bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haematological, serum and carcass characteristics of broiler chicken fed `graded levels of Garcinia kola (Bitter kola) used as phytobiotic
Authors: Sobayo R. A. , Adeyemi O. A. , Oso A. O. , Fafiolu A. O. , Daramola J. O. , Sodipe G. , Ogunade I. B. , Odetola O. M.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Garcinia Kola (Bitter Kola) used as phytobiotic or herbal natural additives on biochemical and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Five diets with different levels of inclusion of the kola were fed to a total of 150 Marshal day- old broilers. There were three replicates of ten birds per replicate. The five diets were made of control diet; diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 had 500ppm, 1000ppm, 1500ppm and 2000ppm of G. Kola respectively. The feeding trial lasted for eight weeks. Data were analyzed using completely randomized design. The results of haematological parameters examined show that there were significant (P<0.05) differences in all the haematological indices measured, the values however, did not follow any particular pattern. Highest haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV) and red blood cells (RBC) values were recorded for birds on 1500ppm compared to other birds with values ranging between 8.40-10.00, 25.00-29.50 and 2.47- 2.77 for Hb, PCV and RBC respectively. The least haemoglobin and PCV values were recorded in diet containing 2000ppm. Dietary supplementation of G. kola revealed significant (P<0.05) effects in the values of albumin and serum aspartate aminotransferase (SAST) with fluctuating values. The albumin level increased from 0ppm to 1500ppm G. kola inclusion levels and later dropped at 2000ppm inclusion level. Birds fed bitter kola had higher values SAST than the control group. Results of carcass analysis study revealed significant (P<0.05) differences in the values obtained for live weight, dressed weight and dressing percentage. Birds fed with 0ppm of Garcinia kola had the highest live weight (2066.70g) while those on 1500ppm had the lowest. The same trend was observed in the mean values obtained for dressed weight. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) for all the organ weights observed except kidney which was found to show improvement with increased bitter kola level. It was concluded that dietary supplementation of broiler chicken with bitter kola produced haematological and carcass results that did not follow any definite pattern.
Effect of dietary L- Carnitine supplementation of diets containing cashew nut reject meal by broiler chickens
Authors: Fafiolu A. O. , Oso A. O. , Idowu O. M. O. , Jegede A. V. , Sobayo R. A. , Oduguwa O. O.
Published: February 2021

In a completely randomized designed, two hundred and forty day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments containing 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5mg kg-1 Lcarnitine. Each of the diets contained equal amount of maize and cashew nut reject meal (CNRM). The birds were randomly divided into sixteen groups of fifteen chicks each after weight equalisation. Each diet was assigned to four groups of birds representing four replicates per experimental diet. Measurements taken during starting and finishing phase included average live weight, average weight gain, average feed intake while feed to gain ratio was calculated. Nutrient digestibility of the experimental diets was also evaluated. Results between 0-4weeks indicated that body weights ranged from 673.71g in the birds that received 2.5mgkg-1 to 700.21g in the birds that received 7.5mgkg-1 L-carnitine. Weight gain and feed intake values were significantly (P<0.05) affected by L-carnitine levels. Feed to gain ratio values were elevated when birds were fed 0 and 2.5mgkg-1 L-carnitine levels. Evaluation of nutrient utilization showed a significant (P<0.05) influence on crude protein and ether extract values. Between 5-8 weeks of rearing, feed intake increased (P<0.05) as Lcarnitine levels increased in diets while lower (P<0.05) feed to gain value was recorded at high level of dietary L carnitine. Nutrients utilization parameters were not affected (P>0.05) during finishing phase. Overall results showed that highest body weight and weight gain were obtained in the group that received 7.5mgkg-1 L-carnitine supplementation. The study showed that supplementing CNRM diets up to 7.5mgkg-1 is beneficial to growth and utilization of broiler chickens. However, this was more effective at the starter phase.
Effect of egg weight and oviposition time on hatchability and post hatch performance of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Egbeyale L. T. , Fatoki H. O. , Adeyemi O. A.
Published: February 2021

A total of three hundred (300) Japanese quail eggs were used to study the effect of oviposition time and egg weight on hatchability and post-hatch performance. The eggs were grouped into two (2) of 150 eggs based on the oviposition time of Morning and Afternoon. The eggs in each group (150) were further sub-grouped based on the egg weights of 8 to10 grams designated as small sized and 10.1 to 12 grams designated as big size in a 2 x 2 factorial design trial of 4 treatments. Each treatment had seventy five (75) eggs each with three replicates. The four treatments groups were; Big Morning, Small Morning, Big Afternoon, Small Afternoon. Each treatment group was replicated three times with each replicates consisting of twenty-five (25) eggs. Hatchability parameters were determined during incubation period of 18 days. The quail chicks were fed ad-libitum and the post- hatch performance was studied for eight (8) weeks. The data generated were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance. Oviposition time and size of the egg significantly (p<0.05) affected the average hatch weight. The effect of interaction of oviposition time and egg size on post-hatch performance did not have any significant (p>0.05) influence. Oviposition time had a positive correlation (p<0.05) with egg weight, egg weight loss, percent egg weight loss and fertility percentage but negatively correlated with average hatch weight and hatchability percentage. Meanwhile egg size had a positive significant (p<0.01) correlation with average hatch weight. It was concluded that eggs ranging between 10.1 to 12 grams will produce higher hatch weight. However, setting of Japanese quail eggs ranging between 8 to 12 grams irrespective of oviposition time could not affect post-hatch performance of the chicks.
Nutrient and anti-nutritional constituents of Penisetum purpureum and four indigenous tree legume of South-Western Nigeria: A potential ruminant feed
Authors: Omoniyi L. A. , Isah O. A. , Olorunsola R. A. , Osofowora O. A. , Akinbode R. M. , Yusuf K. O. , Olanite J. A.
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to investigate the nutrient composition as well as anti-nutritional constituents of some tree plants (Ficus sur, Bridelia macarrantii, Gmelina arborea and Albizia saman) and forage grass (Penisetum purpureum) in south- western Nigeria. Results indicated significant (P<0.05) variability in values of percentage crude protein (9.71 - 23.67%) where Penisetum purpureum recorded the least value and highest value observed in Ficus sur. Dry matter (DM), Crude fiber (CF), Organic matter (OM) and Ash contents varied significantly (p<0.05) from (23.52-46.23%, 8.45 - 30.22%, 64.01 - 96.95% and 2.66 – 8.44%) respectively. Albizia saman recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher ADF value (35.39%) with intermediate value (4.14%) of NDF. Penisetum purpureum had most ADL value (17.19%) while the least value was recorded in Gmelina arborea. Hemicellulose value ranged between (4.45 - 22.23%) with least value recorded by Ficus sur and highest by Penisetum purpureum plants. The concentrations of anti-nutritional factor was generally low, tannin content significantly (p<0.05) ranged from (0.75 - 3.56%) in Ficus sur and Albizia saman respectively. Penisetum purpureum had the least phytate (0.94 %) while Bridelia macarrantii recorded the most phytate value (2.65%). Saponin, Alkaloid and Oxalate level ranged from (0.10 - 1.51%, 0.36 - 1.58% and 0.34- 1.41%) respectively. The results show that the investigated plants seem to have good nutrient composition as well as low level of anti-nutritional factors and therefore can best be incorporated into ruminant feeding systems.
Performance of traditionally-managed Bunaji (White Fulani) cattle under smallholder dairy production systems in Oyo State, South-West, Nigeria
Authors: Olafadehan O. A. , Adewunmi M. K. , Busari A. A.
Published: February 2021

The remarkable reduction in tsetse fly and its vector trypanosomosis in the South-West zone of Nigeria have led to the development of smallholder dairy production which is predominantly practised by the Fulani agropastoralists in the zone. This study was conducted by the administration of structured questionnaires to farmers in the Derived savannah area of Oyo State in the South-West zone of Nigeria with aim of assessing the performance of traditionally managed Bunaji (White Fulani) cattle in this newly encroached zone by the Fulani pastoralists from the northern parts of the country. The survey showed that milk offtake or partial milk yield (0.6 kg/day), pregnancy rate (53.2%), calving rate (49.5%), calf crop (37.11%) and body condition score (4.3) were low and typical of tropical breeds of cattle. Also, average age at first calving (47.8 months) and calving interval (18.1 months) were on the high side. Majority (80%) of the dams produced their young ones during the wet season while a few ones (20%) calved during the dry season. Diarrhoea (84%), helminthosis (72%) and sand eating (64%) were the major diseases of calves in wet and dry season, respectively; whereas in addition to diarrhoea and sand eating, low milk production (90%) was peculiar to adult cattle in dry season. Calves’ overall mortality was 24.11% with majority (73.77%) occurring during the first week of life; it was higher in wet season (86.89%) compared to the dry season (13.11%). Overall mortality for adult cattle was 5.83% with the mortality, in contrast to the calves’ mortality, being higher in dry season (69.39%) than in wet season (30.61%), and the females (91.84%) more susceptible than the males (8.16%). The results indicate that the performance of traditionally-managed cattle in smallholder dairy production systems in Oyo State, South-West, Nigeria is poor and below their genetic potentials due to poor management.
Growth performance and nutrient digestibility of Wistar albino rats fed processed dehulled jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis)
Authors: Abu O. A. , Amusa O. H. , Atoyebi R. O. , Kehinde R. A. , Nworgu F. C.
Published: February 2021

A total of fifty 3-4 weeks old albino rats of the Wistar strain weighing 50-60g were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized block design to investigate the growth performance and nutrient digestibility of the rats fed diets containing processed dehulled jack bean. Five diets were formulated to contain casein (T1)-control diet, dehulled jack bean soaked in filtrate obtained from raw pap(T2), dehulled jack bean soaked in lye solution (T3), dehulled jack bean boiled for 15minutes (T4) while a protein free diet served as a negative control (T5). The experiment lasted for 28-days.Dehulled jack bean significantly (P>0.05) influenced the growth parameters measured for the Wistar rats. Rats on control diets had the highest value for all the growth indices, feed intake (210.90g), final body weight (103.40g), body weight changes (41.90g), feed conversion ratio (5.10) and protein efficiency ratio (1.41). Rats on T2 (soaked in ‘ogi’ liquor) had feed intake value of (147.40g), followed by rats on T4 (boiled for 15minutes) (117.00g), T5 (negative control) (119.07) and T3 (soaked in lye solution) (79.40g) respectively. Rats on T4 had the highest value for final body weight (67.80g), body weight changes (6.30g), feed conversion ratio (12.27) and protein efficiency ratio (0.25) while rats on T3 had the lowest value for final body weight (67.80g), body weight changes (-32.45g), total feed intake (79.40g) with FCR of (-0.96) for the tested diets. Wistar rats placed on lye treated diet had depressed body weight changes of 59.8% compared to the control. Digestibility studies however showed that rats on control diets had the highest digestibility value of DM and other nutrients, while there was no significant (P<0.05) difference in digestibility value of CF, significant (P>0.05) differences existed in DM, digestibility value of CP, EE and Ash. Rats on T3 and T5 had the lowest digestibility value for Ash (11.48) and CP (37.66). Rats fed dehulled jack bean seed soaked in ogi liquor and boiled for 15minutes showed slight improvement in growth performance and nutrient utilization over those fed lye soaked jack bean. All the processing methods were ineffective when compared to the performance of rat fed casein based diets.
A survey of ethnoveterinary botanical remedies in Ogun State and their public health implications
Authors: Awoyomi O. J. , Biobaku K. T. , Kehinde O. O. , Adebowale O. O. , Oyewusi J. A.
Published: February 2021

Twenty four villages were visited during a cross sectional survey of ethno veterinary botanical remedies used for the management of animal diseases in four local government areas randomly selected cutting across the four geopolitical zones in Ogun State. A total of 323 households were purposively selected and administered with a semi structured questionnaire. A total of 319 questionnaires out of 323 were used for the analysis in the study.The farmers were assisted by the enumerators to fill the questionnaires in their homes: information on household demography, common animal diseases in the area, botanical remedies used for treatment, part of plant used, and source of prescription, methods of preparation and administration of these remedies were gathered.Most of the respondents were farmers, majority keeping goats. Out of the 319 respondents 110 (34.4%) admitted using plants in treatment of livestock diseases. Thirty two plant species were identified in the study area for treating livestock ailments. Leaves were the plant part mostly used. Adenopusbreviflorus(Pseudocolocynth) is the most commonly used plant for treatment of many animal diseases in both ruminants and poultry. Most common livestock diseases condition is mange followed by Peste des petits ruminants; however in poultry the most important diseases are Newcastle disease and diarrhoea. Losses to livestock owners were mostly due to infection.There is need for government and non-government intervention in curbing the menace of diseases in livestock production. Reasons for utilization of botanical remedies were identified and public health implications of usage of these herbs were discussed. In conclusion,there is an urgent need for more of this documentationcum scientific and clinical validation of the claims;if not ethno-veterinary botanical knowledge faces the risk of goinginto extinction due to increasing modern veterinary medical intervention.
Microelement contents of two Panicum maximum varieties as influenced by manure type and season
Authors: Dele P. A. , Olanite J. A. , Arigbede O. M. , Sowande O. S. , Ojo V. O. M. , Jolaosho A. O. , Idehen J. O. , Amole T. A.
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to determine the influence of variety, manure type and season on the micro mineral content of two P. maximum varieties. The trial included: two Panicum varieties (Local and Ntchisi), three manure types (cattle dung, swine dung and poultry droppings) plus control (No manure) and two seasons (rainy and dry). Samples were harvested from each plot to estimate dry matter yield (DMY), crude protein, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and microelements (Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn). The DMY of Ntchisi variety was higher (P<0.01) than that of the Local variety. Grasses fertilized with swine manure had the best (P<0.001) DMY while yield was better in the rainy season compared with dry season. There was season difference in the mineral contents except (P>0.05) for Fe. Manure differences were only noticed in the Zn and Mn contents of the grasses. Despite these differences, the grasses contained adequate amount of microelements required by ruminants, with the exception of Cu content in the dry season. In production systems where the two Panicum varieties constitute the major diets of grazing animals, it would be necessary to offer supplementary Cu in the dry season.
Gelatinization of fermented cassava tuber meal and its nutritive value for broilers
Authors: Enyenihi G. E. , Esiegwu A. C. , Esonu B. O. , Uchegbu M. C. , Udedibie A. B. I.
Published: February 2021

The effect of fermentation of cassava tuber followed by its gelatinization was evaluated as a method of processing cassava for use as source of energy in broiler diets. Peeled and unpeeled cassava tubers were separately fermented in water for 4 days, dried in the sun and then milled to produce fermented peeled and unpeeled cassava tuber meals, respectively. The dusty meals were then gelatinized by mixing with water in pots seated over fire at the rate of 1kg of cassava tuber meal to one litre of water and stirred until they gelatinized into fufu. The gelatinized pastes were then taken bit by bit and flattened on polythene sheets and dried in the sun. The resultant fermented and gelatinized peeled and unpeeled cassava tuber cakes were then milled to produce fermented and gelatinized unpeeled cassava tuber meal (UFGC), a brownish-looking non-dusty product and fermented and gelatinized peeled cassava tuber meal (PFGC), an ash-looking non-dusty product. Three broiler diets were made such that diet 1 (control) contained maize as source of energy, while in diets 2 and 3, the maize in the control diet was completed replaced with UFGC and PFGC, respectively, both in the starter and finisher diets. One hundred and twenty (120) broiler chicks were divided into 3 groups of 40 birds each and each group assigned to one of the diets, using completely randomized design, and fed for 4 weeks with the starter diets and finisher diets for another 4 weeks. At the starter phase, the UFGC diets gained significantly (P < 0.05) less weight and consequently had poorer feed conversion ratio. There were no significant differences in feed intake (P < 0.05). At the finisher phase, the group on UFGC gained significantly (P < 0.05) more body weight. The groups on cassava diet tended to consume less feed and so had better feed conversion ratio. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in dressed weights and weights of internal organs but the group on PFGC diet accumulated significantly (P < 0.05) more abdominal fat.
Growth responses of yearling Yankasa rams to four different hays and concentrate supplementation
Authors: Ogedegbe S. A. , Ahmed A. , Imasuen J. A.
Published: February 2021

The objective of the study was to ascertain the feed intake, acceptability of hay and weight gain by yankasa rams fed basal diets of either natural grass hay (NGH) as control, Digitaria exilis hay (DEH), Bracharia decumbens hay (BDH) or Digitaria decumbens hay (DDH) along with equal amounts of concentrate feed as supplement. The 10-week experiment was conducted at the College farm of the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria using Completely Randomized Design. The four hays were allotted randomly to twenty rams housed in separate pens. There were five rams per treatment. Each animal was served 2 kg of the hay treatment, plus 200 g concentrate supplement. The parameters measured were feed intake (FI), water consumed (WC), hay acceptability (HA), weekly weight (WW), total weight gained (TWG) and daily weight gain (DWG) by rams. Hay treatment affected weekly weight of yankasa rams significantly. Daily weight gain was 142.9, 60.7, 42.9 and 10.7 g per day for rams fed with BDH, DDH, DEH and NRH, respectively. At week 10, rams fed with BDH were significantly heavier by 78.0 % than rams fed NGH and heavier by 33.2 % on aggregate than rams fed with DEH and DDH. Total weight gain of rams fed BDH was 809.1 % higher than TWG of animals fed with the control (NGH) treatment. Yankasa rams consumed 2.5 litres of water per head daily. The rams consumed significantly more of the natural grass hay (NGH) than the other hays. Acceptability of NGH, DEH and BDH was similar but DDH was not well accepted by rams. The great prospects of Bracharia decumbens hay for fattening yankasa rams, warrants expansion of this grass by NVRI.
Prevalence and economic loss of bovine tuberculosis in a municipal abattoir, Abeokuta Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Oluwasile B. B. , Awoyomi O. J. , Kehinde O. O.
Published: February 2021

A 12 month cross-sectional study was carried out at Lafenwa Abattoir Abeokuta, Southwestern Nigeria from July, 2011 to June, 2012. This was to determine the prevalence and economic loss of bovine tuberculosis in this abattoir. A total of 928 cases of bovine tuberculosis out of 52,273 cattle slaughtered during this period were condemned, representing a total prevalence of 1.78% (95% CI: 1.31- 2.14%). Typical tuberculous lesions were found in the Lung, Liver and Spleen, higher rate of organ condemnation was observed in the lung followed by liver and spleen. There was statistically significant difference in rate of organ condemnation (P<0.05). The monthly prevalence and sequence plot revealed an epidemic tendency for bovine tuberculosis during this period and there was statistically significant difference between prevalence of bovine tuberculosis and seasonal occurrence. An estimated total loss of N1.2 million (US$7,367) due to bovine tuberculosis was observed in this abattoir for the year. It was concluded that bovine tuberculosis is prevalent with epidemic tendency in cattle destined for human consumption, also with attending serious public health implications and huge loss to both the butchers and national economy.
Haematological and serum biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf goats fed ensiled cassava leaves with or without molasses and caged layer waste
Authors: Oni A. O , Sowande O. S. , Oduguwa B. O. , Yusuf K. O. , Arigbede O. M. , Onwuka C. F. I.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of WestAfrican dwarf goats fed ensiled cassava leaves with molasses and caged layer waste. Eighteen West African dwarf goats were randomly assigned to three experimental diets consisting of cassava leaves ensiled alone (ECF), cassava leaves ensiled with 5% molasses (ECFM) and cassava leaves ensiled with 5% caged layer waste (ECFP) in a Completely Randomized Design. Results obtained showed that ensiling with molasses resulted in lower DM, CP, NDF, tannin and HCN levels. Crude protein intake was similar in ECF and ECFM but lower (P < 0.05) in ECFP ranging from 161.28 - 172.71g/d. The packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) and lymphocyte concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) highest in ECFP but similar with the values obtained for ECF. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in the red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), neutrophil, basophil, eosinophil and monocytes contents in all the treatments. The highest significant (P < 0.05) value of 36.7g/l was obtained in ECFM and values of 29.4 and 24.0g/l in ECF and ECFP respectively for globulin. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in AST content in all the treatments. ALT value of 16.5 IU/L was significantly (P < 0.05) highest in ECF and different from the values of 12.0 IU/L obtained in both ECFM and ECFP respectively. It is concluded that cassava leaves can be conveniently ensiled with 5% of both molasses and caged layer waste without adverse effects on the haematological and biochemical status of WAD goats.
Response of broiler turkeys to graded dietary levels of Palm Kernel Meal in replacement for maize
Authors: Ugwuene M. C.
Published: February 2021

The performance of local broiler turkeys fed dietary treatments in which palm kernel meal (PKM) replaced maize at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 percent was evaluated. The replacement levels of 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 percent represented diets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 respectively. One hundred and eighty dayold unsexed turkey poults were allotted to the six dietary treatments. The treatments were replicated three times. Each replicate having ten poults. The experiment was carried out as a completely randomized design experiment. The feeding trial lasted for 24 weeks. With the exception of mortality, significant differences (P<0.05) existed in the final weight, feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio. The final weight and weight gain of birds fed diet 4 (60% replacement level) were not significantly different (P>0.05) from that of diet 3 (40% replacement level) but were significantly higher (P<0.05) than other dietary treatments. Feed intake and feed conversion ratio increased as the level of replacement increased. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the feed conversion ratio of turkeys fed diets 1, 2, 3, and 4. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in slaughter weight, dressed weight, breast, wings and back cuts of turkeys fed the various dietary treatments. Dressing percentage values were similar for birds fed diets 1, 2, 3, and 5. Abdominal fat of turkeys increased with increasing concentration of PKM at the expense of maize in the diets. The thigh weight of turkeys fed diets 1, 2, 3 and 6 were not significantly different (P>0.05) but were significantly higher than that of diets 4 and 5; whereas the drumstick weight of birds fed diets 2 to 6 were significantly higher than that of diet 1. Similarly meat-to-bone ratio of turkeys fed diet 3-6 were significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of diets 1 and 2. The spleen of turkeys fed diets 2 was higher than others. Palm kernel meal can replace maize up to 60 percent in the diet of local broiler turkeys for good growth and carcass performance.
Growth performance, nutrient intake, digestibility and carcass characteristics of goats fed melon Husk (Colocynthis citrillus) and palm oil slurry (Elaeis guineensis) at 50% inclusion level
Authors: Sanwo K. A. , Iposu S. O. , Okwelum N. , Aderinboye R. Y. , Oso A. O. , Fanimo A. O. , Abiola S. S.
Published: February 2021

Diets containing melon husk (MH) and palm oil slurry (POS) were fed as alternative feed stuffs to sixteen West African Dwarf (WAD) goats whose weight ranged between 9-10kg The WAD goats were assigned to 4 dietary treatments of 4 replicates each, and fed diets containing 0% MH 0% POS(Control diet, Diet 1), 50% MH 0% POS (Diet 2), 0% MH 50% POS (Diet 3), and 50% MH 50% POS (Diet 4), respectively for 8 weeks as finishing diets, Parameters such as nutrient intake, digestibility and growth performance were measured. Results showed average daily weight gains of 27.83, 26.33 and 22.83g/day by goats on diets 1, 4 and 2 respectively, which differed significantly (P<0.05) and corresponded with dry matter intake of 358.59, 359.39 and 357.29g/day, respectively. Although, animals fed Diet 3 had Dry matter intake of 359.39g/day, they had poor average daily weight gain of 17.17g/day and significantly (P<0.05) poor feed conversion ratio of 16.90, dressing percentage of 51.62% and live weight of 10.67kg. Goats on diets 1, 2 and 4 had dressing percentages of 55.43, 54.01 and 54.66% and corresponding live weights of 11.17, 10.83 and 10.93kg, respectively Goats on diet 4 significantly (p<0.05) greater offal weights than goats on other diets. It was evident that all the Diets had positive effect on growth performance except 50% POS. However, all the diets gave good dressing percentage and offal weights were equally influenced by diets.
Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass and economic characteristics of turkey poults fed millet-based diets as a replacement for maize
Authors: Malik A. A. , Ibrahim M. J. , Kudu Y. S. , Jibogun O. P. , Adeniyi Y. J. , Solomon I. K.
Published: February 2021

A nine (9) weeks feeding trial was conducted on seventy two (72) day-old Indigenous turkey poults raised on deep litter to determine their growth performance, carcass and economic characteristics when fed three dietary treatments (T1, T2, and T3, containing 0%, 25% and 50% replacement of maize with millet respectively. The birds were divided into three replicates of 8 birds per replicate; making a total of 24 birds per treatment. At the end of the & week, 4 birds per replicate were transferred to specially-designed metabolism cages for a digestibility study involving the collection of faecal droppings; while at the end of the week of the experiments, two birds per replicate were randomly selected and slaughtered to determine their carcass characteristics. Turkey poults fed millet at 25 %replacement showed significantly (p<0.05) higher body weight gain, lower cost of feed per kg live weight gain and higher revenue generated per bird; but there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in the performance of birds on 0% and 50 % replacements for those parameters. Also, there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in feed intake and mortality across the treatments. Similarly, there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in nutrient digestibilities and carcass characteristics of the birds among the various dietary treatments. Therefore, it can be concluded hat millet cam be used to replace maize up to S0 % in the diets of turkey poults at the starter phase with no detrimental effects on their performance
Growth performance and carcass characteristics of West African Dwarf bucks fed Panicum maximum and Bambara nut (Vigna subterrancea) seed meal supplemented diets
Authors: Odoemelam V. U. , Ahamefule F. O. , Ibeawuchi J. A. , Ezeokeke C. T.
Published: February 2021

Twelve individually housed West African Dwarf (WAD) Bucks averaging 7.3 ±0.91kg were used to study the effect of varying levels of Bambara nut seed meal on the performance and carcass characteristics of West African Dwarf (WAD) Bucks. Four experimental diets designated A, B, C and D were formulated to contain 0, 10, 20 and 3096 Bambara nut meal (BNM) respectively. The twelve WAD bucks were divided into four (4) groups of three animals each. Each group was assigned to one of the four experimental diets in a completely randomized experiment. Each animal in a group represented a replicate. The experiment lasted 56 days, Data on Feed and dry matter intake, Weight gain, concentrate/gain ratio, dressing percentage and carcass quality was collected. Investigations revealed that incorporating BNM in concentrate diets did not significantly (P>0,05) enhance dry matter intake (405, 416, 395 and 407g/day for diets A, B, C and D respectively), daily weight gain (27, 60, 23, and 42g/day for diets A, B, C and D respectively) concentrate /gain ratio (9.36, 5.62, 10.60 and 8.37 for diets A, B, C and D respectively). Dressing percentage differed significantly (P<0.05) among treatment groups and was higher for goats fed the BNM- based diets compared to the control and the values were 40.56, 43.28, 41.85 and 41.34%for diets A, B, C and D respectively. Meat cut values showed that leg. loin and shoulder of all the Jointed parts (Shoulder, leg. loin, sets and ends) were significantly different (P<0.05) among treatment groups. The values were 13.20, 13.56, 12.12 and 11.44 %; 12.38, 11.30, 13.19, 11.97 %; 13.60, 12.37, 10.91 and 11.31 % for goats on diets A, B, C and D for leg, loin and shoulder respectively. There was significant differences (P<0.05) among treatment means for all parts that constitute the offal (head, skin, feet, full gut and empty gut) except for empty gut. On the average Diet B comparatively, yielded lower offal weight. It can be concluded that goats fed Diet B (10% BNM performed better comparatively in terms of feed conversion ratio, dressing percentage and bone to lean ratio.
Growth and biomass yield of two Panicum maximum varieties as affected by weed management and fertilizer application methods in the Humid Savannah zone of Nigeria
Authors: Olanite J. A. , Dele P. A. , Arigbede O. M. , Ojo V. O. A.
Published: February 2021

A field trial was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria to evaluate the effects of weed management and fertilizer application methods on growth and biomass yield of two Panicum maximum varieties. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with two fertilizer application methods. Two weed managements (weeded versus not weeded) and two Panicum varieties {(P. maximum local (unimproved) versus P. maximum Ntchisi (improved)} and two fertilizer application methods (single dose versus split) were set out in a 3x2x2 factorial arrangement. The unimproved P. maximum variety attained significantly (P<0.05) greater height compare to the improved variety while weed management and fertilizer application methods were not significant (P>0.05). Although the unimproved Panicum recorded higher values in leaflength (89.23 versus 76.01 cm) when compared with the improved variety while the leaf width (3.37 versus 3.67 cm), leaf density (639.24 versus 1 004.99 leaf m-2), tiller density (130.82 versus 215.11 tiller m-2) and herbage yield (20.56 versus 26.21 t ha-1) produced were higher (P<0.05) for the improved P. maximum variety. Split application method significantly enhanced better herbage yield as compared to the single application and the unfertilized (control) treatment. The interaction between variety and time of harvest was highly significant (P<0.001) in growth parameters and biomass yields of the two grass varieties.
Effect of organic manure on growth and proximate composition of Treculia africana var. deene seedlings
Authors: Idowu O. J. , Arigbede O. M. , Olanite J. A. , Adedire M. O. , Adeoye S. A. , Adelusi O. O. , Amole T. A. , Ojo V. O. A.
Published: February 2021

A study on the effect of organic manure on seedling growth and proximate composition of T. africana seedlings was conducted to influence the growth and improve the nutritive quality of the plant as an alternative source of feed for dry season feeding. Three months old seedlings of T. africana were transplanted on the field containing samples of organic manure (poultry and cow dung) mix with top soil in a ratio of one kilogram of soil to 25 g of manure and a control (without manure) in a Randomized Complete Block Design which was replicated thrice. The seedlings were assessed for plant height, number of foliage, collar diameter and number of branches. Samples of the seedlings foliage were collected across the treatments and analyzed for proximate composition after the eighth week of transplanting. Seedlings under cow dung application recorded a significantly (P>0.05) higher values for number o foliage per plant (21.82), plant height (66.58 cm), collar diameter (12.96 mm) and number of branches (4.20) at 8 weeks after planting (WAP), followed by seedlings to which poultry manure was applied and lastly by the control. Proximate composition showed that the dry matter (DM) content values of the samples were high which ranged from 894.60- 896.30 g/ kg DM (p<0.05). The crude protein (CP) content followed the same trend as the DM with its values ranging between 143.6 and 149.30 g/kg DM (p<0.05) and the ether extract (EE) values ranging between 22.20 and 23.50 g/kg DM (p<U.05) for the samples collected respectively. The ash content did not vary significantly between the different manure and the control. The Crude fibre was quite significantly (p<0.05) low in the samples ranging from 162.10 and 166.70 g/kg DM. This study showed that cow dung is the most suitable manure for T. Africana seedlings in terms of mineralization and it is relatively fast when compared with poultry manure, and the application of poultry manure has also it has positively influence the growth and development of T. Africana seedlings while poultry manure increased the digestible fraction (i.e crude protein) of the plant.
Isolation of Aeromonas hydrophila in a case of wound infection in cattle in Nigeria
Authors: Awoyomi O. J. , Oyewusi J. A. , Talabi A. O. , Oyewusi I. K. , Biobaku K. T. , Mustapha O. A. , Agbaje M.
Published: February 2021

A three and a half year old N'dama cow weighing about 150kg was rescued from a steel jaw trap during grazing the previous day and presented at the Teaching and Research Farm Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria with a fresh, deep wound. The animal was treated but there were no satisfactory response to Penicillin/streptomycin intramuscular injection at 10,0001U/kg for seven days and also i/m 20% Oxytetracycline injection at 20mg/kg repeated after 48 hours. A loopful of pus samples aseptically taken from the wound were streaked on blood agar base enriched with 7% horse blood (Oxoid, UK) using the quadrant streaking method and incubated aerobically at 37°C for 24-48 hours. Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated which was resistant to the commonly used antibiotics on the farm. Following the results obtained from the sensitivity test, the animal was placed on Enrofloxacin for seven days, the swelling regressed, no pus was expressed from the wound site and no pain was elicited from the joint on application of pressure by the 8th day Aeromonas hydrophila is pathogenic to man; hence care should be taken in handling of animal traps.
Prevalence of ticks in sheep and goats in Abeokuta and its environs
Authors: Iposu S. O. , Okwelum N. , Kumapayi A. O. F. , Talabi A. O. , Sanwo K. , Takeet M. I.
Published: February 2021

This study evaluated The association of breed, sex, age and location of herd/flock (Village. peri-urban and sales point) with prevalence and distribution of ticks in sheep and goats in Abeokuta and its environs, A total of 300 sheep and 300 goats were randomly selected from the three locations. The estimated age, sex, and breeds of each animal were determined. Thereafter, they were examined for presence of ticks, Ticks were collected into universal bottles containing 1% formaldehyde The type, location and load on each animal were also recorded. The ticks were identified up to species level. Data on the animals, management factors and the prevalence of tick were processed into contingency tables to establish the association between the prevalence of tick and the age, sex, breed, and location using Chi-square (X) test statistics. Rhipicephalus evertsi and Boophilus spp were the tick species observed in the sheep. There were significant associations (P< 0.05) of prevalence of ticks, with age and location of goats, and breeds and location of sheep, respectively. It was thus concluded that animal factors of age, breed and location were significantly associated with tick infestation in sheep and goats. West African Dwarf (WAD) and O'uda breeds of sheep exhibited various levels of tick infestation while most of the Yankassa were tick-free. Tick infestation was more common with sheep of the sales point and village locations. It was therefore recommended that effective tick control measures should be instituted to prevent adverse effects of these parasites on the health and production of these animals.
Comparative analyses of growth response and genetic parameter estimates of some quantitative traits in three broiler strains in South-West, Nigeria
Authors: Sanda A. J. , Olowofeso O. , Adeleke M. A. , Oso A. O. , Durosaro S. O. , Sanda M. O.
Published: February 2021

A total of 150 pure strain broiler chicks comprising 50 each of Arbor Acre, Marshall and Ross were used for this experiment which lasted 10 weeks at the Poultry Breeding Unit of the Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State Nigeria. The experiment was carried out to make comparative analyses of growth response and genetic parameter estimates of some quantitative traits (Body weight and linear body measurement) in Arbor Acre, Marshall and Ross broiler chicken strains in South-West, Nigeria. Growth performance data was collected from week 3 to week 10 and analysed using the Generalized Linear Model. Marshall broiler chicken strain had the highest growth rate and better growth performance followed by Ross and Arbor Acre in terms of body weight and linear body dimensions. Marshall and Ross attained mean weight of 1964.50±43.10 g and 1913.02±41.05 g, respectively, which were superior (p < 0.05) to Arbor Acre 1831.63±36.28 g at 10 weeks of age. Marshall Broiler chicken strain also had the highest estimates of heritability for body weight 0.46±0.04, followed by Arbor Acre and Ross with estimates of heritability of 0.38±0.12 and 0.26±0.06, respectively. However considering the linear body measurements, none of the broiler chicken strains maintained high estimates of heritability from 3rd to 10th week.
Genetic and non-genetic factors affecting the performance of West African Dwarf (WAD), Yankasa (YAN) and WAD X YAN lambs in the tropics
Authors: Adewumi O. O.
Published: February 2021

Genetic and non-genetic factors affecting performance of sheep at the Teaching and Research farm of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria were studied from 2005-2006. Genetic groups involved were 8 West African Dwarf sheep (WAD), 10 Yankasa (YAN) and 10 WAD X YAN (XBD). Data were analysed using General Linear Model of least squares analysis of variance to test the influence of genetic group, sex, season and age on weights and linear body measurements such as height at withers (HT), body length (BL), Neck length (NL), Neck circumference (NC), heart girth (HG), Foreleg length (FL), Hind leg length (HL), Face length (FA), Ear length (EA), Headwidth (HW), shoulder width (SW), tail length (TL) and Rump height (RH). Weight, HT, BL, HG, FL, HL, FL, EL, TL and RH were significantly affected by genetic group. Female lambs weighed 0.75kg more than the males (p<0.01). Season of birth had significant effect on WT (p<0.0001), HT (p<0.01), NL (p<0.001), FL (p<0.0001), HL (p<0.0.0001), FA (p<0.01), SW (p<0.01) and RL (p<0.05), the traits were superior in the rainy season. Age significantly affected all parameters considered. The WAD (0.53) and XBD (1.39kg) lambs were and heavier during the rainy season as compared to the dry season. Of the body dimensional traits, HG had the highest correlation coefficients with WT in WAD and YAN lambs estimated at 0.86 and 0.89 respectively, whereas HT was the most correlated trait with WT in XBD lambs. Height at withers and body length were the most important additional variables to heartgirth accounting for 87% prediction of body weight in WAD and YAN lambs, whereas, HT, BL, NC, HG, SW, TL and RH could account for up to 90% of body weight in XBD lambs
Determination of relative economic weights of growth and egg production traits in Nigerian indigenous chicken
Authors: Ogbu C. C. , Nwachukwu E. E. , Nwosu C. C.
Published: February 2021

The relative economic weight (REW) of a trait is the additional gain/loss from a unit change in the trait relative to other traits in an individual. They are used to calculate aggregate economic values for purposes of genetic improvement in animals. The present study was designed to evaluate the bio-economic variables of growth and 16 weeks egg production parameters: egg number (EN16) egg weight (EWT16) body weight at first egg (BWTFE), body weight at 16 week of lay (BWTE16), cost of feed, and revenue from eggs and chicken carcass, 16 feed conversion ratio (FCR ), and body weight gain (BWG16) in the Nigerian indigenous chicken, and to determine the economic weights (EW) and REW of EN16, EWT16 and BWTE16 for G0, G1, and G2 generations. A total of 250 pullets (20 week old, point of lay) from a population of heavy body weight local chickens were used for the study. The birds were housed individually in cages, fed optimally on layers mash (G and G : 100g/bird/day; G : 0 1 2 125g/bird/day) and given water ad libitum. Data included EN , EWT , BWTE , BWTFE, 16 16 16 and prices of feed, eggs and spent hens, FCR , and BWG . Data on EN , EWT , BWTE , 16 16 16 16 16 and BWTFE were compared across generations using ANOVAand with other variables were used to generate the EW of the traits. The EW were then standardized relative to that of BWTE . Results showed that EW and REW of EN , EWT , and BWTE were 7.47 and 3.15, 16 16 16 16 13.67 and 5.77 and -2.37 and -1.00, respectively in G ; 13.07 and 3.82, 23.69 and 6.93, and - 0 3.42 and -1.00, respectively in G ; 16.80 and 2.89, 30.75 and 5.28 and -5.82 and -1.00, 1 respectively in G generation. Thus EN and EWT enhanced while BWTE depressed the 2 16 16 16 worth of the hen as a layer. EWT was more important than EN and both were more 16 16 important than BWTE economically. Therefore, EWT and EN are the major bio-economic 16 variables of the local hen as an egg chicken.
Effect of feathering genes on growth performance of F2 backcrosses and comparison of F1 and F2 crosses of Abor Acre broiler breeder x native chickens in humid tropical environment
Authors: Nwachukwu E. N. , Ogbu C. C.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate growth performance, brooding and rearing mortalities of F2 main and reciprocal backcross progenies of Abor Acre broiler breeder x native chicken crosses and to compare their F1 and F2 backcross progenies. The base population used in the study consisted of mature (~ 48 weeks) male and female native chickens and exotic (Abor Acre) broiler breeder parent stock. The native chicken varieties were made up of normal feather, naked neck and frizzle genotypes. These birds were mated to the Abor Acre broiler parent stocks in main and reciprocal fashion generating F1 main and reciprocal crossbreds. Females of these F1 hybrids were then mated back to the broiler breeder cock to generate F2 main and reciprocal backcross progenies that were evaluated in the present study. Data analyzed include body weight (BWT) and linear body parameters (LBPs), average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), brooding and rearing mortalities. Comparisons between genetic groups for these parameters were done by means of analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Results indicated improved growth performance and feed conversion ratios in the F2 reciprocal backcross groups compared to their F2 main backcross counterparts. The F2 individuals in both crosses were superior to F1 crossbred populations. Chick mortality rates were higher in main and reciprocal backcross groups involving the naked neck genotype compared to other plumage types. It was concluded that backcrossing the F1 individuals to the exotic broiler breeder cocks increased the genetic profile of the backcross lines resulting in enhanced growth performance of progenies. Crossbreeding of exotic and local chicken varieties generated progenies that had higher genetic potentials for growth relative to the local strains and better adaptability relative to the exotic breed. However, incubation and brooding strategies capable of minimizing mortalities at embryonic, brooding and rearing phases should be explored and integrated in local chicken improvement programmes involving the use of these plumage reducing genes for optimal results.