Effects of Dietary p,p′-DDT and p,p′-DDE on Egg Production and Egg Shell Characteristics of Japanese Quail Receiving an Adequate Calcium Diet

We reported earlier that Japanese quail fed a low (0.56%) calcium diet containing 100 p.p.m. p,p′-DDT laid eggs with thinner shells and less calcium in the shell (Bitman et al., 1969). Since the effect of the DDT might be augmented by the calcium stress during egg laying, the present study follows the effects of DDT and DDE on egg production and egg shell quality in Japanese quail fed an adequate calcium diet. PROCEDURE Forty-two virgin Japanese quail, 39 days old were distributed randomly into three groups of fourteen and placed in individual cages on a regime of 14 hours light and 10 hours dark. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. The control group received a diet containing 2.7% calcium. Nelson et al. (1964) reported 2.5 to 3% calcium to be adequate for breeding Coturnix quail. The groups on p,p′-DDT or p,p′-DDE received the same diet modified by the addition…