Guinea Fowl Research Articles

Egg characteristics, hatch rate and early growth performance of keets post-hatch in guinea fowl (<i>Numida meleagris</i> ) in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Egg characteristics, hatch rate and early growth performance of keets post-hatch in guinea fowl (<i>Numida meleagris</i> ) in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Comparative Analysis of the Ultrastructure, Bubble Pores, and Composition of Eggshells of Dwarf Layer-White and Guinea Fowl.

The decrease in eggshell quality seriously affects production efficiency. Guinea fowl (GF) eggs possess strong eggshells because of their unique crystal structure, and few systematic studies have compared laying hen and GF eggs. Sixty eggs were collected from both 40-week-old Dwarf Layer-White (DWL-White) laying hens and GF, and the eggshell quality, ultrastructure, bubble pores, and composition were measured. The results showed that the DWL-White eggs had a higher egg weight and a lower eggshell strength, strength per unit weight, thickness, and ratio than the GF eggs (p < 0.01). There were differences in the mammillary layer thickness ratio, the effective layer thickness ratio, the quantity of bubble pores (QBPs), the ratio of the sum of the area of bubble pores to the area of the eggshell in each image (ARBE), and the average area of bubble pores (AABPs) between the DWL-White and GF eggs (p < 0.01). The composition analysis demonstrated that there were differences in the organic matter, inorganic matter, calcium, and phosphorus between the DWL-White and GF eggs (p < 0.01). There were positive associations between the mammillary knob number in the image and the QBPs and ARBE and a negative correlation with the AABPs in the DWL-White eggs (p < 0.01). This study observed distinctions that offer new insights into enhancing eggshell quality.

Diversity of ectoparasites of Gallus domesticus, NGOU 1990 (Hens) and Numida meleagris, Linnaeus 1758 (Guinea fowl) reared in extensive system in the Commune of Loumbila, Burkina Faso

In addition to impacting Avian’s zootechnical performance, Ectoparasites, lead to economic declines in Avian’s production. They are also recognized as vectors of zoonotic diseases in humans. This research investigated the ectoparasites of two poultry species, namely Gallus domesticus and Numida meleagris, in a periurban area of Ouagadougou (Loumbila) in Burkina Faso. The study was done from November 2021 to March 2022. The stratified probabilistic method was used for poultry collection. Following each collection, the poultry received a meticulous examination of the body and feathers to detect any ectoparasites. Sixty-five poultry specimens were examined, yielding seven kinds of ectoparasites. The collected ectoparasites consist of two classes: Insects, which include six species (Menopon gallinae, Menacanthus stramineus, Goniodes gigas, Goniocotes gallinae, Lipeurus caponis, and Columbicola columbae). The Mite class was represented by a single species (Argas persicus). The host variety and reproduction mode did not correlate with parasitism. Nevertheless, the prevalence and range of parasitic organisms in poultry differed based on the rearing method. The phenomenon of polyparasitism was noticed in most poultry infected with multiple parasites. Therefore, this could negatively influence the zootechnical quality of chickens and promote the transmission of certain zoonotic diseases.

Yellowness of egg yolks influences consumer preference for eggs in Ghana

The present work evaluated β-carotene content, colour (L*, a*, b*), and consumer preference for egg yolks from chicken, guinea fowl, and quail, sampled from intensive or semi-intensive rearing systems in Ghana. The β-carotene content of guinea fowl yolk was almost seven times greater (p &lt; 0.001) than that of chicken and quail yolks. The yellowness of guinea fowl yolk (82.18; p &lt; 0.01) was approximately 1.5 and 1.3 times greater than that of chicken and quail yolks, respectively. A consumer preference test showed a significantly greater score (5; p &lt; 0.001) for guinea fowl than for the other egg types. The yellowness of egg yolks had strong positive relationship with β-carotene content (r = 0.943; p = 0.216) and consumer preference (r = 0.995; p = 0.064). Therefore, enhancing the yellowness of egg yolks on the Ghanaian market, especially those from chicken, could lead to increased egg consumption in Ghana.

Determination of most suitable methodology for measuring docility in guinea fowls (&lt;i&gt;Numida meleagris&lt;/i&gt;) in Ghana

The aim of this research was to study the effect and most suitable methodology in measuring docility of Guinea fowls in Ghana. The study was carried out at the Poultry Section of the Department of Animal Science Education, University of Education, Winneba, Mampong- Ashanti campus in Ghana. Docility was measured on a 4-point scale as docile (1), flighty (2), restless (3) and aggressive (4). Seventy-nine (79) Guinea fowls of local varieties of average age 10 months were consecutively tested for docility twice a week for four weeks. The birds were tested for behavioural docility in a Completely Randomised Design experiment. Data were analysed using SAS and separation of means was done using LSD. The research revealed that the test criterion had significant (p&lt;0.05) effect on docility. Based on this observation, each individual criterion was unique and can be used independently for the assessment of docility status of the birds. The Human Presence Test (HPT), Novel Object Test (NOT), Contact Test (CT), and Handling Test (HT) produced consistent docility. The HPT, NOT and CT were similar in effect. The method that produced the greatest impact on the birds was HT and hence not suitable for assessing docility of birds. If the test methods are to be used individually, HPT, NOT and CT will be ideal. The most suitable pair of methods that assesses the underlying docility trait very effectively was HPT with NOT and is therefore recommended as the best suitable pair for cage docility scoring. The research revealed that the test criterion of docility (method of assessment) has to be chosen carefully to be used to assess or measure docility of birds.

Photoperiod manipulation corrects the negative effect of low dietary crude protein levels during weeks 12 to 26 on bone quality and fertility of male Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)

Improving the reproductive performance of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) based on the management of environmental factors is important for developing meleagriculture. Thus, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary crude protein levels and photoperiod during the 12th to 26th wk of age on growth performance, calcium and phosphorus mobilization, and fertility of local Pearl Gray male guinea fowl. In total, 120 twelve-week-old male guinea fowl were divided into 3 groups with 8 replicates each and 5 birds per replicate using a completely random design. The experimental groups included: a group fed a diet containing 15% crude protein and subjected to 16 h of light and 8 h of darkness (16LL), a group fed a diet containing 19% crude protein and subjected to 16 h of light and 8 h of darkness (16HL), and a group fed a diet containing 15% crude protein and subjected to 18 h of light and 6 h of darkness (18LL) during the 12th to 26th wk of age. The results showed that guinea fowl in the 16HL treatment had a significantly (P = 0.003) lower feed conversion ratio than those in the 16LL and 18LL groups. Calcium and phosphorus levels in the tibia and femur were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in guinea fowl of the 16HL and 18LL groups than in that of the 16LL group. Birds in the 16HL and 18LL treatments had significantly higher peripheral testosterone levels (P < 0.00001) than those in the 16LL treatment. The 16HL and 18LL treatments had significantly higher (P < 0.05) sperm volume, sperm concentration and motility, and fertility rate than the 16LL group. Therefore, a decrease in crude protein level from 19 to 15% in the diet of male guinea fowl between the 12th and 26th wk of age negatively affects the growth performance and fertility of these birds, but this is corrected by an increase in the photoperiod before sexual maturity.

Investigation of Enteric Parasites with a Focus on Zoonotic Parasites in the Feces of Galliformes.

Galliformes have a global distribution and are bred by humans as domestic animals or game birds. The world's poultry population is increasing due to high consumer demand for poultry products. Due to the increasing growth of Galliformes breeding, this study aimed to investigate gastrointestinal parasites in the feces of some species of Galliformes. In the present study, 100 distinct fecal samples were collected from seven different Galliformes species, including rural chickens, peacocks, partridges, pheasants, turkeys, quails, and guinea fowls. Sampling of each bird was performed separately, and these birds were kept in cages. In order to identify gastrointestinal parasites, the samples were evaluated using the Clayton-Lane method, the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen, and the Trichrome staining methods. Among 100 birds sampled, 53% were positive for gastrointestinal parasites. Moreover, 30%, 18%, and 5% of birds were infected with Eimeria spp., nematodes, and Giardia spp., respectively. The highest rate of parasitic infestation in Galliformes was related to protozoan infections, and the highest rate of protozoan infection was related to Eimeria (30%). In addition, complex infestation was not detected. Considering that most parasitic infections have been detected in apparently healthy birds, it is recommended to observe hygiene to regularly disinfect cages and reduce the density of birds in the nests. Due to the zoonotic potential of Giardia and the contamination of some birds with this parasite, this issue should be considered by public health officials, bird sellers' markets, owners, and breeders of these birds.

In silico genomic analysis of heat shock protein 70 in poultry under tropical conditions

The negative effect of climate change predisposes farm animals under tropical conditions to heat stress, which limit their productivity. This has necessitated the search for livestock with suitable adaptive genotype. Limited records exist for livestock with high genetic adaptability hence, selection for the most suitable breeding stock remain difficult. This study attempt to use genomic characteristics of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in common meat type birds as biomarker for selecting breeding stock of high genetic merit for tolerance. In silico expasy translate tool analysis revealed that heat shock protein 70 gene in chicken (Gallus gallus) and Japanese quail (Cortinux japonica) are on chromosome 30 and contain 2 and 3 exons linked to 67 and 45 introns, respectively while, in turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) and guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), HSP70 gene is located on chromosome 24 and 28, respectively. They also contain 2 and 4 exons interspersed by 41 and 38 introns, respectively. The variations in chromosomal locations validates differences observed in the adaptation and geographical spread of studied animals. It may also provide new insight into cellular response to heat stress and adaptive mechanism which is necessary in selection. Functional properties and physiological structures resisting thermal stress needs further investigation.

Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal on Local Guinea Fowl Breeder Hens Performance, Egg Quality, and Blood Parameters

Breeding local guinea fowl has the potential to address protein malnutrition and alleviate poverty in West African countries. The current study aimed to examine the effects of incorporating Moringa oleifera leaf meal into the diet on hematology and biochemical parameters as well as the productive performance of local guinea fowl breeders in Togo. Thus, 512 local guinea fowls (22 weeks of age with an average weight of 1176.7 ± 2.9 g), comprising 384 females and 128 males, were examined for 31 weeks. The fowls were randomly assigned to four dietary groups, namely M0, M1, M2, and M3 containing 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% of Moringa oleifera leaf meal in diets, respectively. Each group had 4 replicates of 32 fowls. During the study, feed intake, body weight, egg-laying rate, and feed conversion ratio were weekly recorded. Blood samples for hematology and biochemical analysis were taken from 12 females (3/replicate) at 34 and 50 weeks of age. Eggs were collected for the quality evaluation. Results showed that feed intake was comparable across all groups during the rearing period (23 to 33 weeks of age). However, it significantly decreased in fowls of the M2 and M3 during the laying period (34 to 50 weeks of age). The live weight of fowls in M3 was significantly higher than other groups before the laying period. The egg production, yolk ratio, and shell ratio of the birds in the M1 were like that of M0 and higher than that of M2 and M3. The feed conversion ratio was not significantly different between groups during the laying period. However, the albumen ratio and haugh unit were improved by feeding Moringa leaves especially at level 1.5%. The level of white blood cells and lymphocytes decreased by feeding the Moringa leaves at 1%. Neutrophils and platelet levels were comparable across groups. Total proteins, albumin, and transaminases increased in Moringa groups (M1, M2, M3), especially in M3. It was concluded that the use of Moringa oleifera leaves at 0.5% improved egg-laying performance in local guinea fowl. Moreover, 1% and 1.5% of incorporation improved the quality of eggs. Keywords: Blood parameter, Breeder, Guinea fowl, Egg quality, Moringa oleifera

Guinea fowl eggshell structural analysis at different scales reveals how organic matrix induces microstructural shifts that enhance its mechanical properties

Guinea fowl eggshells have an unusual structural arrangement that is different from that of most birds, consisting of two distinct layers with different microstructures. This bilayered organization, and distinct microstructural characteristics, provides it with exceptional mechanical properties. The inner layer, constituting about one third of the eggshell thickness, contains columnar calcite crystal units arranged vertically as in most bird shells. However, the thicker outer layer has a more complex microstructural arrangement formed by a switch to smaller calcite domains with diffuse/interlocking boundaries, partly resembling the interfaces seen in mollusk shell nacre. The switching process that leads to this remarkable second-layer microstructure is unknown. Our results indicate that the microstructural switching is triggered by changes in the inter- and intracrystalline organic matrix. During production of the outer microcrystalline layer in the later stages of eggshell formation, the interactions of organic matter with mineral induce an accumulation of defects that increase crystal mosaicity, instill anisotropic lattice distortions in the calcite structure, interrupt epitaxial growth, reduce crystallite size, and induce nucleation events which increase crystal misorientation. These structural changes, together with the transition between the layers and each layer having different microstructures, enhance the overall mechanical strength of the Guinea fowl eggshell. Additionally, our findings provide new insights into how biogenic calcite growth may be regulated to impart unique functional properties. Statement of significanceAvian eggshells are mineralized to protect the embryo and to provide calcium for embryonic chick skeletal development. Their thickness, structure and mechanical properties have evolved to resist external forces throughout brooding, yet ultimately allow them to crack open during chick hatching. One particular eggshell, that of the Guinea fowl, has structural features very different from other galliform birds – it is bilayered, with an inner columnar mineral structure (like in most birds), but it also has an outer layer with a complex microstructure which contributes to its superior mechanical properties. This work provides novel and new fundamental information about the processes and mechanisms that control and change crystal growth during the switch to microcrystalline domains when the second outer layer forms.

Effect of Vinegar as Disinfectant on Local Guinea Fowl Egg Hatchability and Keets Growth Performance

Effect of Vinegar as Disinfectant on Local Guinea Fowl Egg Hatchability and Keets Growth Performance

CHARACTERISTICS OF LOCAL GUINEA FOWL (NUMIDA MELEAGRIS, L.) EGGS IN BURKINA FASO

Eggs are an important source of animal protein for humans. However, their physico-chemical and nutritional characteristics vary across and within breeds. The aim of this study was to determine the physico-chemical and nutritional quality of 109 eggs from local guinea fowl (Numida Meleagris, L.) in Burkina Faso. For the that purpose, the following parameters were collected for each egg: egg weight albumen, yolk, and shell weights, egg length and width, pH, shape, and coloration of the shell and yolk. The physical parameter values analyzed showed that local guinea fowl lay small eggs with average weight of 34.91 g (± 3.33 g). The length and width were 46.95 ± 2.48 mm and 36.80 ± 1.09 mm, respectively. The egg a shape index was 0.79. The majority of eggs were oval in shape (90.83%) and reddish in color (70.64%). The albumen, yolk, and shell weighed on average 14.79 ± 3.47 g, 13.17 ± 2.28 g, and 5.95 ± 0.84 g respectively. The majority of eggs had a pH ranging between 9 and 10 for the yolk and around 7 for the albumen. The yolk had a light-yellow color with an average index of 4.66. Water and ash contents were higher in the albumen than in the yolk and while the dry matter content was higher in the yolk. These results, although limited in terms of the number of parameters studied, represent a very interesting basis for assessing the nutritional quality of local guinea fowl eggs consumed by Burkina Faso population.

Technical-Economic Diagnosis and Development Prospects of Quail Farming in Burkina Faso

Poultry farming is a livestock sector that encompasses various bird species, with the most well-known in Burkina Faso being chickens and guinea fowl. These two species receive support from development programs as they significantly contribute to the livelihoods of poor populations. Quails have been recently introduced, presenting technical and economic advantages that could contribute to the development of livestock farming. The study aimed to characterize the profile of stakeholders, conduct a techno-economic diagnosis, and suggest development prospects. Thirty-three farming units were surveyed in the cities of Bobo Dioulasso, Ouagadougou, and Orodara. The socio-demographic aspects of quail farmers, zootechnical aspects of quails, and challenges faced were analyzed.On the socio-economic level, the activity is predominantly practiced by young, educated men, exclusively with secondary and higher education. Zootechnically, the animal productions consist of eggs and meat. Quail production goals prioritize egg production, quail chicks (97%), fattening (76%), and breeder farming (48%).The feeding practices are inadequate, as all farmers (100%) were providing quails with feed intended for laying hens or broilers. Breeding quails reach sexual maturity at 6 weeks, with an average of 250 eggs laid per female and a high hatching rate. Quails also exhibit a high level of hardiness, easily adapting to their environment, and a high level of adaptation to climatic factors (85% of farmers).Quail housing exclusively consists of battery cages. Economically, live quail prices range from 1,500 to 3,000 Fcfa for breeders and consumption quails, and from 2,500 to 4,000 Fcfa for a tray of thirty eggs. Income levels varied from 184,470 to 28,642,945 Fcfa from quail sales. The revealed constraints primarily involve marketing, followed by the issue of inadequate feeding.

Release the hens: a study on the complexities of guinea fowl as tick control.

Established tick control strategies often involve methods that can be damaging to existing environmental conditions or natural host ecology. To find more environmentally friendly methods, biological controls, like predators of ticks, have been suggested. There are natural predators of ticks, but most are generalists and not expected to control tick populations. Helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris (L.) (Galliformes: Numididae)) have been suggested to be biological controls of ticks, and therefore, tick-borne pathogens, but their potential role as hosts for ticks complicates the relationship. A study was conducted to assess whether guinea fowl reduces the abundance of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae), or whether they are hosts of ticks. Using mark-recapture techniques, painted lone star ticks were placed into 3 different treatments: penned, excluded, and free range. The recapture rates of painted ticks were compared. There was a significant difference between excluded and free-range treatments, but not between excluded and penned or between free range and penned. To investigate the role of guinea fowl as hosts of ticks, coop floors were examined for engorged ticks. Engorged lone star nymphs that had fed on guinea fowl were found. Lastly, ticks collected were tested to identify the potential reduction in risk of tick-borne pathogens. This study found no evidence that guinea fowl are an effective biological control of lone star ticks or tick-borne pathogens, but they are hosts of lone star nymphs. Future studies are needed to assess the complex ecology of a biological control of ticks that is also a host.

Influence of photoperiod and exogenous melatonin on testis morpho-physiology of sexually mature guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)

The biological effects of simulated photoperiod and melatonin on the control of reproduction of guinea fowls (Numida meleagris) are not well understood. Herein, thirty (30) sexually mature guinea fowl cocks were randomly assigned to 1–6 groups (n = 5) and subjected to different photoperiodic regimes in the presence or absence of exogenous melatonin (Mel; 1 mg/kgBW/day, i/m) for eight weeks. Testes of the euthanized cocks were processed for gross morphology, histological, histochemical, and oxidative stress markers. Testosterone concentration was determined in serum samples using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. We observed an increase in testicular size in the Mel and Non-Mel groups under long-day (LD) photoperiods, and in the Non-Mel group under short-day (SD) photoperiod. Conversely, the testicular size was drastically reduced in the Mel group for SD. Seminiferous tubules in the Mel and Non-Mel groups of the SD showed cytomorphological changes, including degenerated cells, focal vacuolations, and depletion of germinal epithelium. However, the germinal epithelium appeared to be complete and active in both the Mel and Non-Mel groups for the LD. In all groups, the testes showed positive staining for PAS with varying intensities. There was a significant difference in PAS-staining intensity between different photoperiodic regimes and exogenous melatonin. The study observed the interaction between photoperiods and exogenous melatonin on glutathione reductase (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and serum testosterone. Overall, the results indicated that a long-day (LD) photoperiod, combined with exogenous melatonin, enhanced reproductive activity in male guinea fowl by increasing testicular size and serum testosterone concentration.

Formation of the Pecking Order during Small-Scale Floor Feeding in Helmeted Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris).

Helmeted guinea fowl are social animals and only males form a hierarchy in the wild. Non-cage husbandry systems benefit the reproductive health of guinea fowl; however, there are concerns that the feeding duration of subordinate individuals is insufficient. Here, the pecking orders formed during small-scale floor feeding were investigated. There were three experimental categories: male-only (four males), female-only (four females), and mixed category (two males, two females). Each experimental category was set up three times and included different individuals. Behaviors were recorded for 130 h 52 min, 89 h 11 min, and 98 h 46 min in the male, female, and mixed categories, respectively. Male helmeted guinea fowls pecked other males, whereas females exhibited little pecking behavior. Male pecking behavior was not homogeneous within each experimental group. It has been suggested that males form a pecking order, whereas females have no hierarchy under small-scale floor-feeding conditions, as observed in the wild. In most cases, on the first day the number of pecking behaviors was low 20 min after the start of the experiment. The three subordinate individuals in the mixed category had little time to feed, whereas the other birds in the mixed category and all helmeted guinea fowl in the male- and female-only categories had longer feeding durations. We suggest that helmeted guinea fowl may be reared under small-scale floor feeding, and that the health of males should be managed. However, rearing females and males under small-scale floor feeding conditions should be avoided. This study contributes to improving the welfare of helmeted guinea fowl reared under small-scale floor feeding.

The influence of selection of sires according to the degree of plumage pigmentation on the autosexness of guinea fowl

The studies were carried out on cream and silver guinea fowl populations at Genefond LLC, Moscow region. The purpose of the work was to study the effect of selecting sires with contrasting down pigmentation on the accuracy of sexing guinea fowl offspring. The basis for the creation of an autosex maternal form was cream and silver guinea fowl, carriers of the silver “S” and golden “s” genes, which in preliminary experiments showed the possibility of sexing them according to the degree of plumage pigmentation. To conduct the study, two groups of guinea fowl with cream and silver colored plumage were recruited at 20 weeks of age. In each group there were 6 selection nests; males with weak pigmentation and females with strong plumage pigmentation were taken into the nest. The ratio of males to females in the nest was 1:6. Experiments have shown the absence of significant differences between cream and silver guinea fowl populations in quantitative and qualitative indicators of sperm production, fertilization and egg hatchability. The selection of producers when recruiting a breeding herd with a contrasting plumage color (males with weak, females with strong plumage pigmentation) ensured an increase in the accuracy of sexing cream guinea fowl by 5.1%, silver guinea fowl by 1.8%, while the number of nests with sexing accuracy was more than 95 %, for cream guinea fowl it was 50%, for silver guinea fowl 66.7%, respectively.

Newcastle Disease Virus strain XIV.2 Infection in Geese and Guinea fowls: A Comparative Pathological Study

Aim: The study evaluates the pathogenic potential of strain XIV.2 NDV in geese and guinea fowls experimentally. Methods: Forty birds, comprising 20 geese and 20 guinea fowls, aged seven weeks were randomly divided into four groups (A–D), kept in separate pens as follows: 10 Control geese, 10 Infected geese, 10 Control guinea fowls and 10 Infected guinea fowls. The birds in group B and D were inoculated with 0.2 mL of strain XIV.2 NDV inoculum (titre of 108.2/0.1 mL ELD50) intra-nasally, while those in group A and C were inoculated with phosphate buffered solution (PBS) intra-nasally respectively. Gross and histopathological procedures were performed using standard methods. Results: Revealed transient clinical signs without mortality in infected geese whereas moderate clinical signs with mortality were observed in infected guinea fowls. Gross lesions were mild in infected geese from 6 to 28 days post-inoculation, (dpi) and in infected guinea fowls at 3, 21 and 28 dpi, with moderate lesions observed from 6, 11, 12 and 14 dpi. Histopathological lesions in infected geese were moderate from 3 to 21 dpi, but mild at 28 dpi, whereas mild lesions were observed from 3 to 6 dpi, followed by moderate lesions from 9 to 28 dpi in infected guinea fowls. Conclusion: Morbidity and mortality due to strain XIV.2 NDV infection were moderate in guinea fowls, but inapparent and transient in geese. Therefore, free-ranging system commonly practice in the region should either be discouraged or vaccination of these species of birds should be encouraged.

ФИЗИКО-ХИМИЧЕСКИЕ ПОКАЗАТЕЛИ МЯСА И ДИНАМИКА ПРИРОСТА ЖИВОЙ МАССЫ В ПРОЦЕССЕ ВЫРАЩИВАНИЯ ЦЕСАРОК РАЗНЫХ ПОРОД В ВОЗРАСТЕ 5…9 МЕСЯЦЕВ (сообщение 2)

The results of determining the moisture, fat, protein and ash content in the meat of guinea fowl at the age of 5, 7 and 9 months are presented. The red and white muscles of the carcasses of guinea fowl of the Zagorsk white-breasted, Volga white, gray-speckled and blue breeds were studied. The study showed that the physical and chemical parameters of meat differ significantly depending on the breed and age of guinea fowl. Guinea fowl meat has high nutritional value; it can also meet the body’s needs for proteins, lipids, minerals and vitamins. To identify the advantages and disadvantages of using different breeds of guinea fowl when kept on a farm, and to study the properties of guinea fowl meat, it is necessary to study its physical and chemical properties. The results of determining the chemical composition of meat indicate that the greatest amount of protein was in the meat of the gray-speckled and Volga white breeds at the age of 5 months, in the gray-speckled and blue breeds - at the age of 7 months, in the blue and blue breeds. Volga white – at the age of 9 months, and the fat content in muscle tissue was higher in blue and Zagorsk white-breasted guinea fowl, 5 months old, as well as in Zagorsk white-breasted at 7 and 9 months.

Effects of housing systems and laying phases on external and internal egg quality characteristics of indigenous guinea fowl hens.

The study investigated the effect of housing system and laying phases on the internal and external qualities of guinea fowl eggs laid in three different housing systems. The trial involved the use of 117, 34-wk-old guinea fowl hens which were assigned to three housing types, which were battery cages, deep litter, and deep litter housing systems with free runs, which had the same dimensions as deep litter houses but with free run and open-air space to allow the birds to have free access to soil and exhibit natural behavior. The laying phases of the birds were partitioned into three (36 to 40, 41 to 45, and 46 to 50wk of age). The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using a 2×3 factorial design. The findings demonstrated that both housing type and laying period significantly influenced egg quality parameters, with deep litter housing exhibiting higher egg weight, egg breadth, and shell surface area. Battery cage housing had thicker shells and a higher percentage of shell weight than total egg weight. As the birds aged, most parameters increased, while shell thickness decreased. The interaction between housing type and laying period played a crucial role, with egg weight, breadth, and egg shape index increasing as the birds aged. The shell thickness decreased as the laying period progressed across all housing systems. During the 40 to 45wk period of lay, they exhibited the highest albumen height, haugh unit, and % yolk weight. The study's findings highlight how the interaction between the housing system and the laying period impacted the internal quality of guinea fowl eggs.