Effect of organic minerals and alpha-ketoglutarate in pheasant diet on performance, hatchability and the composition of eggs

Abstract

This study determined the effect of supplementation of the pheasant diet with mineral components (Ca, Fe, Zn and Cu) from organic sources with or without the addition of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) on productivity, hatchability parameters, nutrients and mineral content in pheasant eggs. Studies were performed on three groups of laying pheasants, which were kept in aviaries and received a standard mixture (Group I, the control group), a mixture with Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cu glycinates which replaced 50% of the mineral components in inorganic form (Group II), or a mixture with chelates and a 200 mg alpha-ketoglutarate supplement (Group III). Supplementation of the diet with chelates raised the content level of the mineral components in the whole egg and yolk, mainly the contents of calcium, zinc and iron. The addition of 200 mg of alpha-ketoglutarate to the diet with calcium, zinc, iron and copper chelates of glycine (50% of the supplemented elements) resulted in improved laying capacity and rates of reproduction and rearing of chicks, with a slight decrease in the size and weight of eggs. The eggshell was thinner, and the albumen and the Haugh Unit score were higher. Inorganic mineral components can be replaced by glycine chelates at up to 50%, especially with the addition of 200 mg of AKG, in the pheasant diet in commercial breeding.