Description
Book SynopsisTheir natural beauty, exceptional variety and unique biology make birds (Aves) one of the most fascinating groups of animals. They are also of great importance to humans as food and as experimental subjects that have catalysed significant advances in many areas of biological research. Central to our ability to maintain and develop these resources is a thorough understanding of avian nutrition. This book presents, uniquely, all aspects of our current knowledge, drawn from such diverse disciplines as physiological ecology, poultry production, zoo biology and biomedical science. The physical and biochemical processes of digestion, the metabolic functions of nutrients and the diversity of evolutionary adaptations required to accommodate very different foodstuffs are examined in depth. Emphasis is placed on the quantitative nature of nutrition and the practical consequences for the dietary requirements of captive and wild avian populations throughout their life cycle. This book is key readi
Table of Contents1: Preface 2: Dietary Patterns 3: Anatomy and Physiology of the Digestive System 4: Digestion of Food 5: Nutritional Strategies and Adaptations 6: Nutrient Requirements 7: Amino Acids 8: Lipids 9: Carbohydrates 10: Energy 11: Essential Minerals 12: Nutrition and Metabolism of Vitamins 13: Appendix 14: Index
