Search

The aim of the study is to monitor the changes in the main indicators of the chemical composition of Guinea fowl eggs at 2 storage temperature regimes (0-4°C and 15°C) after 3 storage periods (1, 30, and 90 days), compared to chicken eggs. In both temperature regimes, the storage period has a significant effect on the reduction of water content, both in the egg white and in the yolk. The water content decrease in chicken eggs is more significant, compared to those of Guinea fowl, especially at 90 days of storage. Regarding the protein content in dry matter of egg white, the following changes were observed: At 0-4°C: chicken -- from 89.10 (first day) to 90.65% (90 day); Guinea fowls -- from 89.10 (first day) to 90.49% (90th day); temperature 15°C: chicken -- from 89.10 (first day) to 90.36% (90th day); Guinea fowls -- from 90.65 (first day) to 90.36% (90th day). Regarding the content of protein in the dry matter of the yolk, the following changes were observed (1-90 days): 0-4°C: chicken -- 29.11-31.11%; Guinea fowls -- from 30.58--31.93%; 15°C: chicken -- 29.11-31.83%; Guinea fowls -- 30.58-32.15%. Changes in the fat content in egg white dry matter (1-90 days): temperature 0-4°C: chicken -- 0.89-0.81%; Guinea fowls -- 0.76-0.73%; 15oC: chicken -- 0.89-0.73%; Guinea fowls -- 0.76-0.64%. Fat content in the dry substance of the yolk (1-90 days): temperature 0-4°C: chicken -- 68.47-61.65%; Guinea fowls -- 63.35-60.83%; temperature 15 °C: chicken -- 68.47-60.65%; Guinea fowls -- 63.35-60.55%. In both white and yolk, the reduction in Guinea fowl's eggs is significant lower. The observed results are due to the specificity of the shell of Guinea fowl eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to contribute to guinea fowl farming productivity. Thus, a socio-economic and technical survey was conducted in Far-North Cameroon and 500 eggs were randomly collected for hatchability assessment. Additionaly, 90 eggs were collected from three localities for physico-chemical analysis. Guinea fowls are raised in free range and 53.3 % of farmers have traditional shelters and no sanitary measures are taken. Farmers have traditional know-how in terms of egg selection techniques for brooding and the management of guinea fowl. They are mostly sold at the market and prices of one living guinea fowl vary between 3 and 5 USD. Major constraints consist in financial needs and lack of appropriate rearing practices. Physico-chemical characteristics showed that weight and edible mater proportions were not affected by locality. Haugh unit of eggs from Bipain (71.04±3.88%) were lower than those from Guidiguis (81.01±7.40%) and Chaochai (84.30±5.83%) and the reverse was observed for lipid and protein contents. Effective hatching rate was 28.96% respectively with an embryonic mortality rate of 42.2% for all eggs. This work shows that guinea fowl farming remains poorly developed and the artificial incubation performances remain low, hence the need for better ways to increase productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A decrease in eggshell quality in the late laying period leads to eggshell breakage, seriously affecting production efficiency. Guinea fowl with relatively high eggshell strength have the same layers of eggshell structure and various identical proteins as laying hens. However, their eggshell structures have not been systematically compared. Therefore, this study systematically compared the eggshell ultrastructure, bubble pore index, and composition of laying hens and Guinea fowl. The differences in the eggshell ultrastructure, bubble pores, and composition revealed, to some extent, the structure and composition necessary to increase the eggshell quality of laying hens. This study provides a reference for improving eggshell quality. The decrease in eggshell quality seriously affects production efficiency. Guinea fowl (GF) eggs possess strong eggshells because of their unique crystal structure, and few systematic studies have compared laying hen and GF eggs. Sixty eggs were collected from both 40-week-old Dwarf Layer-White (DWL-White) laying hens and GF, and the eggshell quality, ultrastructure, bubble pores, and composition were measured. The results showed that the DWL-White eggs had a higher egg weight and a lower eggshell strength, strength per unit weight, thickness, and ratio than the GF eggs (p < 0.01). There were differences in the mammillary layer thickness ratio, the effective layer thickness ratio, the quantity of bubble pores (QBPs), the ratio of the sum of the area of bubble pores to the area of the eggshell in each image (ARBE), and the average area of bubble pores (AABPs) between the DWL-White and GF eggs (p < 0.01). The composition analysis demonstrated that there were differences in the organic matter, inorganic matter, calcium, and phosphorus between the DWL-White and GF eggs (p < 0.01). There were positive associations between the mammillary knob number in the image and the QBPs and ARBE and a negative correlation with the AABPs in the DWL-White eggs (p < 0.01). This study observed distinctions that offer new insights into enhancing eggshell quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was carried out on testes of 54 apparently healthy male guinea fowl (Pearl variety) at different age groups from Day old to 28 Weeks at monthly interval. The testes are paired organs, located within the abdominal cavity attached to the dorsal body wall by mesorchium. After hatching at day old age, the testes were indistinct and very difficult to demarcate. From 24 weeks onwards abundant fat tissues were observed in and around the testes and associated regions. They were small rice sized upto 8 weeks of age followed by elongated bean shaped, white to creamy white in colour from 12 to 28 weeks of age. The weight, length, width, and volume of guinea fowl testes increased as the age advanced till 28th week of observation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Candidosis is a fungal disease caused by yeast of the genus Candida, which affects various bird species. The most common infection method involves ingesting contaminated food or water; however, contaminated environments, such as the litter and facilities may also expose birds to Candida spp. Diagnosis relies on lesion observation, direct microscopic examination, or mycological culture for isolation and identification. This report details an outbreak of candidosis in Guinea fowl, confirmed by etiological diagnosis, including isolation, identification, and anatomopathological analysis. Cases: Birds housed in an intensive Guinea fowl farm exhibited clinical signs in the 2nd week of life. Mortality increased in the 3rd week after the transfer from the rearing area to the ground area, with daily deaths reaching 30-40 birds. The affected birds displayed prostration, emaciation, diarrhea, and ruffled feathers. Tilmicosin-based antibiotic treatment was administered early in life and no response was observed after treatment with antifungal gentian violet. Five 7-week-old Guinea fowl from the farm underwent necropsy to observe macroscopic lesions and collect samples from the esophagus, crop, proventriculus, and intestines for mycological culturing and histopathological analysis using standard techniques. Macroscopic examination revealed alterations such as whitish, circular, and ulcerative lesions in the palate, esophagus, crop, and proventriculus; dilated and empty crops with thickened mucosa; accumulated urate in the ureters; and variations in intestinal mucosal thickness from thickened to thin. Histopathological analysis identified superficial layers of the esophagus, crop, and proventricular mucosa colonized with numerous yeast-like forms and pseudohyphae, characteristic of Candida spp. Esophagus and crop samples were cultured on YEPD agar and growth was verified under a stereoscopic microscope for culture purity. Ten colonies were isolated from these cultures, inoculated into YEPD broth tubes, and then incubated at 25°C for 48 h. Microcultures of the isolates on glass slides with 10 x 10 mm YEPD agar fragments were prepared and incubated at 25°C for 5-10 days in a humid chamber. After incubation, lactophenol cotton blue staining was performed, followed by microscopic observation of cellular morphology. The germ tube test was also performed by inoculating the isolates into tubes with 0.5 mL of human serum, incubating them at 37°C for 2 h, and then examining them under an optical microscope. The yeast isolates were tested on CHROMagar® Candida medium for chromogenic behavior, incubated at 30°C for 48 h, and the coloration observed was consistent with Candida albicans. Discussion: The observed anatomopathological lesions were consistent with those described in other cases of candidosis. The combination of antimicrobial use and digestive tract lesions supported the presumptive diagnosis of the disease, with a definitive etiological diagnosis confirmed by the mycological culture results. Treatment with gentian violet in water and nystatin in feed failed to yield the expected results. Administering antibiotics early in a bird's life can disrupt the balance of digestive tract microbiota, leading to yeast colonization. All subsequent flocks were treated with probiotics using the competitive exclusion principle to inhibit pathogenic bacterial microbiota growth and maintain a balanced commensal microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By preheating the eggs before incubation, all embryos are set to the same developmental stage. In this manner, the hatching window can be shortened and hatchability can increase. Before incubation, a total of 491 partridge and 460 guinea fowl eggs were preheated at 28°C and 60% relative humidity for 0, 4, 6, and 8 hours. Preheating significantly affected hatchability in both partridge and guinea fowl eggs. In partridge eggs, the hatchability of fertile eggs was 73.31% in the 0-hour preheated group and 92.94% in the 8-hour preheated group. The hatching rates of guinea fowl eggs were 69.60, 80.07, 84.38 and 78.23% in the 0, 4, 6 and 8 hours preheated groups, respectively. Partridge keets hatched from preheated eggs had significantly better quality, while guinea fowl keets did not differ in quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate productive, reproductive performance, carcass characteristics, chemical composition and meat quality of four varieties of guinea fowl. A total of 200 guinea fowls from White, Pearl, Lavender and Mixed varieties were reared in an intensive production system from 0 to 20 wk of age. Guinea fowl keets were reared provided with balanced recommended ration (Starter diet: ME 2,950 kcal/kg, CP 23% for initial 8 wk; Grower diet: ME 2,950 kcal/kg, CP 16% for 9 to 16 wk and Layer diet: ME 2,900 kcal/kg, CP 17% from 17 wk till the end of the laying period). There was no significant (P < 0.05) difference found in body weight (BW) from 0 to 20 wk old guinea fowl. However, BW of Pearl variety was greater than other varieties numerically (Table 1). At adult age, a total of 40 birds (10 from each variety) were slaughtered according to standard method and carcasses were cut into parts. Weights were taken for all carcass parts. Proximate analysis and meat quality were performed on breast and thigh meat, as well as on abdominal fat of the studied guinea fowls. Carcass weight (930.33 ± 27.37 g), dressing percentage (67.6 ± 0.013%), breast weight (228.33 ± 13.68 g) and thigh weight (166.33 ± 6.69 g) of Pearl variety was significantly (P < 0.001) greatest (Table 2). Measured abdominal fat (23 ± 0.13) was found to be significantly (P < 0.001) greatest in Pearl variety. Furthermore, there was no significant difference found in crude protein among breast and thigh meat of different varieties. The ether extract (EE) and crude fiber (CF) of breast (EE: 0.27, CF:0.33) and thigh meat (EE: 0.20, CF:0.33) of Lavender variety was significantly (P < 0.05) less than other varieties (Table 3). In case of reproductive parameters, Pearl variety exhibited better egg fertility (65.72 ± 6.10) numerically and significantly greater (P < 0.001) hatchability percentage (76.75 ± 3.88) than other varieties. Meat color values of all the varieties of guinea fowl found in this study are in line with the demands of poultry consumers (Table 4). Regarding water holding capacity (WHC) and drip loss (DL), there was no discernible difference (P > 0.05). Considering all the parameters especially cooking loss (CL) and pH, there was a noticeable difference (P < 0.05) in which the Lavender (CL: 24.81 ± 0.69, pH:6.12 ± 0.05) and White variety (CL: 25.35 ± 0.69, pH: 6.11 ± 0.05) performed better than the other varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The guinea fowl is an indigenous African bird species that has spread to all continents due its high adaptive capacity. These birds are cheaper to produce than other poultry species because they are effective foragers and are resistant to most diseases. In some African countries, the guinea fowl is the cheapest type of poultry meat. This species is raised for meat in many countries, including the United States, Canada, France, and Italy. However, the guinea fowl is not widely produced or consumed in Europe. Guinea fowl come in many color varieties and enjoy considerable popularity among amateur breeders in small farms and agritourism farms as a source of meat, eggs, and ornamental feathers. Similarly to pheasant meat, guinea fowl meat has low fat content and high protein content, and it is characterized by high nutritional value. Guinea fowl meat is also highly valued for its unique sensory properties, and it can be a viable alternative to other types of poultry meat. The popularization of guinea fowl farming and raising consumer awareness of the eating quality and sensory attributes of guinea fowl meat could contribute to an increase in its consumption. The aim of this study was to evaluate selected parameters of carcass and meat quality in 16-week-old pearl gray and lavender guinea fowl. The birds were raised in summer and fall, in an extensive system. Until 4 weeks of age, the birds were kept indoors, and from week 5 until slaughter they could use outdoor space enclosed by a fence, adjacent to the building. Guinea fowl were fed complete chicken diets: starter (weeks 0–6), grower (weeks 7–12), and finisher (weeks >13). In comparison with lavender guinea fowl, pearl gray birds had higher live weight at slaughter (p = 0.001) and higher carcass weight (p = 0.001). Females, compared with males, had a higher carcass dressing percentage (p ˂ 0.001), lower liver weight (p = 0.008), lower heart weight (p ˂ 0.001), and lower total weight of giblets (p = 0.004). The leg muscles of pearl gray guinea fowl, compared with those of lavender birds, had a higher content of dry matter (p ≤ 0.029). The breast muscles (p ˂ 0.001) and leg muscles (p = 0.017) of lavender guinea fowl contained less fat than the muscles of pearl gray birds. The breast muscles of females had a higher content of dry matter (p = 0.044) and ash (p = 0.016), and lower total collagen content (p = 0.028) than the breast muscles of males. The leg muscles of females were characterized by a higher pH (p ˂ 0.001), and lower cooking loss (p = 0.004) and drip loss (p = 0.005) than the breast muscles of males. The breast muscles of lavender guinea fowl, compared with those of pearl gray birds, were characterized by a higher chroma value (p ˂ 0.001), and a higher contribution of redness (p ˂ 0.001) and yellowness (p = 0.002), and their leg muscles were lighter in color (p ˂ 0.001), with a higher contribution of yellowness (p = 0.041) and a higher hue angle (p = 0.037). The value of chroma (p = 0.004) and the contribution of yellowness (p = 0.002) were higher in the breast muscles of females, compared with males. Neither variety nor sex affected (p > 0.05) the evaluated sensory properties of guinea fowl meat or the proportions of total SFAs, total UFAs, total MUFAs, and total PUFAs in the intramuscular fat (IMF) of breast and leg muscles. Meat from guinea fowl of both analyzed varieties can be an excellent alternative to more popular types of poultry meat due to its high nutritional value and eating quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare analyze the quality of meat depending on the type of muscle: breast muscles (m. Pectoralis superficialis and m. Pectoralis profundus) and leg muscles (m. Sartorius and m. Femorotibialis) in relation to the sex of the common guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). For the study, pectoral muscles and leg muscles from 10 females and 10 males at 20 wk of age were used to determine their chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and texture characteristics of the pectoral muscle were determined. Overall, pectoral muscles were characterized by higher protein content, lightness (L*), and electrical conductivity (EC 24), and lower redness (a*), and pH 24 compared to leg muscles. Leg muscles, on the other hand, were characterized by higher, collagen, intramuscular fat and salt content. In terms of pectoral muscle texture characteristics, males were characterized by lower chewiness value and were less gumminess. In conclusion, it can be said that the sex of the birds affected some of the pectoral muscle texture traits, but did not affect the remaining analyzed features of the pectoral and leg muscles. However, from the consumer's point of view, breast muscles contained more protein and less fat, so they are more dietary compared to leg muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the reproductive performance of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) based on the management of environmental factors is important for developing meleagriculture. Thus, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary crude protein levels and photoperiod during the 12th to 26th wk of age on growth performance, calcium and phosphorus mobilization, and fertility of local Pearl Gray male guinea fowl. In total, 120 twelve-week-old male guinea fowl were divided into 3 groups with 8 replicates each and 5 birds per replicate using a completely random design. The experimental groups included: a group fed a diet containing 15% crude protein and subjected to 16 h of light and 8 h of darkness (16LL), a group fed a diet containing 19% crude protein and subjected to 16 h of light and 8 h of darkness (16HL), and a group fed a diet containing 15% crude protein and subjected to 18 h of light and 6 h of darkness (18LL) during the 12th to 26th wk of age. The results showed that guinea fowl in the 16HL treatment had a significantly (P = 0.003) lower feed conversion ratio than those in the 16LL and 18LL groups. Calcium and phosphorus levels in the tibia and femur were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in guinea fowl of the 16HL and 18LL groups than in that of the 16LL group. Birds in the 16HL and 18LL treatments had significantly higher peripheral testosterone levels (P < 0.00001) than those in the 16LL treatment. The 16HL and 18LL treatments had significantly higher (P < 0.05) sperm volume, sperm concentration and motility, and fertility rate than the 16LL group. Therefore, a decrease in crude protein level from 19 to 15% in the diet of male guinea fowl between the 12th and 26th wk of age negatively affects the growth performance and fertility of these birds, but this is corrected by an increase in the photoperiod before sexual maturity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proximate composition and mineral contents of eggs from quail (Coturnix japonica) turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) commercial chicken (Gallus domesticus), local chicken (Gallus domesticus) guinea fowl, (Numida meleagris) and duck (Cairina moschata) obtained in Minna, Nigeria were studied. Standard laboratory procedures were used in determining the nutrients and mineral compositions of the egg samples. The local chicken eggs had significantly higher crude fat (11.73 ± 0.18%), ash (1.38 ± 0.01%), zinc (3.23 ± 0.11 mg/100 g), and manganese (0.44 ± 0.01 mg/100 g) contents, it also showed the lowest phosphorus (120.00 ± 3.50 mg/100 g, iron (19.70 ± 0.60 mg/100 g) and vitamin A concentration (1.62 ± 0.59 × 103 µg/L). Quail egg had the highest (p < 0.05) vitamin A (4.16 ± 0.16 × 103 µg/L) and protein (13.49 ± 0.33%) contents. The moisture content was significantly higher in guinea fowl eggs (80.28 ± 0.41%) than in others. The outcome of this study indicated that some eggs which are seemingly underutilised may provide an enormous supply of nutrients needed for adequate human nutrition and health. Hence, if properly exploited they may substantially improve the quality of diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea fowl fulminating enteritis has been reported in France since the 1970s. In 2014, a coronavirus was identified and appeared as a possible viral pathogen involved in the disease. In the present study, intestinal content from a guinea fowl involved in a new case of the disease in 2017 was analysed by deep sequencing, revealing the presence of a guinea fowl coronavirus (GfCoV) and a picornavirus (GfPic). Serial passage assays into the intra-amniotic cavity of 13-day-old specific pathogen-free chicken eggs and 20-day-old conventional guinea fowl eggs were attempted. In chicken eggs, isolation assays failed, but in guinea fowl eggs, both viruses were successfully obtained. Furthermore, two GfCoV and two GfPic isolates were obtained from the same bird but from different sections of its intestines. This shows that using eggs of the same species, in which the virus has been detected, can be the key for successful isolation. The consensus sequence of the full-length genomes of both GfCoV isolates was highly similar, and correlated to those previously described in terms of genome organization, ORF length and phylogenetic clustering. According to full-length genome analysis and the structure of the Internal Ribosome Entry Site, both GfPic isolates belong to the Anativirus genus and specifically the species Anativirus B. The availability of the first isolates of GfCoV and GfPic will now provide a means of assessing their pathogenicity in guinea fowl in controlled experimental conditions and to assess whether they are primary viral pathogens of the disease "guinea fowl fulminating enteritis". RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS First isolation of guinea fowl coronaviruses and picornaviruses. Eggs homologous to the infected species are key for isolation. Isolates available to precisely evaluate the virus roles in fulminating enteritis. First full-length genome sequences of guinea fowl picornaviruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidneys, the paired organ which essentially plays for excreting nitrogenous wastes, excessive water, inorganic salts and toxic substances produced during the process of body metabolism. Maintenance of osmotic regulation and homeostatic fluid balance of the body has also be performed by kidneys. Each of the kidneys filtrate carried to cloaca by respective ureter from where the urine leaves the body. The present macroscopic, histomorphological and histochemical studies undertaken on the kidneys of Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) is nothing but the attempt to widen our thrust area for that bird which is nonexistent as on documentation. Methods: The present studies were carried upon 12 pairs of in-vitro kidney samples in Guinea fowl. Gross morphology and morphometrical observations were carried on fresh specimens. Histological studies were carried on fixed samples those were processed for dehydration, clearing, embedding into paraffin and sections of 5-6 μ thickness were obtained. Different staining procedure as to Haematoxylin and Eosin, Silver orcein, Aniline blue and Weigert's staining methods were employed for different histological components. The histochemical and histoenzymic studies were also accomplished with Periodic acid Schiff's (PAS), Alcian blue methods (pH-2.5) and Gomori's cobalt method for alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase. The succinic dehydrogenase enzyme was also estimated on cryostat sections. Result: The observations on kidneys of Guinea fowl were accomplished after macroscopic, histomorphological and histochemical means. This reddish-brown colored paired organ of kidneys was retroperitoneally placed in synsacral fossa and had incomplete division of three parts. The wrapping material of capsule was the dense connective tissue. The outer cortex and inner medulla had different parts of nephrons. Two types of nephrons viz. mammalian type (with Henle loop) and reptilian type (without Henle loop) were observed. Collagen, elastic and reticular fibers were there in different components of the kidney. Histochemically it has determined the secretion of neutral as well as acidic mucopolysaccharide substances. PAS activity was observed at mesangial cells and basement membrane of DCT. The alkaline phosphatase showed the positive activity in capsule, brush border of proximal and distal convoluted tubules. The acid phosphatases were showing intense activity in parietal and visceral layer of renal corpuscles, lumen and basement membrane of PCT. The intense activity of Succinic dehydrogenase showed at PCT, DCT, collecting tubule whereas renal corpuscles showed feeble activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth performance of birds depends on their juvenile development, which is also the most crucial and exigent period in the production of guinea fowl. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of variation in energy and protein intake of local keets. A total of 600 local keets were allocated to 5 treatments groups: control, low energy (Low-E), low protein (Low-P), high energy (High-E) and high protein (High-P) with 4 replicates of 30 keets each. Feed was offered ad libitum and feed intake was recorded daily. The birds were weighed weekly and mortalities were recorded. At 8 weeks of age, blood samples were collected for haematology and biochemical analysis. The data obtained were analysed using Graph Pad Prism 5.00.288 software in a completely randomised design. The results showed that the birds fed High-E diet consumed less feed at all ages than those in the other treatment groups. At 5 weeks onwards, body weights of keets fed Low-E and High-P diets increased (p < 0.05) more rapidly than those in control, High-E and Low-P diets. Keets fed High-E diet had a lower average daily weight gain than those in control, Low-E, High-P and Low-P diets. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was similar across treatment groups. Keets fed High-P and Low-E diets had less mortality. Most of the blood parameters were not affected (p > 0.05) by feed treatments. However, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the haematocrit of the birds according to the feed treatments. In conclusion, the Low-E and High-P diets improved body weights, average daily gain and reduced mortality rate during the juvenile age. The High-E negatively affected the feed intake. Diet did not significantly influence the level of total cholesterol, total protein, triglycerides and albumin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of this research was to determine the fatty acid profile of eggs from various poultry species, as well as the relationships between them, including fatty acids O-6 and O-3. The tests were carried out using a Perkin Elmer Clarus 500 chromatograph with a BP x 70 flame ionization detector and column on hen's eggs, quail, guinea fowl, and a pasteurized liquid mixture made from hen's eggs. The results found that quail eggs had the highest fatty acid content (101.485 g FAME / 100 g overall FAME), which was 0.90 percent higher than guinea fowl eggs, 1.48 percent higher than eggs, and 2.04 percent higher than the pasteurized chicken egg mixture. Quail eggs had an SFA/UFA ratio of 0.480, compared to 0.545 for pasteurized mix, 0.551 for chicken eggs, and 0.716 for guinea fowl eggs, and a PUFA/MUFA ratio 0.635 for pasteurized mix, 0.679 quail eggs, 0.730 hen eggs, and 0.744 for guinea fowl eggs. The researchers concluded that, in terms of fatty acid content and ratio, quail eggs are a safer alternative to chicken eggs in the human diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egg intensity and compound feed consumption of a local Guinea fowl population during two consecutive productive years were established. The average laying intensity for a 30-week period in the first year was 70.11% (139.71 eggs) and in the second – 44.22% (89.70 eggs). The feed conversion was 162 g/egg (3.88 kg*kg egg mass-1) during the first and 311 g/egg (7.42 kg*kg egg mass-1) in the second period respectively. The established high egg intensity is a prerequisite for successful selection by laying capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biological effects of simulated photoperiod and melatonin on the control of reproduction of guinea fowls (Numida meleagris) are not well understood. Herein, thirty (30) sexually mature guinea fowl cocks were randomly assigned to 1–6 groups (n = 5) and subjected to different photoperiodic regimes in the presence or absence of exogenous melatonin (Mel; 1 mg/kgBW/day, i/m) for eight weeks. Testes of the euthanized cocks were processed for gross morphology, histological, histochemical, and oxidative stress markers. Testosterone concentration was determined in serum samples using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. We observed an increase in testicular size in the Mel and Non-Mel groups under long-day (LD) photoperiods, and in the Non-Mel group under short-day (SD) photoperiod. Conversely, the testicular size was drastically reduced in the Mel group for SD. Seminiferous tubules in the Mel and Non-Mel groups of the SD showed cytomorphological changes, including degenerated cells, focal vacuolations, and depletion of germinal epithelium. However, the germinal epithelium appeared to be complete and active in both the Mel and Non-Mel groups for the LD. In all groups, the testes showed positive staining for PAS with varying intensities. There was a significant difference in PAS-staining intensity between different photoperiodic regimes and exogenous melatonin. The study observed the interaction between photoperiods and exogenous melatonin on glutathione reductase (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and serum testosterone. Overall, the results indicated that a long-day (LD) photoperiod, combined with exogenous melatonin, enhanced reproductive activity in male guinea fowl by increasing testicular size and serum testosterone concentration. [Display omitted] • Testicular size and serum testosterone concentration decreased in male guinea fowl exposed to short-day (8 L:16D) photoperiod and exogenous melatonin • Enhanced reproductive performance was observed in male guinea fowl exposed to long-day (16 L:8D) photoperiod and exogenous melatonin. • Increased levels of testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) were observed following exposure to a short-day (8 L:16D) photoperiod and exogenous melatonin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study on the basic technological properties of meat (pH, water-holding capacity, cooking loss, and meat tenderness) from a free-ranged, pearly-gray local Bulgarian population of Guinea fowl was conducted. The effect of three fattening periods (16, 20, and 24 weeks) in two consecutive economic years was investigated. The average pH values of the breast muscles, reported for the period from 25 minutes to 24 hours after slaughter, varied from 6.70 to 5.74 for the group of male fowls and from 6.80 to 5.74 for the group of female fowls, respectively. The mean pH values of the thigh muscles for the same period were: from 7.21 to 6.32 for the male fowls and from 7.53 to 6.21 for the female individuals. The data analysis showed that bird sex and age did not affect the pH values of meat. As the slaughter age increased, the values of WHC in the analyzed muscles decreased, which is the reason for the breast and thigh muscles of Guinea fowls fattened for the longest period, to be evaluated as being of the best quality. The investigation of the two types of muscles revealed that the thigh muscles have better water-holding capacity compared to the breast muscles. No significant differences between both sexes were reported for that characteristic. A significant effect of the fattening period on the cooking loss was found, varying between 26.91% and 46.16% depending on the muscle type, sex, and age of the birds. Meat tenderness was not affected by the bird sex and age at slaughter, with average values ranging from 293.09 °P to 309.75 °P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the fattening period on the slaughter performance of a local Bulgarian population of free-ranged pearl-gray Guinea fowls was studied. The pre-slaughter weight varied from 1041.00 to 1296.00 g in the group of female fowls and from 1029.50 to 1292.83 g in the group of male fowls, depending on the fattening period duration. The data of grill weight were 605.15–839.81 g for the females and 643.52–826.23 g for the male individuals and of bratfertig: 683.50–915.99 g and 721.82–910.52 g, respectively, depending on gender and duration of the fattening period. Grill meat varied from 459.56 to 643.07 g for a group of male fowls and from 441.15 to 649.55 g for a group of female fowls, while breast meat was 190.84–283.94 g (male) and 186.77–286.7 g (female), depending on the studied factors. The slaughter yields (bratfertig, %) ranged from 65.72% to 70.71% depending on the two factors of influence. The carcass weight (grill, %) of both sexes was 60.36% for the 16-week fattening period, over 61% for the 20-week and 64% for the 24-week fattening period. The proportions of the pectoral muscles in the carcass were higher for the older Guinea fowl, while the percentages of thigh muscles decreased from 31% to 29% with increasing of the age. The relative values of breast and leg muscles increased with the increase of the fattening period duration of the slaughtered birds. Grill’s bones had the highest values in the 16-week-old Guinea fowls (29.09%). Besides sex, the slaughter age had a significant effect on almost all the slaughter characteristics except for the weight of the by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At midnight on Tuesday, 11 May 1965, in Chipinge, Zimbabwe, Basil Johnson, a European farmer who occupied Petronella farm, telephoned the British South Africa Police (BSAP) and reported that his brother, David Patrick Johnson, had gone missing that afternoon. The next morning, the BSAP-led search team assembled at the Johnson homestead and mounted an eight-hour 'sweep search' for the whereabouts of David, whose body was later located on a bushy hill some seven miles from the Johnson homestead. This was followed by a seven-day search for the person who killed David, and, upon his arrest and charge of murder, a nine-months legal battle that would finally be settled by the highest court of the land, the Appellant Division of the High Court of Rhodesia. Taking a microhistory approach, this article traces the story of an African hunting excursion that turned fatal to analyse contradictory Western and African game ownership and hunting philosophies. Simultaneously, this story is also a lens to view other facets of colonial encounters: race, class, justice, the meaning of colonial borders, and African agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea fowl breeding for meat production is widespread across Europe and the USA. For hatcheries to achieve their output potentials, they need in-depth knowledge about incubation techniques and guinea fowl embryonic development. The aim of this study was to provide updated quantitative data on the developing meat-type strain embryo and to describe its embryonic growth pattern in terms of embryonic weight modelled using Gompertz and logistic functions. Eggs from a 56-week-old genetically controlled flock (Galor S.A.S., Amboise, France) were individually weighed and incubated according to good hatchery practices. 10 embryos were randomly removed every 12 h through to hour 192 of incubation, and thereafter every 24 h. Incubation traits, blastoderm diameter, vitelline circulation diameter, and embryo body weight were recorded, and the mean daily wet embryo-specific mass was calculated. During each session, photographic documentation of the embryos was also obtained, including a general view of the egg content as well as the isolated embryonic body. Embryonic growth curves were estimated using Gompertz and logistic functions, and their parameters are given. High fertility (96%) and hatchability (81%) rates were observed, and the mean keet weight was 32 g at hatch. The accuracy of the curve fit was high for both models. The curves' inflection points occurred on days 21 and 23 for the logistic and Gompertz models, respectively, demonstrating an embryonic growth pattern typical of a precocial bird species. A photographic chart of the in-ovo chronological development of guinea fowl is provided. The study follows the incubation and embryonic development of meat-type guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). Daily photographic images and graphical growth models of body weight document the birds' embryonic development. The results provide effective practical help for hatchery practices by enabling the determination of embryo age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea fowl, although less widespread and uneven distributed in the world, and indicated in some countries (including ours) as a non-traditional bird species, is gaining more and more popularity even in countries such as Scandinavia and Japan. The production and consumption of products of this species in recent years has grown in almost all over the world. This is explained not only by the excellent taste and dietary qualities of their meat, but also by their high vitality, adaptability and resistance to most diseases characteristic of birds. Last but not least, the guinea fowl is highly valued as an ornamental and park bird. It can also be successfully used in parks, gardens and grassy area to reduce populations ticks, responsible to the spread of Lyme disease. The guinea fowl is also the subject of hunting tourism. Unfortunately, in our country we do not have any traditions for the consumption of meat and eggs of this species of bird and it is present only in small, amateur farms and hunting farms. Under these conditions, the level of selection work is low and productivity is mediocre. From the color varieties in our country is grown almost exclusively pearl gray guinea fowl. Single pieces of white, purple and blue guinea fowl can be found in private amateur herds, but they are the result of random crossings. The whole diversity of color varieties in the type of guinea fowl is determined by four autosomal loci, three of which are recessive (d, i, m), and the fourth (W) is not completely dominant. The dominant allele of the w gene inhibits the production of all types of pigments in individuals homozygous for it (WW) and they are completely white. The dominant allele (M) of the m gene inhibits pigmentation in such a way that the pigment breaks off and so thus light (white) pearls characteristic of this species of bird appear. The recessive alleles of genes i and d determine the different shades of blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased egg storage duration decreases hatchability and quality of keets. There is however a lack of information on effect of egg storage duration on keets' post-hatch growth. This study investigated the effects of hatching egg storage duration on growth performance of keets. A total of 1000 guinea fowl eggs were used. They were numbered, weighed and divided into four groups of 250 eggs each according to a storage time of 3 days (D), 7 D, 11 D or 15 D. All the eggs were stored at 18°C and 70% relative humidity. Then eggs were incubated at 37.7°C and 55% relative humidity for 28 D in a forced-draft incubator. A total of 320 keets hatched from the eggs were studied and the birds were reared based on the storage duration, having four replicates of 20 birds each for 12 weeks. During the rearing period, body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly. At 12 weeks of age, 6 guinea fowl were picked from each replicate and slaughtered in order to evaluate carcass yield and breast meat pH. Blood samples were collected to determine serum triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), corticosterone, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and total protein levels. From 3 weeks onward, body weight of guinea fowl of 3 D and 7 D were heavier (p=0.05) than those of 11 D and 15 D. Feed conversion ratio was comparable in 3 D, 7 D and 11 D but lower than those of 15 D (p=0.05). Breast meat pH increased with egg storage time. T3 level of birds from 3 D and 7 D were higher than that in 11 D and 15 D (p=0.05). Total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were similar in birds from 3 D, 7 D and 11 D but were higher (p=0.05) than those of 15 D. It was concluded that long storage of guinea fowl hatching eggs affected post-hatch growth performance and blood - and physiological parameters negatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted in the poultry field of the Animal Production Department at the College of Agriculture / Al-Qasim Green University to study the effect of adding different levels of vitamin B7 to drinking water on some biochemical characteristics and the lipid profile of guinea fowl blood serum. And 24 birds of male Guinea fowl were used in it, which were divided randomly into four treatments by 4 birds for each treatment, and each treatment consisted of 4 replicates each replicate contains 1 bird. The experiment coefficients were as follows: The first treatment: a group without any addition. The second treatment: a basic diet with an addition of 2 mg of vitamin B7 / liter of drinking water, the third treatment: a basic ration with an addition of 4 mg of vitamin B7 / liter of drinking water, and the fourth treatment: a basic ration with an addition of 6 mg of vitamin B7 / liter of drinking water, and the experiment included Study of the following characteristics: Total protein concentration, Albumin concentration, Globulin concentration, liver enzyme concentration (ALT, AST), Glutathione enzyme concentration, cholesterol concentration, Triglyceride concentration, high-density lipoprotein level assessment, low-density lipoprotein level assessment and assessment of the level of Very low-density lipoproteins. The results of the study indicated that there were significant differences between the trial treatments in both total protein concentration and serum globulin concentration. The results also recorded that there were no significant differences between the trial treatments with respect to albumin concentration. As for the concentration of ALT liver enzymes, the results showed a significant decrease in the second, third and fourth treatments compared to the control treatment. As for AST, the results showed no significant differences between all trial treatments, while the results showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the enzyme glutathione. For treatment, vitamin B7 was added (the second and fourth treatments) compared to the first treatment (contro). Vitamin B7 treatments had a role in reducing the level of cholesterol and triglycerides, in addition to low-density lipoproteins, as well as for very low-density lipoproteins compared to the control treatment that recorded the highest concentration, while there were significant differences between the experiment treatments with respect to the level of high-density lipoproteins. Compared to a control treatment. It is concluded from the current experience that adding vitamin B7 to drinking water improved the lipid profile in the blood serum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using 815 eggs randomly collected from 29 breeds of chickens, mallard, Muscovy, quails, guinea fowl, turkey, and ostrich, this study compared internal and external egg quality traits between poultry species and between breeds within species. Among poultry species used for commercial egg production, the mallard ducks had significantly (P<0.05) the highest weight of egg, yolk, albumen, and shell, shell thickness, short, and long circumference which is followed by chickens and quails. Both quail and mallard eggs have higher yolk-albumen ratio than chicken eggs. Chicken egg yolks are more deeply hued than quail and mallard. Both mallard and chicken eggs were more elongated (less round) than quail eggs. Philippine native chickens (Banabang Kalabaw, Joloano, Paraoakan, and Palawan-lasak) have significantly (P<0.05) lower egg weight, albumen weight, short, and long circumference than commercial egg-type and dual-purpose breeds. Percent yolk, percent albumen, yolk-albumen ratio, yolk color, albumen height, Haugh unit, and external egg quality traits were significantly different (P<0.05) among the native breeds. Itik-Pinas (IP) mallard breeds (IP-Itim, IP-Khaki, and Kayumanggi-IP) were significantly different (P<0.05) for yolk weight, percent yolk, percent albumen, yolk-albumen ratio, yolk color, albumen height, Haugh unit, shell weight, percent shell, shell thickness, and short circumference. Quail and turkey eggs showed significant breed differences (P<0.05) for percent yolk, percent albumen and yolk-albumen ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the prevention of diseases through a healthy diet for modern society is becoming a matter of major interest, from a socially, economically and politically point of view. In this context, the objective of the research was to evaluate the incubation index recorded by eggs provided by gray guinea fowl, reared in both extensive and intensive system. A number of features were investigated regarding the clarity of the eggs, the percentage of fertility, the number of eggs with dead embryos, the percentage of hatching. The data regarding the clarity of the eggs show us for the extensive system values between 24.39% (batch 2) and 29.97% (batch 3), and for the intensive system the values were in the range 9.76-14.63 %. Regarding the fertility of the analyzed eggs, it exceeded the threshold of 70% in all batches from the extensive system; for intensive system eggs, fertility was over 85%. The highest embryonic mortality was recorded in batch 1 (24%), and the lowest in batches 4 and 5 (15%). Regarding the hatching of eggs, the results recorded ranged around 65% for the extensive system and 80% for the intensive system. The hatchery percentage shows us for the extensive system values between 43.90% (batch 3) and 51.22% (batch 2). The intensive system was highlighted with much higher values, more precisely batch 4 with a hatching percentage of 73.17%, batch 5 with a percentage of 70.73%, and batch 6 with a value of 70.73% Guinea fowl eggs have a number of very valuable biological properties, so the extensive exploitation of these birds can have great prospects for development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of eggs and poultry is very important for the proper functioning of the body. Guinea fowl eggs are seen as a dietary product due to the high digestibility of all nutrients. Today, in order to prevent the appearance of diseases or illnesses, for the educated consumer, healthy eating appears as a problem of significant interest, both socially and economically. Therefore, the objective of the research was to evaluate the chemical composition of the guinea fowl eggs from both the extensive and intensive system. The indicators followed were represented by the water and dry matter content, the amount of protein, the lipid content, the amount of microelements and macroelements and the amount of mineral substances. Guinea fowl eggs are a complete food with high biological value, so the intensive breeding of these birds can become a significant sector in poultry practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In West Africa, traditional poultry farming plays an important role in the provision of livelihoods for the rural population. One of the major species of traditional poultry farming is Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), which is very valued for its meat and eggs. Despite some attempts to improve the performance of Guinea fowl in this region, the full potential of the birds is not yet well exploited and the birds are still managed under extensive or semi intensive systems. Feed supplementation remains low and insufficient and animals scavenge for feed (insects, worms, plants, etc.) in the field and in the area around the villages. These breeding and feeding conditions contribute to the poor productivity of the birds. However, some studies show that the growth performance of Guinea fowl under an intensive system was not better than that seen under a traditional system despite the use of improved feed. On the other hand, the performance is better with the improvement of the production conditions resulting in early laying and increased number of laying cycles. These results could be due to nutritional or genetic changes. Unfortunately, the genetic characteristics of indigenous Guinea fowl populations are poorly documented. The few studies available are based on the plumage colour and have identified several varieties of Guinea fowl with different growth performances. Comprehensive studies are needed to highlight the specific characteristics of local varieties or strains for proper management and improvement of the West-African indigenous Guinea fowl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercialisation of helmeted guinea fowl production in Africa is still in its rudimentary stage and there is a dearth of information on the optimal stocking density of the birds. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of stocking density on the physiological responses and performance of guinea fowl. A total of 240 indigenous guinea fowl were used for this study. The birds were weighed and assigned to different stocking densities of 14, 16, 18 and 20 birds/m2 (SD1, SD2, SD3 and SD4, respectively) at four weeks of age. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Data were collected on growth performance, haematochemical profile and plasma triiodothyronine of the birds. The results showed that from the 7th to the 13th week, birds stocked at 14 and 16 birds/m2 were significantly (P < 0.05) heavier than birds stocked at 18 and 20 birds/m2, while at weeks 14 and 15, body weight of the birds was in the order 14 birds / m2 > 16 birds / m2 > 18 birds/m2 > 20 birds/m2. Feed conversion ratios of the birds increased with stocking densities. Heterophil/lymphocyte ratio significantly increased with stocking density. It was concluded that stocking density of helmeted guinea fowl higher than 16 birds/m2 adversely affected growth performance and welfare of the birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 144 French selected breed (Galor) female guinea fowl (GF) of 42 wk of age were enrolled for a feeding trial of 15, 30, and 45 D duration. The birds were randomly assigned to 18 cages, each containing 8 birds. A total of 3 isonitrogenous and isocaloric dietary treatments were trialed, each diet comprising 6 replications (cages), which meant a total of 48 birds per diet. The GF were fed either a control diet C (commercial diet “FACI ponte 20”, SIPRA, Ivory Coast, usually used for all poultry species) or the diet C supplemented with 5% Euphorbia heterophylla seeds (diet E) and the diet C supplemented with 5% Hevea seed meal (Hevea brasiliensis) (diet H). Animal performance were assessed for 3 periods (days 0 to 15, 0 to 30, and 0 to 45), and egg quality and composition were assessed at 15, 30, and 45 D of the trial. The results indicated no mortality during the trial. The laying rate was the highest (43.9%) with diet E and the lowest with diet C (32.5%), the laying rate with diet H being intermediate (38.5%). Diet E containing Euphorbia seeds led to a reduced cholesterol content of the eggs. Additionally, inclusion of Euphorbia seeds and, to a lesser extent, of the Hevea seed meal in the diet led to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched GF eggs, with thereby, improved nutritional value. A sensory test did not find any difference between the 3 diets on trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the prevention of diseases through a healthy diet for the modern society, is becoming a problem of major interest, both socially, economically and politically. In this context, the objective of the research was to evaluate the quality of the meat obtained from guinea fowls slaughtered at 84 days. A number of features related to fat content, cholesterol concentration, concentration in mineral substances and a number of indicators regarding meat microbiology were investigated. Data on saturated fatty acids showed that the main constituent was C16: 0 palmitic acid in both the leg (27.06 ± 0.02 g / 100 g) and the breast (28.07 ± 0.02 g / 100g). The results obtained from the analysis of monounsaturated fatty acids showed that C18: 1n9 cis oleic acid was dominant with an average of 29.54 ± 0.01 g / 100g for the leg and 29.84 ± 0.01, g / 100g for the chest muscles. The highest values for the mineral substances were recorded for iron, namely 33.31 g / 100 for the pectoral musculature and 71.22 g / 100g for the meat from the leg. Next was zinc with a value of 26.35 g / 100g for the breast and 78.15 g / 100g for the leg. Guinea fowl meat has a number of very valuable biological properties, which is why its exploitation in intensive systems has broad development prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate productive indicators of growth, carcass aspects and the proximal composition of the meat of the Guinea Fowl (GF) reared under tropical conditions in Mexico. It was carried out from July 2016 to May 2017. The productive behavior (PB) of 100 keets in 14 weeks was evaluated and for the trait of the carcass (TC) samples of 5 males and 5 females were analyzed. It was evaluated in PB, Weight gain (WG), feed consumption (FC) and feed conversion (FCO) and in TC, carcass yield (CY), water retention capacity (WRC), pH and color. Descriptive statistics were performed and a generalized linear model (GLM) was used to detect differences between sex, using the SAS statistical package (Ver. 9.4). The final average weight was 1161.56 ± 94.82 g with a WG of 10.98 ± 0.95 g/bird, FC of 62.04 ± 2.48 g and an FCO of 5.65 ± 0.57 g. Males were superior (79.3%) in the CY, without statistical differences (P> 0.05). The WRC and the pH were very similar. GF production is an alternative meat supply being a source of animal protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fatty acid (FA) profile and the quality of breast and leg muscles in male and female guinea fowl. In comparison with leg muscles, breast muscles had a higher content of dry matter and total protein, and contained less fat and total collagen (P ≤ 0.05). Sex had no effect on the chemical composition of the studied muscles or the FA profile of intramuscular fat (IMF) (P > 0.05). The IMF of breast muscles was characterized by higher proportions of total saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and lower proportions of total unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) (P ≤ 0.05) than the IMF of leg muscles. The physicochemical properties of guinea fowl meat were significantly influenced by muscle type (P ≤ 0.05), but not by sex (P > 0.05). Leg muscles were characterized by a higher pH, higher cooking loss, lower lightness (L*), lower drip loss, a higher contribution of redness (a*), and a lower contribution of yellowness (b*) than breast muscles (P ≤ 0.05). The experimental factors had no effect on the sensory attributes or the shear force values of the analyzed muscles (P > 0.05). The unique sensory attributes, high protein content, and low fat content of the analyzed muscles indicate that guinea fowl meat can be a dietary supplement and an addition to other types of meat consumed, especially that most guinea fowl are reared in extensive farming systems that contribute to sustainable food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris), although native to Africa and despite its many potentials, does not represent the dominant species on the continent because of its seasonal reproductive nature and high keets mortality. This study was conducted to assess the effect of crude protein levels on growth performance, bone characteristics and reproductive activity of Pearl Gray male breeder guinea fowl from 12 to 26 wk of age. A total of 120 twelve-wk-old guinea fowls were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments with 8 replicates each and 5 birds per replicate using a completely randomized design. The dietary treatments comprised low level (LL), normal level (NL), and high level (HL) with diets respectively containing 15, 17, and 19% crude protein (CP). The results showed that guinea fowl in the HL treatment had a significantly lower feed conversion ratio (P = 0.008) than those in the other treatments. The birds fed the HL diet had significantly higher concentrations of testosterone (P < 0.05) than in the other treatments. High levels of calcium and phosphorus were observed in the femur of the HL group relative to the LL group. The birds in the LL treatment had a significantly higher (P = 0.007) femur robusticity index than those in the HL treatment. In conclusion, feeding 19% crude protein to Pearl Gray male guinea fowl from 12 to 26 wk of age improves growth performance, the density and strength of the femur and tibia and the reproductive tract. The CP level for the best performance of male guinea fowl from 12 to 26 wk of age is 19%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A monitoring study of some main blood parameters of a flock of free-range guinea fowls has been conducted. The following results (depending on sex and laying intensity) have been established: hemoglobin content - between 145.8 (males - before peak of laying intensity) and 98 g/L (females - before the peak of laying intensity), hematocrit - between 43.8 (males - before the peak of laying intensity) and 28.8% (females - before the peak of laying intensity), glucose - between 11.7 (males - before the peak of laying intensity) and 8.24 mmol/L (females - end of the laying period) and total protein content - between 5.86 (females - during the peak of laying intensity) and 3.30 g/dL (males - during the peak of laying intensity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that, in birds, the tongue has an important role in taking food, so its shape and morphology are affected by the nutrition method and the environment of the animal. For this study, six adult female guinea fowl were prepared and, after slaughtering them humanely, their tongues were completely removed from the oral cavity and were completely washed with distilled water. After examining the morphology and measuring the tongue area, the tissue preparation stages were used for light and electron microscopes on each case. Morphological results showed that the tongue of the guinea fowl was triangular-shaped and the average length was 21.91 mm. The tongue consisted of three parts: apex, body, and root. The average length and width of apex were 8 and 6 mm, the average length and width of body were 6 mm and 8 mm, and the average root length and width were 7 and 9 mm, respectively. The examination of the tongue by a light microscope determined that the epithelium in the three parts of the tongue was keratinized stratified squamous, and the amount of keratinized on the ventral surface was more than on the dorsal surface. The connective tissue was of the dense irregular type and the salivary glands were observed in the root and body regions. The electron microscope results showed that the dorsal surface of the tongue contains filiform papillae which were more dense in the lateral edge than middle part of the tongue. A transverse row of giant conical papillae separated the body from the root of the tongue. In the ventral surface, from the root zone to the end region of the body, a concentric transverse fine eminence can be observed to be parallel to each other, and there was a ridge on the ventral surface along the length of the tongue, which has a reduction in its height from the root toward the apex. The glands' openings were mostly located in the root region of the tongue, and the density was higher on the dorsal surface than on the ventral surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, more and more producers and processors around the world are concerned about ways in which they can make high quality food, in economic conditions. The aim of the research consists in studying elements related to the morphology and structural aspects of some muscles taken from the pectoral musculature of the guinea fowls males, traits that directly affect the trophicbiological properties of the poultry meat. In Pectoralis major muscle cells for the samples issued from the birds slaughtered at 77 days thickness varied between 38.21 μm and 60.33 μm, resulting an average diameter of 48.55±0.40 μm. The values for the next group of samples (84 days), ranged from 40.03 μm to 62.39 μm resulting an average of 51.18±0.38 μm. The 3rd of samples (91 days-slaughter), provided us an average of 53.88±0.43 μm, based on a minimum value of 42.93 μm and a maximum value of 68.55 μm. The bundle cross section area of the 1st order muscle showed us values of 56343.48±1658.49 μm2 on the samples collected on day 77, followed by a bit higher value of 59597.76±1638.76 μm2 on the samples colleted on day 84; the highest value was recorded on day 91, more precisely, 62911.75±1790.08 μm2. The histological findings suggest that the meat of Pectoralis major muscles from guinea fowls slaughtered at the age of 77 days had a better texture, with thinner cells and less connective tissue, therefore a better sensorial quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increasing production of guinea fowls in most African countries, consumer preference information and constraints remain largely undocumented. A study involving 200 consumers and 50 processors was done in the Tamale metropolis to assess their respective roles in the guinea fowl value chain. Consumers were categorised into households and institutions. Household consumers were further partitioned into lower-, middle- and upper-income classes. Most (99%) of the consumers interviewed ranked guinea fowl meat as their most preferred poultry product, and taste was ranked as the top most reason for their choice. A large proportion of household and institutional consumers ate guinea fowl meat once monthly (42%) or weekly (33.5%). All categories of consumers preferred farmers as the source of birds for consumption. Live birds were the most preferred form of guinea fowl by both consumers and processors. Most (93.7%) consumers indicated that there are seasonal fluctuations in the price of guinea fowl leading to the use of products that are substitutes for guinea fowl. Price instability was ranked as the top constraint to guinea fowl consumption in the metropolis. Beef was the cheapest fresh guaranteed halal meat product on the market, and the prices of beef, mutton and chevon were the most stable, while that of the guinea fowl was the least stable. Institutional consumers used guinea fowls more frequently (p<0.05) as compared to household consumers. Similarly, upper- and middle-income households, as well as male heads of households used guinea fowls more frequently (p<0.05) as compared to low-income and female heads of households. Most (60%) processors processed birds either once weekly or monthly. The level of education of the heads of households had no effect (p>0.05) on the frequency of use of guinea fowl meat. There was also no difference between male and female heads of households in preference for guinea fowl packaging. Similarly, household consumers of all income classes chose all packaging of guinea fowl equally, while households and processors ranked friends as the top source of food safety information and institutional consumers ranked television as the number one source of food safety information. Guinea fowls have huge market potential, but the seasonal price fluctuations still remain a challenge. Additionally, the preference for live birds among institutional and household consumers seem to be related to uncertainty about conforming to halal standards in slaughter of birds by processors and poor meat handling and hygiene standards among processors in the metropolis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thyroid, parathyroid, and ultimobranchial glands are of great importance to birds due to the secretion of various hormones including T3, T4, PTH, and calcitonin, as well as species differences. Since no study was conducted on some birds of the pheasant family such as Guinea fowl, the anatomy, histomorphology, and histochemistry of these glands in Guinea fowl were studied. For this purpose, six adult Guinea fowls (three males and three females) were selected. The anatomical results showed that in Guinea fowl, the thyroid gland was symmetrical in the chest near the cephalic artery, common carotid artery, and the artery under the collarbone. The mean length and width of the thyroid gland in male Guinea fowl was greater than that of the female. In addition, it had a pair of parathyroid glands, so that the right parathyroid gland was adjacent to the right thyroid gland and between the common carotid arteries and jugular vein while the left parathyroid gland was adjacent to the left thyroid gland. Ultimobranchial gland was also a pair with an irregular shape and pinkish color. The left ultimobranchial gland, contrary to the right ultimobranchial gland, was adjacent to the posterior parathyroid gland. Histological and histochemical results were similar to other birds except that in the thyroid gland, the colloid substance in the follicle was not seen as a homogeneous material, but it was seen as isolated fibers both in dark and light colors in the follicle. The dark colloid was seen in the active follicle and the light colloid was seen in the low active follicles. The active follicle wall had a simple cuboidal epithelium and low active follicles had a simple squamous epithelium. Large and active follicles were located around the gland and inactive or low active follicles were in the center of the gland. Under the capsule of the thyroid gland, there were many sections of the blood vessels showing its high blood circulation. The parathyroid gland had a dense connective tissue capsule and composed of chief cells located as cord and cluster in dark and bright colors located in the parenchyma of the sinusoid gland. There was no significant difference between the gland in both males and females. The average length and width of the parathyroid gland in female Guinea fowl were greater than that of the male. Ultimobranchial gland had no capsule. Its main cells were parafollicular or C_cells. Collagen fibers were in the form of a thin capsule around it. In terms of morphology, there was no significant difference between these glands in both males and females. The mean length and width of the ultimobranchial gland are equal in the male and female Guinea fowl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of L-glutamine and the synergistic effects between glutamic acid of wheat and glutamine on the performance, carcase characteristics and intestinal morphometry in guinea fowl chickens fed with corn–soybean meal–wheat-based diets. A total of 288 one-day-old guinea fowl chicks (Numida meleagris) were used in a completely randomised design with six treatments, six replicates and 8 male chickens per replicate. The treatments were as follows: (1) corn–soybean meal-based diet (control), (2) corn–soybean meal–wheat-based diet, (3) treatment 1 containing 0.5% L-glutamine, (4) treatment 1 containing 1% L-glutamine, (5) treatment 2 containing 0.5% L-glutamine and (6) treatment 2 containing 1% L-glutamine. The results showed that the body weight gain (BWG) was higher in glutamine-supplemented treatments and the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in treatment 2 with 0.5% glutamine supplementation (p <.05). The chicks fed by diets containing glutamine supplement showed a higher live weight and percentage of breast, thigh and wings compared to glutamine-free diets, whereas the highest percentage of liver and heart observed in treatment 1 and the highest percentage of gizzard in treatments 1 and 2 (p <.05). The length and the width of villi and crypt depth in all three parts of the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) were higher in glutamine-based treatments compared to glutamine-free treatments (p <.05). Also, the addition of wheat to diet had no negative effects on the mentioned parameters; moreover, the 0.5% L-glutamine supplement in wheat–corn–soybean diets improved performance, carcase characteristics and intestinal morphometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of age and sex on carcass characteristics and internal organ weights in scavenging guinea fowls and chickens. Ninety-six scavenging birds, purchased from farmers, were used comprising 48 guinea fowls and 48 chickens from communal farmers. Guinea fowls comprised 25 females and 23 males, with 21 growers and 27 adults. Chickens had 18 females and 30 males with 19 growers and 29 adults. Guinea fowls had heavier body weight and relative hot carcass and cold dressed weight than chickens and which increased with age. Breast and wing relative weights were higher in guinea fowls. Chickens recorded the higher weight of leg and drumstick than guinea fowls. The neck, feet and head weights were heavier in chickens except for the back which was similar to guinea fowls. Chickens had significantly higher abdominal fat than guinea fowls. Relative weights of the heart, liver, kidney, lung and gizzard were higher in chickens. Relative total intestinal weight and lengths of total intestines, small and large intestines were higher in chickens than in guinea fowls. Relative lengths of the intestines decreased with age. Chickens and guinea fowls could have different capacities to utilize scavengeable feed resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea fowl is one of the economical most important livestock species in Burkina Faso. To characterise the phenotypic variability of the Guinea fowl population in Burkina Faso, a total of 463 (131 males and 332 females) adult (28 weeks old) individuals belonging to 107 different householders located in 5 provinces of the country were assessed. Nine body measurements and four qualitative traits were analysed using multivariate statistical methods. The individuals sampled in the northerner Sahel area (Province of Séno) tended to have bigger size, showing the higher mean values for wing span (35.87 ± 0.30 cm), body length (45.11 ± 0.24 cm), and live weight (1.31 ± 0.02 kg) than from the other areas. However, the lower mean values estimated for these traits (wing span of 30.46 ± 0.23 cm; body length of 42.32 ± 0.22 cm; live weight of 1.16 ± 0.02 kg) did not follow a clear geographical pattern in the provinces of Poni (humid South-Western Burkina Faso), Sanguie (Western-Central Burkina Faso) and Gourma (East Burkina Faso), respectively. Furthermore, differences due to sex were small. Although females tended to be heavier (1.26 ± 0.01 kg) and wider at circumference of the chest (30.88 ± 0.15 cm) than males (1.21 ± 0.01 kg and 30.53 ± 0.23 cm, respectively), females also tended to have a shorter body and less developed wings. At the qualitative traits level, the most frequent Guinea fowl phenotype had pied plumage colour (42.76%), pigmented skin (58.96%), brown comb (75.95%) and brown tarsus (45.36%). No clear variation pattern among provinces was identifiable. Eigenvectors computed for each individual assessed via Principal Component Analysis and correspondence analysis illustrated the relationships between individuals from different provinces. The areas of dispersion of the individuals in the respective provinces were highly intermingled, suggesting that differences in body measurements and qualitative traits were not related to geography. The current information will be useful for the establishment of further characterisation and selection strategies for Guinea fowl in Burkina Faso. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sprinters have been found to possess longer muscle fascicles than non-sprinters, which is thought to be beneficial for high-acceleration movements based on muscle force-length-velocity properties. However, it is unknown if their morphology is a result of genetics or training during growth. To explore the influence of training during growth, thirty guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) were split into exercise and sedentary groups. Exercise birds were housed in a large pen and underwent high-acceleration training during their growth period (age 4–14 weeks), while sedentary birds were housed in small pens to restrict movement. Morphological analyses (muscle mass, PCSA, optimal fascicle length, pennation angle) of a hip extensor muscle (ILPO) and plantarflexor muscle (LG), which differ in architecture and function during running, were performed post-mortem. Muscle mass for both ILPO and LG was not different between the two groups. Exercise birds were found to have ∼12% and ∼14% longer optimal fascicle lengths in ILPO and LG, respectively, than the sedentary group despite having ∼3% shorter limbs. From this study we can conclude that optimal fascicle lengths can increase as a result of high-acceleration training during growth. This increase in optimal fascicle length appears to occur irrespective of muscle architecture and in the absence of a change in muscle mass. Our findings suggest high-acceleration training during growth results in muscles that prioritize adaptations for lower strain and shortening velocity over isometric strength. Thus, the adaptations observed suggest these muscles produce higher force during dynamic contractions, which is beneficial for movements requiring large power outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the subtype B aMPV, strain aMPV/B/IT/GuineaFowl/1818/12, was detected in guinea fowls affected by respiratory signs, sequenced and molecularly characterized. Comparisons among several F and G gene full sequences of aMPVs subtype B, showed that no consistent pattern related to host-tropism could be identified. Moreover, analysis of partial G gene revealed the perfect identity of the guinea fowl strain with four Italian aMPVs isolated from turkeys or chickens in a time frame of three years, in the same geographic area. Phylogenetic analysis of both genes showed an evolutionary trend of subtype B circulating in Northern Italy from its first appearance in 1987, to date. The co-presence in the same geographic area of farms housing different avian species sensitive to aMPV, vaccinated with different vaccination programs or not vaccinated (like guinea fowls), and often belonging to the same integrate poultry company, could be a crucial factor for the establishment of an endemic infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to document the seasonal variations in the testicular morphology of the adult guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) under tropical savannah climate of India. The study was conducted in 24 adult healthy guinea cocks. The testes were ovoid in shape throughout the year. The consistency of the testes was moderately firm with great resilience and creamy white in colour during summer and monsoon-I whereas soft in consistency and dull white to yellowish tinge in colour during monsoon-II and winter seasons. The testicular weight, length, width, thickness, volume and circumference were higher during summer and monsoon I than the winter and monsoon II seasons. The mean body weight of the birds did not show significant difference among the seasons. The testicular weight, length, width, thickness, volume and circumference were higher during the summer and monsoon I than the winter and least during monsoon II in the current study. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) and paired testicular weight were high and showed no significant difference during the summer and monsoon-I whereas during winter and monsoon-II, the values were low and showed significant difference between them. The diameter of the seminiferous tubules and its lumen, the diameter of the sustentacular cells (Sertoli cells) were much higher during summer and Monsoon I than winter and monsoon II seasons. The percentage area of interstitial cells and the thickness of the testicular capsule appeared less during the summer and monsoon I seasons. The decreased size of seminiferous tubules, increased amount of cellular debris in the tubular lumen, degenerating germ cells and collapse of seminiferous tubules observed during monsoon II and winter in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in blood profiles influence production performance in livestock. This study evaluated the effect of age, breed and sex on haematological and blood biochemical parameters in helmeted guinea fowl. Haemoglobin concentrations increased (P < 0.05) with age from 8 to 24 weeks, so did total WBC counts. The total RBC counts (1.89 ± 0.05 versus 1.64 ± 0.05 × 1012/L), PCV (37.04 ± 0.77 versus 33.47 ± 0.76%), and WBC counts (3.51 ± 0.15 versus 2.57 ± 0.14 × 109/L) were higher (P < 0.05) in the indigenous than those in the exotic helmeted guinea fowls. Furthermore, basophil counts were higher (P < 0.05) in the female than those in the male guinea fowls. The 16-week-old guinea fowls had higher (P < 0.05) total protein, albumin, globulin and total cholesterol levels than the 8- and 24-week-olds. Also, birds at 24 weeks old of age had higher (P < 0.05) uric acid levels than those at 8 and 16 weeks. Indigenous guinea fowls recorded higher (P < 0.05) albumin (29.87 ± 0.96 versus 27.08 ± 0.95 g/L), total cholesterol (4.79 ± 0.14 versus 2.99 ± 0.14 mmol/L) and creatine kinase (40.60 ± 1.06 versus 30.30 ± 1.04 μ/L) concentrations than their exotic counterparts. Uric acid and potassium levels were rather higher (P < 0.05) in the exotic helmeted guinea fowls than those in the locals. Also, protein and sodium levels were higher (P < 0.05) in females than those in males. The results demonstrate that age, sex and breed are factors that influence the productivity and health of the helmeted guinea fowl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploitation of Guinea fowl in intensive farming has broad development prospects due to the increasing demand of consumers for the meat and eggs yielded from this species, but also for the very valuable biological features. In the present paper we intend to analyze the quantitative production of meat obtained from guinea-fowl slaughtered at different ages. The studied biological material was represented by 50 heads of gray Guinea fowl (Numida Meleagris), reared by species-specific technology. The actual determinations were performed on 31 individuals (10 males and 21 females) who were slaughtered at the age of 77 and 91 days, respectively. The target indicators were body weight at slaughter time, fresh and maturated carcass weight, weight and the proportion of cut parts in whole carcass formation, determined in accordance with the poultry research methodology. The data were statistically processed using the Anova (Analysis of variance) program. At the time of slaughter at the age of 77 days, body weight of Guinea fowl was between 1545.04g and 2250.12g; at the age of 91 days, body weight oscillated between a minimum of 2100.35g and a maximum of 2555.05g. The growth of guinea-pigs can be seen as a profitable business with the use of modern technologies, but also of good quality biological material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents results of determination of certain quality parameters and its phenotypic correlation in eggs originated from extensively reared gray variety of Guinea fowl. A total of 150 egg collected by sampling 30 eggs in each of five analyzed laying months were used for egg quality evaluation and statistical analysis by methods of descriptive statistics and simple linear correlation. Average egg weight, shape index and shell thickness was 38.14 g, 76.03% and 0.49 mm, respectively. Average shell, yolk and albumen weight was 5.83, 12.16 and 20.23 g, respectively, and its proportion was 15.23, 32.10 and 52.69%, respectively. Average values of yolk height, diameter, index and color were 16.54 mm, 39.95 mm, 41.50%, and 13.76, whereas values for albumen diameter, index and height as well Haugh units were 59.30 mm, 9.62%, 5.67 mm, and 82.58, respectively. Majority of examined quality parameters showed significant correlation with other parameters. Egg weight was positive correlated (p<0.01) with egg length (0.76) and width (0.92), shape index (0.22), shell thickness (0.60), shell weight (0.81) and proportion (0.44), albumen (0.92) and yolk weight (0.77) and yolk index (0.23), but in negative connection (p<0.01) with yolk proportion (-0.54), yolk/albumen ratio (-0.41) and albumen index (-0.25). Determined egg quality indicated good potential of this species in extensive rearing, which could be improved and used in more favorable rearing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the macroanatomy and histology of the caecum in guinea fowl using light and scanning electron microscopy. Six adult male and six adult female guinea fowl were used as the study material. The cavum abdominis of the animals was opened under anaesthesia, and the caeca uncovered. The height and thickness of the villi were smaller in the apex and corpus caeca than in the basis caeci. The SEM image of the guinea fowl caeca showed that the villi send finger like extensions into the lumen, and the height of the villi towards the basis caeca increases and exhibits a tight structure. Thus, in this study, the anatomy and histology of guinea fowl caeca were examined in detail using light and scanning electron microscopy, and the similarities and differences with the caeca of other poultry species were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous studies on testicular asymmetry in birds, there are still inconsistent reports on the pattern of asymmetry in species belonging to various phylogenetic groups and exhibiting diverse lifestyles. In addition, there is a lack of clarity on whether functional differences exist between the left and right testes despite differences in size, as well as no evidence of naturally occurring compensation in testis size in terrestrial and galliform birds. A study involving 400 Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris) cocks was conducted to determine asymmetry and compensatory growth in the testes as well as age-related changes in absolute and relative testicular asymmetry. The left testis had significantly higher weight, volume and relative weight than the right testis. Similarly, populations of round spermatids, type I spermatocytes, total germ cell, Sertoli efficiency, actual and apparent seminiferous tubular diameters and testicular sperm production were higher in the left than the right testis. Correlations between the left and right testicular gross anatomical and histological biometric traits were strong and positive. Left biased asymmetry was recorded in the Guinea Fowl. Absolute testicular asymmetry increased with age, but tended to stabilise from 20 weeks of age, while relative testicular asymmetry remained stable throughout. Both absolute and relative testicular asymmetries were higher in breeding than non-breeding males. Compensatory growth was recorded in both testes with no difference in the degree of compensation. The left biased asymmetry observed in the Guinea Fowl was reflected in functional differences between the two testes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]