The objective of this study was to determine calcium requirement of male japanese quails from 1 to 21 days of age. 280 quails with average weight of 8 ± 2 g in the initial phase were used. The evaluated performance parameters were feed intake (CR), weight gain (GP) and feed conversion (CA). A completely randomized experimental design was used, with seven calcium levels and four replicates of ten birds per experimental unit. Calcium levels were 0.85, 1.00, 1.15, 1.30, 1.45, 1.60 and 1.75%. Limestone was added to the diet as calcium supplementation source. It was found that CR, GP and CA showed a quadratic effect with the increased levels of calcium in the diet. It is recommended diet containing 1.24% calcium for male japanese quail in the period from 1 to 21 days of age.
Limestone; performance; mineral
