Effect of Pistachio Shell (Pistacia vera L.) on Quail Performance, Carcass Traits, Blood Parameters, and Gut Health

ABSTRACT The increasing demand for sustainable and cost-effective poultry feeds has accelerated research into alternative sources. This study evaluated the effects of pistachio shell (PS) on the performance, carcass characteristics, oxidative stress markers, lipid profile and gut microbiota of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 240 quails were assigned to diets with 0%, 2%, 4%, or 6% PS for 42 days. Performance metrics (live weight (LW), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR)) were monitored weekly. Carcass traits, oxidative stress markers (total antioxidant status [TAS], total oxidant status [TOS], oxidative stress index [OSI]), blood lipids, and intestinal microbiota were analyzed. While LW remained unaffected, FCR improved by 5.48% in the 6% PS group due to reduced FI. Abdominal fat weight decreased by 29.17% without affecting carcass weight. Antioxidant capacity improved, with TAS increasing by 36%, and TOS and OSI decreasing by 22.93% and 42.64%, respectively. HDL cholesterol rose significantly in the 6% PS group. PS supplementation also increased caecum pH and beneficial bacteria, while E. coli counts declined (p<0.01). The 4% PS group showed the lowest Enterobacter and coliform levels. These findings suggest PS can be a functional feed additive, enhancing feed efficiency, antioxidant status, and gut health in quails.