bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional food promotes digestive functions and healthy growth of animals nurtured in confinement
Authors: Ajibola A. , Erlwanger K. H.
Published: February 2021

In the study, the growth pattern, morphometric and morphological changes in the gastrointestinal tract of growing male and female Sprague-Dawley rats fed crude honey (CH)-supplemented diets as measures of nutrient utilization, digestive functions and healthy growth were investigated. Thirty-five suckling (7-day old male and female) rats were fed CH either as low (10mLkg-1 BW) or high (20mLkg-1 BW) dose daily via stomach tube for 14 days, while the control group was gavaged with distilled water. Rats were kept with their dams to nurse freely between gavages. On weaning, CH was mixed with commercial rat feed as low (20%) or high, 50% (volume/weight, v/w), while 20% (v/w) tap water was added to the control diet. The feed intake of honey-fed male rats and control (infant: 6 – 10g; adult:31 – 38g) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than their high dose-diet mates (infant: 5 – 8g; adult: 31 – 38g). All the rats were killed at 13 weeks old for gross and microscopic measurements of the abdominal viscera. Grossly, there were no significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) in the relative lengths (%BW) and weight: length ratio (g cm-1 ) of the small and large intestines in both sexes. Crude honey increased the absolute and relative weights of the caecum (1.73 ± 0.05g; 0.38 ± 0.02%BW) and pancreas (2.52 ± 0.11g; 0.55 ± 0.03%BW), with significant influence (p<0.05) in the male rats. In addition, dietary inclusion of CH at low dose enhanced intestinal villi growth in height (84.0 ± 4.0µm) and width (25.2 ± 1.5µm). Dietary supplementation with crude honey also enhanced body weight gain of male rats (495.52 ± 8.98g) and females (242.52 ± 6.87g), improved abdominal organs' functional size: liver (10.92 ± 0.32g; 2.72 ± 0.13%BW); spleen (1.25 ± 0.06g; 0.27 ± 0.02%BW), devoid of pathological changes, as shown by liver histomorphology (1.2 ± 0.3) and normal hepatocellular architecture thereby conferring nutritional and health benefits on animals nurtured in confinement.
Intestinal histology of broiler chickens fed direct fed microbial (RE3) and antibiotics
Authors: Ojebiyi O. O. , Shittu M. D. , Akintayo T.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to compare the effects of using direct fed microbial (RE3) and antibiotics on the gut morphology. Two hundred and forty unsexed, one-day old Marshal strain broiler chicks were used for the experiment. The birds were randomly allotted into three dietary treatments with each treatment replicated four times at 20 birds per replicate making a total of 80 birds per treatment. The experimental design was completely randomized design. The villous height (9.303E2), the crypt depth (1.5053E2) and the muscular thickness (2.2311E2) of the RE3 treated birds were higher (P<0.05) when compared with birds fed with control diet (T1) 8.619E2, 1.3790E2 and 1.9645E2 and the control + antibiotics (T3) 7.0677E2, 1.3331E2 and 1.9027E2 respectively. The observations revealed that birds put on treatment 2 (RE3 probiotics) had better presentation and preservation of the intestinal villi, glands and intestinal wall integrity. It was concluded that supplementation of broilers diets with the direct fed microbial (RE3) will lead to maintenance of intestinal health and better utilization of nutrients to enable full expression of genetic potential.
Effect of varying energy and protein levels on carcass characteristics of helmet Guinea fowls in the tropics
Authors: Odukwe C. N. , Ukachukwu S. N. , Onunkwo D. N. , Oke U. K.
Published: February 2021

The effect of energy and protein and their interaction on carcass characteristics of helmet Guinea fowls in the tropics was investigated using one hundred and thirty-five Guinea fowls. The experiment which lasted for 5 weeks involved a 3*3 factorial in completely randomized design. The birds were randomly assigned to experimental diets containing three energy levels: 2500, 2600 and 2700 kcal/kg denoted as E1 , E2 and E3 respectively and three protein levels: 15%, 16% and 17% CP denoted as P1 , P2 and P3 respectively. The factorial design involved nine treatment combinations. The birds were allocated to each diet and were replicated three times to contain five birds per replicate and 15 birds per treatment. The result revealed significant (P<0.05) differences in the main effects of protein on dressed weight, thigh weight and breast weight. The 17% CP recorded the most significant values for dressed weight (689.44 g) and breast weight (24.89g). The varying energy levels also affected significantly (P<0.05) the dressed weight, thigh weight, wing weight, breast weight, back weight and gizzard weight of the birds. The 2600 kcal/kg recorded the highest dressed weight (717.22 g) compared to the other energy levels. However, the 2700 kcal/kg recorded the most significant values in thigh, wing, breast, back and gizzard weights. The interaction effect of protein x energy levels revealed significant (P<0.05) effects on live weight, wing weight, breast weight, back weight and gizzard weight of the Guinea fowls. The findings from this experiment conclude that diet of Helmeted Guinea fowl containing 15% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME gave the best carcass performance.
Effect of dietary energy and protein on performance of guinea fowl reared in the humid tropics of Nigeria
Authors: Odukwe C. N. , Ukachukwu S. N. , Onunkwo D. N. , Oke U. K.
Published: February 2021

The effects of varying levels of energy and protein on optimal performance of helmeted guinea fowl and carcass characteristics were investigated. Three hundred and twenty-four 7-week old guinea fowls were randomly allotted to treatments in a 3x3 factorial arrangement of a Completely Randomized Design. The birds were respectively assigned to the experimental diets of 10.46MJ, 10.87 and 11.29kcal of ME/kg diet with a corresponding protein content of 15, 16, and 17% CP. They were fed these diets from 7 to 12 weeks of age. Each dietary treatment had four replicates of 27 birds per replicate. Feed and water were provided adlibitum. The birds were observed for feed consumption, weight gain, final weight, water consumption and mortality. There were significant (P<0.05) energy x protein interaction effect for the average final weight with birds on 10.87MJ/kg x 15%CP for FW and also for energy x protein main effects for FI, WI and WG. There were significant (P<0.05) energy main effects and energy x protein interaction for gizzard weight, back weight and breast weight with constant energy levels of 10.87MJ/kg ME and 10.46MJ/kg ME at their interaction level. Birds on 1 1.29MJ/kg ME x 15CP and 1 1.29MJ/kg ME x 17%CP gave the heaviest gizzard of 922.66 and 19.09 and in other parameters, except in Neck weight which shows no significant (p<0.05) energy and protein as well as the energy x protein interaction. But there were significant energy main effect and no significant protein main effects for wing weight as well as significant differences (p<0.05) energy and protein main effects on total dressed with 10.887MLkg ME x 17%CP gave the highest value of 717.22g. There was also a significant (p<0.05) interaction effects on average live weight with 1 1.29MJ/kg ME x 15%CP diet gave the highest value of 1.48kg/bird. The findings from this study that 10.87 MJ/kg ME and 15%Cp diet gave the best performance.
Effects of group size and floor-space allowance on growth performance and body components of wean-to-finish pigs in the tropical environment
Authors: Okon B. , Ibom L. A. , Bassey O. A. , Abia M. E.
Published: February 2021

Ninety large white x landrace crossbred weaners pigs with average body weights of 10.00±0.05kg 42 days of age were randomly assigned to three floor-spaces of 4.40m2 , 5.50m2 and 6.60m2 with three group sizes of 8, 10 and 12 pigs, respectively. The feeding was done with weaner ration (20% CP, 3500 kcal/kg ME), finisher ration (16% CP, 3000Kcal/1kg ME) and water was given ad libitum. The average daily body gain (ADBGs and feed: gain ratio were 0.222kg, 0.208kg, 0.180kg and 8.42, 9.13, 9.72 for group size of 8, 10 and 12 pigs, respectively. Pigs in group sizes 8 and floor-space 4.40m2 were significantly (P<0.05) higher in daily weight gain, final body weight, feed intake and feed:gain ratio compared to the other group sizes 10 and 12, and floor-spaces 5.50m2 and 6.60m2 . Again, pigs in group size 8 and floor-space 4.40m2 were significantly (p<0.05) higher in final gain and percent (%) gain on body length (BDL), body circumference (BDC), heart girth (HEG), ham length (HAL) and height-at-withers (HAW) . Based on these results, group size and floor-space allowance could be of great scientific guide to pig farmers in designing and improving breeding performance as well as commercial pig rearing in the tropics. It is however, recommended that the research be carried out on a larger scale to cater for commercial pig farmers in the tropics.
Effect of dietary copper and probiotic supplementation on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens
Authors: Oguntoye M. A. , Idowu O. M. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary copper and probiotic supplementation on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler Chickens. A total of 180-day old marshal broiler chicks of mixed sex were randomly allotted to six treatment groups of 30 birds each. The Treatments were divided into three replicates of ten birds each; starter and finisher diets were formulated and fed for a period of fifty-six days. The dietary treatments were subjected to completely randomized design experimental layout which was made up of probiotic (0 and 500ppm) and copper (0, 125 and 250mg).The chicks were fed the broiler starter diet for the first 28 days and broiler finisher for the last 28 days. Treatment effect on broiler body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were determined on a weekly basis. Data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and, Duncan's Multiple Range Test was used to separate significant means. Dietary supplementation of copper and probiotic had no significant (P> 0.05) effect on final weight (FW), daily weight gain (DWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) at the starter phase of the experiment. However, at finisher phase, inclusion of probiotic resulted in higher significant (P < 0.05) values for FW (2214.12g/b) DWG (60.22g/b/d), FI (159.02g/b/d), and FCR (2.64). The carcass yields of the broilers were significantly (P< 0.05) influenced by copper and probiotic supplementations. However, lower value (1.07%) was obtained for abdominal fat in broilers fed 250mg Cu/kg supplemented diet. The study concluded that supplementation of copper and probiotics resulted in improved growth performance and carcass yield of broiler chickens.
Effect of differently processed shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) cake on growth and haematological parameters of broiler starter chicks
Authors: Matthew U. D. , Alu S. E. , Maimako M. B.
Published: February 2021

Dietary effects of differently processed Shea Butter Cake (SBC) on growth and haematological parameters of broiler chicks were evaluated in this study lasting 28 days. Six iso-nitrogenous (23% crude protein) and isocaloric (2871.31kcal/kg metabolizable energy) diets tagged T1, T2, T3, T4 T5 and T6 were compounded such that T1 served as the contro while the remaining treatments had 15% inclusion of the differently processed SBC. Two hundred and seventy day old chicks were randomly allocated to the six diets and each treatment was replicated 3 times in a completely randomized design. Dietary inclusion of SBC reduced final live weight significantly (P<0.05). Chicks fed T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 had higher final live weights of 223.89 vs. 265.00 vs. 253.33 and 233.33 g/b, respectively than those fed the T6 (226.67 g/b) which however, were lower than the control (602.22 g/b). Similarly, birds fed T3, T4 and T6 had significantly higher (P<0.05) daily weight gain than those fed the T5 although highest in birds on control (19.90 g/b/d); similar trend was recorded in feed intake and feed cost per kg diet. Birds fed diets T1, T2 and T4 had lower (P<0.05) FCR of 2.01, 2.91 and 2.98, respectively. The RBC increased significantly (P<0.05) in birds fed T4 (2.58 x106 /µl) and T5 (2.41 x106 /µl) compared to other treatments. Broiler chicken producers can therefore, include up to 15% processed Shea butter cake in the diets of broiler chicks without affecting their growth performance as well as wellbeing.
Effects of African Nutmeg (Monodora myristica) spice in aflatoxin-infected diets on growth Performance of Japanese Quails (Cortunix Cortunix)
Authors: Ukoha O. A. , Onunkwo D. N.
Published: February 2021

A research work was carried out to evaluate the effects of toasted Monodora myristica spice as feed additive in quail diet in a completely randomized design. The proximate, vitamin and mineral composition and anti-nutritional factors, growth performance, cut parts and organ characteristics, biochemical parameters and egg quality traits were evaluated in this study that lasted for fifteen weeks. A total of 120 day-old quail chicks were brooded for 14 days. Thereafter, they were allocated to four dietary treatments designated D1, D2, D3 and D4 also having 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% Monodora myristica respectively. Each treatment was replicated three times at 10 quails (2 males: 8 females) per replicate. Growth performance and carcass characteristics study lasted for 7 weeks while eggs were collected for four weeks. Daily feed intake was reported to be 2.39g/bird/day, 2.83g/bird/day, 3.22g/bird/day and 3.15g/bird/day respectively for 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% Monodora myristica-flavoured diets. There was no significant (P>0.05) increase in the daily feed intake though it increased only numerically as level of inclusion increased from 0% to 1.0% but decreased at the level above 1.0%. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in the average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio among the varying treatments. Average daily weight gains for the groups were 1.68g/b/d, 2.18g/b/d, 3.35g/b/d and 3.37g/b/d respectively for D1, D2, D3 and D4. Significant (P<0.05) differences were observed in the cut parts and organ characteristics. From the results, Monodora myristica was not observed to be detrimental to the quails with respect to the weight of organs and cut parts. Dressed weight increased as level of inclusion increased up to 1.0% but then declined afterwards to 137.69g. Liver weights were 3.55%, 2.55%, 1.79% and 1.77% respectively for D1, D2, D3 and D4. Quails fed the control diet recorded the highest liver weight (P<0.05) of 3.55% indicating stress condition. The low liver weight in quails fed Monodora-flavoured diet indicates potential of Monodora to protect the liver from free radicals that cause stress. Breast meat was significantly reduced at 1.0% and 1.5% M. myristica inclusion
A preliminary study on the Monthly dynamics of cattle tick infestation in Sokoto, north western Nigeria
Authors: Lawal M. D , Mahmuda A. , Fabiyi J. P. , George B. D. J. , Adamu Y. , Kabir A. , Alayande M. O. , Raji A. A. , Mahmuda A. , Usman M. , Aminu S.
Published: February 2021

The distribution and monthly dynamics of bovine ixodids in Sokoto Township and environs were recorded between Jan 2009 and Dec 2010. Monthly tick collections were performed on 400 animals from which a total of 12, 296 ticks were collected. Ticks from each cattle were collected separately using a pair of blunt forceps, into labelled universal bottles containing 70% ethanol into which 5% glycerine was added to keep specimens better preserved. On each label, the location, breed of the animal, number of ticks and date of collection were recorded. In the laboratory, Ticks were placed into petri dishes, counted, examined and identified with the aid of a dissecting stereoscope based on morphological Characteristics and aided by the use of standard keys according to Hoogstraal (1956) and Walker et al. (2003). These include Hyalomma truncatum (15.5%), Hyalomma dromedarii (13.3%), Boophilus decolaratus (11.3%) Amblyomma variegatum (10.6%), Hy. impeltatum, (10.1%), Hy. rufipes (9.4%), Hy. impressum (7.4%), Boophilus annulatus (4.4%), B. geigyi (4.3%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (4.1%) Amblyomma hebraeum (3.4%), Rh. evertsi (2.6%), A. pomposum (2.0%), Rh. lunulatus (1%) and Rh. senegalensis (0.5%). Hyalomma. truncatum, Hy. impeltatum, Hy. Impress B. annulatus, A. hebraeum, A. pomposum, Rh. lunulatus and Rh. senegalensis were recorded for the first time in the Study area. The distribution and dynamics of cattle ixodid ticks has not been hitherto chronicled in the study area.
Performance and slaughter characteristics of broiler chickens fed different sources of maggot meal
Authors: Egbewande O. O. , Jimoh A. A. , Amore B. Y. , Amore B. Y.
Published: February 2021

In this study, the effect of three different sources of maggot meals was conducted to evaluate the performance and slaughter characteristics of broiler chickens. Five diets were formulated to include Diet 1 (control) which contained 3.5 % fish meal, while Diets 2, 3 and 4 contained 3.5% maggot meal from broiler droppings (BMM),maggot meal from layers droppings (LMM) and maggot meal from rabbit faeces (RMM) respectively. Eighty (80) dayold unsexed Marshall Broilers were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD). Thedietary treatments had 20 birds each with two (2) replicates. Data were generated on proximate analysis and performance indices including feed intake and weight gain, slaughter characteristics and mortality rate. They were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means significantly different were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% probability level. Results from proximate analysis showed that maggots from layer droppings had the highest crude protein and ether extract. Results on performance indices showed that birds fed on diet 3 (layer maggot meal) had significantly (P<0.05) best performance than others as regards feed intake. Layer maggot meal (LMM) in this study enhanced bestproductive performance compared to those from broiler and rabbit maggot.Birds fed layer maggot meal had the best (1.85) feed conversion ratio. They also had the best body weight gain (2501g) and feed intake (4627g). In conclusion, layer maggot meal is recommended as analternative animal protein source to expensive fish meal.
Egg laying response of Arco black hen to garri chaff and cassava peel based diets
Authors: Gbadegesin A. B. , Bello T. T , Akinnusi F. A. O.
Published: February 2021

The need to optimize the utilization of garri processing by-products and improve the protein availability through egg production motivated this study. 165 Acro Black laying hen of 41 weeks old were grouped into five dietary treatments of 35 birds per treatment and five replicates of seven birds each. Layers' diets were compounded at 0%, 11.25%, 22.5%, 33.5% and 45% of garri chaff and 0%, 3.575%, 7.15%, 10.275% and 14.3% of sun dried cassava peel levels of inclusion. The diets and groups of birds were labelled A, B, C, D and E and the birds were fed with their corresponding diets for 6 consecutive weeks. Records of feed consumption and number of eggs laid were taken daily throughout the period of experimentation. The results showed that egg laying performance was of the order C>D>A>B>E among the dietary treatments. While egg laying performance hovered around 60% in the control treatment A, it increased from 57% to 86% in group C. Birds in treatment E had the least feed consumption and least egg laying performance. Weight increase of the birds at the end of the experimentation were of the order A>B>D>C>E. It was thus concluded that garri chaff and cassava peel appeared useful as ingredients in layers' diets at about equal quantity with maize and wheat offal, respectively but the feed should be adequately fortified with protein rich feedstuffs and the diets must be introduced early to avoid rejection by the birds.
Effect of replacing maize with composite cassava meal (CCM) on growth and economics performance of rabbit
Authors: Shaahu D. T. , Abacky A. , Tiough S. M.
Published: February 2021

A 91 day feeding trial was conducted using twenty (20) weaned heterogeneous breed rabbits of both sexes with initial weight of 225g–500g to evaluate the replacement value of maize for composite cassava meal (CCM) in diet. Five experimental diets were formulated such that the control diet represented as treatment 1(T1) contained 100% maize as the major energy source in the diet. CCM replaced 25, 50, 75 and 100% of maize in the other treatments (T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively). The rabbits were divided into five treatments of four rabbits each and randomly assigned to the five diets in a completely randomized design with each rabbit serving as replicate. Data collected included weight gain and feed intake, while feed conversion ratio and economics of production were computed. The result revealed that the crude protein (17.78-16.26%) and ether extract (6.79-5.93) content of the diet decreases as level of CCM increased in the diets while crude fibre (12.67-13.88%) content increased with increased level of CCM in the diet. The nutrient compositions of the experimental diets were within acceptable ranges for growing rabbits. The final weight and the total weight gain were not affected by treatment but feed intake significantly increased as the level of replacement increased indicating enhanced acceptability due to CCM in diet. Daily weight gain was also enhanced as the level of replacement of CCM for maize increased. The cost of feed per kg was reduced but the total cost of feeding was increased as the level of replacement increased. The cost of production was minimized and profit was maximized at 100%, when 100% of the maize was replaced by CCM. CCM has no harmful effect on performance of rabbits and the replacement of maize with CCM in diet has reduce the cost of feed per kilogram and maximize profit at 100% level of replacement. Farmers can include composite cassava meal in diet of rabbits to replace 100% of maize as major source of energy in diet.
Assessment of conventional and non-conventional estimation of live weight, carcass characteristics and dressing percentage of Nigerian breeds of goats as panacea for livestock entrepreneurship
Authors: Ajayi M. O. , Osowe C. O. , Babayemi O. J.
Published: February 2021

The price tag on goat at the farm gate or market is usually by visual appraisal as the use of weighing scale for body weight determination is cumbersome and technical. This study was carried out to determine the reliability of using the girth tape as a non-conventional method of live weight, carcass characteristics and dressing percentage estimation for economic gain of goats. Female goats (n=75) were purchased from Akinyele goat market to comprise of WAD (n=25), Sahel (n=25) and Maradi (n=25) with the age range of 22-24 months. The weights were measured using a conventional weighing scale. Also, a calibrated girth tape was used to measure the heart girth of the circumference of the chest. The goats were humanely slaughtered and properly processed for the determination of dressing percentage. The carcasses were carefully sectioned into five parts namely: neck, right forearm, left forearm, right thigh and left thigh and the weights were determined. The values for scale and girth tape measurements were 15.90±4.15kg and 16.28±4.17kg, 20.81±5.80kg and 19.97±5.56kg, and 25.47±3.70kg and 25.20±3.48kg, respectively. There were not significant (p>0.05) differences between scale and girth tape measurements for the goats. The dressing percentages were 51.29±3.87%, 49.26±3.51% and 43.11±4.17% for WAD, Maradi and Sahel goats, respectively. There were apparent (p<0.05) differences in the dressing percentage among the breeds. There were significant (p<0.05) variations in the neck (0.87-1.21kg), right thigh (1.09-1.50kg), left thigh (1.85-2.42kg), right forearm (1.79- 2.45kg) and left forearm (1.82-2.39kg) among the breeds. There were significant differences in the weights of liver (0.41-0.51g) and kidney (0.11-0.15g) but none for heart and lungs among the three breeds of goats. There was also significant (p<0.05) difference in the weights of liver and kidney (0.51±0.12g) for Sahel goats. The results of the coefficients of correlation between weighing scale and girth tape measurements of body weights of goats were significant, positive and high. The result of the regression analysis showed an adjusted R2 of 0.992. It can be concluded that the girth tape may be a reliable tool without weighing scale while the WAD goats may also be more economical to slaughter for sales as it yielded more meat than Maradi and Sahel goats.
Influence of housing types and sex on the growth performance, haematological and serum biochemical parameter of broiler chickens
Authors: Egbeyale L. T. , Ndagimba J. R. , Sogunle O. M. , Adeleye O. O. , Akinosi O. K. , Ayo-Ajasa O. Y.
Published: February 2021

This experiment was carried out to determine the effects of housing types and sex on growth and blood parameters of Arbor Acre broiler chickens. Three hundred (300) chicks, at two weeks of age were divided into two groups (male and female) each containing 150 birds. Each group was randomly sub-divided into two housing systems (deep litter and deep litter with run) consisting of three replicates with 25 birds per replicate and were fed ad libitum. Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. The housing type had no significant effect on the growth parameters measured. However, weight gain, feed intake and protein intake were influenced (p<0.05) by sex. The effect of interaction between housing type and sex on the growth performances showed that male in the two housing systems had better (p<0.05) performances than female. However, the female chickens in deep litter performed better (p<0.05) than their female counterpart in deep litter with run. Haematological and biochemical parameters were not influenced by the main effect of housing type and sex. The interaction effect between the housing types and sex on the haematological and serum biochemical parameters had effect (p<0.05) only on basophil and aspartate transferase. It was concluded that Arbor acre male broiler chickens can be raised on any of the housing types while female should be raised only on deep litter for better performance.
In Vitro gas production assessement of Panicum maximum incubated with Leucaena leucocephala at varying proportions to predict the nutritional value for ruminants
Authors: Falola O. O. , Olufayo O. O.
Published: February 2021

The inclusion of multipurpose trees with grass such as Panicum maximum in the diet of ruminants may enhance productivity. Thus, the study was carried out to determine the proximate composition, in vitro gas production characteristics and parameters of Leucaena leucocephala and Panicum maximum at varying proportions. Five diets were formulated such that Panicum maximum was substituted with Leucaena leucocephala at different ratio: T1 (100% Panicum maximum), T2 (100% Leuceana leucocephala), T3 (50% P. maximum + 50% L. leucocephala), T4 (75% P. maximum + 25% L .leucocephala) and T5 (25% P. maximum + 75% L. leucocephala). Data were subjected to analysis of variance. Values obtained for dry matter (34.43 –35.95g/100g) decreased with the increased inclusion of Leuceana leucocephala in the diets. The crude fiber values (14.33 – 30.75g/100g) also followed the same trend while crude protein (CP) content (10.70 – 26.78g/100g) increased the inclusion of Leucaena leucocephala in the diets. There were significant (P < 0.05) differences in the treatment means of organic matter digestibility (OMD 31.93 – 37.07%), Metabolisable energy (ME 3.62 – 4.33 MJ/kgDM), short chain fatty acids (SCFA 0.04 – 0.16mL) and methane (ME 1.00 – 2.50 mL).The values (2.00 – 4.67 ml/200mgDM) obtained for immediate soluble 'a' was significantly (P < 0.05) different among the treatments. The extent of gas production (a+b) ranged from 2.00 – 4.67 mL/200mgDM, T1 (100% Panicum maximum) recorded the lowest while highest was observed in T2 (100% Leucaena leucocephala). The insoluble but degradable fraction 'b'ranged from 2.67 – 5.67ml/200mgDM, while the rate of gas production 'c' ranged from 0.04 – 0.14ml/hr. In conclusion, the enhanced values of crude protein, OMD, SCFA, and ME in the Panicum maximum and Leucaena leucocephala mixture indicate that the diets is able to meet the nutrients requirements of small ruminants in the tropics especially during the dry season.
Phenotypic correlations between body weight and morphometric traits in progenies of mongrel rabbits
Authors: Udoh U. H.
Published: February 2021

One of the pre-requisites for genetic improvement is knowledge of genetic parameters for important economic traits A research was conducted with progenies of mongrel rabbits to investigate the phenotypic correlations between body weight and morphometric traits. Rabbits were managed intensively for six months, and fed ad libitum proprietary feed (15% CP and 2300 kcal/kg ME), supplemented with forages. Progenies were identified with their dams for data collection. Body weight, and linear body measurements of head and neck circumferences, body, ear and face lengths, hind and forelimbs were analyzed. Measurements were taken once weekly for 10 weeks (70 days old). Body weights were taken from 7 days old whereas linear body parameters were taken from 14 days old. Phenotypic correlations between pairs of traits, estimated were positive, showed weak and very strong relationships. Values ranged between 0.455 and 0.986 (1 to 28 days old), 0.288 and 0.841 (29 to 49 days old), 0.174 and 0.781 (50 to 70 days old). The weakest relationship (0.174) existed between neck and head circumferences (50 to 70 days old) whereas the strongest relationship (0.986) existed between body and ear lengths (1 to 28 days old). Higher values (0.539 to 0.917) indicating strong relationships were obtained when estimates were not age specific. Correlated responses in body weight in progenies of mongrel rabbits are expected at varying strengths by selecting and improving any of the linear body parameters. Further breeding researches should investigate phenotypic correlations between body weight and morphometric traits in progenies of mongrel rabbits beyond 70 days of age. Phenotypic correlations involving more parameters should be investigated.
Performance, blood indices and carcass yield of grower rabbits fed diet containing , and leaf meals Moringa oleifera Aspilia africana Azadirachta indica
Authors: Bolarin O. , Oni A. O. , Olanite J. A. , Onwuka C. F. I.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was conducted to examine the effect of feeding varying dietary levels of Moringa oleifera meal (MOM), Aspilia africana meal (AAM) and Azadirachta indica meal (AIM) on performance, blood indices and carcass yield of grower rabbits. Eight one rabbits were grouped into 9 treatment, each treatment were replicated thrice, containing 3 rabbits per replicate. Diets containing MOM, AAM and AIM at 0, 15 and 30% respectively were formulated. Rabbits fed inclusion levels of 15%, 30% MOM and 15% AAM (4.92g, 4.90g and 4.95 g respectively) had the best feed conversion ratio. However, the inclusion of 30% MOM in the diet increased the weight gain and better protein intake. The nitrogen intake, nitrogen absorbed and retention followed the same trend. Inclusion levels of the leaves had no negative effect on the blood indices of rabbit fed the dietary treatments. Rabbits on 30% MOM had significantly (p<0.05) higher slaughtered weight (1,224.3 g), carcass weight (902.64 g), dressing percentage (61.58%), loin (194.20 g) and shoulder (193.05 g) weights. It was concluded that inclusion of 30% MOM in the diet of grower rabbit had the best performance.
Voluntary intake, digestibility, serology and testosterone level of West African dwarf bucks fed air-dried leaf meal-based diets
Authors: Oluwatosin B. O. , Sanusi G. O. , Amosu S. D. , Oderinwale O. A. , Onyemenem S. E. , Ajayi P. O. , Oladipo P. O.
Published: February 2021

Evaluation of blood parameters, testosterone and digestibility serve as an index of general physiology and performance of animals. A total of twenty (20) West African dwarf ( WAD) bucks of about six (6) to eight (8) months of age with an average weight of 7.2±0.11 kg were used in the experiment for a duration of 98 days. The animals were allocated to 0,5, 10 and 15 % Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM)-based diets of three goats per treatment in a completely randomized design experiment. However, in 0, 5, and 15% MOLM, CP contents range from 7.93 to 8.54 %. All the experimental animalshad adequate total dry matterintake (DMI) which ranged from 382.59 to 391.39 g/animal/day (p>0.05). The mean percentage crude protein digestibility value tended to be lowest in 0 % MOLM-based diet and increased with increasing proportion of MOLM in the diets (p<0.05). Total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, creatinine, aspartate amino transferase, were similar (p>0.05) while Alanine amino transferase was significantly different (p<0.05). In the present study, inclusion level of 10% MOLMcaused the testosterone level to increase from5.16 ng/ml to 5.30 ng/ml which was the highest level. Conclusively, Moringa oleifera leaf meal improved nutrient intake blood, indices and digestibility in WAD bucks. Animal protein intake could be improved by the incorporation of MOLM-based diets for WAD goats.
In-vitro assessment for prebiotic potentials of some high fibre feedstuffs use in broiler diets
Authors: Aderibigbe T. A. , Atteh J. O. , Okukpe K. M.
Published: February 2021

Development of antibiotics-resistance pathogens in poultry poses threat to human health and has necessitated the search for alternative to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry diets to improve gut microflora. One of the alternatives to AGPs is probiotics which are beneficial organisms. Prebiotics, are by-products of digestion of polysaccharides which poultry do not have enzymes to digest are food for probiotics. Advent of enzymes makes this digestion possible. The prebiotic potentials of enzyme supplemented high fibre feedstuffs (HFFs) are not known. This study was conducted to screen some HFFs such as wheat bran (WB), maize bran (MB), palm kernel cake (PKC), rice husk (RH) and brewers dried grain (BDG) for production of oligosaccharides through xylanase digestion. Five high fibre feedstuffs (HFFs) (WB, BDG, PKC, RH and MB) screened for oligosaccharides production using the Benedict's test showed that all the feedstuffs screened except maize bran tested positive for the presence of oligosaccharides. The increase in dietary levels of HFFs generally could increase feed intake, reduced weight gain and increased feed/gain ratio (p<0.05). Enzyme Supplementation generally reduced feed intake while improving crude protein retention (p<0.05). There was no significantly different (p>0.05) interaction between the nutrients and enzyme studied. It was concluded that enzyme supplementation of high fibre feedstuffs could improve growth performance, nutrient retention and increased concentration of beneficial microbes in gut. Use of enzymes is therefore recommended when HFFs are required as prebiotic source in the gut of broilers.
Three cultivars of Lablab purpureus foliage in Igbo-Ora, Oyo State, Nigeria are nutritive
Authors: Alalade J. A. , Akinlade J. A. , Fajemisin A. N. , Adebisi I. A.
Published: February 2021

Lablab purpureusis a perennial legume, is a valuable feed resource for livestock production. The foliage of three cultivars of Lablab purpureus (Tln-43, Tln-49 and Tln-51) were evaluated for their proximate, minerals compositions and anti- nutritional factors in a completely randomized block design experiment. Results showed significant differences among cultivars in (P<0.05) crude protein (16.97%), ether extract (5.9%EE) crude fat (27.37%CF), ash (9.98%) and drymatter (72.44%) contents. Similarly,minerals contents of phosphorus (0.37%P), potassium 0.89%K), calcium (0.26%Ca), magnesium (0.29%Mg), iron (192.60mg/kg Fe), and Zinc (55.28mg/kg Zn) were influenced by cultivars Lablab purpureus The values of anti-nutritional factors in the three cultivars of Lablab purpureus leaves ranged from 0.44 to 0.73% for Saponin, Oxalate (0.40-0.53%), Phytate(0.62 to 0.85%), tannin(0.04-0.06%), trypsin inhibitor (20.24-21.78mg/g)and HCN (1.65- 2.37mg/g). It was concluded from this study that, nutrient contents, anti-nutrient factors as well as mineral contents were influenced by cultivars of purpureus, though their antinutrients contents cannot poses any deleterious effect to ruminant animal's feed and feeding regime.
Response of albino rats fed graded levels of raw sickle pod ( Senna obtusifolia) seed meal
Authors: Augustine C. , Domo G. A. , Ngiki Y. U. , Obidah L. U. , Abdulrahman B. S. , Midau A.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of feeding raw Senna obtusifolia seed meal (RSOSM) on the productive performance, carcass characteristics and organ weights of albino rats. Five experimental diets were compounded to contain RSOSM at graded levels of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%designated asT1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. Sixty albino rats with an average body weight of 70.52 to 81.05 g were allotted to the five dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with three replicates of four rats each. The chemical composition and the anti-nutritional factors were determined. Parameters measured were feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, live weight, dressed weight, dressing percentage and organ weights (heart, liver, kidney and lungs).Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance. The productive performance, carcass characteristics and organ weights were observed to be significantly (P<0.05) depressed as the level of RSOSM increased in the experimental diets. Albino rats fed 15 and 20% RSOSM significantly (P<0.05) recorded the lowest feed intake, weight gain and dressing percentage of 241.60 g, 60.10 g and 78.84%, 74.46 and 212.82 g, 51.78 g and 75.38%, respectively. The weight of organs revealed a declining trend as the level of RSOSM increased except for the liver and intestinewhich indicated progressive increase in sizes as the level of RSOSMincreased in the diets. Albino rats fed 15 and 20% RSOSMrecorded the highest liver weight of 4.21 and 4.29 g. It can be concluded that inclusion of RSOSM beyond 5% in the diets of albino rats had adverse effects on their productive performance, carcass characteristics and organ weights.
Sensory evaluation and acceptability of goat milk in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun state
Authors: Adewumi O. O. , Irhekore O. T. , Ogundipe T. G. , Tona G. O. , Oso O. A.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to assess the sensory characteristics and acceptability of goat milk in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State. A total of seventy respondents were selected randomly. Milk collected from lactating West African Dwarf goats was pasteurized at a o temperature of 74 C for five minutes, cooled, packaged in small polythene and sealed withmachine and refrigerated. The milk was taken to various settlements in Odeda Local Government of Ogun state for sensory evaluation. Majority of the respondents were students 54.3% only a few 12.9% were traders with a high percentage between the ages of 21-30. Also, 67.1% and 70.0% of the respondents were Christian and Yorubas, respectively. Moreover, 65.7% of respondents were married, while 34.3% were unmarried. The married had a family size of ≤ 2. Majority of the respondents (88.8%) had tertiary education. The small number of respondents 37.1% involved in ruminant production had only 2 years ruminant farming experience and kept fewer than 5 goats. About 60 % of the respondent consumed milk on weekly basis while 6% consumed milk on daily. It was observed that 100% of the respondents preferred cow milk despite the fact that 78.6% of the respondents were aware of goat milk consumption. The taste, colour, odour and flavor of goat milk were rated as Very good by 55.7%, 37.1%, 41.4% and 41.4% of respondents respectively. Majority of the respondents had a favourable disposition towards the taste (75.5%), colour (62.9%), odour (80.0%) and flavour (61.4%) when compared with other milk products in the market. Thus, goat milkt could be taken as alternative to cow milk without any detrimental effect It then become imperative for this positive perception to be explored by the government and other relevant development agencies so as to increase food supply to alleviate protein deficiency and thereby improved the economy.
Growth performance, organ weight and histology of rabbits fed graded levels of bitter kola (Gracinia kola)
Authors: Ebenebe C. I. , Chiedu C. L. , Nwagbata O. C. , Ogbu O. C.
Published: February 2021

The effect of varying levels (0%, 2.5%, 5% and 7.5%) of Garcinia kola on the carcass, organ weight and growth performance of growing rabbits were investigated using twenty four rabbits of mixed breed (New Zealand white and Chinchilla) and mixed sexes of average weight1+ 0.49kg. The rabbits were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments comprising Garcinia kola: T1 (0%), T2 (2.5%), T3 (5%) and T4 (7.5%) for 56 day period of the experiment. The experiment was based on Completely Randomized Design with each treatment having six rabbits in three replicates of two rabbits per replicate. During the 56 days period of the experiment, the rabbits were subjected to similar managerial and sanitation conditions such that the only source of variation is the level of Garcinia kola inclusion. At the end of the 56 days treatments, three rabbits were randomly selected from each treatment, weighed, slaughtered, skinned and eviscerated. The carcass weight and organ weight were also taken. Thereafter, the internal organs precisely the liver and kidney were prepared for histological analysis and taken to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Teaching hospital histological section for analysis. Results showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) in most of the parameters measured except for the carcass weight and kidney weight but the differences did not take any particular trend that could be attributed to the effect of the bitter kola (G. kola). There was also no significant difference (P<0.05) for feed intake level, feed conversion ratio and specific growth rate. Weight gain however differed significantly (P<0.05) withtreatments (T4 < T3 < T2 < T1) meaning that body weight gain decreased as the level of bitter kola inclusion increased. The kidneys of rabbits fed bitter kola all had different degrees of damage. Similarly, the histology of the liver organs of rabbits fed different levels of bitter kola showed that rabbits on T1 (0%) bitter kola was normal, while the liver of those that had the test ingredient bitter kola all had defects. We therefore recommend large doses of G. kola should be given to rabbits else the negative effects will outweigh the gains of its phytobiotic properties.
Growth performance, nutrient digestibility and haematological indices of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with riboflavin and pyridoxine
Authors: Jegede A. V. , Ogunsola I. A. , Fafiolu A. O. , Oluwatosin O. O. , Lawal R. F. , Odejayi O. A. , Adeniran A. C.
Published: February 2021

A 56 days feeding experiment was conducted to investigate the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood characteristics of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with riboflavin and pyridoxine. A total of two hundred and forty day old unsexed Marshall Broiler chickens were assigned to eight diets in a completely randomised design. The diets were such that diet 1 was the control (basal diet without vitamin supplementation), diets 2, 3 and 4 had basal diet supplemented with 4 mg/kg, 8 mg/kg and 12 mg/kg riboflavin, respectively, diets 5, 6, and 7 had basal diet supplemented with 3.5 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg and 10.5 mg/kg pyridoxine, respectively while diet 8 had basal diet with 4 mg/kg riboflavin + 3.5 mg/kg pyridoxine. Each dietary treatment was replicated three times with 10 birds per replicate. The growth parameters measured at day 28 were not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by the diets. At day 56, the final weight (1980 g) was highest in birds fed diets with 7 mg/kg supplemental pyridoxine, though the final weight value was similar (P>0.05) to those fed diets supplemented with 4 mg/kg (1793.30 g) and 12 mg/kg (1700.00 g) riboflavin. Higher protein retention values were recorded for broilers fed higher concentration of supplemental riboflavin and pyridoxine. The packed cell volume (PCV) and haemoglobin (Hb) concentration of broilers fed diets supplemented with 8 mg/kg riboflavin and 7 mg/kg pyridoxine (insert the values here) were higher than those on other diets. Higher levels of riboflavin and pyridoxine and their combination resulted in an elevated heterophil and decreased lymphocyte values. An elevated (P<0.05) mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) (44.75 pg/cell) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (133.05 f/L) concentration was observed in broilers fed diets containing added 3.5 mg/kg pyridoxine. The study revealed that 8 mg/kg riboflavin and 7 mg/kg pyridoxine is required for improved final weight, crude protein retention and good health of broiler chickens.
Effects of different processing methods of Napoleona imperialis (Napoleons Hat) on haematology and serum biochemistry of finisher broiler
Authors: Urom S. M. O. C. , Ukpabi U. H. , Onunkwo D. N. , Abu E. B. , Nweke J. O.
Published: February 2021

Four weeks feeding trial involving 120 (one hundred and twenty) Fedan finisher broilers was carried out in a completely randomized design. The birds were divided into five treatment groups of 24 birds per treatment, represented as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively, and replicated into 3 of 8 birds per replicate. Water and feed were given ad-libitum.T1 had no Napoleon's hat seed meal and served as the control,T2 had raw NISM ,T3 had 30 minutes boiled NISM,T4 had 60 minutes NISM, while T5 had 90 minutes boiled NISM. The result of the study showed significant differences (p<0.05) in all the parameters measured except Basophil, Monocytes and white blood cell. There were also significant differences among the biochemical parameters beside cholesterol, albumin, alkaline phosphate (ALP) and aspartate T5 10.05, while Aspartate transaminase (AST). Packed cell volume PCV (%) recorded the highest value of 34.35% in Treatment 5 T5) (34.35%), (90 minutes, while the lowest value (33.30) was recorded in T3 33.30, (30 minutes of boiling) Treatment 4 (T4) recorded the highest value of 10.80 g/dL in Hb, while the lowest value was recorded T5 (10.05), while for WBC, the highest value of 248.67 x103/µl was recorded in T3 WBC and lowest value of 244.07 was recorded in T4(60minutes). Urea level reduced with increase in heat treatment, from 4.00 in T4 to 6.70mg/dL in T3, creatinine (mg/dL) and total protein followed the same trend as WBC, from 114.70 in T5 to 145.20 in T4 and 0.20 in T5 to 0.30 in T3, respectively. The result suggests that 10% inclusion of Napoleona imperialis seed meal could be used in broiler feed successful without deleterious.