bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of garlic (Allium sativum) and vitamin E on semen characteristics, reproductive performance and histopathology of rabbit bucks
Authors: Ekuma B. O. , Amaduruonye W. , Onunkwo D. N. , Herbert U.
Published: February 2021

Researches have proven that garlic has medicinal, antimicrobial properties, speeds up digestion and widely used as preservatives, spice and condiment in many homes Vitamin E on the hand is a fat soluble vitamin with potent antioxidant properties essential for the stabilization of biological membranes, protecting cells from oxidative stress and inhibits angiogenesis. Thus, a study using thirty-six (36) pre-pubertal New Zealand White rabbit bucks was conducted to investigate the physiological response of garlic and vitamin E supplementations on libido, gonadal and extra-gonadal sperm characteristics, reproductive hormone and testicular histology of rabbit bucks. The bucks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments and replicated three times in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each dietary treatment consisted of 9 rabbits per treatment with 3 rabbits per replicate. Four dietary treatments were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of rabbits supplemented at 0% garlic and vitamin E (T1), 3% garlic (T2), Vitamin E (T3), and 3% garlic and Vitamin E (T4) respectively. Data were collected on the libido, seminal characteristics, seminal plasma, testicular morphology and hormones. The testicles were collected and processed for histopathology. Data collected on different parameters were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed that significantly (P<0.05) differences were observed in all the seminal characteristics parameters, on the testicular weights, volumes and on the reproductive hormones compared with the control. Testicular histology showed increased in number of seminiferous tubules with the supplementation. These results proved that both garlic and Vitamin E improve semen production both in quality and quantity and the overall reproductive performance. Moreover, combination of the garlic and vitamin E gives a better result. Therefore, garlic and vitamin E should be used together for better quantitative and qualitative semen production and reproductive performance in breeding animals
Prediction of body weight with morphometric traits in some broiler chicken strains
Authors: Nosike R. J. , Onunkwo D. N. , Obasi E. N. , Amaduruonye W. , Ukwu H. O. , Nwakpu O. F. , Ezike J. C. , Chijioke E. I.
Published: February 2021

Morphometric traits also called linear body measurements or conformation traits are important parameters in predicting body weight especially in commercial breeders and producers. Thus, the study was carried out to predict body weight of broiler using linear body measurement. In this study, a total of 270 day old broiler chicks comprising of 90 chicks each of Abor Acre, Ross and Marshal Strains were used. Data were collected on body weight using body measurements to include breast length (BRL), thigh width (TW), shank length (SL), keel length (KL), wing length and drumstick length (DL). The regression analysis was simple linear regression. The values of the coefficient of determination (R2) in Abor Acre, Ross and Marshall strains ranged from 89.8 – 99.8; 88.4 – 98.9; and 80.8 – 99.5 respectively with thigh width showing the highest % R2 value of 99.8% in week 2; 66.5 – 97.9; 60.3 – 80.4 and 28.6 – 72.3 respectively with breast length (97.9%) having the highest % R2 value. This showed that breast length was the best predictor of the body weight of the broiler in week 4; 38.5 – 100; 88.0 – 98.6; 17.0 – 94.8 with shank length (100%) showing a 100% R2 value. This showed that breast length was the best predictor of the body weight of the broiler in week 4; 38.5 – 100; 88.0 – 98.6; 17.0 – 94.8 with shank length (100%) showing a 100% R2 value in week 6; 76.9 – 96.3, 72.2 – 88.8 and 58.1 – 97.6 respectively with wing length recording the highest % R2 value in week 6; 76.9 – 96.3, 72.2 – 88.8 and 58.1 – 97.6 respectively with wing length recording the highest value (97.9%) week 8. The different strains had different coefficient of determination (R2) values above 50% with different linear body parameter at different ages of the birds, indicating that any of the linear body parameter could be used to predict body weight of broiler chicken although, accuracy of prediction increased with increasing R2 value. Amongst all the linear body parameters evaluated, the shank length of Abor Acres strain had highest R2 value (100%) in week 6. Thus shank length was the best linear body parameter with 100% accuracy of prediction, and may be useful criterion in estimation of growth and prediction of body weight.
Fecundity and food habits of the slender stonebasher (Hippopotamyrus ansorgii Boulenger, 1905) (Mormyridae) in Ogbese river
Authors: Odedeyi D. O. , Odedire I. M.
Published: February 2021

Fecundity study is important in order to evaluate the reproductive potentials of fish species. Thus, fecundity and food habits of Hippopotamyrus ansorgii (H. ansorgii) from Ogbese river were investigated. Total of 32 specimens of H. ansorgii were used. The major fishing method employed for collecting the specimens were cast and gill netting. Fecundity and food habits the fish were studied. The total lengths ranged from 14.6 cm to 22.1cm while the body weights ranged from 30.0 to 91.0 g. The food items found in the examined stomachs were rotifer, algae, insects, crustacean, detritus and plant parts but the major food items based on the ranking index were insects and crustaceans. The sex ratio of H. ansorgii was 1.13: 1 for males: females. The gonadosomatic index showed that H. ansorgii in Ogbese river uses an average of 11.69% of its body weight in egg production. Fecundity ranged from 600 to 7200 eggs with an average of 3231 eggs per female. In conclusion, H. ansorgii in Ogbese river was an omnivore and highly fecund fish.
Effect of L-Dopa on performance and serum cholesterol of Nera black pullets
Authors: Omidiwura B. R. O , Agboola A. F , Akogun O. A.
Published: February 2021

L-Dopa in raw or processed mucuna seed, in the presence of antinutritional factors, has been implicated to have caused nutritional disorders in monogastrics. However, the use of pure LDopa is established in broilers and quails to enhance growth performance, cholesterol profile, and reproductive organs without detrimental effect. Information on the effect of LDopa on hydrolysis of triglycerides and growth performance in laying birds is scanty. In a 56- day experiment, 300 eight-weeks old Nera Black layers were fed diets supplemented with LDopa at 0.0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% dietary levels respectively in a completely randomized design. Feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio were determined. Blood (5mL) was sampled from two birds per replicate at the end of the feeding trial to determine serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein and blood parameters using standard procedures. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at á0.05. The L-Dopa inclusion at all dietary inclusion levels did not significantly influence the feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio, serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein and blood parameters. There were no observable significant differences in all the parameters measured probably because of the growing stage of the experimental birds. It can therefore be concluded that L-Dopa supplementation in the diets of pullets at 0.1% to 0.4% inclusion levels did not cause any deleterious effect on the overall performance.
Microbial load of some imported frozen fish species in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Taiwo I. O. , Olopade O. A. , Bamidele N. A.
Published: February 2021

Freezing preserves food by stopping the growth and multiplication of microbes or by halting enzymatic activities in foods that would otherwise cause spoilage. This study was conducted to identify and profile the microbes present in frozen fish. Five frozen fish species, Trachurus trachurus, Scombers combrus, Larimichthys crocea, Gadus chalcogrammus and Oreochromis niloticus, were purchased from Ijora–Olopa frozen fish sales outlet in Lagos State and transported in ice-flakes to the laboratory for microbiological analysis of the skin, muscles and gills. S. scombrus and G. chalcogrammus had the highest (5.30 x 102 cfu/g) and lowest microbial loads (1.85 x 102 cfu/g) respectively. The result however showed that L. crocea and G. Chalcogrammus were noticed to be significantly different (P<0.05) for coliform count on both the skin and the gills. These values were much higher than the recommended public health and safety standard values that ranged from 5.0 × 10 and 1.0 × 106CFUg-1, approved by Nigerian National Agency for Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Hence, it is necessary that frozen foods should be properly cooked before consumption and effective hazard analysis and critical control points implemented. The predominant bacteria species isolated were Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, E. Coli and Salmonella spp while the predominant fungal species isolated were Apergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger and Yeast.
Genetic parameters for egg production traits in crosses between local and exotic chickens estimated by Bayesian inference
Authors: Udeh I. , Omeje S. I.
Published: February 2021

Estimates of genetic parameters for economic traits are important to enable the breeder estimate the breeding value of individuals available for selection. Thus, this study was carried out to estimate genetic parameters namely heritability and genetic correlations among egg production traits in two strain crosses using bivariate animal model in Bayesian (MCMC) method. The egg production data were obtained from four generations which comprised the base population of two commercial egg strains and the local chicken, the inbred population derived from the base population, the F1 crossbred population obtained from the crossing of the local and exotic inbred chickens and the backcross population obtained from the backcrossing of the crossbred to their parents. A total number of 1,138 daughters of 62 sires and 620 dams were used for the study. The autocorrelations among samples in the MCMC chain were less than 0.1 for all lag values indicating that all samples of the posterior distribution were independent. The estimated heritability for age at first egg, body weight at first egg, hen day egg number, weight of first egg, egg weight at thirty week and egg weight at forty week were 0.62, 0.48, 0.47, 0.53, 0.54 and 0.56 for strain 1 crosses and 0.43, 0.48, 0.49, 0.52, 0.52 and 0.53 for strain 2 crosses. The corresponding highest posterior density interval ranged from 0.22 to 0.91 for strain 1 crosses and 0.07 to 0.83 for strain 2 crosses. The genetic correlations among egg production traits ranged from 0.06 to 1.97 in strain 1 and 0.06 to 2.59 in strain 2 crosses. The estimates were within the range reported in literature for egg production traits in chicken and imply that appreciable amount of additive genes exist in the strain crosses which could be used for the selection of superior birds. The magnitude of genetic correlations implies that selection of one trait could lead to correlated response to the other traits.
Nutritional potential of (dc.) Hochst. pods in the semi-arid zone of Nigeria
Authors: Abdurrahaman S. L. , Muhammad I. R. , Ahmad M. Y.
Published: February 2021

ThestudywasconductedtoevaluatethenutritivevaluesofPiliostigmareticulatumpodsfrom field grown stands within the semi-arid zone of Nigeria. 250 fruiting trees from five locations within coordinates of longitude 11 42' to 12 27' and latitude 07 29' to 11 04' with 50 stands per location were monitored up to pod maturity to 80% dried pods. The harvested pods were sampled and bulked in 50kg jute bag per location and analyzed for nutritive values, antinutritional factors (ANFs), macro-and micro-minerals.Multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select the fruiting trees and which were monitored incompletely randomized design (CRD). The results revealed that locations had significant differences (P<0.05) in all parameters evaluated except for Phytate (PHY) and Saponins (SAP). DM (94.83%), OM (89.23%), EE (3.66%), K (14.05g/kg) and Cu (35.53mg/kg) obtained from Itas-Gadau were statistically superior (P<0.05) to others; sample obtained from Dutse-Ma proved superior (P<0.05) in ASH (6.16%), CP (19.46%), P (1.06g/kg), Zn (33.26mg/kg), Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) (0.36mg/g) and Tannins (TAN) (1.21mg/g); Results obtained from Potiskum revealed superiority (P<0.05) in CF (16.90%), NDF (53.17%) and HEMCELL (13.62%) than others; Jahun sample lead (P<0.05) in NFE (68.94%), ADF (40.51%) and Mn (208.77mg/kg) and sample from Dambatta had higher values (P<0.05) in Ca (2.08g/kg) and Fe (29.80mg/kg). The study concluded that the values obtained on nutritive, antinutritive and minerals compositions of Piliostigma reticulatum pods were within the recommended requirement for ruminant nutrition and therefore recommended its use as feedstuff.
Effects of garlic (Allium sativum ) and vitamin E on blood profile, growth performance and internal organ characteristics of rabbit bucks
Authors: Amaduruonye W. , Ekuma B.O. , Onunkwo D.N. , Herbert U.
Published: February 2021

Studies have shown that garlic has medicinal, antimicrobial properties, speeds up digestion and widely used as preservatives, spice and condimentin many homes. Vitamin E on the other hand is a fat soluble vitamin with potent antioxidant properties essential for the stabilization of biological membranes, protecting cells from oxidative stress and inhibits angiogenesis. Thus, a study using thirty-six (36) pre-pubertal New Zealand White rabbit bucks was conducted to investigate the response of garlic and vitamin E supplementation on haematological indices, serum biochemistry and growth performance. The bucks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments and replicated three times in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each dietary treatment consisted of rabbits per treatment with 3 rabbits per replicate. Four dietary treatments were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of rabbits supplemented at 0% garlic and vitamin E (T ), 3% garlic (T ), Vitamin E (T ), and 3% garlic and Vitamin E (T ) respectively. Data collected on the growth performance, haematology and serum biochemistry parameters and on the internal organ characteristics were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed that significantincrease (P<0.05) were observed in final body weight, ear length, forelimb, hind- limb and body length for rabbits fed supplementation of garlic, vitamin E and its combination, while tail length, head to shoulder significantly decreases. Hematological parameters showed significant increases in red blood cellcount for vitaminE group while T was higher on MCHC. White blood cell and its differentials increased significantly on T, T and T Serum biochemical characteristics were significantly higher on total protein, globulin and creatinine; while cholesterol, glucose and ALP reduced significantly on T , T and T  It could be concluded that combination of garlic and vitamin E improved performance and blood profile of rabbit bucks compared to when they are used individually.
Nutrient digestibility and growth performance of cockerels fed processed sickle pod (Senna obtusifolia) seed meal based-diets
Authors: Augustine C. , Kwari I. D. , Igwebuikwe J. U. , Adamu S. B. , Medugu C. I. , Khobe D. , Babale D.A.M , Obidah L. U.
Published: February 2021

A Feeding trial was conducted for sixteen weeks to evaluate nutrient utilization and growth performanceofcockerelsfedprocessedSennaobtusifoliamealbased-diets.Sixexperimental diets werecompounded tocontain 0%and20%eachoftheraw,boiled, soaked, sproutedand fermented Senna obtusifolia seed meal designated T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6, respectively. Data were collected on nutrient digestibility, feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality. Poor nutrient digestibility for crude protein (45.18%), nitrogen free extract (42.39%) and ether extract (49.22%) were recorded in the group of cockerels fed raw Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diet. However, better nutrient digestibility for crude protein (76.23%), nitrogen free extract (67.62%) and ether extract (68.65%) digestibility was observed in the group of cockerel fed 0% Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diet. Among the cockerels fed the processed Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diets, those fed the fermented Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diet showed better crude protein (75.08%), ether extract (68.65%) nitrogen free exract (67.62%) and crude fibre (32.78%) digestibility. The result of productive performance revealed a significantly (P<0.05) low total feed intake (3242.13 g), total weight gain (806.50 g) and the poorest feed conversion ratio(4.02) in the group of cockerels fed raw Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diet. The group of cockerels fed the processed Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diets indicated significant (P<0.05) improvement in productive performance with those fed the fermented Senna obtusifolia seed meal based-diet recording the highest total feed intake (3552.51 g), total weight gain (1079.79 g) and the best feed conversion ratio (3.29). It can be concluded that 20% of fermented Senna obtusifolia seed meal can be incorporated in the diets of cockerels without depreciationinnutrientdigestibilityandproductiveperformance.
Economic evaluation, carcass characteristics and organ weights of broiler chickens fed graded levels of raw tropical sickle pod seed meal based-diets
Authors: Augustine C.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of raw Senna obtusifolia seed meal (RSOSM) on carcass characteristics, organ weights and economic performance of broilerchickens in a 9 weeks trial. One hundred and eighty (180) broiler chicks weremanaged on deep litter pens. Six (6) experimental diets were formulated to contain RSOSM at concentrations of 0,5, 10, 15,  20 and 25%, and designated as T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6, respectively. The broiler chicks were randomly allotted to the 6 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with pen location serving as the blocking factor. Data were collected on final live weight, plucked and dressed weight, cut-up parts and economic performance of broiler chickens fed RSOSM based-diets. The data collected were analysed using a computer statistical package (Statistix, 9.0). Carcass parameters such as dressed weight and dressing percentage were observed to be depressed as the level of RSOSM increases in the diets. Dressing percentage decreased from 78.69 to 52.38% in T1 to T6, respectively. The weight of cut-upparts followed similar trend as above. Thigh and drum stick significantly (P<0.05) decreased from 10.16 to 7.88 g and 9.01 to 6.11g in T1 to T6, respectively. The result of organ weights indicated significant (P<0.05) reduction in weights as the level of RSOSM increases in the experimental diets exceptfortheliverwhich indicated significant (P<0.05)increasein weightas the levels of RSOSM increases in the diets. On economic ground, inclusion of RSOSM beyond 5% in the diets of broiler chickens is not cost effective. This is because feed cost per kilogram weight gain was observed to increase as the level of RSOSM increases in the diets. Feed cost per kilogram body weight gain was observed to increase from N223.84 to N290.18 in T1 to T6, respectively. In conclusion, incorporation of RSOSM beyond 5% in the diets of broiler chickens showed depressive effects on carcass yield and organs weight. Furthermore, inclusion of RSOSM beyond 5% in the diets of broiler chickens is not cost effective. It is recommended that the seeds of RSOSM be thoroughly processed before incorporation in the diets of broiler chickens. There is also urgent need to conduct more studies on the best processing method(s) that will effectively detoxify RSOSM and improve its utilization.
High quality cassava peel fine mash as replacement for maize in diets of growing pigs: 2. Effects on nutrient and fibre fraction digestibility
Authors: Fatufe A. A. , Adebiyi O. A. , Adesehinwa A. O. K , Ajayi E. , Abidoye R. K. , Samireddypalle A. , Afolabi O. O.
Published: February 2021

Twenty growing pigs with an average initial weight of 53±0.5 kg (± SE) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with four replicates per treatment and one animal in each replicate. A total tract digestibility trial was carried out to determine the effect of partial replacement of maize with graded levels of high quality cassava peel (HQCP) mashon the nutrient digestibility and fibre fraction digestibility of growing pigs. The control diet T1 had 40% of maize, while the dietary treatments T2, T3, T4 and T5 had7.5, 15, 22.5 and 30% of HQCP corresponding to replacement of maize by 0, 19, 38, 56 and 75% respectively. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in apparent nutrient digestibility coefficient of dry matter, nitrogen free extract, organic matter and energy. There were significant(P<0.05)variationsintheapparentdigestibilityofcrudeprotein,crudefibreand ether extract and the crude protein digestibility decreased as the level of HQCP increased from 7.5 to 30%. Also, there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in acid detergent fibre and acid detergent lignin digestibilities with the inclusion of HQCP compared to the control, whereas there was no significant (P>0.05) influence of HQCP inclusion on hemicellulose digestibility among the treatments. It can thus be concluded that the nutritional potential of high quality cassava peel can still be realised when fed up to 30% in growing pig diet
Evaluation of differently processed African star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito ) kernel meal as feed for growing rabbits
Authors: Makinde O. J. , Aremu A. , Alabi O. J. , Jiya E. Z. , Tamburawa M. S. , Omotugba S. K.
Published: February 2021

A 12-week study was carried out to examine the effect of substituting dietary maize with differently processed African star apple kernel meal (ASAKM) on growth performance, blood indices and economic benefits of growing rabbits. A total of 60 weaner rabbits (mixed breed, average weight, 590g) were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments comprising of 10% each of boiled, fermented, roasted and soaked African star apple kernel meal as substitute for dietary maize. Diet 1 (0%ASAKM) served as the control diet. Each of the five treatments was replicated thrice. Each replicate had four rabbits in a Completely Randomized Design. Rabbits fed diets containing 10 % boiled and 10 % roasted ASAKM gained weight (P<0.05) faster than those fed other diets. Feed conversion ratio was significantly better (P<0.05) for rabbits fed BASAKM and RASAKM diets. There were no significant (P>0.05) differences in the blood parameters measured except the white blood cell (WBC), alkaline phosphate(ALP),  aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferases (ALT) (P<0.05). Economic analysis showed significant differences (P<0.05) in all the parameters measured. Cost of feed/kg was significantly reduced (P<0.05) with inclusion of ASAKM in rabbit diets. Production cost and revenue (₦) were better (P<0.05) among rabbits fed Boiled ASAKM diet. It was concluded that either BASAKM or Roasted ASAKM can replace 10 % dietary maize in the diets of growing rabbits without compromising growth performance, blood profiles and economic benefits of growing rabbits.
Effect of genotype on body weight and average feed intake of f locally-adapted turkey of Nigeria
Authors: Nosike R.  J. , Igwe R. O. , Okocha C. N. , Inyang E. C. , Nwakpu O. F. , Onunkwo D. N. , Ezike J. C.
Published: February 2021

A total of 78 day-old Random-bred Nigerian local turkey poults were used as parent stock to generate 232, 1 day-old poults ( ) used in the evaluation of the Nigerian local turkey phenotypes based on egg quality parameters. Three phenotypic classes (black, white and spotted) were obtained as base population and used to generate F progeny for the study. Experimental design for the experiment was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with phenotypic class as major factor of interest. Results showed that Initial body weights were 62.39g, 62.56g and 62.43g in black, white and spotted respectively, whereas final body weights were 2761.25g, 2586g and 2697.58g in black, white and spotted respectively, and differed significantly (p<0.05) in weeks 13 and 17 with the heaviest weight in black phenotype. Therewas no significant difference (p>0.05) in bodyweights of the phenotypes in all other weeks. With the exception of weeks 3 and 13 in which there were significant differences (p<0.05), there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in average daily feed intake (ADFI) in all other weeks. It was therefore, concluded that for rapid improvement of these traits, the black variety could be used to enhance growth of Nigerian local turkeys in the study area. The present findings could assist in the design of long-term genetic improvement programmes for turkey production in Nigeria.
Blood profile of growing rabbits fed roasted solvent extracted castor seed meal
Authors: Ogunbode A. A. , Oladapo O. S. , Adeniyi O. A. , Oyetola A. M.
Published: February 2021

Sixteen growing rabbits with mean initial body weight of 750g were used in a feeding trial that lasted 56 days. The animals were randomly allotted into four (4) dietary treatment groups consisting of four (4) animals per group. Each treatment groups was replicated twice with individually housed rabbit per replicate.Thefourdietarytreatmentscontained0,0.5,1.0and 1.5% replacement levels of roasted-solvent extracted castor seedmeal (RSECSM) for soyabean in a completely randomized design experiment. The parameters investigated were haematological and serum indices. At the end of the feeding trial, blood samples were collected from the animals through the heart (left side) for haematology and serum indices. Eight (8) growing rabbits at the rate of two (2) animals per treatment were stunned and sacrificed for the blood collection. Data obtained were subjected to one way analysis of variance. The results show that feeding of RSECSM to growing rabbits did not show any significant (p>0.05) effecton PCV, Hb and RBC while the inclusion of RSECSM at graded dietary level had significant (p<0.05) effect on the WBC, WBC counts and Platelets. The WBC values ranged from 11025.0014900.00 while the values for platelets ranged from 72500.00 – 30500.00 respectively. Among the leukocyte differential counts examined lymphocytes, monocyte and eosinophil were significantly (p  <0.05) different among the dietary treatments, however neutrophil was not significantly (p >0.05) different among the means. The serum indices such as total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine examined were not significantly(p >0.05) affected by the dietary treatment except the cholesterol. The results of this study indicated that 1.5% inclusion levels of RSECSM in the growing rabbit diet affect some haematological parameters while it appears to be the optimum level for serum indices.
Effect of enzymes supplementation on growth performance, haematological and serum biochemical responses of grower rabbits fed sorghum based diets
Authors: Oguntoye M. A. , Mafindi U. M. , Ardo B. A. , Gangum I. E. , Amos D.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of sorghum based diets supplemented with enzyme on haematological and serum biochemical responses of grower rabbits. A total of twenty four grower rabbits were used for the investigation which lasted eight weeks. Four experimental diets were formulated which included maize based diet (Control), sorghum based diet supplemented with; Protease (D2), Phytase (D3) and PhytasewithProtease(D4).The rabbits were randomly assigned to the four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. Rabbitsfed diet containing sorghum with phytase (D3)had high significant (p< 0.05) value of 115.10g for final weight. Least statistically similar values of 1136.80g and 1033.60g were obtained for rabbit fed sorghum with protease plus phytase (D4) and control diet, respectively. The weight gain followed similar trend with the final weight. The dietary treatments had no significant influence (p > 0.05) on all haematological parameters determined. A range of 2.90-3.15 ×10 /l was recorded for red blood cell, and 5.710.60×10/l for White blood cell While MCH and MCV random 27.1632.75pg and 88.5589.35fl, respectively. Sorghum based diet supplemented with enzymes showed significant (p< 0.05) on serum biochemical indices. Parameters that were significantly influenced include; Total protein, globulin, urea, creatinine and cholesterol. Rabbits fed sorghum based diet supplemented with phytase (D3) revealed highest (p < 0.05) values for total protein and globulin. Highest (p<0.05) value of 7.05mmol/l,102.25mmol/l and 4.50mmol/l were recorded for urea, creatinine and cholesterol, respectively in the control diet. In conclusion, sorghum based diets supplemented with enzyme improved rabbit performance, had no allergic effect on health status of rabbit and enhanced serum protein bioavailability with efficient nutrient utilization.
Variations in growth performance traits and economic analysis of two Nigerian indigenous chicken strains and their crossbred
Authors: Oleforuh-Okoleh V. U. , Wagoha R.
Published: February 2021

This study was undertaken to compare growth performance and economics of production of two Nigerian indigenous chicken strains andtheircrossbred.The parent lines of theNigerian indigenous chicken population used consisted of two strains, the normal feather (NF)and the naked neck(NN),obtained from pure bred strains of Nigerian indigenous chickens maintained at the Directorate of University farm, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Three genetic groups comprising a combination of NF male X NN female (GG1), NN male X NN female (GG2) and NN male X NF female (GG3) were used for the study. The results revealed that though chicks from GG2 were heavier (P<0.05) than others at hatch, those from GG3 had higher specific growth rate (4.36 and 5.59% greater than values obtained for GG1 and GG2 respectively) which translated to heavier body weight (1116.55g) at 12 weeks of age. Quantity of feed consumed was similar (P>0.05) among the three groups. Birds from GG3 were however, able to utilize feed consumed by 11.21 and 12.93% more efficiently than GG1 and GG2 respectively. Feed cost per kg weight gain was least for GG3 ( 520) with gross margin of 132.35 and 133.43 above GG1 and GG2 respectively. GG3 had the best profitability index and return on investment. Crossbreeding naked neck and normal feather showed superiority in growth and economic returns and is therefore recommended in breeding/production programmes targeted at expanding Nigerian indigenous chicken production.
Feeding low dietary energy for growth of broiler chickens during finisher period provides least feed conversion ration
Authors: Umar A. M.
Published: February 2021

Energy is an important component of diets without which animals will not grow. Thus, a study was conducted to investigate the effect of low dietary energy on growth performance of broiler chicken at finisher stage. Two hundred and twenty five Zartech strain day old chicks were raised intensively for four weeks in a completely randomized design. The birds were grouped into three treatments of 75 birds and sub-divided into three replications of 25 birds. Three experimental diets of three energy levels (2,400; 2,600 and 2,800 ME Kcal/Kg designated A, B and C, respectively) with 20% crude protein were formulated and fed to the broiler chickens to assess feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ration and feed cost gain ration. The data were subjected to one way analysis of variance and means were separated using least significant difference. Results showed that feed intake decreased as the energy value of the feed increased. There was significant (p<0.05) difference in total feed intake between the treatments. No significant (p>0.05) difference was recorded in terms of initial live weight, final live weight, feed conversion ratio, feed conversion efficiency, feed cost and cost/gain. Feed cost showed progressive increase as the energy level of the diet increased. Lowest cost/gain ratio was reported from diet C. It was concluded that feed intake decreased as the energy value of the feed increased. It is therefore, recommended that broiler chickens should be fed with diet containing 2 800 ME Kcal/Kg as it provides the least feed conversion ratio.
Effect of replacing maize with raw Chrysophyllum albidum seed kernels on performance of broiler chicken
Authors: Ajide S. O. , Annongu A. A. , Atteh J. O. , Izebere J. , Alabi O. O. , Shoyombo A. J. , Inape E. S.
Published: February 2021

Maize most often, constitutes the highest proportion of ingredients in diet formulation of any poultry ration and this high inclusion rate translates to high cost of feed because of seasonality in its production and competition for it by man. Thus, an experiment was conducted using 210 unsexed one week old Marshall broiler chicks with an average initial weight of 99.38g to determine the effect of replacing maize with graded levels of raw Chrysophyllum albidum kernel meal (RCKM) on the performance of broiler chickens. The chicks were assigned into seven dietary treatments of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% graded levels of RCKMfor replacingmaize in the diets of the birds. The dietary treatments contained three replicates with 10 chicks per replicate. The proximate composition and phytochemical contents (saponins, phytate, tannins, oxalate, flavonoids, terpenoids and total phenolics) of the RCKMwere determined using the procedures of the AOAC (1990) and Sofowora (1993), respectively. The birds were given feed and water ad-lib and weighed weekly. Routine vaccinations and medications were carried out as at when due. In the course of the experiment, data were collected on the initial weight, feed intake, daily weight gain feed conversion ratio (FCR), mortality rate, final live weights and analysed in a completely randomized design. The proximate composition of the RCKM is shown to contain valuable nutrients (high energy, low protein and appreciable mineral contents). The phytochemical content of the C. albidum revealed that, it contains very high amount of phytate, tannins, flavonoids and total phenolics. Results obtained on the performance characteristics revealed that, there was a very highly significant (p<0.001) decrease in the final live weights, average daily weight gains, feed intake values as the dietary inclusion of the RCKM increased in the diets of the birds. The values obtained for the final live weights were 1,910.16g, 1,255g, 885.00g, 479.24g, 474.11g, 395.00g and 388.83g for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 respectively. The average daily weight gains were 32.34g, 20.66g, 14.04g, 6.78g, 6.69g, 5.29g and 5.15g, the feed intake valueswere 116.87g, 99.37g, 91.32g, 71.40g, 69.90g, 68.36g, 65.23g, respectively for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 respectively. This was accompanied by poor feed conversion ratios and high cost per kg weight gains. In conclusion, though Chrysophyllum albidum kernel meal has potentials for animal feeding due to its high energy levels but there is the need to adequately detoxify the antinutritional factors in the kernels before inclusion in the broilers diet.
Growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed raw and differently processed roselle(Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) seed meal
Authors: Egbewande O. O. , Ibrahim H. , Musa A. B. , Zakari H. A.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and fifty (150)day-old Abor acre broiler chicks were used for this experiment toassess growth performance and carcass characteristics of broilers fed processed roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) seed meal were investigated. The birds were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments with three replicates (ten chicks per replicate)each in a completely randomized design (CRD). In the feeding trial, raw roselle seed meal (R RSM), roasted roselle seed meal (R RSM), boiled roselle seed meal (BRSM) and soaked roselle seed meal (SRSM) were incorporated as part replacement for groundnut cake at 50% level of inclusion.Proximate composition of the processed test ingredients and the results showed that there were no significant (P>0.05) differences among the treatment means. Raw roselle seed meal (RaRSM) gave the least crude protein while the highest was recorded in boiled roselle seed meal (BRSM). Birds fed diet without roselle seed meal inclusion (control diet) had the best final body weight and feed conversion ratio but not significantly (P>0.05) different from other treatments.Birds in treatments 2 and 4 (RaRSMand BRSM) had the least survival rate (96.67%)while the rest treatments had 100%. Cut-up parts showed no significant (P>0.05) differences exceptfor the wings of the bird fed roasted roselle seedmeal was significantly (P<0.05) different and higher than those fed control, raw, boiled and soaked roselle seed meal (10.87, 7.52, 9.85 and 9.46%, respectively). Results from visceral organs showed no significant (P>0.05) differencesexceptproventriculus which exhibited significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatment means. Proventriculus of bird fed roasted roselle seedmeal (R RSM)was highest (0.80%)while those fed raw roselle seedmeal (R RSM) gave the least (0.50%). This study however, revealed that using processed (roasted, boiled and soaked) roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) seed meal as part replacement for groundnut cake has no deleterious effects onthe broilerchickens.
Growth performance and feeding cost of weaned rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) fed graded levels of oven dried poultry droppings based diet
Authors: Ibrahim H. , Egbewande O. O. , Musa A. B. , Lapai G. I. , Jatau I. B. , Yandalu A.
Published: February 2021

Thirty six weaned mixed breed rabbits aged between 5 -6 weeks were used to investigate the growth performance and feeding cost of rabbits fed graded levels of oven dried poultry droppings. The rabbits were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments with three replicates and three rabbits per replicate in the ratio of 2:1 (2 females and I male) in a completely randomized design. poultry droppings were oven dried at 100 c, 80 c, 60 c, 40 c and incorporated at 0, 20, 40 and 60% levels of inclusion to replace ground nut in the compounded feed or experimental diets and designated as T1,T2 ,T3 and T4 respectively excluding treatment one (T1) . Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA. Growth performance performance of rabbits showed no significant (P>0.05) differences across the treatment groups. However highest average feed intake was recorded in T3 (40 %) inclusion level 473.60 g and the lowest in T3 (40 %) of 458.80 g. The result of cost of feeding revealed that as the inclusion level of oven dried poultry increased the cost of feeding rabbits reduces The trial revealed that oven dried poultry dropping can be used at 40 %level of inclusion in the rabbit dietwithout posing any threat to the animal.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics, digestibility and economics of broiler production fed diets containing different levels of camel rumen content in the Semi- Arid Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed G. , Asheikh L. G. , Kolo U. M. , Abbator F. I. , Chana Z. M. , Musa A. A. , Usman Y.
Published: February 2021

The feeding value of different levels of camel rumen content in broiler diet was investigated using 150 Hover marshal broiler chickens from one-day to 63-days of age. The birds were randomly allotted to five /diets with two replicates of 15 birds each. The diets (starter and finisher) were formulated to contain 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% camel rumen content in T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 diets respectively. At nine week of the experiment three birds per replicate were selected for carcass measurement. The backs, hearts, kidneys, lungs, liver and spleen were not significantly (P > 0.05) different among the treatment groups while other parameters were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups. At week eight of the experiment three birds per replicate were selected for digestibility study. At the starter stage, the daily feed intake and daily weight gain were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups but only the feed conversion ratio was not affected (P>0.05) by the camel rumen content (CRC) in the diets. However, broiler chicks fed CRC T1 (0%), T2 (5%), T3 (10%) and T4 (15%) had better daily weight gain than those fed T5 (20%). During the finisher stage, all the growth parameters were not affected (P>0.05%) by CRC except final body weight which was affected (P<0.05) by the test material. Economic of production showed that CRC diets were not profitable in terms of cost of feed per kg weight gain during the starter stage. At finisher stage the cost of feed per kg weight gain were better in broilers chicken fed CRC based-diets. The result of the experiment showed that camel rumen content can replace maize and groundnut cake up to 15% level without deleterious effect on the roductive performance of broiler chicks.However, at finisher stage up to20%dietarymaize and groundnut cake could be replaced with CRC without adverse effect on the growth performance, carcass parameters, digestibility and economics of production.
Lizard meal as protein source enhanced broiler growth and reduced cost of production in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Olabode A. D. , Ugwuowo L. C. , Agu C. I. , Ojuoloruntaye T. J.
Published: February 2021

The research work was carried out to ascertain the performance and cost benefits of broiler starter birds fed replacement levels of lizardmeal to fishmeal at starter phase.Atotal number of 90 day oldAnak 2000 broiler chickswere used for the experiment. The birdswere assigned to five treatment group of eighteen birds each been replicated thrice with six birds per replicate. Lizard meal was included to replace fish meal at levels of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% respectively. Feed and water were given ad-libitum. Birds fed 75% inclusion levels of lizard meal (treatment 4) to replace fish meal was superior to birds in other treatments in terms of average final body weight, average daily feed intake, average weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Cost benefit analysis also showed that birds in treatment 4 (75% lizard meal inclusion)was better than the rest of the treatment group.
Feed intake, morphological characteristics and economics of production of Red Sokoto goats fed urea treated ensiled cowpea husk based diets
Authors: Olafadehan O. A. , Okunade S. A. , Njidda A. A. , Shoyombo A. J. , Okoye G. C.
Published: February 2021

Body dimension measurements have been used in estimating body weight and appropriate pricing of meat animals. Thus, 18 healthy intact growing Red Sokoto male goats, with 13.4±0.59 kg body weight (BW), were used in a completely randomized design to evaluate the inclusion rates of urea treated ensiled cowpea husk (UECH) at 0, 35 and 70% to replace 0, 50 and 100% of dried brewers' grains (DBG) on voluntary intake, body weight, morphological and testicular characteristics, and economics of production for 70 d. Daily intakes of dry matter (g/d and % BW), crude protein, organic matter, nitrogen free extract, neutral detergent fibre and lignin were not (p>0.05) affected by diets. Whereas intakes of ether extract and hemicellulose progressively decreased (p<0.05), intakes of cellulose and mineral contrastingly increased (p<005) with increasing UECH replacement for DBG. Intake of acid detergent fibre was greater (p<0.05) for the treatment diets relative to the control diet. Diet effects on the body weight, linear body measurements and testicular morphology of the goats were marginal (p>0.05), except for initial scrotal length which was markedly (p<0.05) affected. Cost of feeding declined with the increasing UECH rate in the diet. Cost of feed consumed/goat and cost of feeding/kg BW gain were higher (p<0.05) for the control diet than for the treatment diets. In contrast to savings on cost of feeding which was higher (p<0.05) for 70%UECHthan 35%UECH, differential and relative benefitswere outstanding (p<0.05) for 35%UECH. Value of chevon and net benefitwere greater (p<0.05) for 35% UECH relative to 0 and 70% UECH. These findings suggest that UECH can be safely used up to 70% level in a concentrate mixture for growing goats, completely substituting dried brewers' grains, without depressing voluntary intake, body weight, morphological and testicular parameters, and improve economic benefits to farmers. However, for better economic returns, 35%UECHis superior to70%UECH.
A Phenotypic Trait (Neutrophil: Lymphocyte ratio) of Pure and Crossbred Nigerian Indigenous Pigs
Authors: Oluwole O. O.
Published: February 2021

Pig plays a major role in socio economical by serving as a source of income for rural population and fulfilling an important role in culture and food security. Neutrophillymphocyte ratio (NLR) can be defined as the ratio of absolute neutrophil count to the absolute lymphocyte count. Fifty-one weaners were randomly selected at 9, 17 and 25 weeks of age for haematological analysis. Blood from the jugular veins of these pigs were collected into anti-coagulant bottles and taken to the laboratory for analysis. The blood parameters taken were leukocyte traits represented by neutrophilic count (NEU %) and lymphocyte percentage (LYM %). NLR was calculated by dividing the mean neutrophil counts by the mean lymphocyte count. Haematological data recorded were analyzed by using Analysis ofvariance (ANOVA) and means were separated by DuncanMultiple Range Test (DMRT). The NLR values were significant between the two breeds where NIP NLR was higher throughout the ages.
Effect of dietary inclusion of cashew nut shell liquid on in vitro and in vivo protein digestibility and utilization in West African dwarf goats
Authors: Aderinboye R. Y. , Busari A. A. , Olaoye O. N. , Adelusi O. O. , Adebayo K. O , Onwuka C. F. I.
Published: February 2021

Effect of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) in diets for West African dwarf (WAD) goats on protein digestibility and utilization was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Four diets consisting of Panicum maximum supplemented with concentrate pellets containing 0, 5, 10 and 15mL/kg of CNSL were used. Panicum and pellets were combined in ratio 70: 30 of required dry matter (DM). For in vitro experiment, 500 mg (n=8 per diet) of diet samples (DM basis) were incubated at 39°C for 48 h following the procedure of Menke and Steingass (1988). Dry matter and crude protein digestibility, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and bacteria count were determined after 24 and 48 h incubation by recovering feed residues and rumen liquor. For in vivo experiment, twenty-four WAD goats were divided into four groups of six animals each. Each group was fed one of the four diets at 5% body weight (DM basis). Dry matter and crude protein intake, weight gain, protein efficiency ratio, rumen NH3-N, bacteria count and crudeprotein digestibility were measured during 98 days of feeding and digestibility trial. Experiments were arranged in a completely randomized design and data analyzed using one way analysis of variance procedure of SAS (1999). Results showed that 5 – 15 mL/kg CNSL in supplemental pellets reduced (P < 0.05) protein digestibility in vitro but increased (P < 0.05) total-tract protein digestibility in vivo. In vitro rumen NH3-N decreased (P < 0.05) with 5 – 15ml CNSL inclusion after 24 and 48 h. At 30 and 60 days post-feeding, 10 – 15 mL CNSL reduced (P < 0.05) rumen NH3-N in goats Protein efficiency ratio was higher (P < 0.05) with CNSL and goats fed 15 mL CNSL had the highest (P < 0.05) protein efficiency ratio. Rume bacteria population in vitro and in vivo decreased (P < 0.05) with 5 – 15 mL CNSL in supplemental pellets. In conclusion, the reduced in vitro protein digestibility with reduced NH3-Nproduction and bacteria population in vitro and in vivo suggests an inhibitory effect of CNSL on rumen proteolysis. Cashew nut shell liquid in supplemental pellet for WAD goats up to 15 mL/kg therefore inhibited dietary protein breakdown in the rumen with consequent improvement in protein digestibility and utilization at the lower tract.