Effects of Fungus (Aspergillus niger) Treated Castor seed Cake on the Performance and Egg Quality of Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica

Abstract

Castor seed cake (CSC) has been recognized as a potential protein source for livestock due to its high Protein and amino acids profile. However, the cake contains some anti-nutrients and toxic compounds that may prevent its full utilization in Livestock feed. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of partial substitution of Groundnut cake with Fungus (Aspergillus niger) treated Castor seed cake (FCSC) on performance characteristics, egg quality and biochemical blood parameters of Japanese quail. Seventy-two quail chicks used for this experiment were subjected to three dietary treatments: Control diet (A, 0% FCSC), B (30% FCSC) and C (60% FCSC). The birds were randomized against the diets with three replicates, and with eight birds each. Feed and water were administered ad-libtum. The experiment which lasted for six weeks in a Complete Randomized design model revealed significant differences(p<0.05). in the weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the Control diet (A) compared with Diets B and C Feed intake of Diets A and B was similar (p>0.05) but significantly different from C. Additionally, the egg weight of Diets A and C was also similar (p>0.05) while the Haugh unit of the three Diets were significantly different but highly acceptable according to USDA. However, the hen-day production of the Control diet (A) was highly significantly different from B and C having 70%, 50% and 30% respectively. Conclusively, Fungus treatment of Castor seed cake is essential to eliminate hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects and inclusion of 60% Aspergillus niger treated Castor seed cake in the diet of Japanese quail which have no effect on the performance characteristics, egg quality and health status of the birds is recommended.