Effect of providing light during incubation on embryonic development and hatching weight of quail (Coturnix c. japonica)‎

الملخص EN

This study investigated effects of light during incubation on embryonic development and hatching weight of quail.

495 common quail eggs were divided into 3 groups to be incubated under 1 of 3 lighting schedules: Control group (G1, 0L: 24D), the second group (G2, 12L: 12D), the third one (G3, 24L: 0D).

The embryo weight (%) at 9 day of incubation was significantly higher (p<0.

01) in G2 group comparing with G1 group.

The exposing of eggs to 24 hours of light decreased significantly the embryo weight and hatchability (%) and increased embryonic mortality by approximately 7%.

The G2 group of lightening schedule, increased hatchability (%), and reduced the embryonic mortality (%), comparing with control group.

The quail chick weight was significantly higher in G2 group, while, it was significantly lower in G3 group.

The exposing of eggs to light in G2 and G3 groups decreased incubation time by approximately 24 hours.