Effects of dry nettle leaf powder supplementation on the performance and carcass characteristics of japanese quailsat different feeding periods

This study was conducted to investigate how the addition of dried stinging nettle leaf powder (Urtica dioica L) at different feeding periods affects the growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality parameters, and intestinal histology of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 96 quails were divided into four groups, each consisting of 4 replicates with 6 birds per replicate: the control group (no nettle leaf addition), 0-3 SNP group (5% nettle leaf addition during days 0-21), 4-5 SNP group (5% nettle leaf addition during days 21-35), and 0-5 SNP group (5% nettle leaf addition during days 0-35). Feed and water were provided ad libitum throughout the study. The results revealed that the effects of nettle leaf powder varied depending on the application period. The 4-5 SNP group demonstrated the most favorable outcomes in terms of growth performance and carcass weight, with statistically significant improvements in live weight, hot/cold carcass weight, and dressing percentage compared to the other groups (P<0.05). Conversely, the continuous application in the 0-5 SNP group resulted in limited growth performance and feed efficiency. Regarding meat quality parameters, water-holding capacity and drip loss showed relatively positive results in the 0-5 SNP group, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were lower in the nettle-fed groups compared to the control group. However, these differences were not statistically significant. Histomorphological analyses of the intestine showed significant improvements in villus length and villus/crypt ratio, especially in the 0-3 SNP and 4-5 SNP groups. These groups exhibited significant increases in villus length in the jejunum and ileum (P<0.01), suggesting that nettle leaf powder has a supportive effect on intestinal health. In conclusion, the use of nettle leaf powder during the 21-35 day period (4-5 week) showed positive effects on growth performance, carcass traits, and intestinal health. Instead of continuous application, optimized use during the 4-5 week period is recommended as a more effective strategy. This study highlights the potential of plant-based feed additives to contribute to sustainable practices in animal nutrition science.