Category Archives: b_original_articles

Original Articles

Effects of thermal processing on the bioactivity of Panax vietnamensis extract from Son La, Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Minh Tu1*, Vu Hong Son1, Nguyen Thi Thao1, Nguyen Tien Huy1, Hoang Thi Le Hang2, Tran Thi Ngoc Thu3

1Food Engineering Department, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam

2Fruit and Vegetable Research Institute, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Gia Lam, Hanoi, Vietnam

3University of Technology and Education, The University of Danang, Danang City, Vietnam

 

*Corresponding author’s email: tu.nguyenthiminhtu@hust.edu.vn

Received: 12 February 2026 / Revised: 21 May 2026 / Accepted: 03 June 2026 / Published Online: 19 June 2026

 

Abstract

 

Thermal processing is widely applied to improve the functional properties of ginseng through structural transformation of ginsenosides. This study evaluated the effects of controlled thermal treatment (75 °C in 70% ethanol) on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv. cultivated in Son La, Vietnam. The major saponins investigated in this study included majonoside R2 (ocotillol-type); the protopanaxatriol (PPT)-type ginsenosides Rg1, Re, and Rh1, along with notoginsenoside R1; and the protopanaxadiol (PPD)-type ginsenosides Rb1 and Rd. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed that thermal treatment resulted in a significant reduction in key polar ginsenosides, specifically a 56.6% decrease in notoginsenoside R1 (from 0.99% to 0.43%) and a 35.9% decrease in ginsenoside Rg1 (from 3.15% to 2.02%), accompanied by the relative enrichment of less-polar derivatives formed through deglycosylation. Rd acted as an intermediate in the conversion pathway, while the characteristic ocotillol-type saponin Majonoside R2 showed notable thermal stability with partial structural modification. These compositional changes were strongly linked to enhanced antioxidant activity, demonstrated by reduced DPPH IC₅₀ values after processing. The results demonstrate that integrated hydrothermal extraction, which replicates the traditional practices currently used by ginseng farmers, effectively modulates the polarity balance of the saponin matrix and enhances the biofunctional quality of P. vietnamensis. This approach provides a practical, scientifically validated framework for developing value-added ginseng products through a thermal process that significantly improves antioxidant potential.

 

Keywords: Antioxidant, Bio-activity, Ginsenoside transformation, Ocotillo-type saponins, Panax vietnamensis, Thermal processing

Acid phosphatase from Trichoderma asperellum and its potential role in phosphorus mobilization for sustainable soil fertility

Zair Shakirov¹, Iskandar Yakubov², Khursheda Khamidova¹, Saidakhon Zakiryaeva¹, Nodira Azimova¹, Sardarkhodja Kurganov³, Cheng Gao⁴, Husniddin Karimov¹*

1Institute of Microbiology, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

2National University of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

3Republican Scientific Specialized Center of Allergology, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

4State Key Laboratory of Microbial Diversity and Innovative Utilization, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China

 

*Corresponding author’s email: husniddin263@gmail.com

Received: 25 January 2026 / Revised: 04 May 2026 / Accepted: 20 May 2026 / Published Online: 12 June 2026

 

Abstract

 

Extracellular acid phosphatase plays a key role in the mobilization of organic phosphorus in soil ecosystems. In this study, acid phosphatase produced by Trichoderma asperellum Uz-A4 was isolated, purified and biochemically characterized. Maximum enzyme activity (1534 µM min⁻¹ mg⁻¹) was observed on the sixth day of cultivation in Czapek broth. Zymogram analysis revealed two extracellular acid phosphatase isoforms with molecular masses of approximately 175 and 115 kDa. The dominant isoform (ACP1) was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by DEAE–TSK ion-exchange and Phenyl–Sepharose hydrophobic interaction chromatography. SDS–PAGE analysis showed that ACP1 is a homodimer composed of two identical subunits of 85 kDa. The enzyme exhibited optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 50 °C and retained high activity after incubation at 60 °C for 1 h, indicating pronounced thermostability. Zn²⁺ and Mn²⁺ ions significantly inhibited enzyme activity, whereas Ca²⁺, Co²⁺, Mg²⁺, EDTA and reducing agents had no substantial effect. The biochemical properties of ACP1 highlight the potential of T. asperellum Uz-A4 to contribute to organic phosphorus mineralization and to improve phosphorus availability and soil fertility under sustainable agricultural systems.

 

Keywords: Acid phosphatase, Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, Phosphorus mobilization, Soil fertility, Trichoderma spp.

Isolation and characterization of native Pseudomonas isolates and their plant growth-promoting potential in tomato under controlled conditions

Zhamila Baimirzayeva1, Karlygash Korazbekova2*, Aigul Aitbayeva2

1Department of Biotechnology, M.Auezov South Kazakhstan Research University, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

2Department of Biology, Zhanibekov University, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

 

*Corresponding author’s email: korazbekova.karlygash@okmpu.kz

Received: 17 February 2026 / Revised: 19 May 2026 / Accepted: 22 May 2026 / Published Online: 11 June 2026

 

Abstract

 

Pseudomonas spp. are widely recognized as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) associated with improved plant performance under greenhouse conditions. This study aimed to isolate and characterize Pseudomonas strains from greenhouse soils of the Turkestan region (Kazakhstan) and to evaluate their biochemical traits and effects on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) growth under controlled conditions. Four fluorescent Pseudomonas isolates were identified based on morphological characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing as Pseudomonas baetica P1-1, Pseudomonas sp. N1-2 and N2-2, Pseudomonas germanica P4. Seed inoculation assays indicated that the tested strains positively influenced germination and early plant growth parameters, with variation among isolates. The strains also exhibited differences in antioxidant activity, radical scavenging capacity, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, and indole-related traits. Among them, P. baetica P1-1 showed comparatively higher superoxide radical scavenging activity and EPS production, indicating strong functional potential. Compatibility assays revealed no antagonistic interactions among the strains, suggesting their potential use in combined applications. Overall, the results indicate that the studied native Pseudomonas strains possess plant growth-promoting and stress-related functional traits that may contribute to their application as bioinoculants in greenhouse tomato production.

 

Keywords: Pseudomonas, PGPR, Tomato, Greenhouse soil, Bacterial compatibility, Gene sequencing

Potential use of cassava bioethanol waste as ruminant feed in fermented total mixed ration: In vitro trial

Ruangyote Pilajun1*, Chittraporn Yeanpet1, Areerat Lunpha1, Wichan Kaewluan1, Rukkiat Jitchati2, Ratchataporn Lunsin3, Eric Lim Teik Chung4

1Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand

2Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand

3Programs in Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabaht University, Ubon Ratchathani 34000, Thailand

4Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor 43400, Malaysia

 

*Corresponding author’s email: ruangyote.p@ubu.ac.th

Received: 04 February 2026 / Revised: 29 April 2026 / Accepted: 19 May 2026 / Published Online: 07 June 2026

 

Abstract

 

This study identified the optimal inclusion levels of fresh cassava bioethanol waste (CBW) as well as the most effective additive types based on physical properties, chemical composition, and in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics. The experiment used a 4×4 factorial arrangement in a CRD with four CBW levels (0, 5, 10, and 15% dry matter (DM)) as well as four additive treatments (none, dry yeast, probiotics, and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) enzymes) in fermented total mixed rations (FTMR). FTMR was ensiled for 21 days before being evaluated. Interactions between CBW levels and additives significantly affected physical scores, chemical composition, and fermentation end-products (P<0.05), but did not influence cumulative gas yield or certain gas kinetic indices (P>0.05). The addition of dry yeast increased the gas produced from the immediately soluble fraction (b) and the potential extent of gas production (P). NSP enzyme increased cumulative gas volume at 72 and 96 hours after incubation as well as the gas produced from the immediately soluble fraction (P<0.05). Addition of probiotics increased cumulative gas volumes at 72 and 96 hours, DM degradability at 24 hours, and potential extent of gas production after 96 hours of incubation (P<0.05). The inclusion of 10% CBW with probiotics or NSP enzymes yielded the highest physical quality scores. While increasing CBW levels raised fiber content and initially shifted fermentation toward higher acetic acid levels at the expense of propionate, probiotics and NSP enzymes significantly enhanced cumulative gas production and NH3-N concentrations. Remarkably, yeast and probiotics successfully redirected VFA profiles toward propionate at the 15% CBW inclusion level. Although higher CBW levels obviously reduced energy density, biological additives effectively mitigated this decline by facilitating greater fiber degradation. The results recommend inclusion of 10–15% CBW in FTMR with 10% being optimal when paired with probiotics or enzymes to improve nitrogen availability and physical quality. Further in vivo trials can validate these laboratory findings in ruminant performance.

 

Keywords: Cassava bioethanol waste, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Probiotics, Fibrolytic enzymes, Ruminal fermentation

Integrated root leaf metabolomics reveals rootstock specific metabolic syndromes underlying anatomical and growth variation in citrus

Nirmala Friyanti Devy1, Sri Widyaningsih1, Farida Yulianti1, Eriyanto Yusnawan2, Agus Sugiyatno1, Siti Subandiyah3, Hardiyanto1*

1Research Center for Horticulture, Research Organization for Agriculture and Food, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia. Cibinong Science Center (BRIN), Jalan Raya Bogor, KM. 46, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia

2Research Center for Food Crops, Research Organization for Agriculture and Food, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia. Cibinong Science Center (BRIN), Jalan Raya Bogor, KM. 46, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia

3Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Yogyakarta, Indonesia

 

*Corresponding author’s email: hardiyanto85@yahoo.com

Received: 11 February 2026 / Revised: 05 May 2026 / Accepted: 19 May 2026 / Published Online: 06 June 2026

 

Abstract

 

Citrus rootstock selection is usually based on physiological or anatomical characteristics, which restricts integrative knowledge and lowers the efficacy of selection techniques. The lack of cross-organ metabolic evidence further constrains the use of metabolomics in practical rootstock evaluation. This study determined whether coordinated root and leaf metabolomic profiles distinguish five citrus rootstocks and explain variation in leaf anatomy and vegetative growth of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Keprok Batu 55 (KB) and Citrus sinensis L. cv. Manis Pacitan (MP) under highland conditions. Untargeted GC–MS metabolomics, combined with multivariate analysis, anatomical traits, and growth measurements, showed that rootstock identity was the dominant source of variation, with PC1 explaining ~40–45% of the total metabolic variance across organs. Salam and Cleopatra mandarin were enriched in terpenoids, coumarins, and phenylpropanoid-related metabolites, reflecting a defense-associated metabolic profile, whereas Volkameriana and Rough Lemon had a higher relative abundance of intermediates of carbohydrate metabolism, NAD-related compounds, and antioxidants, consistent with a growth-associated profile. Those metabolic configurations are correlated with footsteps in lamina thickness, palisade development, stomatal density, and vegetative growth, all significant at p < 0.05. This study is novel in showing root-leaf metabolomic coordination associated with anatomical plasticity and growth variation, and in providing systematic evidence of rootstock-defined metabolic syndromes co-modulated between roots and leaves in tropical citrus systems. These findings highlight the potential of metabolome-informed approaches to support early rootstock pre-selection, pending validation with replicated metabolomic designs.

 

Keywords: Citrus, Rootstock–scion interaction, Metabolomics, Metabolic syndromes, Leaf anatomy, Growth–defense trade-off

Recombinant porcine NK-Lysin inhibits Fascin-1 expression by regulating the MAPK pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Ajab Khan1, Hongquan Li2, Sun Na2, Panpan Sun2, Babar Maqbool3, Asghar Khan1, Qasim Ali1, Rahman Ullah1, Kouhai Fan4*

1Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Swat, Pakistan

2Shanxi Key Lab for Modernization of TCVM, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China

3Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Agriculture, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan

4Laboratory Animal Center, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China

 

*Corresponding author’s email: fkhyxj@163.com

Received: 13 January 2026 / Revised: 16 April 2026 / Accepted: 27 April 2026 / Published Online: 18 May 2026

 

Abstract

 

In our previous study, maximum non-toxic concentration (MNTC) of recombinant porcine natural killer lysin (rpNK-Lysin) significantly down-regulated Fascin-1, a prognostic and metastatic biomarker, yet the relevant molecular mechanisms that inhibit Fascin1, was not fully understood. In this study, three different types of hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (SMMC-7721, MHCC 97H and HepG2) were treated with rpNK-Lysin. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to check its effect on filopodia formation, and the expression of ERK, RSK2, CREB1 and Fascin-1 were determined using qPCR and western blot. Our results showed that MNTC rpNK-lysin successfully down-regulated pERK1/2 which further suppressed the phosphorylation of RSK2 and the transcription factor CREB1, leading to inhibit the CREB transcriptional target Fascin-1, which is involved in filopodia formation. This study confirmed that MNTC rpNK-lysin inhibited metastatic biomarker Fascin1 by down regulating ERK1/2 dependent RSK2 and transcription factor, which further suppressed Fascin1.

 

Keywords: Fascin1, rpNK-lysin, Metastatic biomarker, Hepatocellular carcinoma, Filopodia

Anatomical and molecular identification of Culex mosquitoes and comparative larvicidal efficiency of Aloe vera and Cassia fistula green synthesized silver nanoparticles

Sana Ullah1, Hammad Afzal Kayani1*, Sheeba Naz2, Hafiz Muhammad Ali3*, Rabya Fatima4, Fazal Haq4, Hina Ali Ahmed5, Muhammad Zubair Yousaf6, Jawaria Aslam7, Hafiz Muhammad Saif ur Rehman8, Nawal Sajid7

1Department of Biosciences, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan

2Dow College of Biotechnology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan

3Department of Anatomy and Histology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan

4Centre of Excellence in Science & Applied Technologies, Karachi, Pakistan

5Faculty of Life Sciences, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University, Quetta, Pakistan

6KAM School of life Sciences, Forman Christian College University, Lahore, Pakistan

7Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan

8Department of Biosciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan

 

*Corresponding author’s email: hammad.afzal@szabist.edu.pk; hmali_uaf@hotmail.com

Received: 27 January 2026 / Revised: 16 April 2026 / Accepted: 01 May 2026 / Published Online: 12 May 2026

 

Abstract

 

Culex mosquitoes are important pathogens carriers to transmit West Nile virus and lymphatic filariasis, so accurate species identification and eco-friendly methods are necessary for proper control measures. The mosquito species (n=2094) collected from 19 different sites across Karachi region, were morphologically segregated intro 3 different genera (Aedes, Anopheles and Culex) by stereomicroscopy, followed by scanning electron microscopy and molecular identification of Culex by PCR. The molecular amplification of PCR product by agarose gel electrophoresis demonstrated a ~740 bp COI fragment and further confirmed the Culex species. The green synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using Aloe vera (AV) and Cassia fistula (CF) extracts were characterized by UV–Vis, SEM, EDS and FTIR. AV-Ag NPs were found smaller (≈65–79 nm) than CF-Ag NPs (≈80–95 nm) in size. In the larvicidal bioassay, the mortality of fourth-instar Culex larvae (n=20 / treatment) was recorded at 16, 32, 64 ppm of different NPs treatments, at 24, 48, 72 h post-treatment compared to the controls. AV-Ag NPs showed significantly (p<0.05) greater efficacy (98.30% mortality at 64 ppm at 72 h) than CF-Ag NPs (65.00% at 64 ppm at 72 h). Moreover, the probit regression analysis showed better LC₅₀=17.85 ppm and LC₉₀=42.51 ppm for AV-Ag NPs (72 h) as compared to LC₅₀=36.35 ppm and LC₉₀=361.38 ppm for CF-Ag NPs. Thus, the results demonstrated that Aloe vera–mediated Ag NPs are promising, eco-friendly larvicidal candidate for integrated mosquito control.

 

Keywords: Culex, Aloe vera, Cassia fistula, Silver nanoparticles, PCR

Fermentation with Rhizopus spp. improves Alternanthera sessilis protein quality, reduces anti-nutritional factors and promotes Tilapia growth

R Adharyan Islamy1, Veryl Hasan2,3,4*, Fitri Sil Valen5, Ahmad Syazni Kamarudin4, Norshida Ismail4, Michael Czech6, Nurul Murmainnah7

1Aquaculture (Kediri City Kampus), Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Brawijaya University, Jl. Pringgodani, Kediri City 64111, East Java, Indonesia

2Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Airlangga University. Jl. Mulyosari, Surabaya 60113, East Java, Indonesia

3Research Group of Environment and Fisheries Resources Management, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Airlangga University. Jl. Mulyosari, Surabaya 60113, East Java, Indonesia

4School of Animal Science, Aquatic Science and Environment, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut Campus, Besut 22200, Terengganu, Malaysia

5Aquaculture Department, Agriculture Fisheries and Biology Faculty, Bangka Belitung University, Gang IV No.1, Balun Ijuk, Merawang District, Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands 33172, Indonesia

6Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, BOKU University, Vienna, Austria

7Doctoral Program of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Brawijaya University, Jl. Veteran, Ketawanggede, Lowokwaru District, Malang City, East Java 65145, Indonesia

 

*Corresponding author’s email: veryl.hasan@fpk.unair.ac.id

Received: 16 January 2026 / Revised: 13 April 2026 / Accepted: 22 April 2026 / Published Online: 09 May 2026

 

Abstract

 

The limited availability and increasing cost of conventional protein sources have encouraged the use of alternative feedstocks, including plant-based materials, for sustainable aquaculture feed production. However, many underutilized plants have low protein content or quality and/or contain high levels of anti-nutritional factors that limit their use in feed. This study aimed to determine the best level of yeast inoculum to use in fermentation of Alternanthera sessilis leaves and to evaluate the effects on nutritional composition, essential amino acid availability, anti-nutritional factors, and functional properties. Fermentation using Rhizopus spp. was carried out at inoculum levels of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% (w/w), followed by analyses of proximate composition, essential amino acid profile, anti-nutritional factors, fermentation efficiency, and antioxidant activity. The results showed that fermentation significantly increased crude protein content, total essential amino acids, particularly lysine and leucine, as well as degree of hydrolysis, soluble protein, and antioxidant activity. At the same time, phytate, tannin, and oxalate contents were markedly reduced. Most nutritional and functional improvements increased with inoculum level and reached a plateau at higher doses. Based on an integrated overall nutritional score, the 1.5% inoculum level provided the best balance between nutritional enhancement, amino acid bioavailability, and functional quality. These findings indicate that fermentation is an effective approach to improve the nutritional value of A. sessilis leaves and supports their potential use as a sustainable plant-based ingredient for aquaculture feed.

 

Keywords: A. sessilis, Anti-nutritional factors, Aquaculture nutrition, Cichlidae, Growth performance, Rhizopus spp., Solid-state fermentation

Native rhizobia from reforested and natural forests and their symbiotic effectiveness with Dalbergia cochinchinensis

Rasapirose Somwatcharajit1, Suchonma Sookruksawong1, Ruengsak Klinchan2, Janpen Prakamhang1*

1Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Liberal Arts, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand
2Forest Resource Management Office No.8 Nakhon Ratchasima, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand

*Corresponding author’s email: janpen.pr@rmuti.ac.th

Received: 17 January 2026 / Revised: 20 April 2026 / Accepted: 22 April 2026 / Published Online: 09 May 2026

 

Abstract

 

Native rhizobia are essential for biological nitrogen fixation and the establishment of leguminous trees in both reforested and natural forest ecosystems. We examined the diversity, phylogeny, and symbiotic performance of rhizobia associated with legumes in the Nongteng–Chakkarat National Reserved Forest in northeastern Thailand. Samples were collected from 10 forest plots representing different restoration histories. A total of 45 legume species and 156 rhizobial isolates were obtained. BOX-PCR fingerprinting revealed 55 distinct genetic profiles, indicating high genetic diversity. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial 16S rRNA gene sequences categorized effective isolates into the genera Bradyrhizobium, Rhizobium, and Mesorhizobium. Similar genotypes were present across various forest types and host species without clear clustering. Diversity indices were higher in long-term reforested deciduous dipterocarp forests. However, neither plot-level differences nor PERMANOVA indicated significant variation between natural and reforested forests. These patterns suggest that rhizobial assemblages were not strongly differentiated by forest type under the present sampling design and were more likely associated with host availability and local ecological context. Cross-inoculation assays showed that 21 isolates were capable of nodulating Dalbergia cochinchinensis. Native isolates significantly increased nodulation, nitrogenase activity (up to 1,326 nmol C2H4 h-1 g-1 nodule dry weight), chlorophyll content, and seedling biomass (p < 0.05). Total chlorophyll content was positively correlated with nodule number, nodule dry weight, nitrogenase activity, and plant biomass. This suggests a close association between symbiotic effectiveness and plant biomass. Among the tested isolates, 10Es1 and 9Pm1 consistently exhibited enhanced symbiotic performance. Native rhizobia displayed considerable genetic diversity and were widely distributed across forest types. However, only a limited number of isolates formed effective symbioses with D. cochinchinensis, suggesting functional filtering rather than broad symbiotic compatibility. This pattern highlights the importance of host compatibility and identifies several native strains as candidates for further evaluation as bioinoculants in legume-based forest restoration.

 

Keywords: Rhizobial diversity, Forest restoration, Host compatibility, Leguminous plants, Symbiotic effectiveness, Dalbergia cochinchinensis

Evaluation of Ageratum conyzoides L leaf powder as a phytogenic feed additive to improve the quality of quail eggs

Dede Kardaya*, Anggraeni, Dewi Wahyuni, Agung Puji Haryanto, Annisa Fajrianty, Emir Zavian

Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Djuanda, Bogor, Indonesia

 

*Corresponding author’s email: dede.kardaya@unida.ac.id

Received: 15 February 2026 / Revised: 12 April 2026 / Accepted: 23 April 2026 / Published Online: 09 May 2026

 

Abstract

 

The increasing restrictions on antibiotic growth promoters and the growing demand for natural feed additives have encouraged the exploration of phytogenic plants as sustainable alternatives in poultry production. Medicinal herbs containing bioactive compounds are widely recognized for their potential to enhance productivity, health status, and product quality in laying birds. Ageratum conyzoides L., a plant rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential oils, has demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, suggesting its possible application in improving egg quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of A. conyzoides leaf powder as a phytogenic feed additive on the egg quality of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 140 quails, aged 65 days, were used in an 8-week experiment arranged in a Completely Randomized Design with four treatments and five replications. Birds were fed commercial diets supplemented with A. conyzoides leaf powder at 0% (R1, control), 1% (R2), 3% (R3), and 5% (R4). Internal and external egg quality parameters were evaluated. Supplementation at 3% (R3) significantly increased egg white weight (5.34 g) compared with 1% (4.94 g) and 5% (5.03 g), while remaining comparable to the control (5.41 g). No significant differences were observed in yolk weight, yolk percentage, or yolk color, and Haugh Unit values exceeded 85 in all treatments. External egg quality improved dose-dependently, with 5% inclusion (R4) increasing eggshell weight and thickness by 7.8% and 8.6%, respectively. In conclusion, A. conyzoides leaf powder represents a promising phytogenic additive, with 3% inclusion optimizing albumen quality and 5% inclusion enhancing eggshell strength and commercial value.

 

Keywords: Albumen quality, Babadotan, Phytogenic additive, Poultry nutrition, Shell integrity