Influence of earthworm meal on growth performance of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

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