Exploration of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Degraded Manure (DM) as an Alternative Enzyme Source Feed on Growth and Production Performance of Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) in the Layer Phase

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Degraded Manure (DM) meal derived from the biodegradation of poultry manure by Hermetia illucens L. larvae as a partial replacement for fish meal in the diet of laying quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica).

A total of four dietary treatments were formulated, consisting of a control diet (R0) and diets containing 4% (R1), 8% (R2) and 12% (R3) DM meal. Parameters measured included feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, egg production and the activity of enzymes (amylase, lipase and protease) in the resulting DM meal.

The results showed that increasing the level of DM meal in the diet significantly influenced feed intake (p<0.01), with higher consumption observed in treatments containing DM. However, no significant differences (p>0.05) were found in body weight gain or feed conversion efficiency among treatments, indicating stable nutrient utilization across diets. Egg production (number of eggs and total egg weight) demonstrated comparable or improved values in the DM-containing treatments, particularly at 8% and 12% inclusion levels. Enzyme activity analysis confirmed the presence of active amylase, lipase and protease in DM meal, suggesting enhanced nutrient digestibility potential. These findings indicate that DM meal can be included at up to 12% in the diet of laying quails without negative effects on performance, while offering added value through functional enzymes and improved feed sustainability. DM meal represents a viable, economical and environmentally responsible protein alternative in poultry feeding systems.