortes.(AU)

Yolk color and sensory analysis of eggs of common quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) fed sorghum-based diet with the addition of annatto seed meal (Bixa orellana L) / Coloração da gema e análise sensorial de ovos de codornas europeias (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) alimentadas com ração à base de sorgo com adição de farelo de urucum (Bixa orellana L)

This study has aimed to assess the effect of increasing levels of annatto (Bixa orellana L.) seed meal (AM) on yolk pigmentation and the sensory analysis of eggs of common quails fed sorghum-based diets when compared tocorn. Eighty female common quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) in the laying phase were used, being them aged from 251 to 316 days. There were three experimental periods of 21 days each (251-272; 273-294; 295-316 days). The quails were distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments (T1 - corn-based feed; T2 - feed with 100% of sorghum instead of corn without the addition of AM; T3, T4, and T5 - feed with 100% of sorghum replacing corn with the addition of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% AM, respectively) and four repetitions. One hundred eggs from each treatment were used for analysis. Sensory evaluation was applied with an untrained panel with 20 evaluators. The eggs were boiled, peeled, and served. The panelists assessed the appearance, flavor, color, aroma, texture, and overall evaluation of the eggs. Annatto seed meal added to sorghum-based diets promoted linear increases in appearance, flavor, color, aroma, texture, and overall evaluation, evaluated during the sensory analysis (p=0.001). The addition of 1.5% AM in the sorghum-based diets of the common quails benefited the characteristics of appearance (4.50), flavor (4.50), color (4.55), aroma (4.25), and texture (4.55) of the assessed quail eggs, being considered more attractive and with greater acceptance (overall evaluation = 5.97) in relation to the other treatments tested. The inclusion of AM in the sorghum-based diets improved the yolk pigmentation of quail eggs in relation to the control treatments. The AM triggers positive effects on yolk pigmentation and sensory characteristics of common quail eggs.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de níveis crescentes do farelo do resíduo da semente de urucum (Bixa orellana L.) (FU), sobre a pigmentação da gema e análise sensorial dos ovos de codornas europeias alimentadas com dietas à base de sorgo em substituição ao milho. Foram utilizadas 80 codornas europeias (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) fêmeas, na fase de postura, no período de 251 a 316 dias de idade. Foram três períodos experimentais de 21 dias cada (251-272; 273-294; 295-316 dias). As codornas foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos (T1 - ração à base de milho; T2 - ração com 100% de sorgo em substituição ao milho sem a adição de FU; T3, T4 e T5 ­ ração com 100% de sorgo em substituição ao milho com a adição de 0,5; 1,0 e 1,5% de FU) e quatro repetições. Cem ovos de cada tratamento foram utilizados para a análise. A avaliação sensorial foi aplicada em painel não treinado de 20 avaliadores. Os ovos foram cozidos, descascados e servidos. A aparência, sabor, cor, odor, textura e avaliação global, foram avaliadas pelos painelistas. A farinha de semente de urucum adicionada à ração à base de sorgo promoveu aumentos lineares nos atributos aparência, sabor, cor, odor, textura e avaliação global, avaliados durante a análise sensorial (p=0,001). A adição de 1,5% de FU em dietas a base de sorgo beneficiou as características de aparência (4,50), sabor (4,50) cor (4,55), aroma (4,25) e textura (4,55) dos ovos de codorna avaliados, sendo considerados mais atrativos e com maior aceitação (avaliação global = 5,97), em relação aos demais tratamentos testados. A inclusão do FU nas rações à base de sorgo melhorou a pigmentação da gema dos ovos de codorna em relação aos tratamentos controle. O AM desencadeia efeitos positivos na pigmentação da gema e nas características sensoriais de ovos de codornas comuns.(AU)

Performance and egg qualities of laying japanese quails fed yam peel meal based diets with enzymes complex + yeast supplementation

A 10-week experiment was conducted to evaluate the combined effect of enzyme complex + yeast (Maxigrain®, MXG®) supplementation of sun-dried yam peel meal (YPM) based diet of laying Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) on performance and egg quality. A total of 240, seven-weeks old quails were distributed in a completely randomize design with four dietary treatments and five replicates of 12 quails each. Diet 1 served as the control diet without YPM while diet 2, 3, and 4 contained 25, 50, and 75% YPM with MXG® supplementation (1g per kg), respectively. MXG® supplementation in YPM diets improved (p < 0.05) egg mass and feed conversion per egg. Increasing levels of YPM with MXG® supplementation did not show any effect (p > 0.05) on internal and external egg quality attributes except for eggshell weight and thickness which was higher (p < 0.05) in quails fed 75% YPM diet. It was concluded, therefore, that the utilization of YPM as an alternative dietary ingredient with MXG® supplementation can be tolerated in the diets of laying Japanese quails up to 75% inclusion level without any negative effect on productive and egg quality performance.(AU)

Replacement level of rubber seed cake for soybean meal on the growth of Japanese quail / Nível de substituição do bolo de semente de borracha pelo farelo de soja no crescimento da codorna japonesa

A four-week feeding trial on the simultaneous replacement of 0 to 50% of soybean meal and 0 to 100% of soybean oil on the growth performance, carcass composition and profitability was conducted using 45 randomly chosen one-week-old growing Japanese quail. The five experimental diets were; D0= Diet containing 20% soybean meal and 4% soybean oil (control diet), D1= Diet, where 12.5% of soybean meal and 25% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T2 = Diet, where 25% of soybean meal and 50% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T3 = Diet, where 37.5% of soybean meal and 75% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T4 = Diet, where 50% of soybean meal and 100% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC. Results demonstrated that in raw rubber seed the proportion of kernel to hull is 64: 36. Proximate components of the boiled and sundried full fat rubber seed kernel (RS) were, moisture = 96.6%, ME = 5305 kcal / kg DM, CP = 17.6%, EE = 51.05%, CF = 8.5%, NFE = 18.25% and Ash = 4.6%. The body weights of the birds at 35 days of age in all dietary treatments were statistically similar. The feed intake of the quail among different dietary groups was varied significantly (p 0.05) at higher RSC inclusion level. The muscle development was found to better at lower (%) RSC level, whereas the organs were enlarged at higher RSC inclusion. Results on the majority of the production parameters, and economics and carcass yield parameters suggested that the simultaneous replacement of maximum 50% soybean oil 25% soybean meal by processed RSC might be suggested, particularly, there will be a crisis in the availability of these two ingredients.

Um ensaio de alimentação de quatro semanas na substituição simultânea de 0 a 50% de farelo de soja e 0 a 100% de óleo de soja no desempenho de crescimento, composição de carcaça e lucratividade foi conduzido usando 45 codornas japonesas em crescimento com uma semana de idade escolhidas aleatoriamente. As cinco dietas experimentais foram: D0 = Dieta contendo 20% de farelo de soja e 4% de óleo de soja (dieta controle); D1 = Dieta, onde 12,5% de farelo de soja e 25% de óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; T2 = Dieta, onde 25% do farelo de soja e 50% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; T3 = Dieta, onde 37,5% do farelo de soja e 75% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; e T4 = Dieta, onde 50% do farelo de soja e 100% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC. Os resultados demonstraram que em sementes de borracha crua a proporção de kernel para casca é 64: 36. Os componentes próximos do caroço de semente de borracha gordurosa fervida e seca ao sol foram: umidade = 96,6%; EM = 5305 kcal / kg MS; CP = 17,6%; EE = 51,05%; CF = 8,5%; NFE = 18,25%; e Ash = 4,6%. Os pesos corporais das aves aos 35 dias de idade em todos os tratamentos dietéticos foram estatisticamente semelhantes. O consumo de ração das codornas entre os diferentes grupos dietéticos variou significativamente (p 0,05) no nível de inclusão de RSC mais alto. Constatou-se que o desenvolvimento muscular melhorou com o nível de RSC mais baixo (%), enquanto os órgãos aumentaram com a inclusão de RSC mais alta. Os resultados sobre a maioria dos parâmetros de produção e parâmetros econômicos e [...].

Replacement level of rubber seed cake for soybean meal on the growth of Japanese quail / Nível de substituição do bolo de semente de borracha pelo farelo de soja no crescimento da codorna japonesa

A four-week feeding trial on the simultaneous replacement of 0 to 50% of soybean meal and 0 to 100% of soybean oil on the growth performance, carcass composition and profitability was conducted using 45 randomly chosen one-week-old growing Japanese quail. The five experimental diets were; D0= Diet containing 20% soybean meal and 4% soybean oil (control diet), D1= Diet, where 12.5% of soybean meal and 25% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T2 = Diet, where 25% of soybean meal and 50% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T3 = Diet, where 37.5% of soybean meal and 75% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC; T4 = Diet, where 50% of soybean meal and 100% of soybean oil has been replaced by RSC. Results demonstrated that in raw rubber seed the proportion of kernel to hull is 64: 36. Proximate components of the boiled and sundried full fat rubber seed kernel (RS) were, moisture = 96.6%, ME = 5305 kcal / kg DM, CP = 17.6%, EE = 51.05%, CF = 8.5%, NFE = 18.25% and Ash = 4.6%. The body weights of the birds at 35 days of age in all dietary treatments were statistically similar. The feed intake of the quail among different dietary groups was varied significantly (p < 0.05) and there was a tendency of decreasing the feed intake at 25% and above inclusion level of RSC. The body weight gain and FCR were also statistically similar in all dietary groups. The feed cost and total production cost /kg BW of quail was also found to become steadily higher (p> 0.05) at higher RSC inclusion level. The muscle development was found to better at lower (%) RSC level, whereas the organs were enlarged at higher RSC inclusion. Results on the majority of the production parameters, and economics and carcass yield parameters suggested that the simultaneous replacement of maximum 50% soybean oil 25% soybean meal by processed RSC might be suggested, particularly, there will be a crisis in the availability of these two ingredients.(AU)

Um ensaio de alimentação de quatro semanas na substituição simultânea de 0 a 50% de farelo de soja e 0 a 100% de óleo de soja no desempenho de crescimento, composição de carcaça e lucratividade foi conduzido usando 45 codornas japonesas em crescimento com uma semana de idade escolhidas aleatoriamente. As cinco dietas experimentais foram: D0 = Dieta contendo 20% de farelo de soja e 4% de óleo de soja (dieta controle); D1 = Dieta, onde 12,5% de farelo de soja e 25% de óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; T2 = Dieta, onde 25% do farelo de soja e 50% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; T3 = Dieta, onde 37,5% do farelo de soja e 75% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC; e T4 = Dieta, onde 50% do farelo de soja e 100% do óleo de soja foram substituídos por RSC. Os resultados demonstraram que em sementes de borracha crua a proporção de kernel para casca é 64: 36. Os componentes próximos do caroço de semente de borracha gordurosa fervida e seca ao sol foram: umidade = 96,6%; EM = 5305 kcal / kg MS; CP = 17,6%; EE = 51,05%; CF = 8,5%; NFE = 18,25%; e Ash = 4,6%. Os pesos corporais das aves aos 35 dias de idade em todos os tratamentos dietéticos foram estatisticamente semelhantes. O consumo de ração das codornas entre os diferentes grupos dietéticos variou significativamente (p < 0,05) e houve uma tendência de diminuição do consumo de ração em 25% e acima do nível de inclusão do RSC. O ganho de peso corporal e a FCR também foram estatisticamente semelhantes em todos os grupos dietéticos. O custo da ração e o custo total de produção / kg de PC de codornas também se tornaram cada vez mais altos (p > 0,05) no nível de inclusão de RSC mais alto. Constatou-se que o desenvolvimento muscular melhorou com o nível de RSC mais baixo (%), enquanto os órgãos aumentaram com a inclusão de RSC mais alta. Os resultados sobre a maioria dos parâmetros de produção e parâmetros econômicos e [...].(AU)

Addition of homoeopathy in the diet of Japanese quails increases egg weight / A adição da homeopatia na dieta de codornas japonesas aumenta o peso dos ovos

This study aims to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of different homoeopathic products on the diet of laying quails. We used 200 Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) distributed in a completely randomized design consisting of the adoption of four experimental diets, with eight replicates of five quails each. The treatments were control (without additives), calcium carbonate (vehicle used in the products), Fertsigo®, and Ovosigo®. We determined the performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical profile of quails. The data were submitted to Tukey test at 5% probability. There was a significant effect of the homeopathic products Fertsigo® and Ovosigo® on the variables egg weight, yolk, albumen, and shell percentage. It did not affect the performance and blood biochemical profile (p > 0.05). The addition of the homoeopathic product Ovosigo® and FertSigo® in diets of Japanese quails at the laying phase is recommended because they resulted in the better weight of the egg and its components. Thus, the application of homoeopathy in the production of quails is a viable practice, since it is easy to manage, has a reduced cost, and exerts positive effects on the performance of quails.

Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a ação da inclusão de diferentes produtos homeopáticos na dieta de codornas poedeiras. Foram utilizadas 200 codornas japonesas (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica), distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, consistindo na adoção de quatro dietas experimentais com oito repetições de cinco codornas cada. Os tratamentos foram: Controle (sem aditivos); Carbonato de cálcio (veículo utilizado nos produtos); Fertsigo® e Ovosigo®. O desempenho, a qualidade dos ovos e o perfil bioquímico do sangue das codornas foram avaliados e os dados submetidos ao teste de Tukey ao nível de 5% de probabilidade. Houve efeito significativo do produto homeopático Fertsigo® e Ovosigo® para as variáveis peso do ovo, gema e albúmen e porcentagem de casca. Não foram afetados o desempenho e o perfil bioquímico do sangue (p > 0,05). É indicada a adição dos produtos homeopáticos Ovosigo® e FertSigo® em dietas para codornas japonesas na fase de postura, pois resultaram no melhor peso do ovo e seus componentes. Assim, a aplicação da homeopatia na produção de codornas pode ser uma prática viável, pois é de fácil administração, com custo reduzido e com efeitos positivos no desempenho das codornas.