Abstract 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 G. persica seaweed increased villus width, compared to birds fed with control diet (P G. persica seaweed increased the cecal microbial populations of Lactobacillus, compared to control and 3% G. persica seaweed diets (P 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.
Torghi et al. (Tue,) studied this question.