Performance, carcass quality, and intestinal biometry of European quail fed on kelp meal (Sargassum sp)

Abstract

This work aims to evaluate, at different stages, the productive performance, carcass quality, and intestinal biometry of European quails (Coturnix coturnix Coturnix), consuming diets with increasing levels of seaweed bran (Sargassum sp). A total of 240 European quail chicks (Coturnix coturnix Coturnix) were distributed in a completely randomized design, with four levels of bran inclusion (0.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5%), 6 replications with 10 birds in each experimental plot. In the period from 1 to 21 days, the feed intake of the control group was higher, with lower water consumption. In the period from 22 to 42 days, feed and water consumption increased with the inclusion of seaweed, but with a reduction in weight gain. In the total period, water consumption was higher at the level of 2.5 and 7.5%, with lower consumption in the control group, with a small reduction in slaughter and carcass weight with the inclusion of bran. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in carcass quality and intestinal biometry. We recommended the inclusion of up to 7.5% of sargassum meal in the diet of European quails at all stages, without compromising its productive performance, carcass quality, and intestinal biometry.