CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF JAPANESE QUAILS (COTURNIX COTURNIX JAPONICA) FED DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MALTED RED SORGHUM AS AN ENERGY SOURCE

This study evaluated the effects of five dietary levels of malted red sorghum (i.e., 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) on the carcass characteristics of Japanese quails raised under an intensive system. A total of 160 unsexed quail chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomised design. After six weeks of feeding, carcass traits, external cuts, and internal organ weights were measured and analysed. The results showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) in live weight, hot carcass weight, and dressing out percentage across treatments. Similarly, the proportions of external cuts and most internal organs (gizzard, liver, heart, and spleen) were not affected by the dietary treatments. However, significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the weights of the bursa of Fabricius, caeca, and large intestines at inclusion levels of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%, suggesting possible physiological adaptations. Overall, these findings suggest that malted red sorghum can be a sustainable alternative feed ingredient for Japanese quails, with minimal negative impact on carcass quality and organ development.