Gracilariopsis persica seaweed as a feed ingredient in Japanese quail: impacts on growth performance, blood biochemistry, carcass traits, cecal microflora, and intestinal morphology

In this study, different levels of Gracilariopsis persica (G. persica ) seaweed were examined on growth performance, blood biochemistry parameters, carcass characteristics, cecal microflora counts, and intestinal morphology in Japanese quail. A total of 480 one-day-old Japanese quail chicks ( Coturnix japonica ) were completely randomized design to 16 cages (n = 4 treatment; 4 replicates and 30 birds per replicate). The dietary inclusion rates of G. persica seaweed were as follows: 0 (control group), 1, 3, and 5%. The experimental duration lasted for 6 weeks. The live body weight of quails increased when fed with control and 3% G. persica seaweed diets, compared to those fed 5% G. persica seaweed diet (P < 0.05). In the jejunum, the use of a diet containing 1% G. persica seaweed increased villus width, compared to birds fed with control diet (P < 0.05). Additionally, the use of a diet containing 5% G. persica seaweed increased the cecal microbial populations of Lactobacillus , compared to control and 3% G. persica seaweed diets (P < 0.05). Based on the results, incorporating up to 5% Gracilariopsis persica seaweed into the diet of Japanese quails not only enhanced performance during the first three weeks but also improved carcass characteristics, cecal microflora counts, and intestinal morphology.