This study investigated the cost effectiveness of graded replacement levels of maize with Sun-dried Mango (Mangifera indica) Kernel Meal (SMKM) in the diets of growing Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) over a period of four weeks (28 days). One hundred and forty four unsexed Japanese quails of about 2 weeks old and about the same weights (26.56 ± 0.02g) were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments of 48 quails each. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 16 quails per replicate. In each of the three diets, SMKM was used to replace maize at 0% [Treatment I (TI)], 25% [Treatment II (TII)] and 50% [Treatment III (TIII)]. Feed cost reduced with increased supplementation of SMKM. Average cost of feed intake per quail was significantly (P<0.05) lowest in TIII. The cost of feed per gram weight gain reduced across treatments. More saving accrued at 50% inclusion level with highest profit and return to Naira invested. The results indicated reduced cost as levels of SMKM increased in diets of growing Japanese quails.
Keywords: Japanese quail, SMKM, cost effectiveness.
