Lithothamnium calcareum in the diet of Japanese quails improves the external quality of eggs

R. Badeca, J.Valentim, R. Garcia, B. Eberhart, F. Serpa, I. Pereira, G. Felix, M. Burbarelli. C.Komiyama, A.Fernandes

Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the use of seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum for Japanese quails to replace the inorganic calcium source commonly used (limestone) and verify its influence on quails’ productive performance and egg quality. A total of 168 Japanese quails were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with 4 treatments: control feed and diets containing the inclusion of 3 different levels of calcareous seaweed (10%, 20%, and 30%) to replace limestone. Regarding performance, the lowest feed intake by using the equation was 16.24% of inclusion. The inclusion of calcareous seaweed showed a quadratic effect for the parameters egg weight, albumen height, and albumen weight, and from the derivative of the equations, the best performance point for these variables were obtained at 15.61%, 16.06%, 15.65% respectively. Regarding shell thickness and strength, there was an increasing linear effect (p < 0.05) for the levels used, the higher level of calcareous seaweed in the diet, the greater thickness and force applied to break the shell. The inclusion of 15% of calcareous seaweed flour in Japanese quails’ diet results in heavier eggs and when up to 30% is added there is an increase in shell thickness and strength.

Keywords: calcium; coturniculture; organic minerals; rock flour

Date published: 2022-06-16