bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Haemolymph Biochemical values during different growth phases in African Giant Land Snail (Archachatina Marginata) Swainson
Authors: Ademolu K.O. , Idowu A. B. , Jayeola O. A.
Published: February 2021

The impact of growth phases on the haemolympy biochemical value of African giant land snail Archachatina marginata was studied. The growth phases were: snailet, juvenile and Adult based on the number of whorls on the shell and weight of the snails. Highest concentration of glucose and lipids were recorded at the juvenile phase (40.20mg/dl), while least values for glucose (20.00mg/dl) and lipids (37.80mg/dl)were recorded during snailer and adult phases respectively. A progressive increase in the concentration of protein was observed as the snails moved from snailetphase to adult phase, hence snails in adult phase had highest concentration of protein in their haemolymph. Growth phases significantly (p<0.05)  affected the haemolymph mineral composition of the snails, juvenile phase had the highest values in ca2+,PO4+ and Na+, while the adult phase recorded the least concentration in ca2+, Na amd cl-2. Juvenile growth phase of A. marginata thus has better haemolymph biochemical values than both snailet and adult growth phases.
Effect of Supplementing Rice Straw with Pigeon Pea Forage on Rumen and Blood Metabolites of Yankasa Sheep
Authors: Jokthan G. E. , Lakpini C. A. M. , Adamu A. M. , Akpa G. N. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to determine the effect of supplementing rice straw with pigeon pea forage on rumen and blood metabolites of Yankasa sheep. Sixteen yearling Yankasa ewes were used for the study. A completely randomized design was used with four animals per treatment. A basal rice straw diet was provided ad libitum and pigeon pea forage supplemented at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%of the body weight. Rumen and blood samples were collected at 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 hours post-feeding. Results of the study showed low (1.16-3.81mg/100ml) NH3-N concentration in the unsupplemented ewes. Supplementation at 1 % body weight improved the level of NH3-N concentration to 10.38mg/100ml. Volatile faty acids also increased from 26.33 to 43.33mg/l in 0.0% and 1.0% of body weight pigeon pea forage supplementation. pH variations within treatments remain within acceptable range for rumen microbial activity: There was a uniformly low level of plasma urea nitrogen in the unsupplemented diet across sampling time, supplementing at 1.0% of the body weight had the highest plasma urea nitrogen level with 3 and 6 hours post-feeding being significantly (P<0.05) higher than other sampling time. Levels of packed cell volume and haemoglobin improved from 21.00% and 48% in the supplemented diet to 32.00% and 73% at 1.0% pigeon pea forage supplementation respectively
The Effects of Duration of Cooking Pigeon Pea (Cajanus Cajan) Seeds on the Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chicks
Authors: Matthews U. D. , Omage J. J. , Tegbe T. S. B. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and seventy (270) one week old broiler chicks of Aboricae breeds were fed diets containing pigeon pea seeds boiled for 0, 30, 40, 50 and 60 minutes on a control diet containing full-fat soy bean. Birds were randomly assigned to pens and treatments in a completely randomised design trial. There were 3 replications of the 6 treatments and 15 birds per pen. 23% crude protein (CP) diets were fed during the starter phase and 20% CP diet during the finisher phase. Feed and water were supplied ad-libitum throughout the 8-week trial period. At the end of the feeding trial, 2 birds were selected from each oen and slaughtered for carcass evaluation. During the starter and finisher phases, feed intake of birds were similar across treatments. The final weight gain of birds fed the control diet were significantly better than those of birds fed the raw or boiled pigeon pea during the 2 phases. Birds fed pigeon pea seeds boiled for 30, 40, 50 or 60 minutes had better (P<0.05) gain and final weights compared to those fed raw pigeon pea. Slaughter weights of birds fed the control diet and diets with pigeon pea boiled for 30, 40, 50 or 60 minutes were similar and significantly (P<0.05) better than those of birds fed raw pigeon pea diet.
The effect of Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) [Linn] [Gaetrn] seed meal on Performance, gut morphology and haematology of male rabbits
Authors: Bitto I. I. , Madugba C. N. , Itodo I. I.
Published: February 2021

Twenty grower rabbit bucks of mixed breeds were used in the evaluation of the effects of Kapok seed meal on performance, gut morphology and the haematology of male rabbita to ascertain its suitability as a protein source for rabbits in general and breeding bucks in particular. Five bucks each were randomly assigned to each of 4 isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets conatining decorticated Kapok seed meal at 0, 10, 15 and 20% levels. After 8 weeks of ad libitum feeding, the result showed that dietary treatment had no significant effect (P>0.05) on performance. With regard to GIT morphology, treatments significantly affected the absolute and relative weights of the stomach (P<0.05), while other parameters were unaffected (P>0.05) by treatment. The haematology of the animals showed significantly higher (P<0.05)Hb and haematocrit values in the animals in the control diet than those on the KSM diets which were all similar (P>0.05) to each other. Erythrocyte count in the control diet was significantly higher(P<0.05) than in the respective KSM diets while leukocyte count was unaffected by treatment (P>0.05). the differential count showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in eosinophils in the diet with the highest level of KSM over the diets which were similar to each other (P>0.05). Blood constants were unaffected by treatment (P>0.05). All haematological values were within normal ranges. It is concluded from these results that Kapok seed meal as a protein source will support growth, performance and other physiological processes in raabbit bucks.
Nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance of Yankasa sheep fed urea-treated or untreated rice straw with supplements
Authors: Ngele M. B. , Adegbola T. A. , Bogoro S. E. F. , Abubakar M. , Kalla D. J. U.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Research and Teaching Farm between December and May 2006 to determine nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance in Yankasa rams fed urea-treated (UTRS) and untreated rice straw (URS) with supplementation. Thirty-two (32) Yankasa rams with an average weigh of 17.5kg, and aged 1.5 to 2 years old were alloted to eight (8) dietary treatments with four (4) rams per treatment in a 2 x 4 factorial design. The two basal feeds were urea0treated rice straw (UTRS) and untreated rice straw (URS). The supplements were maize bran (MB), MB + sun-dried poultry litter (MB + SDPL), MB + ensiled poultry litter (MB+ EPL) and MB + cotton seed cake (MB + CSC). Total dry matter intake (TDMI), daily basal feed intake (DBFI) were significant (P<0.05) across dietary treatments. Animals on supplements MB and MB+CSC for both UTRS and URS recorded the lowest and highest DBFI. The digestible crude protein intake (DCPI) and digestible organic matter intake (DOMI) were high for rams on UTRS and the values ranged from 17.72 to 28.36g/d and 288.81 to 482.66g/d for DCPI and DOMI respectively. Nutrient digestibility was improved by treatment of straw and supplementation. However, crude protein digestibility was similar for animals fed URS but, significantly (P<0.05) lower compared to those fed UTRS which were also similar across supplements. Average daily weight gain ranged from 53.58 to 91.18g/d across dietary treatment with animals on supplement MB recording the lowest (53.58 and 61.43g/d for URS and UTRs respectively) and those fed supplement MB+CSC the highest (81.38 and 91.18g/d fro URS and UTRS respectively) irrespective of straw treatment. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was least for animals on supplement MB+CSC for both URS and UTRs, indicating that this supplement (MB+CSC) influenced feed utilization more positively. From the results of this trial, it may be concluded that straw treatment and/or supplementation can enhance crop residue utilization by sheep. however, mixed supplements especially MB+CSC were more efficient in enhancing the utilization of the straw and consequently animal performance.
Performance and Carcass Analysis of Growing Snails Fed Calopogonium mucunoides (Calopo) And Pueraria phaseoloides (Kudzupuero)
Authors: Omole A. J.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of feeding growing snails with two different leguminous plants, Calopogonium muculoides, Pueraria phaseoloides, using pawpaw (Carica papaya) leaf as control. A total of 72 growing snails (Archachatina marginata) of mean weight 74.73/3.5g were used for the feeding trial. The snails were randomly alloted into 3 different groups and each group was replicated 4 times with 6 snails per replicate in a completely randomized design. Snails in T1 were fed pawpaw leaf (control), while snails in T2 were fed Calopogolium muculoides. Parameters measured were feed intake, weight gain, shell length and width and feed conversion ratio. The feeding trial lasted for 12 weeks. The results on growth performances reveal that the highest feed intake was recorded in snails fed pawpaw leaf (PL) which was similar to the those fed Pueraria phaseoloids (PP), while the lowest feed intake was recorded in snail fed with Calopognium muculoids (CM). The highest weight gain was also recorded in snails fed with pawpaw leaf and Peuraria phaseoloids (PP) than those fed Calopognium muculoides (CM). In conclusion, Pueraria phaseoloids could be used as substitute for pawpaw leaf.
Fish Production and Marketing in Dundaye District, wammakko Local Government Area, Sokoto State
Authors: Yakubu A. A. , Magawata I. , Motunrayo T. M.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted in Wammakko local government area of Sokoto state. On the RiverRima side where artisanal fish production and marketing on the landing site takes place. One hundred and twenty (120) respondents were selected via stratified random sample technique. Information was on demographic features, production, marketing, processing and handling and customer preferences with the aid of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis were used to analyse the data. The results revealed that 90% respondents were in age ranged of 26-55. Fish was marketed in fresh and fried forms in the landing site. Fifty percent (50%) of the respondents prefer Tilapia and Hetrobranchus species and 57% spent N400 on fish monthly. Seventy two percent of the consumers prefer to take the price of the fishermen. Profit margin of N9,200 for fish mongers while N3,720 for the fiahermen ere recorded. It was recommended that farmers should be enlightened on the new fishing techniques especially the production and management of artisanal fishing.
Comparative effect of organic and Inorganic Copper Supplemented Diets on Performance and Blood Characteristics of Growing Rabbits
Authors: Jegede A. V. , Fafiolu A. O. , Oso A. O. , Sodeinde D. O. , Odewale T. O. , Oduguwa O. O.
Published: February 2021

The effects of organic and inorganic copper sources on the performance and blood characteristics of growing rabbits over a 10 week period were investigated. Six dietary treatments were formulated such that diets 1, 2 and 3 contained 10, 50, and 100ppm of organic copper (Copper proteinate (Cu Pro)) while diets 4, 5 and 6 contained 10, 50 and 100ppm of inorganic copper (copper sulphate (CuSO4). The final weight and daily weight gain were significantly (P<0.05) higher in rabbits fed organic Cu compared to those fed Cuso, Organic Cu diets resulted in significant (P<0.05) reduction in blood cholesterol than CuSO4 diets. Organic Cu is more effective in promoting growth and blood cholesterol reduction of growing rabbits than Cuso4, There was more accumulation of Cu in the liver and heart of rabbits fed Organic Cu than those fed CuSO4, The liver and heart Cu increased as the Cu level increased. More Cu was excreted in rabbits fed CuSO4, than those fed Organic Cu. This study showed that copper proteinate is more effective in promoting growth and reduction of cholesterol of rabbits. The study confirmed a relative increase in bioavailability of organic copper compared to inorganic sources.
Nutritional evaluation of cassava root meal fermented with rumen filtrate in rats.
Authors: Adeyemi O. A. , Eruvbetine D.
Published: February 2021

The study reported herein evaluates with rats the nutritional quality of cassava root meal (CRM) fermented with rumen filtrate using caged layer waste (CLW), pig excreta (PE) and a 1:1 mix of CLW and PE respectively as sources of nitrogen. Some safety aspects regarding possible feed use were also investigated. Wistar rats were fed five purified diets viz; a basal diet (nitrogen free), a reference diet that contained casein and three test diets made of the enhanced CRM. Dietary treatments significantly influenced performance, biological indices and blood parameters (P<0.05). The performances of rats on the enhanced cassava diets were inferior 10 that of rats on casein diet. The level of serum urea and thiocyanate were significantly elevated for rats on the cassava root-based diets compared to the casein diet. Among the enhanced cassava test protein, Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) values of 0.88, 0.57 and 0.62; Net Protein Ratio (NPR) values of 0.27, -0.15 and -0.03 and Biological Value (BV) of 55.04, 39.96 and 52.27 were obtained respectively for cassava enhanced with caged layer waste (CCLW), cassava enhanced with pig excreta (CPE) and cassava with 1.1 mix of caged layer waste and pig excreta (CCLPE). The result obtained from rats on CCLW was significantly better than the other enhanced cassava products.
Phytochemical and Nutritional Evaluation of Raw and Fermented Alchornea cordifolia seed meals on the performance of Broiler Chicks.
Authors: Emenalom O. O. , Etuk E. B. , Esonu B. O. , Nwaiwu L. C.
Published: February 2021

Phytochemical and feeding values of raw and fermented Alchornea cordifolia seed meals were investigated. Raw and fermented seed meals were screened for some phytochemical compounds and also tested on the performance of starter broilers. The meals were included in broiler starter diets at 10% raw and, 10 and 20% fermented, respectively. The diets were fed from 0-28 days of age. Raw Alchornea seed meal contains phytic acids, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, steroids, flavnoids, alkaloids and anthraquinone. Fermenting the seed meal caused 56.2% reduction in the phytic acid content and totally eliminated its anthraquinone content. With 10% raw Alchornea seed meal, broilers grew significantly slower, gained 60.1% of control but feed intake was not statistically different. Inclusion of 10% fermented meal resulted in better weight gain, and feed conversion ratio than the raw seed meal and by 28-days, weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not statistically different from the control. At 20% dietary level, fermented Alchornea seed meal, promoted much better growth and efficiency than raw but the values were less (p<0.05) than control. It is concluded therefore that fermentation partially destroyed the anti-nutritional factors present in Alchornea seeds; thus allowing successful use of 10% fermented seed meal in starter broiler rations. Higher level of the fermented seed meal reduced performance although the result was much better than in the raw seed meal.
Performance response in goats fed shed leaves (Vitellaria paradoxa-, Gmelina arborea- and Daniella oliveri-) based diets
Authors: Yousuf M. B. , Adeloye A. A.
Published: February 2021

The present study was conceived with the aim of encouraging utilization of environmental wastes in the form of shed tree leaves for livestock feeds production. Three complete isonitrogenous (15.45 ± 0.17 % CP) diets, each constituted from shed leaves of Vitellaria paradoxa, Gmelina arborea or Daniella olliveri tree plus corn bran, soy bean meal, bone meal and sodium chloride, were evaluated through laboratory and nutritional studies for their suitability as complete diets for goat production. The diets were analyzed for dry matter and chemical contents while their feeding values were assessed in a 56-day growth and nutrients digestibility trial with goats. The three shed leaves-based diets were found to be similar in dry matter content but differed (P < 0.05) in the levels of crude protein, Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), calcium, phosphorous and condensed tannins. Results from the feeding trial indicated significant (P < 0.05) effects of treatments on feed intake, body weight gain and nitrogen retention in the goats. Goats on Gmelina shed leaves-based diet gained in body weight at a slower rate (P < 0.05) than the other treatment groups. No adverse effect on the general well being and behaviour of goats attributable to treatments was discernible during the 56-day feeding trial. Results of both the laboratory and feeding trials confirmed the hypothesis that each of the three shed leaves could be utilized to provide nutrients for goat production. In terms of feeding values to the goats the dried forages were ranked in the order: Vitellaria > Daniella > Gmelina
Length-weight Relationship of Heterobranchus bidorsalis (Geoffroy st. Hilaire 1809) Diploid and Triploid Progenies raised under the same Environmental condition
Authors: Agbebi O. T. , Otubusin S. O. , Olufeagba S. O.
Published: February 2021

Twenty specimens of triploid with weight and length ranging from 207-300g and 29-32cm; diploid 150-200g and 23-28cm Heterobranchus bidorsalis (Geoffroy St. Hilaire 1809) were subjected to morphometric and meristic characterization, length-weight relationship and condition factor evaluation. Triploid specimens had the higher values in all the parameters examined and were significantly different (P<0.005). Regression analysis of diploid and triploid show the ranges of values (K) of 0.802 1.453 and 0.838 0.906 respectively, for condition factor (k) while the relative condition factor values (Kn) ranged between 0.869 1.087 and 0.968 1.038 respectively. Weight increases directly as the total length increases for both diploid and triploid indicating isometric growth. The R2 in triploid was higher (96.8%) than in diploids (42.4%). In diploid progenies, the length by weight was significantly different (P<0.05) in triploid. Triploid progenies need no special adaptive environment or technique for rearing. Therefore, diploid and triploid progenies can be successfully cultured simultaneously under the same environmental condition.
Genetic parameter estimates (full sib and half sib analysis) of fertility and hatchability in two strains of Rhode Island chickens
Authors: Orunmuyi M. , Adeyinka I. A. , Oni O.O
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to estimate the genetic parameters of fertility and hatchability in two strains of Rhode Island Red (RIR) Chickens denoted as Strain A and Strain B respectively using the full-sib (sire +dam variance) and maternal half-sib (dam variance) components. The birds were obtained from the selected populations of RIR Chickens kept at the poultry breeding programme of National Animal Production Research Institute, Shika, Zaria, Nigeria. Settable eggs were collected from mating 28 cocks to 252 hens in a ratio of 1cock:9 hens from each strain. Eggs were pedigreed according to sire and dam. Results showed that values obtained for number of egg set (EGGSET), number of fertile eggs (NFERT), number of hatched chicks (NHATCH), percentage of chicks hatched from total eggs set (PHATCH) and percentage of chicks hatched from fertile eggs (PHATCHBL) were all higher in strain A than strain B. Heritability estimates obtained from the full-sib and maternal half-sib analysis ranged from medium to high for the two strains (0.24-0.96). The maternal half sib estimates were higher (0.40-0.96) than the estimates obtained from full sibs (0.24- 0.48). Genetic and phenotypic correlations obtained for both strains were positive and similar regardless of method of estimation. Genetic correlations between EGGSET and PFERT were low in strain A using both full-sib and maternal half-sib analyses (0.09-0.14). Phenotypic correlations between EGGSET and PFERT, PHATCH and PHATCHBL were also low in both strains and regardless of method of analyses. Moderate to high heritability estimates suggest that genetic improvement can be obtained by selection of these reproductive traits. The full-sib analysis for estimating heritability will be preferred since it is assumed that only additive genetic variance contributes to the covariance between family members.
Response of Japanese quail chicks (Cortunix cortunix japonica) to various dietary energy levels in a tropical environment
Authors: Bawa G. S
Published: February 2021

A total of one thousand and eighty (1080) unsexed day-old quail chicks with an average initial weight of 7.68±0.39g were used in a feeding trial to determine the growth response of quail chicks fed iso-nitrogenous rations to various dietary energy levels in Nigerian (tropical) environment. Six iso-nitrogenous (26% CP) diets containing 2500, 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900 and 3000 Kcal/kg ME were used in a complete randomized design, respectively for the study. The birds were fed feed and water ad libitum for 6 weeks at the end of which 10 birds from each replicate were randomly selected for carcass analysis. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in the final live weight, weight gain, cost per gain and age at 1 egg across dietary treatments. Feed, intake decreased non-significantly (P>0.05) as the level of energy increased in the diets. Total protein, Haemoglobin, packed cell volume, red blood cell and white blood cell were non significantly (P>0.05) affected by dietary treatments and were within the normal range for quails. The cholesterol level however, increased non-significantly (P>0.05) as the level of dietary energy increased. Except for the carcass weight and abdominal fat, the carcass parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. It was concluded that a dietary energy level of 2800 Kcal/kg ME, will be adequate for optimum performance of quail chicks under the condition of this experiment
Performance of weaned male rabbits fed varied levels of dietary fumonisin B1
Authors: Ewuola E. O , Gbore F. A , Ogunlade J. T , Egbunike G. N
Published: February 2021

In a six-week feeding trial, a total of 48 crossbred weaned male rabbits of 7 weeks old were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments, with 12 replicates per treatment to determine growth indices and nutrient digestibility of rabbits fed fumonisin-contaminated diets. Maize grains contaminated with fumonisin B1 were incorporated into rabbit diets excluding the control diet (treatment 1, 0.13mgKg-1), at varied inclusion levels of 5.0mgKg-1, 7.5mgKg-1 and 10.0mgKg-1 fumonisin B1, constituting treatments 2, 3 and 4 respectively. The results showed that the average final live weight of rabbits fed treatments 3 and 4 were significantly (P<0.05) lower than those fed treatment 2 and the control. The average daily dry matter intake of the animals fed the dietary treatments was not significantly different. The mean daily weight gain of rabbits fed 5.0mgkg-1, 7.5mgKg-1 and 10.0mgKg-1 however declined significantly (P<0.05) by 91.23, 83.92 and 81.88% respectively, relative to the mean daily weight gain of 12.31g/rabbit/day of animals fed the control diet. The result further showed that digestibility of the nutrients of the experimental diets except crude protein, were similar among the treatments. The crude protein digestibility of rabbits fed 7.5mgKg-1and 10.0mgKg-1 were identical but significantly (P<0.05) lower than those fed 5.0mgKg-1 and the control diet. This suggests inhibition of nitrogen utilization and depressed performance in the animals fed diets containing ≥ 5.0mg fumonisin B1/Kg. Diets containing up to 7.5 mg fumonisin B1/Kg will depress live weight and daily weight gain as a result of reduced protein utilization in weaned rabbits.
Protein requirement of Japanese quail (coturnix corturnix japonica) chicks in Nigeria
Authors: Bawa G. S , Lombin L. H. , Shamaki D. , Karsin P. , Musa U.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of varying dietary levels of protein on performance of Japanese quail chicks. Six iso-caloric (2953-3078 kcal/kg, ME) diets were formulated to contain crude protein (CP) at 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28% levels, respectively. Each of the dietary treatment was replicated three times with sixty (60) quail chicks per replicate. A total of 1080 day-old unsexed quail chicks were used for the study and distributed using completely randomized design. The experiment lasted 42 days during which data were collected. Feed and water were provided ad libitum throughout the experimental period. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein intake differ significantly (P<0.05) due to dietary treatments. Final live weight and cost per gain were not significantly (P>0.05) different across dietary treatments. Age at first egg and average weight of eggs at point of lay differed significantly (P<0.05) across dietary treatments. The haematological parameters (Total protein, haemoglobin, albumen and red blood cell) were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary protein levels. Carcass weight, dressing percentage, prime cuts and the weight of major organs expressed as percentage of the live weight were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. It was concluded that Japanese quail chicks required up to 26% level of dietary protein for optimum performance.
Age- and sex-dependent regression parameters for estimating live weight frim body measurements of West African Dwarf sheep
Authors: Sowande O. S. , Orebela B. A , Iyasere O. S
Published: February 2021

The relationships between live weight and eight body measurements of West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep were studied using 300 animals under farm condition. The animals were categorized based on age and sex. Data obtained on height at withers (HW), heart girth (HG), body length (BL), head length (HL), length of hindquarter (LHQ), width of hindquarter (WHQ), head width(HDW), and loin girth (LG) were fitted into simple linear (change in body measurement is directly proportional to weight or body size), allometric (body measurements do not necessarily change in direct proportion to weight or body size), and multiple linear regression models to predict live weight from the body measurements according to age group and sex. Results showed that live weight and body measurements of ewe were higher than that of the ram. Live weight, HG, HW, WHQ, LG, BL, LHQ, HL, and HW increased with the age of the animals. In multiple linear regression model, WHQ, LHQ, HW, HL and HDW best fit the model for sheep aged ≤1; HG, LG, BL and HDW for 2 year-old sheep; HG, BL, and HL best fit the model for sheep 3 years age group; LHQ best fit the model for sheep of 4 years of age; while HL best fits sheep that were in 5 year age category. Coefficients of determination (R2) values for linear and allometric models for predicting the live weight of WAD sheep increased with age in all the body measurements (HW, HG, BL, HL, LHQ, WHQ, HDW and LG). Sex had significant influence on the model with R2 values consistently higher in females except the models for LHQ, WHQ, LG and BL were they the same with the males. Based on R2 values, it was concluded that both linear and allometric regression models could be used to predict live weight from body measurements of WAD sheep.
Factors influencing small ruminant management in selected urban communities of Abeokuta, Ogun State
Authors: Lawal-Adebowale O. A
Published: February 2021

The study on urban livestock production was conducted with a view to ascertaining the factors influencing small ruminants rearing in urban communities of Abeokuta. A total of 215 respondents were selected by snowballing for survey. Validated and reliable interview guide was used alongside field observations to obtain data on the respondents' socioeconomic characteristics, number of sheep and goats reared, factors influencing and constraining small ruminant production in urban areas. Analysis of obtained data showed that males (70.23%) dominated ownership of the reared animals. About 22.79% of the respondents had between 6 and 10 sheep and goats. Highly rated factors influencing small ruminant rearing by respondents include meat production for home consumption (100%), sales of animals for additional income generation (93.5%), keeping of the animals as strategy for income generation (89.3%) and for meeting households' contingencies (87.4%). Indicated constraining factors by all the respondents (100%) include high cost and difficulty of sourcing feeds and theft/losses of animals. The Chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between the respondents' age (x2 = 23.01; df = 12), rearing experience (x2 = 31.11; df = 12), level of income (x2 = 29.68; df = 16) and determinants of small ruminants rearing (p < 0.05). The Pearson correlation test showed no significant relationship (p < 0.05) between the determinants of urban ruminant production and the constraining factors. It was concluded that urban sheep and goat rearing was seriously constraining by feed-related and thievery factors. With the resilience of the rearers to sustain their rearing venture for their socioeconomic benefits, the need to strengthen and educate them on managerial strategies for efficient and sustainable management of the small ruminant animals was thus recommended.
Influence of Different Management Systems on Gut Microbes and Chemical Constituents of Giant Land Snail (Archachatina marginata)
Authors: Ademolu K. O. , Idowu A. B. , Jayeola A. O. , Osunsina I. , Dedeke G. A. , Oluwafemi F. , Ibie E.
Published: February 2021

The impact of management systems on the African giant land snail, Archachatina marginata found in Abeokuta, Nigeria was investigated. The gut microbial load, haemolymph biochemical values (proteins, lipids, glucose, Na+, Ca2+,K+, Cl- PO42+) and proximate composition (crude protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrates) of the flesh were determined in these snails. There were significantly (P<0.05) higher colony forming units (cfu) in the gut of snails from the wild (5.24 x103) than the domesticated snails (3.13 x103). The aemolymph biochemical values and flesh proximate composition were significantly higher in the snails from the wild than the domesticated ones. However, antinutrients and mineral composition of the flesh were not significantly affected by the management systems. The implication of these results on snail meat value in Nigeria is discussed.
Performance of grower rabbits fed Gmelina arborea leaf meal
Authors: Adeniji A. A. , Gana E. , Olafadehan O. A. , Chibougwu I. C. , Saria M. I.
Published: February 2021

Forty five weaner rabbits, aged four weeks of mixed sexes were used to investigate the performance of rabbits fed Gmelina arborea leaf meal (GALM) at 0,10,20,30 and 40% inclusion level. Increasing the level of GALM had no significant effect (P>0.05) on feed intake, weight gain and feed to gain ratio. There was also no treatment effect on nitrogen intake (P>0.05). Furthermore, increasing the dietary level of GALM in the diet also had no significant effect (P>0.05) on faecal nitrogen, nitrogen retained and nitrogen digestibility. However, the cost of feed declined with the corresponding increase in the GALM dietary level. The result shows that Gmelina arborea leaf meal could be fed to grower rabbits up to 40% inclusion level without any adverse effect.
Water quality and fish diversity of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta reservoir
Authors: Adeosun F. I. , Abdul W. O. , Akinyemi A. A. , Agbon A. O. , Odebiyi O. C.
Published: February 2021

Federal University of Agriculture reservoir is one of the recently constructed in Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria, therefore the need to assess the water quality, fish diversity and catch assessment of this new water body. Data on fish species were collected on a forthnight basis using multi-stage gillnet sampling techniques for four months (September- December, 2011). Three sampling stations were randomly selected from the entire reservoir. A variety of sampling methods were used at each site in order to reach every fish species. At the river channel and the floodplain sites, traps, cast nets (2.55cm mesh), seine nets (2.55 x 2 cm mesh), monofilament nylon gillnets (15.55 cm mesh), and hook and line were employed. Efforts were made in order to catch fish species in large abundance. Some sampled fish (dead) were collected and placed in cool boxes and examined within 18 hours of capture. Others were preserved in 15% formalin and stored for later examination. A total of 863 fish specimens were caught during the study period. These were identified and classified into 5 species belonging to 3 families. The percentage species composition of the harvest by numbers and weight for all fish species that contributed more than 1% in all the stations combined, were computed. Study of the physico-chemical parameter such as dissolved oxygen ranged from 5.03 to 7.19mg/l; 26 to 280C temperature; 64.8 to 148ppm alkaline; pH 6.67-6.90; 32.5 to 53.5m transparent; 8.86 to 13.72mg/l nitrate; 0.58 to 0.64mg/l phosphate; 0.024 to 0.069 o/oo saline; 103-270cm deep. pH and water temperature serve as variables since the fluctuation of one affects the values of others. The water quality parameters were favourable for fish production. The gillnet fisheries indicated that different mesh sizes of experimental gillnets were sensitive to different fish species. 67.2mm, 78.4mm and 112mm, mesh sizes were efficient in catching Clarias gariepinus, Barbus occidentalis and the Cichlids respectively. The study has shown that middle water was the most suitable habitat for fish in the reservoir. Water level and temperature were observed to guarantee high fish yield in the reservoir.
Udder and linear body measurement in ewes and does in relation to performance of their offspring under the traditional system of management
Authors: Adewumi O. O. , Banjo O. , Adegboyega A. A. , Noiki O. A.
Published: February 2021

Forty-eight lactating does and ewes were used to study partial milk yield, udder dimensions, linear body measurement in ewes, does and performance of their offspring under the traditional system of management.Milk yield, udder dimensions, linear body measurements of dam and offspring were significantly superior in sheep. Average partial milk yield was 53.86 and 78.56 ml per week for goat and sheep respectively. There was no significant effect of parity on all variables measured. Udder circumference was the most related trait to partial milk yield (r=0.57) in goat. The highest correlation was observed between partial milk yield and teat length (r=0.39) in sheep. Partial milk yield was significantly correlated with weight (r=0.33) in kids. Milk yield was significantly correlated with lamb’s heart girth (r=0.49) followed by foreleg length (r=039) in lambs.Based on the results of the present study, it could be recommended that partial milk yield could possibly bedetermined based on udder size and teat length in extensively managed does and ewes respectively. Kid’s heart girth could be a good indicator of doe’s milk production.
Physiological evaluation of broiler finishers fed fermented bovine blood and rumen digesta meal
Authors: Esonu B. O. , Azubuike J. C. , Udedibie A. B. I. , Opara M. N. , Iwuji T. C.
Published: February 2021

A 35-day feeding trial involving three hundred (300) five (5) week old broilers was carried out in a completely randomized design to evaluate the haematology, serum biochemical and gastro-intestinal characteristics of broiler finishers fed diets containing a mixture of fermented bovine blood and rumen digesta (FBBRD) meal at dietary levels of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 %, respectively. The birds were randomly grouped into five, with sixty birds each and four replicates of fifteen birds per treatment. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected from eight birds randomly selected from each treatment for haematological and biochemical analyses. The group on 10 % FBBRD diet had significantly (P<0.05) higher packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration and red blood cells. Eosinophil values of birds on all the treatment groups except those on 5 % FBBRD dietary level were within the normal range. Serum biochemical analysis of the experimental birds recorded significant (P<0.05) differences in total protein, albumin, creatinine, cholesterol, except blood sugar concentrations. Serum concentrations of sodium and potassium of the experimental birds were also significantly (P<0.05) different. This study suggested that FBBRD meal when properly processed and at 10 % dietary level of inclusion, can be used in broiler finisher production without adverse effects on the physiological indices of birds
Effects of genotype and season on the productive performance of commercial egg-type chickens in the derived savanna zone in Nigeria
Authors: Oguntunji A. O. , Salako A. E.
Published: February 2021

Twelve (12) month production records of two commercial egg-type chickens, Nera Black (NB) and Isa Brown (IB) reared on a commercial farm in Ilora, Oyo State, Nigeria were analysed to assess effects of season and genotype on their performance. The production record was sorted according to the two recognized major seasons: wet (April-September) and dry (October-March) in the study area. Besides, the each major season was further partitioned into two sub-seasons namely: early rainy season (ERS: April-June), late rainy season (LRS: July-September), early dry season (EDS: October-December) and late dry season (LDS: January-March). Results of data analysis showed that genotype had no significant effect (P>0.05) on all the performance indices. Conversely, season significantly (P<0.05) affected all the performance parameters evaluated and hens performed better in wet seasons compared with dry months. There was significant (P<0.05) genotype by season interaction effect on egg production but not (P>0.05) for other productive parameters. IB strain performed better in wet season most especially in LRS while NB hens had better performance in dry season. Results from this study indicated that regardless of the season, the two egg strains should be employed for commercial egg production but adequate measure should be taken to combat the adverse effect of thermal stress on the welfare and performance of layers in the study area most especially in LDS months. Discrepancies in genotype by season interaction suggest genetic basis to differences in performances and physiological abilities of the investigated egg-strains to cope with stresses emanating from change in season.
Physiological and haematological responses of broiler chickens offered cold water and vitamin C during hot-dry season
Authors: Abioja M. O. , Osinowo O. A. , Smith O. F. , Eruvbetine Daisy
Published: February 2021

The effects of cold water and vitamin C on broilers’ rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and haematological parameters were evaluated during dry season. Two hundred and sixteen 4-week-old Anak 2000 broilers fed ad libitum were offered either water at ambient temperature (29.5oC; ORD) or cold water (8.0oC; COLD) to which either 0 (-C) or 500 mg vitamin C per litre water (+C) was added to give four treatment groups (ORD-C, ORD+C, COLD-C and COLD+C) from week 5 to 8 of age. There were 3 replicates with 18 birds per replicate. RT and RR were taken for three days weekly at 16.00 h. Blood was sampled weekly for haematological, plasma biochemical and triiodothyronine analyses. Data on RT, RR, packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), white blood cell (WBC), heterophil (HET), lymphocyte (LYM), eosinophil (EOS), monocyte (MON), heterophil:lymphocyte ratio (H:L), plasma K+, Na+, glucose (GLU), protein (PRO) and tri-iodothyronine (T3) were subjected to ANOVA using least squares] method. Water temperature had significant (P<0.01) effect on RT and RR. Cold water lowered RT and RR of the birds compared with water at ambient temperature. Similarly, vitamin C in drinking water caused decrease in RT (P<0.001) and RR (P<0.01) compared to ordinary water. Water temperature had no significant (P>0.05) effect on MCHC, MCH, MCV, LMY, EOS, plasma K+, Na+, GLU, PRO and T3. But cold water significantly lowered MON (P<0.05) and increased PCV (P<0.001), RBC (P<0.001),Hb (P<0.001), WBC (P<0.001), HET (P<0.01) and H: L (P<0.05) when compared with water at ambient temperature. Addition of vitamin C significantly increased LYM (P<0.05) and H:L (P<0.05) but decreased HET (P<0.05) when compared with birds that received no vitamin C. Vitamin C had no significant (P>0.05) effect on PCV, RBC, Hb, WBC, MCHC, MCH, MCV, plasma K+, Na+, GLU, PRO and T3. There were significant (P<0.01) interactions between water temperature and vitamin C on HET, LYM and H: L. Broiler chickens offered ORD+C had significantly lower HET and H: L than those offered ORD-C, COLD-C and COLD+C. However, the LYM was highest in ORD+C birds. High HET and H:L, and low LYM are indicators of heat stress in poultry. In conclusion, cold water and vitamin C were effective in reducing broilers’ RT and RR in the afternoon during hot-dry season. Either of the two may improve the well-being of broilers during dry season.
Effects of replacing groundnut cake with Gmelina arborea leaf meal in the diets of growing rabbits
Authors: Adeniji A. A.
Published: February 2021

Seventy-two (72) grower rabbit were used to assess the replacement of groundnut cake with Gmelina arborea leaf meal in the diets of grower rabbits and determining its effect on growth; nitrogen digestibility and the economics of rabbit production. There were six (6) dietary treatments with Gmelina arborea leaf meal replacing groundnut cake at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%. Each treatment was replicated three (3) times with four (4) rabbits per replicate in a completely randomize blocked design (CRBD). Proximate analysis of Gmelina arborea leaves on air-cured basis showed that the leaves contained Dry Matter of 92.8, Crude Protein of 12.2, Crude Fibre of 24.88, Ether Extract of 2.18, Ash of 10.5 and Nitrogen Free Extract of 49.3%; with a Metabolizable Energy of 480Kcal/g. Results showed that the final body weight, body weight gain and feed to gain ratio showed no significant difference (P>0.05) between the treatments. The feed intake and cost of feed showed significant effect (P<0.05) between the treatments. The cost of feed decreased as more Gmelina arborea leaf meal replaced groundnut cake in the diets. Profit, gross profitability and feed cost efficiency increased as more Gmelina arborea leaf meal replaced groundnut cake in the diets. The study revealed that Gmelina arborea leaf meal can be used to replace 60% of groundnut cake in the diets of grower rabbits.
Accessing the nutritional composition and phytochemical screening of Panicum maximum and Newbouldia laevis leaves
Authors: Yusuf A. O. , Sowande O. S. , Sogunle O. M. , Akinbami V. A. , Oyebanji O. O. , Yusuf O. A. , Ekunseitan D. A. , Adeleye K. A. , Aina A. B. J.
Published: February 2021

Ruminant livestock in most parts of the tropics graze extensively on naturally growing forages which are poor in quality. These tropical forages compared to those in the temperate, support lower levels of ruminant animal production mainly because they contain less nitrogen and are less digestible. The quality and quantity of these grasses become more critical in the dry seasons and thereby imposing more serious constraint to the development and productivity of these animals. Therefore, a study was conducted to access nutritional composition of Panicum maximum and Newbouldia laevis. Phytochemical screening of Newbouldia laevis was also carried out. Newbouldia laevis had higher crude fibre, ether extract and crude protein compared to Panicim maximum. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of Tannin, Alkaloids, Flavonoids and Saponnin in Newbouldia laevis. The percentages of tannin, alkaloids, flavonoids and saponin in the Newbouldia laevis were 11.5, 52.07, 3.1 and 0.64, respectively while none was recorded for Panicum maximum. The relatively high crude fibre, ether extract and crude protein values for both plants s appeared satisfactory for animal production. Also, the presence of the phytochemicals in the plant showed it importance in ethno veterinary medicine and pharmacology.
Assessment of heavy metals concentration in the intestine, kidney and muscle of Oreochromis niloticus in Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta reservoir
Authors: Adeosun F. I. , Akinyemi A. A. , Abdul W. O. , Agbon A. O. , Odebiyi O. C.
Published: February 2021

Different sizes of Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) were caught using cast net in FUNAAB reservoir. Water samples were also collected and analyzed for five metals: Lead, Chromium, Cadmium, Zinc, and Copper by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). During the experiment, three tissues were compared with the level of metal in water, Intestine, Kidney and Muscles. Generally, lower concentrations of metals were recorded in water than in fish tissues; lower concentration in the tissue of O niloticus except were found in the water which is less than the recommendation for human consumption by World Health Organisation. Lead was found to be the dominant in the intestine of Oreochromis niloticus while Chromium was recorded the least of all the metals. There is a significant difference (P<0.05) in heavy metal concentration in the tissue of O niloticus except for Chromium. Though, the heavy metals of interest were present in a measurable quantities, they are still within safe limits for consumption.
Growth performance and nutrient utilization of post fingerlings Clarias gariepinus fed varied levels of biscuit waste
Authors: Agbebi O. T. , Sofela S. O. , Idowu M. A. , Cole A. O.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of biscuit waste meal on the growth performance and utilization of Clarias gariepinus juveniles. A total of 300 juveniles of average weight 8.85g were randomly divided into five Treatments, each Treatment had three replicates. Twenty juveniles were distributed into each happa (0.7m3). The happa were suspended to ¾ of their volume using kuralon ropes carefully tied round the bamboo poles across the concrete tanks. Five diets containing 40% crude protein were formulated in which maize was replaced with biscuit waste meal at treatment; Diet 1 (TD1) 0%, 25% (TD2), 50% (TD3), 75% (TD4), 100% (TD5) levels. The fish were fed at 3% body weight per day for 10weeks. The results showed that biscuit waste was most suitable as an energy supplement when incorporated at 25% replacement (TD2) with maize. TD1 had the highest weight gain followed by TD2, TD3, TD4 and TD5 respectively. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the growth response in TD1 (0%), TD2 (25%) and TD3 (50%). It is therefore concluded that biscuit waste meal is a cheap source of non conventional energy source which can be used favorably to replace maize (25% inclusion level) as an energy source in the diets of C. gariepinus.