Impact of Morinda citrifolia Leaf Shoot Meal on Gastrointestinal Traits, Organ Histology and Blood Profiles in Quail

Tuty Wardiny, Sumiati , Rizky Nadia and Akbar Muzadi

Background and Objective: Digestive function and health status can impact the productivity of quail. This study evaluated the effects of Noni (Morinda citrifolia) leaf shoot meal (NLSM) supplementation on the gastrointestinal morphology, jejunal histopathology, visceral organ characteristics and hematological profile of quails. Materials and Methods: A total of 300 quails (aged 4-14 weeks) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: T0 (0% NLSM), T1 (2%), T2 (4%), T3 (6%) and T4 (8%) with four replicates of 10 birds each. A completely randomized design was applied. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Duncan’s multiple range test with a 0.05 level of significance. Results: About 8% NLSM significantly (p<0.05) increased the percentage of duodenum and relative colon length, while 2-6% NLSM highly significantly (p<0.01) increased the percentage and relative length of jejunum, ileum and colon. Villi area was significantly increased (p<0.01) by 8% NLSM, villus height by 2% and villus height to crypt depth (H:D) ratio by 4%. No significant effects were observed on abdominal fat or major visceral organs (liver, heart, kidney). Hematological analysis revealed that 8% NLSM significantly (p<0.05) increased erythrocyte counts and decreased leukocyte percentages; it also significantly (p<0.01) reduced lymphocyte and eosinophil counts. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with 2-8% NLSM improves nutrient absorption by enhancing gastrointestinal morphology without adverse effects. Moreover, NLSM positively influences immune function, as evidenced by improved hematological parameters and reduced thymus and bile sizes, indicating better physiological and immunological status in quails.

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