Effects of dietary inulin supplementation on growth performance, gut microbiota, and intestinal histomorphology in Japanese quails

This study examined the effects of dietary inulin on growth performance, gut microbiota, and intestinal histomorphology in Japanese quails. A total of 360 quails were assigned to four treatments: control (basal diet) and diets supplemented with 0.5%, 1.0%, or 1.5% inulin. Feed intake was unaffected (P > 0.05), but body weight gain and feed conversion ratio improved significantly at 1.0% and 1.5% inulin levels (P < 0.05). Dressing percentage also increased (P = 0.001), while mortality remained unchanged. Inulin supplementation enhanced Lactobacillus counts at 1.5% and reduced Salmonella and E. coli populations at all inclusion levels (P < 0.01). Duodenal and jejunal villus height and surface area were significantly greater at 1.5% inulin (P < 0.01), indicating improved nutrient absorption. Overall, dietary inulin, particularly at 1.0–1.5%, enhanced growth performance, gut health, and intestinal morphology, suggesting its potential as a functional prebiotic feed additive for improving quail productivity.