Combined Effects of Dichrostachys glomerata (phytobiotic) with Graded Levels of Probiotics on the Production Performance of Japanese Quails

Abstract

Introduction: The ban on the use of antibiotics as feed additives in livestock farming has led to the development of alternative products. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of combining phytobiotic (Dichrostachys glomerata) with a probiotic (Thepax®) on the growth performance of Japanese quails. Results: The findings indicated that quails fed on 0.6 ml probiotic / L of drinking water had the highest weight gain and the lowest feed conversion ratio. Combining phytobiotic with probiotics at 0.4 ml and 0.5 ml improved the apparent digestibility of crude protein and organic matter. Although the treatment did not significantly affect the carcass yields, the relative weight of the liver and pancreas were lowest with 0.4 ml probiotic. Haemato-biochemical parameters increased with higher levels of probiotics combined with 4 g of phytobiotics in the feed, leading to an increase in serum content in ALT and creatinine. Combining 4 g of the phytobiotic with 0.6 ml of probiotic resulted in a decrease in pathogens (Salmonella and E. coli) count in the gastrointestinal tract of quails. Conclusion: The combination of Dichrostachys glomerata (4g /kg feed) to a probiotic (0.6ml /L drinking water) improved feed conversion ratio and live weight gain while reducing the pathogenic microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract of Japanese quails.