Effects of dietary inulin supplementation on growth performance, gut microbiota, and intestinal histomorphology in Japanese quails
Noor E Fatimaa, Naila Chanda, Shabana Nazb, Rasha Alonaizanc, Rifat Ullah Khand✉, Alaeldein M. Abudabose, Muhammad Israrf✉, Ibrahim Abdullah Alhidaryg
- aDepartment of Poultry Science, The University of Agriculture
- bDepartment of Zoology, Government College, University
- cDepartment of Zoology, College of Sciences, King Saud University
- dPhysiology Lab, College of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture
- eDepartment of Food and Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Tennessee State University
- fTask Health Care Limited
- gDepartment of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Science, King Saud University
- ✉Corresponding author
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Abstract
This study examined the effects of dietary inulin on growth performance, gut microbiota, and intestinal histomorphology in Japanese quails. A total of 360 quails were assigned to four treatments: control (basal diet) and diets supplemented with 0.5%, 1.0%, or 1.5% inulin. Feed intake was unaffected (P > 0.05), but body weight gain and feed conversion ratio improved significantly at 1.0% and 1.5% inulin levels (P < 0.05). Dressing percentage also increased (P = 0.001), while mortality remained unchanged. Inulin supplementation enhanced Lactobacillus counts at 1.5% and reduced Salmonella and E. coli populations at all inclusion levels (P < 0.01). Duodenal and jejunal villus height and surface area were significantly greater at 1.5% inulin (P < 0.01), indicating improved nutrient absorption. Overall, dietary inulin, particularly at 1.0–1.5%, enhanced growth performance, gut health, and intestinal morphology, suggesting its potential as a functional prebiotic feed additive for improving quail productivity.