Effects of Reticuloendotheliosis Virus on the Viability and Reproductive Performance of Japanese Quail

Abstract

The effects of reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) infection were studied using an experimental model in Japanese quail during 2 consecutive generations. The REV used in this study (APC-566) was isolated from Attwater's prairie chickens (Tympanuchus cupido attwateri). Tumors were induced by APC-566 as early as 6 wk of age. Mortality was significantly higher in groups of quail with a higher frequency of REV infection. Egg production, hatchability, and fertility rates decreased in infected quail as compared with uninfected control quail. The BW of infected quail were significantly reduced at 8 wk of age in the first generation of infected quail (breeders) and at 3 and 6 wk of age in the second generation (quail broilers) compared with uninfected quail.