Influence of earthworm meal on growth performance of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Author(s): B Deepika, V Leela, G Suganya and S Ezhil Valavan
Abstract: The rising cost and limited availability of high-quality protein sources such as fish meal have prompted the need for sustainable alternatives in poultry nutrition. Earthworm meal (Eudrilus eugeniae) is rich in protein, essential amino acids, and minerals, making it an attractive replacement. This study evaluated the influence of earthworm meal on growth performance and intestinal morphology in Japanese quails from hatch to six weeks of age. A total of 240 chicks were divided into four dietary treatments: 0% (control), 50%, 75%, and 100% replacement of fish meal with earthworm meal. Growth parameters such as body weight gain, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded weekly, and intestinal samples were collected at weeks 3 and 6. Results showed that 75% replacement significantly improved (p<0.01) body weight gain and FCR from the fourth week onwards, while 100% replacement increased feed consumption but did not enhance growth efficiency. Intestinal morphology indicated significant improvements in villus height, crypt length, and crypt width in earthworm-fed groups, with the best villus-crypt balance in the 75% group. All groups recorded 100% livability. The findings demonstrate that earthworm meal is a viable, eco-friendly protein supplement, with 75% replacement delivering optimal performance.
