Effects of manganese and boron levels in breeder Japanese quails ration on performance, eggshell quality, and bone biomechanical properties

Abstract

BackgroundImproved understanding of the impact of (Mn) and boron (B) levels in the dietary regimen of Japanese quails on their performance, eggshell quality, and bone properties might facilitate the optimization of their nutritional intake and improving health and productivity. MethodsThe effects of Mn and B added to the rations of breeder Japanese quail alone or together were investigated on performance, eggshell quality, and bone biomechanical characteristics. ResultsEgg production, egg mass, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio values related to the performance of breeding quail were not affected by the single or combined addition of Mn and B. Average live weight gain and egg weight values were significantly affected by Mn and B additions. The highest average body weight gain (47.917 g) and egg weight (13.805 g) values were reached at 120 × 20 (120 mg Mn/kg + 20 mg B/kg) interaction. The interaction of 120 × 20 was appropriate considering the eggshell ratio and eggshell fracture strength values. The ultimate shear force and shear stress parameters were significantly affected by 60 mg/kg Mn or 20–80 mg/kg B additions compared to the control. The addition of 40–80 mg/kg B significantly increased the shear fracture energy. The femur bone Iron (Fe) content significantly increased with the combined additions of Mn and B. The combined Mn and B additions had no significant effect on bone calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and magnesium (Mg) contents, while the 0Mn × 20B interaction resulted in significantly higher bone Ca and P content than the control. The increase in Fe, Ca, P, and Mg accumulation in the bones could be associated with B addition in the Mn × B interaction. ConclusionIn the production of breeding Japanese quail, the addition of 120 mg Mn/kg to the diet would be appropriate, considering the performance characteristics of the quails, when Mn is used alone. The results revealed that the addition of 60 × 120 (Mn × B) interaction can be recommended for successful Japanese quail production. Nevertheless, more detailed studies assessing the effect of combined Mn and B additions to Japanese quail diets are needed to elucidate the action mechanism and to draw more precise conclusions.