bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ACCEPTABILITY RATINGS AND NUTRITIVE VALUE OF FOUR SELECTED FODDER SPECIES BY YANKASA SHEEP IN SUB-HUMID NIGERIA
Authors: Shu’aibu A. S , Hassan A. H. , Dahiru M. G. , Bature M. S.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted to estimate the dry matter intake of four selected forage species by Yankasa sheep so as to assess their nutritive value and preference by the animals. Four fodder tree species, viz; Gliricidia sepium, Gmelina arborea, Leucaena leucocephala, and Spondis purpurea were offered to 12 Yankasa sheep in a free choice cafeteria feeding method that lasted for 14 days to determine their intake and coefficient of preference (CoP). Data obtained from the experiment were subjected to a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Preference data were analysed as a complete randomized design using collection days as replicates and shrub species and animals as treatments. The fodder samples were chemically analysed. Results revealed that their chemical composition varied significantly (P<0.05). The DM, CP, CF, Ash, EE, and NFE ranged between 33.80-40.50%, 12.80- 26.41%, 12.80-14.20%, 9.10-11.11%, 11.03-15.21% and 29.90-55.31%, respectively. Significantly (P<0.05) higher mean daily fodder intake (2015.7 and 1820.4 gDM) were observed in L. Leucocephala and G. arborea respectively, while the least (697.2 gDM) was observed in S. purpurea. The CoP of the fodder was best in L. leucocephala (1.53) and G. arborea which were the preferred species by the animals. The preference ranking in descending order was L. leucocephala > G. arborea > G. sepium > S. purpurea. It was concluded that L. leucocephala and G. arborea were the preferredamongst the selected fodder species, suggesting their potentials as feed supplements for sheep.
AGRONOMIC INDICES AND DRY MATTER YIELD OF BRACHIARIA RUZIZIENSIS AS AFFECTED BY COW DUNG AND AGE OF CUTTING IN THE SUDAN SAVANNAH ZONE OF NIGERIA
Authors: Idowu W. , Garba M. G. , Akinde T. S. , Adeleke R. A. , Abdulsalam M. , Yusuf A. , Bello S. S. , Sani R. T.
Published: December 2024

Effect of cow dung and age of cutting on agronomic indices and dry matter yield of Brachiaria ruziziensis in the Sudan savannah zone of Nigeria was assessed in this study. The experiment was conducted at the Professor Lawal Abdu Saulawa Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Animal Science, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria. The research was laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement, 3 rates of cow dung application (5, 10 and 15t/ha) and 3 ages of cutting (6, 8 and 10) weeks after planting. data on agronomic indices (Plant height, leaf length, leaf width, tiller number, number of leaves, leaf area index and dry matter yield) collected at 6, 8 and 10 WAP were subjected to 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed that all the agronomic indices were significantly affected (P<0.05) by cow dung application and age of cutting. 15t/ha rate of application and cutting at 10 WAP had a better agronomic indices when compared with other manure application rates and age of cutting, respectively. It was recommended that farmers use 15t/ha cow dung for cultivation of Congo grass and harvest same at 10 WAP for a higher agronomic indices in the Sudan Savannah Zone of Nigeria.
DETERMINATION OF NUTRIENT AND PHYTOCHEMICAL PROFILE OF XYLOPIAAETHIOPICA
Authors: Solomon F. E. , Essien C. A. , Eyoh G. D.
Published: December 2024

The proximate composition, minerals, vitamins and phytochemical content of Xylopia aethiopica was determined. The analysis were done using standard methods of Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The result of the proximate composition showed the following. Crude protein (7.83%), Ether Extract (9.07%), Crude fibre (15.23%), Ash (5.02%) and Nitrogen free extract (56.52%) respectively. The mineral profile revealed that potassium (0.89%) and phosphorus (0.46%) as the most abundant mineral. Vitamin was found to be 136.27mg/100g, 238.67mg/100g, 11.69mg/100g for vitamin E, A and C respectively.Photochemicals were 0.79, 1.23, 2.36, 0.51, 0.40 and 0.21 for Tannin, Saponin, Alkaovoids, flavonoids, phytate and oxalate respectively. Based on results of this study, Xylopia aethiopica can be a potential phytogenic feed additive which is a good source of essential nutrients.
FODDER YIELD OF COWPEA INTERCROPPED WITH WATERMELON UNDER BORDER IRRIGATION SYSTEM
Authors: Bala A. G. , Mijinyawa M. A. , Aminu S.
Published: December 2024

Cowpea/watermelon intercropping system can diversify farm income by providing multiple products for sale. The pattern reduces animal feed shortage during dry season and boost economic returns of farmers, making it a sustainable and profitable practice. Thus, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the forage yield of cowpea intercropped with watermelon under border irrigation system. The experimental plots were laid out in a randomized completely block design. The sowing arrangement/treatments consist of sole cowpea, cowpea intercropped with watermelon in intra rows (IR) and cowpea intercropped with watermelon in alternate rows (AR). Plant height, number of leaves and branches per plant, fresh forage yield and dry forage yield were recorded. Results indicated that, there was significant (P<0.05) difference in number of leaves (NL) and number of branches (NB) across all the treatments at 7 weeks after sowing. However, intercropping cowpea together with watermelon under alternate row spacing method recorded higher (P<0.05) NL (64.30) and NB (31.80) compared to sole cropping and intra row spacing method. Sowing cowpea with watermelon at alternate row spacing recorded higher (P<0.05) dry forage yield (0.35t/ha), followed by sole cropping (0.26t/ha) and then intra row spacing recording the least yield (0.21t/ha). It was concluded that cowpea can be intercropped successfully with watermelon under the alternate row spacing method for better forage yield in Sudan Savannah of Nigeria.
PERFORMANCE OF RED SOKOTO BUCKS FED TWO CULTIVARS OF SWEET POTATO VINES AND COWPEA HAY
Authors: Jinjiri A. , Sa’ad S. K. , Garba Y. , Nasiru A.
Published: December 2024

Forages and crop residues are the main feed resources which are noted to be low in crude protein occasioned by seasonal fluctuations in climatic factors required for quality forage production. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding two cultivars of sweet potato vines (Danchina and King J) and Cowpea hay (serving as control diet) on the nutrients intake and digestibility of Red Sokoto bucks. Twelve bucks were assigned into three dietary treatments: CH (Cowpea hay), DC (Danchina) and KJ (King J) in a randomized complete block design with four animals per treatments. The result obtained indicated that bucks from the treatment fed King J sweet potato vine cultivars had higher feed intake (988.66g/day) followed by Danchina (906.66g/day) and the least were the Cowpea hay (883.33g/day). There was no significant (P>0.05) difference was observed with respect to nutrients intake. Likewise result of nutrients digestibility showed no significant differences (P>0.05) among the treatments. It is concluded that Danchina and King J sweet potato vine cultivars can be fed to animals as a replacement for cowpea hay since they were proven to be nutritionally good for enhanced performance of the experimental animals.
HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF RED SOKOTO BUCKS FED DIETS SUPPLEMENTED WITH GRADED LEVELS OF SOYBEAN HULLS DURING EARLY RAINY SEASON GRAZING
Authors: Yusuf A. , Madigawa I. L. , Murtala U. , Lamido M.
Published: December 2024

The experiment was conducted to investigate the haematological response of Red Sokoto bucks to graded levels of soybean hulls during early rainy season grazing. Four supplements were formulated to contain 12% CP. Twelve bucks (12) were used for the experiments in a completely randomized design, three animals each as a replicate was randomly allocated into four (4) treatment diets containing varied inclusion levels of soybean hulls. Supplement 1 served as control diet, while 2, 3, and 4 contained 15.00, 22.50 and 30%. respectively. Animals were offered their respective supplements at 400g per head per day (200g each in the morning and evening) and thereafter allowed to graze the available forages. The experiments lasted for 84 days. Results of the experiments revealed that all the parameters measured were similar (p>0.05). However, PCV (6.73%) and Hb (10.00g/dL) were higher than values recorded in T2 (6.10%), T3 (6.13%) and T4 (6.03%) and for Hb T2 (8.0g/dL), T3 (8.73g/dL and T4 (9.07g/dL), respectively. It is therefore concluded that all the supplements were within normal range as such did not have detrimental effects on blood parameters. It is recommended that supplement without soybean hulls can be fed to Red Sokoto bucks during early rainy season grazing.
INFLUENCE OF GRAZING NATURAL VEGETATION DURING RAINY SEASON ON PERFORMANCE OF RED SOKOTO BUCKS
Authors: Dan Abba Y. U. , Yusuf A. , Garba M. G.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to look into the effects of supplementing rainy season grazing of Red Sokoto bucks (RSB) with four protein sources (cottonseed cake, cowpea husk, Piliostigma reticulatum pods and soybean hulls) and three energy sources; maize offal, rice offal and wheat offal were used in a completely randomized design, with four treatments replicated three times were randomly allocated into four (4) treatment diets containing varied inclusion levels of soybean hulls. Supplement 1 served control diet, while 2, 3, and 4 contained varied levels of soybean hulls at 15.00, 22.50 and 30% respectively. Animals were offered their respective supplements at 400g per head per day (200g each in the morning and evening) and thereafter allowed to graze the available forages. The result showed that daily supplement intake (DSI) and total supplement dry matter intake (TSDMI) were not affected (p>0.05) by the dietary treatments. Daily weight gain – DWG (p>0.05), total weight gain – TWG (p>0.05) were similar among treatments. Also, initial live weight (ILW), final live weight (FLW) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were not affected across the treatments, but treatment four had higher final live weight, total weight gain and better feed conversion ratio. It was concluded that feeding 30% of soybean hulls improved performance of Red Sokoto bucks. Based on the present study it could be recommended that inclusion of 30% of soybean hulls being best formulation could be used for feeding Red Sokoto bucks especially when grazing natural vegetation.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF YANKASA RAMS FED COMPLETE DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF FAIDHERBIA ALBIDA PODS MEAL
Authors: Kani M. M. , Ashiru R. M. , Abdurrahaman S. L. , Dahiru M.
Published: December 2024

A feeding trial was conducted for 84 days to evaluate the growth performance and cost of Yankasa rams fed complete diet containing graded levels of apple-ring acacia (Faidherbia albida) pods. Sixteen Yankasa rams of about 5–7 months, weighing averagely 17±1.5kg were randomly allotted to four (4) dietary treatments, four (4) replication in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Animals were fed the complete diets at 3.5% body weight. The results of growth performance revealed no significant (P>0.05) differences in final body (FBC), and feed conversion ratio (FCR). However Live Weight Change, Average Daily Gain, and Total Feed Intake were significantly (P<0.05) affected. The results obtained from the cost of feed per kilogram live weight gains of inclusion levels of Faidherbia albida Pod meal also indicated significant (P<0.05) differences in the cost per kg live weight gains of diets across the treatments. It is therefore, recommended that farmers can feed a complete diet containing graded levels of apple-ring Acacia (Faidherbia albida) pods up to 30% to Yankasa rams with optimum performance.
HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS FED DIETS CONTAINING TREATED RICE HUSK AS A REPLACEMENT FOR WHEAT BRAN
Authors: Afolayan F. O. , Ogunbosoye D. O. , Dare O. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of treated rice husk as a replacement for wheat bran on the haematology and serum biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Twenty WAD goats were subjected to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with four goats per treatment. The treatments were 0% RH (T1), 25% RH (T2),50% RH (T3),75% RH (T4) and 100% RH (T5). The animals were fed at 5% of their body weight. Blood samples of 10 ml were collected at the end of the growth trial to analyze for haematology and biochemical components. Blood samples were taken before morning feeding via jugular vein puncture into two blood collection bottles. One containing an anticoagulant Disodium salt of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and the other with no anticoagulant from which serum was harvested for biochemical analysis. Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC) and total white Blood Cells (WBC) were determined. Mean Corpuscular volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was calculated from PCV, Hb and RBC. Serum biochemical parameters measured include glucose, total protein, albumin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) parameters were determined. Goat fed with diet T4 had better red blood cell, Pcv, hemoglobin, platelet, eosinophil and AST but high in cholesterol level. Goat on T2 had the highest Tp and better hemoglobin, Pcv, platelet lymphocytes, ALT and globulin content. The treated rice husk had positive impact on the blood parameters, the values are within the normal range for healthy goat. Hence, from this study, 25 – 50% treated rice husk replacement for wheat bran suggests suitable for better performance of WAD goats.
NUTRIENT INTAKE OF RED SOKOTO BUCKS FED DIETS CONTAINING VARYING LEVELS OF PILIOSTIGMA THONNINGII (KARGO) PODS IN SEMI – ARID REGION OF NIGERIA
Authors: Iliyasu K. A. , Ashiru R. M. , Nasir M. , Ubayi K. M. , Musa J. H. , Babandi B. , Jibrin I. , Sariyu S. , Yahuza S. , Wudil A. A.
Published: December 2024

Animal productivity could be enhanced by providing forages that are good and qualitative. Browse plants are feed resources that are relevant and valuable to livestock. Browse plants are defined as the palatable portions of a woody forage plants such as leaves, tender twigs, shoots, flowers, fruits and pods. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding different inclusion levels of Piliostigma thonningii pods on nutrient intake and digestibility of male Maradi bucks. Sixteen growing Red Sokoto bucks weighing averagely 10-12±2.0kg were randomally allotted to four treatments in a Completely Randomized Design with four replications per treatment. Four diets containing P. thonningii pods at 0, 5, 10 and 15% were fed at 3.5 body weight/day for a period of 84 days. The parameters measured include; dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ash, ether extract and nitrogen free extract digestibility. The results of nutrient intake showed significant (P<0.05) differences in all parameters except for dry matter and crude fiber. It was concluded that 15% inclusion level of P. thonningii pods enhanced nutrient intake by Kano Brown bucks. It was therefore, recommended that, P. thonningii pods could be included up to 15% level in the diet of Kano Brown bucks to enhance nutrient intake.
EFFECTS OF FEEDING RED SOKOTO BUCKS GRADED LEVELS OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE IN SEMI-ARID REGION OF NIGERIA
Authors: Hudu S. , Hassan A. M. , Ashiru R. M. , Iliyasu K. A. , Musa J. H. , Wudil A. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal based diets on growth performance of red Sokoto bucks. Twenty (20) red Sokoto bucks, average age of twelve months (12) were used for the study. Animals were allocated into five (5) dietary treatments T1 (0%), T2 (5%), T3 (10%), T4 (15%), and T5 20% representing Moringa oleifera inclusion levels with four animals per treatments, in a completely randomized design. The study lasted for 14 weeks. The result obtained showed that animal in T5 fed 20% Moringa oleifera leaf had significantly (P < 0.05) higher in final body weight compared to other treatments. The result indicated there were signicant (P<0,05) differences between body weight gain, feed intake and feed efficiency. It was therefore recommended that, Moringa oleifera leaf could be included up to 20% level in the diet of Red Sokoto Bucks without any adverse effect on performance.
EFFECT OF GENOTYPE ON LAYING PERFORMANCE OF LOCAL CHICKEN IN THE HUMID TROPICAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: NOSIKE R. J. , NWAKPU O. F.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of genotype on the laying performance of Nigerian local chicken. The experiment was carried out using 99 local chicken of the three genotypes, comprising of 90 hens and 9 cocks (33 frizzle feather, 33 naked-neck feather and 33 normal feathered). Eggs were collected from the different genotypes for 8 weeks. The laying performance traits were egg number, Hen-Housed (%) and Hen-Day (%) egg production. Data collected were subjected to ANOVA in a Completely Randomised Design. The Hen-Day egg production showed significant differences (P<0.05) in all the weeks. Naked-neck genotype performed better in terms of Hen-Day egg production than the other two genotypes and had highest values in week 1 (27.14±0.01 )week 5 (27.60±0.09), week 7 (34.53±1.13) and week 8 (16.30±0.03). There were significant differences (P<0.05) in all the weeks for Hen-Housed egg production and naked-neck also performed better than the frizzled and normal feather apart from week 2, 3 and 6. The naked-neck genotype had highest mean values in week l, 4, 5, 7 and 8 with 27.18±0.06, 25.70±0.02, 19.33±0.67, 24.08±0.22 and 11.39±0.03 respectively for Hen-Housed egg production. The naked-neck had significantly (P<O.05) higher values for egg number when compared with frizzle and normal feathered genotypes. The values ranged between 5.67±0.67 to 2.00±0.10 (naked-neck), 6.33±0.33 to 2.67±0.67 (frizzle) and 3.33±0.33 to 1.33±0.33 (normal). It is therefore, reasonable to incorporate the naked-neck and frizzled feather genotypes of local chicken in producing locally-adapted commercial eggs.
ESTIMATION OF VARIANCE COMPONENTS FOR BODYWEIGHT OF GRASSCUTTERS USING EXPECTATION MAXIMIZATION (EM) ALGORITHM OF RESTRICTED MAXIMIMUM LIKELIHOOD (REMI)
Authors: UDEH I.
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to estimate the variance components and heritability of bodyweight of grass-cutters at 4, 6 and 8 111011ths of age using EM algorithm of REML procedures. The data used for the study were obtained from the bodyweight records of grass-cutters from 4 families at 4, 6 and 8 months of age. The heritability of bodyweight of grasscutters at 4, 6 and 8 months of age were 0.14, 0.10 and 0.12 respectively. This implies that about 10 14 % of the phenotypic variability of body weight in this grasscutter population was accounted by additive genetic variance while environmental and gene combination variance made a larger contribution. The implication is that selection of grasscutters in this population should not be based on the in on the animals alone but also information from its relatives.
PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL HELMINTIIS AND WEIGHT CHANGES IN SEMI-INTENSIVELY MANAGED SAVANNA BROWN GOATS FED SUPPLEMENTAL MAIZE AND MINERAL SUPPLEMENT
Authors: ADAMA J. Y. , KAMBAI J.
Published: December 2024

The study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths and weight changes in semi-intensively managed savanna brown goats of different ages fed supplemental maize bran and mineral supplement in Karshi, Abuja. The experimental design was randomized complete block design (RCBD) using 3 treatments having 3 replicates. Eighteen (18) experimental animals weighing between 1.7 12kg and their ages ranging between 1-6 months, 7-12 months and 12 months and above were used. T1 were without supplement, T2 were supplemented with 1 kg of maize bran daily for 12 weeks but without salt lick while T3 were supplemented with I kg of maize bran daily and salt lick. The faecal samples were examined weekly using simple floatation and sedimentation techniques for the presence of helminths. The parasites isolated were Ostertogia sp, strongyloides sp, Trichuris sp and schistosoma sp, respectively. The animals fed supplemental diets (T2 and T3) had significantly (P<0.05) higher weight gain at weeks 8, 11 and 12 than T1. It is recommended that public awareness programme be step up in the study area on the zoonotic importance of the parasites isolated and that livestock farmers be adequately sensitized to the effective use of maize bran and mineral supplementation during the dry season period when feed resources are very scarce.
EFFECT OF NEEM (AZADIRACHTA INDICA) AND BITTER LEAF (VERNONIA AMYGDALINA) ETHANOLIC EXTRACTSON THE BLOOD PROFILE OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF SHEEP
Authors: Dare A. O. , Ogunbosoye D. O. , Imam R. O. , Afolayan F. O.
Published: December 2024

A study was aimed at investigating the impact of feeding neem (Azadirachta indica) and bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) ethanolic extracts on WAD Sheep performance, aligning with the global move away from antibiotic growth promoters in animal nutrition. The sheep were subjected to four treatments in a completely randomized design: Distilled water (T1), Neem extract 50 mL/kg of feed (T2), Bitter leaf extract (T3), Neem + Bitter leaf extract (T4) at 50 ml/kg of feed. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, and MCHC in sheep on T3 and T4 compared with sheep in the control group, also there were more WBCs in sheep in T2 than in the other treatment groups. Total protein, albumin, and globulin were higher in T4 (p<0.05). Serum enzyme levels (AST, ALT, and ALP) were moderate, while cholesterol, triglyceride, and LdL concentrations were low. Administering neem + bitter leaf extracts at 50ml/kg DM feed enhanced growth performance and health status, suggesting their use as growth-promoting additives.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND DIGESTIBILITY OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) BUCKS FED GRADED LEVELS OF TOASTED BAOBAB (ADANSONIA DIGITATA) SEED MEAL
Authors: Yakubu R. N. , Gulukun E. Z. , Dastu A. J. , Ashom S. A. , Gyang I. Y.
Published: December 2024

Dietary crude protein, fibre and carbohydrate are of great importance due to their significance in animal production. High cost of conventional feedstuff sources necessitated search for suitable alternatives to reduce cost of production. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of graded levels of processed Baobab seed meal (BSM) to replace full fat soyabean meal (FFSB) though Baobab seed not considered a conventional legume seed. A total of sixteen (16) West African dwarf (WAD) grower bucks of 5-7 months were used to investigate the growth performance and nutrient digestibility. The WAD bucks were allotted into four dietary treatments of one buck segregated into four replicates of one buck each. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. Total weight gain (2.51kg/buck) was reduced (P<0.05) in bucks fed diets supplemented with 75% BSM in comparison to 0% BSM (3.84 kg/ buck). It was concluded that inclusion of 25 % and 75 % BSM did not adversely affect nutrient digestibility instead 50 % BSM improved growth performance and nutrient digestibility.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOAT FED DIETS TREATED RICE HUSK AS SUBSTITUTE FOR WHEAT BRAN
Authors: Afolayan F. O. , Ogunbosoye D. O. , Dare O. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to study the effects of treated rice husk as a replacement for wheat bran supplement on the growth performance of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Twenty (20) WAD goats were subjected to five dietary treatments in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four (4) animals per treatment and each serving as a replicate. The treatments are: 0% RH (T1), 25% RH (T2), 50% RH (T3), 75% RH (T4) and 100% RH (T5). The animals were fed 5% of their body weight. The result showed that T2 and T1 are relatively high in crude protein, low in crude fiber, moderate in crude fat and high in carbohydrate. They equally had the lowest values of ADF, ADL and NDF among the treatments. The total weight gain (TWG), average daily weight gain (ADWG), total daily feed intake (TDFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were all significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by the dietary treatments. The goat, T1 had the highest TWG, ADWG and TDFI values among the goats. The goat fed 25% RH replacement level (T2) converted and utilized feed better and had better growth performance comparable to goats fed T1. In conclusion, at 25% level of treated rice husk as replacement of wheat bran gave better growth performance in the goats. The result demonstrated the qualitative benefits and financial returns of using treated rice husk to replace wheat bran diets for WAD goats. Thus, the use of treated rice husk up to 50% in the diet of WAD goats is recommended for appreciable growth performance and better economic benefits.
FEEDING PREFERENCE OF WHITE FULANI CATTLE (BUNAJI) FED SACCIOLEPIS AFRICANA LEAF MEAL
Authors: Olusegun-Bakare G. A. , Iyodo O. S. , Akinropo T. F. , Odedire J. A.
Published: December 2024

Sacciolepis africana has been identified as water weed, which constitute a manace in rice and maize fields due to its aggressive growth. Utilization of Sacciolepis africana can help to mitigate the challenge and also serve as feed ruminant especially during the period of dry season. Hence, this experiment was conducted to determine the feeding preference and acceptability for Sacciolepis africana leaves by White Fulani Cattle (Bunaji). Sacciolepis africana leaves were harvested and processed into four treatments viz: Diet 1 (Freshly cut Sacciolepis africana), diet 2 (Air-dried Sacciolepis africana), diet 3 (Sun-dried Sacciolepis Africana) and diet 4 (Ensiled Sacciolepis africana). Proximate composition of the diets was carried out, and feeding preference of Bunaji cattle was observed. Results indicated that proximate composition of diets were influenced (P<0.05) by processing methods. Coefficient of Preference (CoP) of diets revealed that fresh Sacciolepis africana was most preferred with a CoP of 1.73, followed by the air-dried Sacciolepis africana with CoP values of 1.17. It is concluded that, processing Sacciolepis africana improved its nutritional composition and that the fresh Sacciolepis africana was most preferred by Bunaji cattle.
STUDIES ON THE CURATIVE AND PROPHYLACTIC CONCENTRATIONS OF ISOMETAMIDIUM CHLORIDE IN THE TREATMENT OF EXPERIMENTAL Trypanosoma congolense INFECTION IN RED SOKOTO BUCKS
Authors: AMINU G. M. , OKAIYETO S. O. , LAWAL I. A.
Published: December 2024

The effectiveness of therapeutic and prophylactic drug concentrations of isometamidium chloride (ISMTX) was studied in Trypanosoma congolense infected Red Sokoto bucks (RSB). Sixteen R.S.B were divided into four groups of four animals each: Group I (1 % ISMTX), Group II (2 % ISMTX), Group III (3% ISMTX) and Group IV (uninfected and untreated-Control). Groups I, II and III bucks were inoculated with approximately 1x10 trypanosomes intravenously each. Parasitemia was monitored on wet-mount and mHCT throughout the study. Clinical signs, rectal temperature, PCV, Total white blood cell count (TWBCC), differential leucocyte count were monitored. Group I, II and III were treated with 1 %, 2%, and 3 % isometamidium chloride at the dose rate of 0.5 mg/kg body weight intramuscularly. 2 % and 3 % ISMTX groups were re-infected post-treatment to test their chemoprophylaxis. Statistical analysis using One way -ANOVA was employed P<0.05 considered significant. The 1% ISMTX had relapse post-treatment while the parasite in 2 % and 3 % ISMTX groups appeared following re-infection. Pale mucous membranes, pyrexia, inappetance, depression, epiphora and nasal discharges were among the clinical signs observed. There was a significant difference (P<0.001) in the daily mean rectal temperature post-infection and post-treatment between the test groups and the control group. A significant difference (P<0.001) in the PCV was also noted in all the three groups post-infection and post-treatment. The TWBCC in all the three test groups differed significantly (P<0.001) post-infection and post-treatment compared with the control group. A significant (P<0.01) lymphopenia was noted post-infection and post- treatment respectively. The 1% isometamidiuim was effective in the treatment of trypanosomiosis according to this study but not curative while the 2 % and 3 % isometamidium chloride were both effective and curative for the period of observation. The chemoprophylaxis of the 2 % and 3 % isometamidium chloride based on this study was five weeks and four weeks respectively.
ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF AFRICAN NUTMEG, PEPPER AND BLACK PEPPER EXTRACT ON THE QUALITY AND SHELF-LIFE OF CHICKEN NUGGETS
Authors: HARUNA M. H. , OLUSOLA O. O. , OLUGBEMI T. S.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted using five kilogrammes of manually deboned and comminuted broiler meat to determine the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Pepper, Black pepper and African nutmeg extracts on the quality and shelf-life of nuggets stored at 4°C for 12 days in a completely randomised design. The results for the antioxidant effect revealed that lipid oxidation of chicken nuggets were improved by the inclusion of the extracts compared to the control. Total plate count, coliform count and fungal count were significantly (P<0.05) reduced with the addition of African nutmeg extracts during storage. It is concluded that extracts of Pepper, Black pepper and African nutmeg led to retarded oxidative rancidity and microbial growth during refrigerated storage, thereby improving the quality and shelf-life of chicken nuggets.
EFFECT OF COOKING METHODS ON PALATABILITY TRAITS AND CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF BROILER MEAT
Authors: OKOH P. I. , EHEBHA E. T. E. , OBASOYO D. O.
Published: December 2024

A study on the effects of cooking methods on palatability traits and chemical composition of chicken meat was carried out. A total of thirty (30) adult broiler birds were subjected to three cooking methods namely, boiling, broiling and roasting. Results from the experiment showed a higher (P< 0.05) appearance (colour) for meat processed by broiling as against other cooking methods. Also broiled meat was more tender, juicier, had higher flavour and was most accepted by panellists. Chemical composition showed higher values (P< 0.05) of moisture content for boiled meat, crude protein for boiled meat, ash for roasted meat and ether extract for boiled meat, respectively. By this, broiling cooking method should be employed by meat processors and home consumer, as it showed best result from panellist assessment. Keywords: cooking methods, palatability traits, chemical composition, chicken meat.
SPERMATOZOA QUALITY OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOAT SEMEN DILUTED WITH NORMAL SALINE AND STORED AT ROOM TEMPERATURE
Authors: Ihejirika U. D. G. , Ewuola E. O.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed at evaluating the ability of normal saline as diluent to sustain spermatozoa viability at 24-29°c over a period of time. Semen was collected from 17 WAD bucks aged 1-3 years old with an average body weight of 12.15±1.51kg, pooled and divided into 5 portions. Four portions were diluted with normal saline at ratio 1:1 (T2), 1:2 (T3), 1:3 (T4) and 1:4 (T5), while undiluted portion (T1) served as control in a completely randomised design. Semen characteristics were determined 2 hours interval at 24-29°c using standard procedures. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA. Results showed that at 2 hours, Spermatozoa motility in T2, T3, T4 and T5 were significantly higher than control (undiluted) and at 4 hours,T2 and T5 were significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1, T3 and T4. At 6 hours, spermatozoa motility in T2 was significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1, T3, T4 and T5. Acrosome integrity showed that at 8 hours, T1 was significantly lower than other treatments, except T4. Livability showed that at 6 hours, T2, T3, T5 were significantly higher than T1 and T4. At 8 hours, T2 was significantly higher than T1 and T5 though similar to T3 and T4. At 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours, there was no significant differences among the treatments with respect to plasma membrane integrity. West African buck semen diluted with normal saline at ratio of 1:1 – 1:4 (Semen: diluent) at 24-29°c maintained the highest viability of sperm cells compared to the undiluted semen. In order to ensure good motility and conception, semen diluted with normal saline should not be stored beyond four hours at room temperature.
THE EFFECT OF LEMONGRASS (CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS) ON THE TESTICULAR TISSUE OF MALE ALBINO RATS
Authors: Igwe A. O. , Okelue C. C.
Published: December 2024

This study investigated if treatment with Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) can cause any adverse effect on the on the Reproductive organ of male albino rats. Sixty adult White rats were randomly assigned into four groups of 15 each: group 1, each drenched with distilled water, groups 2, 3 and 4 rats were each drenched with 250mg, 500mg and 1000mg of ethanol extract of Lemongrass, respectively. The rats were examined for signs and lesions. No clinical signs, mortalities and lesions were observed in all the groups of albino rats throughout the experimental period (days 0 to 28) post treatment. Histopathological sections of the testes showed normal architecture in all the groups. However, group 3 treated with 500mg showed moderate proliferation and differentiation of spermatogenic cells compared with groups 1, 2 and 3 on day 14 post treatment and increased to marked proliferation and differentiation on day 28 post treatment. The result of the present study showed that lemon grass enhanced the spermatogenic cells of adult male albino rats and had beneficial effects irrespective of the doses and could be used as an alternative additive.
ACCEPTABILITY AND IN VITRO FERMENTATION CHARACTERISTICS OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) SHEEP FED DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF NEEM AND BITTER LEAF PLANTS
Authors: Dare A. O. , Afolayan F. O. , Ogunbosoye N. A. , Imam R. O. , Salau B. K.
Published: December 2024

The poor performance of ruminant animals during the lean season coupled with increased methane emission that causes global warming has necessitated the search for alternative feed additives (additives) that could be used as both growth stimulants and methane inhibitors. This study focused on investigating the acceptability, in-vitro gas fermentation and methane production levels of neem and bitter leaf in rations formulated for West African Dwarf sheep. Twenty-one sheep were used and subjected to seven dietary treatments: Control diet (T1), 5% Neem leaf (T2), 10% Neem leaf (T3), 5% Neem leaf + 5% Bitter leaf (T4), 5% Bitter leaf (T5), 10% Bitter leaf (T6) and 2.5% Neem leaf + 2.5% Bitter leaf (T7) in a completely randomized design. The average dry matter feed intake was significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the experimental diets. The T1 sheep was significantly (P<0.05) higher compared with those fed other diets throughout the 7-days period. The order of preference of the sheep fed treatment diets was T1>T5>T7>T6>T2>T4>T3. The production of gas was significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the incubation period and herbs inclusion. The T1 (0% herbs) produced more gas than the rest of the treatments, T5 (bitter leaf) at 5% inclusion level produces relatively less methane gas and preferred. Likewise, neem leaf and bitter leaf at 2.5% (T7) inclusion level each produced a lower methane gas. In conclusion, addition of herbs into the diet of ruminants could improve feed efficiency and also reduce methane emission.
EFFECTS OF REPLACING SOY ABEAN MEAL WITH MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF MEAL ON HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM CHOLESTEROL CONCENTRATION IN BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: SULE K. , OLOWU O. P. A. , ADEYEYE S. A. , ONIBI G. E.
Published: December 2024

The effects of replacing soyabean meal with Moringa oleifera leaf meal on haematology and serum cholesterol concentration were examined using 200 started broiler chickens. Treatments were not significant on all haematological variables examined with the exception of Lymphocyte in which there was significant effect (P<0.05). Serum cholesterol concentration in the birds shows a decreasing concentration with increasing levels of MOLM in the diets. effects of treatment on cholesterol  concentration were statistically significant. It is recommended that the use of MOLM in the diets of broiler chicken to reduce its cholesterol content be advocated.
SERUM AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKEN FED Amaranthus cruentus LEAF MEAL.AS A REPLACEMENT FOR PREMIX
Authors: OKUNLOLA O. O. , AKINOSUN A. A. , OGUNGBENRO S. D.
Published: December 2024

Vegetable based feeds are rich sources of essential plant amino acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The fresh matured leaves were harvested and sundried. The sundried leaves were milled and analysed for their proximate composition. Crude protein 22.90%, crude fibre 8.99%, crude fat 2.77%, and ash 21.70%. One hundred and eight day-old marshall strain broiler chickens were used to evaluate the effects of feeding diets containing amaranthus cruentus leaf meal (ACLM) on serum and haematological indices of finishing broilers. The birds were randomly allotted into three experimental treatments groups with the treatments having 3 replicates. There were 12 birds per replicate which made up 36 birds per treatment in a completely randomized design (CRD). Diets were formulated to meet standard requirements. There were significantly (p< 0.05) difference in all serum metabolites measured. Birds on T3 had the highest value of serum protein (g/dl), globulin (3.65g/dl), and creatinine (0.70g/dl) while the lowest value of serum protein was recorded for birds on Tl and T2 with birds on T2 having the lowest globulin value (3.45g/dl) and birds on Tl having creatinine value (0.60g/dl). All haematological parameters measured showed significant (p<0.05) difference. Birds on T3 had the lowest values of PCV, Hb, RBC, WBC while birds on Tl had the highest values of all the parameters PCV, Hb, RBC, and WBC with similarity existing in PCV and Hb value of birds on Tl and T2. It could be concluded that amaranthus cruentus can replace premix in broiler diets at both starter and finisher phases without any negative effect on the birds.
EFFECT OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF GROUNDNUT HAULM AND COWPEA HAULM ON PERFORMANCE AND NUTREINTS DIGESTIBILTY OF GROWER RABBITS
Authors: TAMBURAWA M. S. , MA'ARUF D. , HASSAN A. M.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of groundnut haulms (GH) and cowpea haulms (CH) in the diets of grower rabbits. Five diets were supplemented with GH and CH at 0, 20, 30, 20 and 30% levels designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. A total of fifteen (15) mixed breeds (Mongrel) grower rabbits were fed diets in a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement. The experiment lasted 7 weeks. The diets and fecal sample were analyzed for proximate compositions. The result of growth performance indicated that there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the final body weight (2233.34 -2535.34g), daily weight gain (28.84 35.12g) and feed conversion ratio (3.50 4.49). The result of nutrient digestibility showed that there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the digestibilities of crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and ash. The feed conversion ratio was found to be better for rabbits fed diets with 30% cowpea haulms (3.50). Based on this study cowpea haulm can be supplemented in the grower rabbits diets up to 30% without any depression of growth and nutrients digestibilities of grower rabbits.
EFFECTS OF DIETARY ETHIOPIAN PEPPER ON OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF REFRIGERATED BROILER CHICKEN MEAT
Authors: AYOOLA M. A. , BALOGUN K. B.
Published: December 2024

A worldwide concern in the use of synthetic antioxidant in food safety necessitates investigation into natural sources of antioxidants. Ninety six days old Anak broiler chickens were used to investigate the effect of dietary Ethiopian pepper on oxidative stability of refrigerated raw and cooked broiler chicken meat. The birds were fed the starters diet for the first four weeks after which the birds were weighed and allotted into four treatments of two replicates with 12 birds per replicate. The birds were given tested diet with Ethiopian pepper inclusions levels of 0, 10, 20 and 30g/kg feed for another four weeks trial period. At the end of the week, four birds per treatment (a total of 20) were taken for slaughtering, evisceration and meat processed and refrigerated for raw and cooked meat lipid oxidation assessment. Results showed that Ethiopian pepper inclusion in broiler diet exerted no antioxidant effect on refrigerated raw broiler meat however it proved to be a good natural antioxidant in refrigerated cooked broiler meat.
HAEMATOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AFRICAN CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus Burchel, 1822) FED AFRICAN STAR APPLE KERNEL DIETS
Authors: AGBABIAKA L. A.
Published: December 2024

Effect of feeding African Star Apple Kernel (Chrysophyllum africanum) based diets on haematological characteristics of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) for 8 weeks was studied. One hundred and thirty five African catfish fingerlings (mean weight= 2.8g) were allotted to three diets (CP-40%) in which African Star Apple Kernel meal substituted maize at 0%, 50% and 100% dietary levels respectively and fed at 5% biomass daily. Other water quality parameters were maintained throughout the duration of the study. Blood samples were collected from fish in replicates and analyzed for haematological parameters Result on blood analyses showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the values of haemoglobin, also, red blood cell and packed cell volume of the trial fish were low compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in the leucocytes count among the groups.
THE EFFECT OF PRODUCTION PERIOD ON THE INTERNAL EGG QUALITY TRAITS IN JAPANESE QUAILS (Coturnix coturnix japonica) FED TWO COMMERCIAL BROILER DEITS
Authors: SULE H. A. , ZAHRADDEEN D. , MANCHA Y. P. , USMAN M. I.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted at the Research Farm of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi; Nigeria, to study the effect of production period on the Internal Egg Quality Traits in Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix japanica). The results showed that, there were no significant differences in internal egg quality parameters such as yolk height, yolk index, yolk weight, albumen thickness, albumen weight and haugh unit. However, the effect of diets on internal egg quality parameters showed significant difference (P<0.05) in yolk height, yolk index, haugh unit and albumen thickness with respect to two diets integrated. External egg quality traits were not affected by the diets, but more greatly influenced by the production period (P<0.01). Based on the result obtained, the production of quails in the study area, the improvement in the genetic make-up and the diets will go a long way towards improving their productivity.
EFFECT OF RAW, FERMENTED AND HOT WATER TREATED COCOA POD HUSK MEAL BASED DIETS ON THE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT MORPHOMETRY OF RABBIT BUCKS
Authors: OZUNG P. O. , OKO O. O. K. , AGIANG E. A.
Published: December 2024

This study was carried out to determine the effect of feeding raw, fermented and hot - water treated cocoa pod husk meal (CPHM) based - diets on the reproductive tract morphometry of rabbit bucks. A total of sixty (60) cross bred mature rabbit bucks were utilized and randomly allocated to twelve (12) experimental diets containing raw (T1, T2, T3& Ta), fermented (Ts. T6. T7, & Ts) and hot water treated (T9. T10, T1& T12) CPHM at 0.00, 12.50, 25.00 and 37.50 percent levels of inclusion respectively, in a 3 X 4 factorial arrangement using a CRD. The feeding trial lasted twenty one (21) weeks. Water and feed (formulated diets were both isonitrogenous 16% and isocaloric - 2500kcal/kgME) were provided ad-libitum. At the end of the feeding trial thirty six (36) rabbits (3 per treatment) were sacrificed in the laboratory, dissected and reproductive tracts obtained intoto, trimmed of fats and adhering tissues before being subjected to morphometric analysis. Results of the study revealed significant (P < 0.05) reduction in absolute weight values of the paired testes and epididymis as well as the length of the caput epididymis in rabbit bucks fed the raw CPHM diets, while fermented and hot-water treated CPHM recorded fluctuating trends. The respective absolute and relative weights as well as lengths of other parameters declined in values as the levels of raw CPHM inclusion increased, while other processed forms had no definite pattern without any significant difference (P > 0.05). These findings imply that processed cocoa pod husk meal (fermented and hot-water treated forms)could serves some useful purpose as a non-conventional feed resource in rabbit nutrition and physiology. It is therefore suggested that fermented and hot- water treated CPHM could be included up to 25.00 percent in diets meant for rabbits without fear of compromising their reproductive tract morphometryvis-a-vis reproductive potential.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GROWING RAMS FED PANICUM MAXIMUM SUPPLEMENTED WITH DIFFERENTLY PROCESSED CAJANUS CAJAN LEAVES
Authors: ADEBISI I. A. , AJIBIKE A. B. , MURAINA T. O. , AMUSA H. O. , OLUOKUN R. A. , EGBINOLA O. O.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was carried out to investigate the Performance of West African dwarf growing rams fed differently processed Cajanus cajan leaves and Panicum maximum basal diet for 56 days feeding trial which was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology Igboora, Nigeria. A total of sixteen (16) growing WAD rams were randomly allocated to four treatments with four animals per treatment while two animals served as replicate. The experimental diet was fed at 3% body weight of individual animals while fresh, wilted, and dried forms of Cajanus cajan leaves supplemented at varied inclusion levels. There were significant (P<0.05) difference in all parameters measured expect dry matter intake (DMI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) which showed no significant (P>0.05) difference across the dietary treatments. The results revealed that animals on the control diet recorded the least weight gain (12.68g/day) while the highest weight gain (25.89g/day) was recorded in T3 that contained 30% wilted form of Cajanus Cajan leaves and 70% Panicum maximum. The daily weight gain of animals was significantly different across all treatments (P<0.05). The highest DMI (5.22kg) was recorded on the control treatment (T1) that contained 100% sole Panicum maximum and the least value of DMI (3.50kg) was recorded in T2 that contained 30% fresh form of Cajanus cajan leaves and 70% Panicum maximum. The highest feed efficiency ratio (0.29) and the lowest value (0.11) were observed in animals fed T2, T3, and T1 diets respectively. It can be concluded that the animals on T3 had the highest feed utilization while animals on T3 had the highest dry matter intake.