Effects of Mediterranean Mussel Shell (Mytilus galloprovincialis) on Performance and Egg Quality in Laying Quails

Abstract

The effect of Mediterranean mussel shell (Mytilus galloprovincialis) (MMS) on performance, egg quality and some blood parameters were studied on quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) for a period of 10 weeks (13-23 weeks). A total of 90 quails were randomly separated into one control and two treatment groups. Each group was divided into six subgroups, each containing 5 animals. MMS was replaced with lime stone at the ratios of 50 and 100% in first (50% MMS) and second (100% MMS) group rations respectively. The diets were prepared to be isocaloric and isonitroge-nous. Rations and water were given ad libitum. Ca source replacement did not significantly affect body weight, egg weight, egg yield, feed intake and feed conversion ratio of laying quails. The effects of MMS replacement on shape index, yolk index, yolk color, blood Ca, Mg, P levels with Mg and P levels of egg shell had no significance. Ca levels of egg shell decreased (p<0.05) in treatment groups however, the amount of crude ash of tibia was not altered. In sum, dietary MMS did not alter egg quality of laying quails. It may be concluded that MMS can be replaced with limestone in the diet of laying quails.