Performance of Japanese quails as influenced by varying levels of dietaryprotein and energy during autumn season

Nine diets were formulated with three levels of protein (23, 25 and 27% CP) each at three levels of energy (2600, 2900 and 3000 Kcal ME/kg) during starter (1–3 weeks) phase and three levels of protein (18, 20 and 22% CP) each at three levels of energy (2800, 2900 and 3000 Kcal ME/kg) during finisher (4–5 weeks) phase in a 3 × 3 factorial design. These nine diets were offered to three replicated groups of chick upto 5 weeks of age to determine growth performance and nutrient utilization. Body weight and gain in weight during starter and finisher phases were affected by the protein and energy levels of the diets. Highest (P<0.05) body weight and gain in weight was observed at 25% CP with 3000 Kcal ME/kg and 20% CP with 2900 Kcal ME/kg during 1–3 weeks and 4–5 weeks of age respectively. Feed intake (FI) decreased (P<0.05) with increase in energy at all three levels of protein during starter phase, however, FI during finisher phase had no significant (P<0.05) effect amongst various levels of protein and energy. Best (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio and calorie conversion ratio was achieved at 20% CP with 2900 Kcal ME/kg during finisher phase. Highest (P<0.05) N-retention and digestibility of dry matter, ether extract and crude fibre was obtained at medium protein and energy (MP-ME) combination. It is concluded that best performance of Japanese quails during autumn season was obtained on 25% CP and 3000 Kcal ME/kg diet during starter phase and 20% CP and 2900 Kcal ME/kg diet during finisher phase.