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)

Requirement of digestible methionine + cystine in Japanese quails during the laying phase / Exigência de metionina + cistina digestível para codornas japonesas em fase de postura

An experiment was carried out with Japanese quails in the initial laying phase, from 43 to 168 days of age, to determine the nutritional requirement of digestible methionine + cystine for this period. 375 quails were used, being fifteen quails used per experimental unit. A total of 5 treatments (0.60, 0.75, 0.90, 1.05 and 1.20% digestible methionine + cystine) were used in a completely randomized design with 5 replicates each. The performance parameters evaluated were feed intake (g / bird), body weight (g), egg weight (g), laying rate (%), egg mass (g eggs.bird.day-1 ), feed conversion by mass and dozen eggs (g.g-1 of eggs, g.dz-1 of eggs), viability (%) and the body chemical composition (%). The egg quality parameters were: % of component (yolk, albumen and shell relative to egg weight), specific gravity (g mL-1 ), Haugh unit, yolk index, shell weight per surface area and thickness of the shell (mm). Quadratic effect was found on the performance parameters evaluated (P0.05). The nutritional recommendation of digestible methionine + cystine for Japanese quails at laying phase is 0.90% from the maximum point obtained for the egg mass, egg weight and laying rate, corresponding to daily intake of 241.54 mg of digestible methionine + cystine / day, respectively.

Foi desenvolvido um experimento com codornas japonesas na fase inicial de postura, de 43 a 168 dias de idade, com o objetivo de determinar a exigência nutricional de metionina + cistina digestível para este período. Foram utilizadas 375 codornas, sendo 15 aves por unidade experimental. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado (DIC) totalizando 5 tratamentos (0,60; 0,75; 0,90; 1,05 e 1,20 % de metionina + cistina digestível) com 5 repetições cada. As variáveis de desempenho avaliadas foram, consumo de ração (g/ave), peso corporal (g), peso do ovo (g), taxa de postura (%), produção de massa de ovos (g ovos.ave. dia-1), conversão alimentar por massa e dúzia de ovos (g.g-1 de ovos, g.dz-1 de ovos), viabilidade (%) e a composição química corporal (%). As variáveis de qualidade dos ovos foram, percentagem do componente (gema, albúmen e casca em relação ao peso do ovo), gravidade específica (g mL.-1), unidade Haugh, índice de gema e peso da casca por superfície de área. Foi encontrado efeito quadrático sobre as variáveis de desempenho avaliadas (P0,05). A recomendação nutricional de metionina + cistina digestível para codornas japonesas na fase de postura é de 0,90% a partir do ponto de máxima obtido para as variáveis massa de ovos, peso de ovos e taxa de postura, correspondendo ao consumo diário de 241,54 mg de metionina + cistina digestível / dia, respectivamente.

Utilização de métodos alternativos como indutor de muda forçada em codornas poedeiras / Use of alternative methods as an inducer of forced molting in laying quail

Objetivou-se avaliar métodos alternativos de restrição alimentar qualitativa e quantitativa em comparação à técnica convencional de muda forçada em codornas japonesas para o segundo ciclo de produção. O período de muda forçada teve duração de 10 dias e dois períodos de 21 dias de pós-muda. Foram utilizadas 72 codornas japonesas fêmeas, emfinal de produção com 72 semanas deidade. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e quatro repetições cada, com seiscodornas por repetição. Os tratamentos experimentais foram:T1 ­aves submetidas a três dias de jejum com posterior fornecimento de ração de postura à vontade por setedias; T2 ­aves que receberam alimentação controlada (10 g/ave/dia) por 10 dias; T3 ­aves que receberam farelo de arroz à vontade por 10 dias. Durante todo o experimento todasas aves foram submetidas a iluminação natural com média de 12 horas de luz diária e água a vontade e após os 10 dias de muda foi fornecido ração de postura a vontade. A utilização do T2 (10 g/ave/dia de ração de postura) e de farelo de arroz como alimentoalternativo no programa de muda forçada foi viável. Mesmo a perda de peso sendo abaixo do recomentado, as aves que receberam 10 g de ração ave/dia e farelo de arroz à vontade apresentaram resultados de desempenho e qualidade do ovo pós muda semelhantes àsaves que ficaram em jejum, além de possibilitar melhores condições de bem-estar animal.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate alternative methods of qualitative and quantitative feed restriction compared to theconventional technique of forced moulting in Japanese quails for the second production cycle. The forced moulting period lasted 10 days and two 21-day post-molt periods. 72 female Japanese quails were used, at the end of production at 72 weeks of age. Thebirds were distributed in a completely randomized design with three treatments and four replications each, with sixquails per replicate. The experimental treatments were: T1 ­birds submitted to three days of fasting with subsequent provision of layingfeed ad libitum for sevendays; T2 ­birds that received controlled feeding (10 g/bird/day) for 10 days; T3 ­birds that received rice bran ad libitum for 10 days. Throughout the experiment, all birds were submitted tonatural lighting with an average of12hours of daily light and water ad libitum and after 10 days of molting, laying feed was provided ad libitum. The use of T2 (10 g/bird/day of laying ration) and ricebran as an alternativefood in the forced molt program was feasible. Even the weight loss being below the recommended, the birds that received 10 g of poultry feed/day and rice bran ad libitum showed similar post-moult performance and egg quality results to birds that were fasted, in addition to enabling better conditions. of animal welfare.(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.

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)

Productive Performance, Egg Quality, and Pigments on Sorghum-Based Feed for Japanese Quail

The study aimed to determine evaluate the use of sorghum as a substitute for maize in the laying quail diet and its effect on performance and quality of the eggs produced the best levels of lutein (Marigold flower extract) and canthaxanthin inclusion in sorghum based Japanese quail feed as well as its influence in storage time of the eggs. A total of 680 Japanese laying quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica), with 64 weeks of age was distributed in a 4 × x4 factorial + 1 control scheme, with four levels of lutein (LUT), and four levels of canthaxanthin (CTX) and control group with no addition of pigments, with five replicates and eight birds per experimental unit. The experiment was divided into three cycles of 21 days, where the performance and egg quality parameters were evaluated. To evaluate the time of deposition and permanence of the pigments in the yolk, three eggs were evaluated per treatment for 12 days at the beginning of the experiment and 12 days at the end, from the last day of consumption of rations containing pigments. For performance and egg quality, no maybe only differences (p> 0.05) were observed, except for the yolk color, with higher color scores according to the increase in lutein and canthaxanthin consumption. Whereas color parameters, it was observed that at the beginning of the period of consumption, canthaxanthin levels influenced the red color reading and lutein levels influenced the yellow color readings, while in the final period the interaction of the levels of 5.4 ppm of lutein and 1.3 ppm of canthaxanthin provided better color parameters up to 10 days after the end of consumption of rations with pigment.(AU)

Beak trimming in japanese quails at initial phase is an alternative to reduce the negative effects of feather pecking

Regarding the lack of standardized methods for beak trimming to reduce feather pecking in Japanese quail, the present study aimed to compare two ages and 3 methods of beak trimming, evaluating the performance, egg quality and feather pecking. One-day-old Japanese quails (n = 770; 22 birds cage-1), at the initial phase, and 36-day-old (n = 630; 18 birds cage-1), at the production phase, were assigned to a completely randomized design, consisting of 7 treatments with 5 replicates. The treatments were: non-trimmed (NT), cauterization of approximately 1/3 at 14 days-of-age (CAUT 14) and at 28 days-of-age (CAUT 28), moderately trimmed to approximately 1/3 beak at 14 days-of-age (MOD 14) and at 28 days-of-age (MOD 28), severely trimmed to 1/3-1/2 beak at 14 days-of-age (SEV 14) and at 28 days-of-age (SEV 28). Data were analyzed using Minitab®. The results indicated that beak trimming methods applied did not influence the performance and egg quality. Quails subjected to MOD 28 and SEV (14 and 28) presented lower feed conversion per egg mass compared to NT. However, MOD 14 and SEV were more efficient in preventing feather pecking behavior.(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 designwith 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)

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)

Calcareous seaweed flour in the diet of Japanese quails and its effects on egg conservation / Farinha de alga calcária na dieta de codornas japonesas e seus efeitos na conservação

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of including levels of calcareous seaweed flour in replacement for calcite limestone on the diet under egg conservation at different storage periods. 140 Japanese quails were used in a completely randomized experiment consisting of a 4x4 factorial design. The factorial design was four inclusions of calcareous seaweed (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and four storage periods (zero, seven, 14, and 21 days) with ten replications of three eggs each. The egg quality variables were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance using Tukey test and polynomial regression at a 5% significance level. There was no interaction effect between the factor's storage time and inclusion of calcareous seaweed (p>0.05). There was an increasing linear effect on shell weight and thickness in relation to inclusion levels of calcareous seaweed. There was an individual effect of egg storage time (p>0.05) on egg weight, yolk color, albumen and yolk height, yolk weight and percentage, albumen, yolk index, yolk diameter, specific gravity, and Haugh unit. The inclusion of up to 30% of calcareous seaweed in replacement for calcite limestone in the diet of Japanese quails improves the weight and thickness of eggshells but does not influence the conservation of the eggs up to 21 days of storage.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da inclusão de níveis de farinha de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta sob a conservação de ovos em diferentes períodos de armazenamento. Foram utilizadas 140 codornas japonesas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado composto por um fatorial 4x4. Sendo 4 inclusões de alga calcária (0%, 10%, 20% e 30%) e 4 períodos de armazenamento (0, 7, 14 e 21dias) com dez repetições de três ovos em cada. Foram avaliadas as variáveis de qualidade de ovos das aves. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância utilizando o teste de Tukey e regressão polinomial ao nível de 5% de significância. Não houve efeito da interação entre os fatores tempo de armazenamento e inclusão de alga calcárea (p>0,05). Houve efeito linear crescente no peso e espessura da casca em relação aos níveis de inclusão de alga calcárea. Houve efeito individual do tempo de armazenamento dos ovos (p>0,05) sobre parâmetros peso de ovo, coloração da gema, altura de albúmen e gema, peso e porcentagem da gema, albúmen, índice de gema, diâmetro de gema, gravidade especifica e unidade Haugh. A inclusão de até 30 % de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta codornas japonesas aprimora o peso e a espessura da casca do ovo, mas não influencia na conservação dos ovos até 21 dias de armazenamento.(AU)

Calcareous seaweed flour in the diet of Japanese quails and its effects on egg conservation / Farinha de alga calcária na dieta de codornas japonesas e seus efeitos na conservação de ovos

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of including levels of calcareous seaweed flour in replacement for calcite limestone on the diet under egg conservation at different storage periods. 140 Japanese quails were used in a completely randomized experiment consisting of a 4x4 factorial design. The factorial design was four inclusions of calcareous seaweed (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and four storage periods (zero, seven, 14, and 21 days) with ten replications of three eggs each. The egg quality variables were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance using Tukey test and polynomial regression at a 5% significance level. There was no interaction effect between the factor's storage time and inclusion of calcareous seaweed (p>0.05). There was an increasing linear effect on shell weight and thickness in relation to inclusion levels of calcareous seaweed. There was an individual effect of egg storage time (p>0.05) on egg weight, yolk color, albumen and yolk height, yolk weight and percentage, albumen, yolk index, yolk diameter, specific gravity, and Haugh unit. The inclusion of up to 30% of calcareous seaweed in replacement for calcite limestone in the diet of Japanese quails improves the weight and thickness of eggshells but does not influence the conservation of the eggs up to 21 days of storage.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da inclusão de níveis de farinha de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta sob a conservação de ovos em diferentes períodos de armazenamento. Foram utilizadas 140 codornas japonesas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado composto por um fatorial 4x4. Sendo 4 inclusões de alga calcária (0%, 10%, 20% e 30%) e 4 períodos de armazenamento (0, 7, 14 e 21dias) com dez repetições de três ovos em cada. Foram avaliadas as variáveis de qualidade de ovos das aves. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância utilizando o teste de Tukey e regressão polinomial ao nível de 5% de significância. Não houve efeito da interação entre os fatores tempo de armazenamento e inclusão de alga calcárea (p>0,05). Houve efeito linear crescente no peso e espessura da casca em relação aos níveis de inclusão de alga calcárea. Houve efeito individual do tempo de armazenamento dos ovos (p>0,05) sobre parâmetros peso de ovo, coloração da gema, altura de albúmen e gema, peso e porcentagem da gema, albúmen, índice de gema, diâmetro de gema, gravidade especifica e unidade Haugh. A inclusão de até 30 % de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta codornas japonesas aprimora o peso e a espessura da casca do ovo, mas não influencia na conservação dos ovos até 21 dias de armazenamento.

Calcareous seaweed flour in the diet of Japanese quails and its effects on egg conservation

ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of including levels of calcareous seaweed flour in replacement for calcite limestone on the diet under egg conservation at different storage periods. 140 Japanese quails were used in a completely randomized experiment consisting of a 4x4 factorial design. The factorial design was four inclusions of calcareous seaweed (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and four storage periods (zero, seven, 14, and 21 days) with ten replications of three eggs each. The egg quality variables were evaluated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance using Tukey test and polynomial regression at a 5% significance level. There was no interaction effect between the factor's storage time and inclusion of calcareous seaweed (p>0.05). There was an increasing linear effect on shell weight and thickness in relation to inclusion levels of calcareous seaweed. There was an individual effect of egg storage time (p>0.05) on egg weight, yolk color, albumen and yolk height, yolk weight and percentage, albumen, yolk index, yolk diameter, specific gravity, and Haugh unit. The inclusion of up to 30% of calcareous seaweed in replacement for calcite limestone in the diet of Japanese quails improves the weight and thickness of eggshells but does not influence the conservation of the eggs up to 21 days of storage.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da inclusão de níveis de farinha de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta sob a conservação de ovos em diferentes períodos de armazenamento. Foram utilizadas 140 codornas japonesas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado composto por um fatorial 4x4. Sendo 4 inclusões de alga calcária (0%, 10%, 20% e 30%) e 4 períodos de armazenamento (0, 7, 14 e 21dias) com dez repetições de três ovos em cada. Foram avaliadas as variáveis de qualidade de ovos das aves. Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância utilizando o teste de Tukey e regressão polinomial ao nível de 5% de significância. Não houve efeito da interação entre os fatores tempo de armazenamento e inclusão de alga calcárea (p>0,05). Houve efeito linear crescente no peso e espessura da casca em relação aos níveis de inclusão de alga calcárea. Houve efeito individual do tempo de armazenamento dos ovos (p>0,05) sobre parâmetros peso de ovo, coloração da gema, altura de albúmen e gema, peso e porcentagem da gema, albúmen, índice de gema, diâmetro de gema, gravidade especifica e unidade Haugh. A inclusão de até 30 % de alga calcária em substituição ao calcário calcítico na dieta codornas japonesas aprimora o peso e a espessura da casca do ovo, mas não influencia na conservação dos ovos até 21 dias de armazenamento.

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)

Egg characteristics of Japanese quail fed diets containing guava extract (Psidium guajavaL. )

The main purposeof this study was to evaluate the characteristics of eggs produced by Japanese quails fed with guava extract.A total of 400 eggs collected from the quails fed with experimental diets, were distributed in a completely randomized design infactorial arrangement 4x4 with main effects including four dietary levels of guava extract(0, 3, 6 and 9 gkg-1)andfour storage periods (0, 9,18 and 27 days)totalizing 16 treatmentswith five replicates of five eggs. The eggs were produced by Japanese quails, fed with experimental diets. The diets were isonutritive formulated by corn-soybean basis. The eggs were stored for different periods, at the same conditions, to constitute the treatments. Theparameters evaluated were egg weight loss(g and %), yolk color, Haugh unit, specific gravity, eggshell thickness and pH of the yolk and albumen. Datawere submitted to ANOVA, and means were compared using Scott-Knotttest, using α= 0.05.The specific gravity of fresh eggs was better with the use of 6 g kg-1of guava extract in the diet. The use of 3 g kg-1of guava extractresulted in smaller eggshell thickness of fresh eggs. The Haugh unit was affectedjust by the storage periods. The dietary guava extract (3, 6 or9 g kg-1) increased the pH of albumen ineggs stored for 27 days. The use of 6 g kg-1 of guava extract in quails diet increase thespecific gravity in fresh eggs and increase the yolk color when the eggs are stored.(AU)

Egg characteristics of Japanese quail fed diets containing guava extract (Psidium guajavaL. )

The main purposeof this study was to evaluate the characteristics of eggs produced by Japanese quails fed with guava extract.A total of 400 eggs collected from the quails fed with experimental diets, were distributed in a completely randomized design infactorial arrangement 4x4 with main effects including four dietary levels of guava extract(0, 3, 6 and 9 gkg-1)andfour storage periods (0, 9,18 and 27 days)totalizing 16 treatmentswith five replicates of five eggs. The eggs were produced by Japanese quails, fed with experimental diets. The diets were isonutritive formulated by corn-soybean basis. The eggs were stored for different periods, at the same conditions, to constitute the treatments. Theparameters evaluated were egg weight loss(g and %), yolk color, Haugh unit, specific gravity, eggshell thickness and pH of the yolk and albumen. Datawere submitted to ANOVA, and means were compared using Scott-Knotttest, using α= 0.05.The specific gravity of fresh eggs was better with the use of 6 g kg-1of guava extract in the diet. The use of 3 g kg-1of guava extractresulted in smaller eggshell thickness of fresh eggs. The Haugh unit was affectedjust by the storage periods. The dietary guava extract (3, 6 or9 g kg-1) increased the pH of albumen ineggs stored for 27 days. The use of 6 g kg-1 of guava extract in quails diet increase thespecific gravity in fresh eggs and increase the yolk color when the eggs are stored.

Influence of homeopathy on the quality of eggs of quails stored

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of homeopathic products in diets of quails in the egg quality when submitted to different storage periods. In the trial we used 200 Japanese quails in a completely randomized design with 4 diets: reference diet, vehicle used in homeopathic products and 2 homeopathic products - Fertsigo® and Ovosigo® with ten replicates of three eggs in each. Egg quality parameters were evaluated during 3 storage periods. Data were evaluated as repeated measures in time, the effects of the interactions between treatments and time as well as their isolated effects were verified. There was the interaction between homeopathic products and storage time in the parameters of albumen and yolk height, Haugh unit, and yolk index, in which a reduction was obtained over time. For egg weight, yolk, albumen and shell, percentage of albumen, and percentage of eggshell there was a significant effect only for homeopathy. The inclusion of homeopathic additives increased egg weight. It is indicated the addition of the product with homeopathic basis Ovosigo® and FertSigo® in diets of Japanese quails in the laying phase resulting in better egg and components but did not influence the quality maintenance of eggs of Japanese quails in the periods evaluated.(AU)

Influence of homeopathy on the quality of eggs of quails stored

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of homeopathic products in diets of quails in the egg quality when submitted to different storage periods. In the trial we used 200 Japanese quails in a completely randomized design with 4 diets: reference diet, vehicle used in homeopathic products and 2 homeopathic products - Fertsigo® and Ovosigo® with ten replicates of three eggs in each. Egg quality parameters were evaluated during 3 storage periods. Data were evaluated as repeated measures in time, the effects of the interactions between treatments and time as well as their isolated effects were verified. There was the interaction between homeopathic products and storage time in the parameters of albumen and yolk height, Haugh unit, and yolk index, in which a reduction was obtained over time. For egg weight, yolk, albumen and shell, percentage of albumen, and percentage of eggshell there was a significant effect only for homeopathy. The inclusion of homeopathic additives increased egg weight. It is indicated the addition of the product with homeopathic basis Ovosigo® and FertSigo® in diets of Japanese quails in the laying phase resulting in better egg and components but did not influence the quality maintenance of eggs of Japanese quails in the periods evaluated.

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.

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.(AU)

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.(AU)