Selenium Deficiency and Impaired Reproduction in Japanese Quail ∗

Abstract

Summary

Impaired reproduction was observed in Japanese quail fed a diet low in both selenium and vitamin E from 1 day of age to maturity. Oviposition rate and fertility were not affected by the deficiency but hatchability of fertile eggs was markedly reduced and viability of both the adult females and the newly hatched chicks were reduced. Dietary supplementation with either selenium (1 ppm) or vitamin E (30 IU/kg) prevented the impaired reproduction but ethoxyquin (0.3%) was only partially effective.