Effect of feeding termites (Neotermes assamensis) as protein source on carcass traits of Japanese quail

Research summary

This feeding study examined termite meal as an alternative protein ingredient for Japanese quail.

Objective

Assess carcass characteristics, meat properties and sensory measures.

Methodology / scope

A six-week trial assigned 180 chicks to four diets containing 0, 5, 10 or 15% dried termites, with three replicates per treatment.

Main findings

Some carcass and muscle-fibre measurements differed. Meat pH, water-holding capacity and overall sensory acceptance did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

The authors considered termite meal promising under the tested conditions and called for further studies to validate the findings.

Interpretation & evidence limits

Original publisher PDF pp146–149. External publisher PDF link only; no local redistribution permission verified.

Cite the original work

Cite the original publication for research use. This website provides an independently written summary and source links.

Sources & identity evidence

1. Original publisher PDF ↗PDFpp1–5 / printedpp146–150, authors p146, conclusion p149

Page146 associates fourth author Kashmiri Begum with the Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati.

The cited publication records an affiliation with the Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University. This is a publication-specific historical affiliation.

Source verification: 27 Oct 2026. Availability of externally hosted full texts can change.