The Effect of Supplementation of Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare Mill.) to the Feed on Egg Production, Slaughter and Carcass Characteristics, Formation of Parasites in the Intestine and Spermatological Quality in Japanese Quail During the Laying Period

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the effects of supplementation of ground fennel to quail rations on egg production, slaughter, intestinal parasites, and semen quality. For this purpose, 48 female and 24 male quails were used in the study. The experimental groups consisted of the control group with basal feed + 0% ground fennel, and the GF1, GF2, and GF4 groups with ground fennel-supplemented basal feed by 1%, 2%, and 4% respectively, also each group was designed in pairs. The weekly live weight values were found to be numerically higher in the groups with fennel-supplemented rations than in the control group. In addition, the live weight values of female and male quails were also numerically higher in the groups with fennel-supplemented rations. Egg weight, egg production, and feed intake of female quails were high, especially in the GF2 group. Furthermore, the feed conversion ratio was superior in the GF2 group. Regarding the slaughter and carcass parts, the fennel-supplemented groups were numerically higher than the control group. It was observed that the oviduct weight increased with the growing fennel ratio. In addition, the fennel supplementation increased the semen concentration in male quails. The increasing fennel addition enhanced the abnormal and dead spermatozoa rates and decreased semen motility. As a result of the macroscopic examination of the intestinal lumen of the quails in the control and fennel-supplemented groups, no adult helminths were detected; however, Giardia spp.-like cysts were observed. As a result, the usage of ground fennel as a feed additive by 2% had a positive effect on yield characteristics of female quails, and the use by 1% had a positive effect on male quails. Consequently, the usage of ground fennel as a feed additive would be beneficial in quail farming.