Crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) levels during five experimental periods of seven days each of the growing phase for European quail were determined. A total of 384 quails of both sexes were used in a completely randomized design in a 2×4 (energy and crude protein) factorial treatment with six replications of eight quails each. The metabolizable energy levels were 2900 and 3000kcal of ME/kg of diet and the crude protein levels were 22, 24, 26 and 28%. The analyzed variables were weight gain (g), accumulated weight (g), feed consumption (g), feed:gain ratio (g/g). Performance responses were evaluated by linear and quadratic regression of the traits on crude protein levels. Higher weight gains from the following protein and metabolizable energy levels combinations: 28.0% PB and 2900 kcal EM/kg (first period); 25.7% CP and 3100kcal ME/kg (second period); 27.9% and 2900kcal ME/kg (third period); 24.8% PB and 3100kcal/kg (fourth period) and 23.1% CP and 2900kcal/kg (fifth period).
quail; nutritional requirement; metabolizable energy; crude protein
