Red milkwood (Mimusops zeyheri) seed meal can replace maize meal in Japanese quail finisher diets without compromising growth performance, feed economy and carcass yield

Abstract

Highlights Mimusops zeyheri seed meal has a higher energy content compared to maize meal. Its potential as a dietary energy source in Japanese quail finisher feeds was evaluated. Dietary Mimusops zeyheri seed meal did not compromise growth performance and feed utilisation efficiency of the quail. Mimusops zeyheri seed meal did not have a negative impact carcass (meat) yield. The seed meal reduced the quail's abdominal fat mass which can potentially result in the production of lean meat. Mimusops zeyheri seed meal can partially replace maize meal as a dietary energy source in male Japanese quail finisher feeds.