Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

 This study examines effects of vitamin E and C on puberty age of quail, some biochemical characters and egg quality. Birds were divided into 4 groups (14 day old), 3 replicates (20 birds/replicate) the treatments continued for 8 weeks. 1^st gruop (control): reared on standard ration and Tap water. 2^nd group: reared on standard ration and water supplemented with Vit. E (450 mg/ Liter). 3^rd group: reared on standard ration and water supplemented with Vit. C (200mg/Liter). 4^th group: reared on standard ration and water supplemented with (Vit. E 450 mg/Liter and Vit. C 200 mg/Liter). Results showed significant increase in serum glucose, triglycerides, total protein, globulin and the globulin: albuminratio of the females compared with males. Treatments decreased serum glucose and triglyceride and increased serum total protein, globulin and globulin: albumin ratio as compared with control. The interaction between sex and treatment revealed a significant decrease in serum glucose, triglyceride and albumen in all groups as compared with the female control, and a significant increase in serum total protein and globulin in Vit.E and Vit. C+E treatments. There was a significant improvement in globulin: albumen ratio in Vit. E and Vit. C+E group (females) and Vit. C+E (males) compared with other groups. The study revealed that the treatment with Vit. E and Vit. C improve some physiological and biochemical parameters and this was reflected in a reduction in puberty age and the age of 50% egg laying intensity and egg yolk cholesterol.