bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECT OF REPLACING MAIZE WITH RAW CHRYSOPHYLLUM ALBIDUM SEED KERNELS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILERS
Authors: AJIDE S. O. , ANNONGU A. A. , ATTEH J. O. , IZEBERE J. , ALABI O. O. , SHOYOMBO A. J.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted using 210, unsexed one week old Marshall broiler chicks with an average initial weight of 99.38g to determine the effect of replacing maize with graded levels of Raw Chrysophyllum albidum Kernel Meal (RCKM) on the performance of broiler chickens. The chicks were assigned into seven dietary treatments of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% graded levels of RCKM for replacing maize in the diets of the birds. The dietary treatments contained three replicates with 10 chicks per replicate. The birds were given feed and water ad-lib and weighed weekly. Routine vaccinations and medications were carried out as at when due. The proximate composition of the RCKM is shown to contain valuable nutrients. The quantitative determination of the phytochemical content of C. albidum revealed that, it contains very high amount of phytate, tannins, flavonoids and total phenolics. Results obtained on the performance characteristics revealed that, there was a very highly significant (P<0.001) decrease in the final live weights, average daily weight gains, feed intake values as the dietary inclusion of the RCKM increased in the diets of the birds. The values obtained for the final live weights were 1,910.16g, 1,255g, 885.00g, 479.24g, 474.11g, 395.00g and 388.83g for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 respectively. The average daily weight gains were 32.34g, 20.66g, 14.04g, 6.78g, 6.69g, 5.29g and 5.15g, the feed intake values were 116.87g, 99.37g, 91.32g, 71.40g, 69.90g, 68.36g, 65.23g, respectively for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 respectively. This was accompanied by very poor feed conversion ratios and high cost per kg weight gains. In conclusion, though Chrysophyllum albidum kernel meal has potentials for animal feeding due to its high energy levels but there is the need to adequately detoxify the antinutritional factors in the kernels before inclusion in the broilers diet.
IN VITRO NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF WHEAT BRAN SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT COMMERCIAL ENZYME
Authors: ALABI O. O. , ATTEH J. O.
Published: December 2024

The effects of supplemental enzyme on in vivo digestibility of nutrients in rice husk were determined in a 2 x 4 factorial combinations. Wheat bran was added at 0 or 25% inclusion level at the expense of maize in the control diet. Each of these was undertaken in the presence of no enzyme (0ppm) or with different types of commercial enzyme at recommended level, which are Roxazyme G, (150ppm), Nutrase xyla, (100ppm) and Phytase, (100ppm). Generally it was observed in this study that increase in the content of brewer's dried grain in the absence of supplementary enzymes in the in vitro trials caused a decrease in the nutrient digestibility particularly for protein and fibre (P<0.05). However, there was improved nutrient digestibility of diets supplemented with enzymes in the in vitro trials. Conclusively there should be an in vitro trial prior the actual in vivo introduction.
PROXIMATE ANALYSIS AND PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF DISCARDED SPOILT ORANGE INCLUDED IN THE FEED OF LIVESTOCK
Authors: IDRIS D. Y. , JIBIA S. S. , KHAMIS A. I. , ONI O. O. , UMUNAGBU M. N. , AIGBAVBOA M. O. , ALIMI H. M. , OWOYEMI A. E. , KAMAL R. M.
Published: December 2024

Discarded Spoilt Orange was evaluated for its proximate analysis and phytochemical composition. The phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of saponins, cardiac glycosides, tannins and flavonoids. Proximate analysis also shows that it has a high nutritional value such as carbohydrate (46.4 ± 1.50), fibre (46.4 ±1.50), Ash (4.95 ± 0.35), fat (13.56 ± 0.00) and protein (12.70 ± 0.25). These results recommended the inclusion of discarded spoilt orange in the feed of animals in partial replacement for energy.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF NUTRIENT AND ANTI-NUTRIENT CONTENTS OF Persea americana (AVOCADO) LEAVES AS FEED SUPPLEMENT FOR RUNIMANTS IN THE TROPICS
Authors: MAKO A. A. , AKINWANDE V. O. , AKINFEMI A. , AJAYI O. Z.
Published: December 2024

An evaluation of nutrient and anti-nutrient contents of different forms of Persea americana (PA) leaves was investigated. Experiment 1 involved the determination of the chemical composition of green, yellow and brown leaves of PA. Experiment 2 determined the tannin, saponin, phytate and oxalate contents of the different leaves of PA. Results revealed that the chemical composition of the leaves varied significantly (P<0.05). The dry matter ranged from 88.75-91.24% in green and brown leaves respectively, while the crude protein ranged from 16.31-18.41 % in brown and green leaves respectively. The neutral detergent fibre ranged from 49.21- 55.48% in green and brown leaves respectively. Tannin, saponin, phytate and oxalte content of the leaves did not differ significantly, but was within the tolerable limit for consumption. These result showed that the different forms of Persea americana leaves can be used as feed supplement for ruminant in the Tropics.
Prevalence of Gastro-Intestinal Parasites in Clarias gariepinus Caught in the Gwagwalada River, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Okoli C. G. , Shawulu Y. S. , Dankishiya A. S. , Okoli I. C.
Published: December 2024

This paper reports the prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasites in Clarias gariepinus caught in the Gwagwalada River, Abuja, north central Nigeria. Sixty specimens of wild catfish, C. gariepinus were obtained fresh from fishermen who caught then from the Gwagwalada River during the rainy season months of June to July. They were dissected, the stomach and intestines contentseviscerated and prepared following standard parasitological procedures on glass slides and thereafter, viewed under x400 magnification for the presence of gastro-intestinal parasites. The parasites were identified using the pictorial atlas of parasitic infections and diseases of African fish (1980). On the whole, 27 out of the 60 fish examined were infected with parasites, thus giving a prevalence rate of 45.00%. The protozoa Toxoplasma gondii recorded the highest prevalence rate (34.77%), followed by the cestode, Bothriocephalus gowkongenesis (18.87%). The highest prevalence rate and parasite intensity were also recorded in the 21 – 25 cm length group (20.00% and 13.17 respectively). The 501 – 951 g weight group had the highest prevalence rate (53.64%) and parasite intensity (13.50) and was followed by the 50 -500 g group that recorded 28.48% prevalence rate and 9.56 parasite intensity. The females recorded higher parasite prevalence rate (59.26%) but lower parasite intensity (10.88) than the males. It was concluded that wild C. gariepinus from the Gwagwalada River are moderately infected with gastro-intestinal parasites and that the young and growing fishes harbored more parasites than the older ones.
DIETARY ADMINISTRATION OF MALABAR SPINACH (Basella alba) LEAVES EXTRACTS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, SURVIVAL AND CONDITION FACTOR OF JUVENILES Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Olusola S. E. , Olusola S. E. , Abbah J. O.
Published: December 2024

A 56 day experiment was aimed to determine the dietary supplementation of Malabar spinach leaves (Basella alba) (BA) extracts and Chloramphenicol (CHRL) on growth, survival and condition factor of juveniles Clarias gariepinus. Fish with average weight of 4.11±0.01g were distributed into five treatments, replicated twice with 20 fish per replicate. Experimental diets consist of control (0%), BA2 (1%), BA3 (2%), CHRL4 (30mg/kg), and (BA+CHRL) 5 (2%) were fed twice daily to the experimental fish at 3% body weight of 45% crude protein. Biological indices (Mean weight gain, Specific growth rate, Survival rate, Nitrogen metabolism, Protein efficiency ratio and Protein intake) were determined. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at P=0.05. The result indicated that, fish fed the diets supplemented with BA and CHRL enhanced weight gain, specific growth rate, survival rate, Nitrogen metabolism, protein efficiency ratio and protein intake when compared to the control diets (P<0.05). The result suggested that BA extracts, and combination of the plant with chloramphenicol would positively enhance growth, survival and health status of C. gariepinus juveniles.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOME SOMATIC INDICES AND INTESTINE LENGTH OF Gymnarchus niloticus FROM KATCHA RIVER, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Yusuf M. K. , Tsadu S. M. , Lamai S. L. , Yisa A. T.
Published: December 2024

A total of 96 samples were examined from January –June 2018 to estimate the relationship between intestine and total body length, and weight- length of Gymnarchus niloticus. Top loading balance, measuring tape were used for weighing and measuring the weight and length of the fish respectively. Micro soft excel 2016 was used to analyse the data. The ratios of intestine length to total body ranged from 1.1-1.3 and this showed the position of fish in a food web as predator. Linear regression analyses showed 0.96 and 0.99 R2 in relationship between body weight to total length, and intestine to total length respectively. These showed that 96 % and 99 % of the variability of the response variables have been explained by the regression model. It also indicates the predictability of the response variables.
ADOPTION OF IMRPOVED FEEDING TECHNOLOGIES AMONG FARMERS IN IWO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: UMUNNA M. O. , IBRAHIM A. O.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out to examine the adoption of improved feeding technologies among livestock farmers in Iwo Local Government Area of Osun state. A purposive sampling method was used to select 100 livestock farmers for the study. Primary data were collected from the livestock farmers with the aid of structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means, frequency and percentages. Findings revealed that the mean age of the farmers was 48.44 years and most were married male with a mean family size of 6 persons. Most (83%) of the farmers were literate with majority (69.8%). The major source of awareness for the improved feeding technologies was agricultural extension agents. Soybean wastes had the highest level of awareness (85%) and adoption (55%) among the farmers. There was an increase in the cost feeding of the animals from N516.00 before the adoption of the innovation to N4146.00 after adoption. There was also an increase in the average income per production cycle from N54600.55 before adoption to N135500.50 after adoption. High cost of raw materials was ranked the first constraint to adoption of innovation. It was recommended that farmers should be encouraged to adopt innovation through the provision of financial assistance by relevant institutions while increasing awareness on benefits of adopting feeding technologies through extension.
Financing Small Scale Business in Nigeria; Challenges and Potentials of Animal Products Processing
Authors: Oluwafemi R. A. , Olaitan D. , Olaitan D.
Published: December 2024

In Nigeria, Agriculture is the largest sector for decades that has employed nearly 60% of its workforce and its growth rate is still below the potentials of the country’s natural and human resources due to high cost of agricultural inputs, poor funding , inadequate functional and infrastructural facilities, inconsistencies in government agricultural policies, inadequate private sector participation, poor mechanized farming and little or no adoption of simple agricultural technologies developed by scientists. Small scale business has played a vital role in reducing unemployment and adding to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) but is still faced with a lot of problems such as poor electricity, high cost of agricultural processing machinesand most recently poor funding. A lot of reviews have been written on small scale enterprises, however, financing small scale businesses in Nigeria, challenges and potential of Animal products processing sector has not been complied. Therefore this review is focused on the challenges facing the development of small scale businesses, the role and contribution of government in facilitating the growth of small business enterprise as well as the potentials of the animal product and processing sector.
DEVELOPMENTS IN MARKETING CHANNELS AND SYSTEMS FOR SMALLHOLDER CHICKEN PRODUCTION IN NIGERIA
Authors: Adesina A. , Jibodu A. , Abanigbe S. , Lai-Solarin W.
Published: December 2024

There are a number of marketing opportunities that can benefit stakeholders in the smallholder chicken value chain. For sustainability, the smallholder chicken farmers depend on the constant availability of inputs like foundation chicks, simple housing and equipment. This paper presents observations from some activities carried out by Bdellium Consult Ltd on smallholder poultry developments in the past three years, and discusses the advances, challenges and opportunities in the development of marketing channels for the smallholder poultry production in Nigeria. Traditionally the cocks are allowed to run along with the hensto produce fertile eggs that the hens will sit on to incubate in order to produce chicks. However, in therecent times, a class of farmers popularly called “Brood and Sell Farmers” that serve as mothering units for smallholder farmers have emerged. Complementary enterprises, vendors and artisans have also emerged within the value chain, with a number of marketing systems developing to support the different smallholder production systems. There are sellers of live birds who have organized themselves into virile Fowl Sellers Association (FSA) within majority of the live bird markets in urban and rural centers. The niche market for village chickens is now throwing up a number of companies that are investing in the setting up modern facilities for slaughtering and processing village chickens. There is therefore the need for more coordinated  interphase in the smallholder chicken production value chain in order for stakeholders to maximize and benefit from existing opportunities.
TRADITIONAL METHODS OF PREGNANCY DETECTION IN EWE AT HADEJIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, JIGAWA STATE
Authors: Umar A. M. , Muhammad B. F. , Mohammed A. , Muhammad Y. , Kazaure L. A. , Tamburawa M. S. , Madigawa I. L.
Published: December 2024

The study seeks to characterise socio-economics of sheep farmers and identify the traditional methods of pregnancy detection in ewe at Hadejia Local Government Area, Jigawa State. Seventy (70) respondents were selected using simple sampling procedure and analysed with descriptive statistics. Majority (41.4%) of the respondents were between 21-30 years, male (57.1%), married (51.4%), had tertiary education (52.9%) and farmers (58.6%). Most of the farmers kept sheep and goat (50.0%), had 6-10 sheep (47.1%) with 6-10 years experience (40.0%) in small ruminant production and managed both ram and ewe (87.1%). The most accurate (50.0%) traditional method of detecting pregnancy in ewe is through mucous discharge from the vulva. It is recommended that further research on traditional method of pregnancy detection in ewe should be carried out.
Linking Agriculture, Nutrition and Health: Perspectives for Enhanced African and Livestock Researchers Participation
Authors: Okoli I. C. , Aladi N. O. , Anyanwu N. J. , Nwakwasi R. N. , Benchendo G. N. , Achonwa C. C. , Chukwuka N. J.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we present our perspectives of a global annual Agriculture, Nutrition and Health (ANH) Academy Week held at Accra, Ghana in June 2018, with the objective of determining the regional, disciplinary and affiliations diversity of researchers and papers presented at the event in order to highlight the need for increased livestock and African-led research initiatives in during future events. Overall, 130 papers made-up of 3 keynotes, 60 orals and 67 posters presentations were made at the event. About 65% of the papers were derived from studies carried out in Africa and followed by the 22% papers on studies donein Asia. A very high 62.22% (oral) and 63.83% (poster) of these African studies were however presented by researchers affiliated to either Europe, North America or Australian study centers, while 38 and 36% of the oral and poster papers respectively on African issues were presented by researchers affiliated to African study centers. Only 6.30% of the presentations were based on studies carried out in Nigeria, while another 11.81% addressed livestock related issues. There is the need for African and livestock researchers to innovate and foster new interdisciplinary collaborations that will enhance their relevance in the agriculture nutrition and health linkages research nexus.
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTIC OF BROILER BIRDS FED VARYING LEVELS OF ALOE-VERA GEL IN WATER
Authors: Akinosun A. A. , Balogun A. S. , Ogungbenro S. D. , Shobanke L. A. , Okunlola O. O. , Bako B. A. , Raji I. T.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farms of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria. A total number of 96 day old unsexed broiler chicks were purchased from a reputable farm at Ibadan for the experiment. At 8 days of age, birds were weighed and randomly allotted into 4 feeding treatments of 3 replicates consisting of 8 birds in a completely randomized design (CRD). T1 control, T2 (30 ml of AVGE + 1 litre of water), T3 (60 ml of AVGE + 1 litre of water), T4 (90 ml of AVGE + 1 litre of water). The experiment lasted for 49 days. Results showed that, there were no significant (p>0.05) differences existing among treatments groups in final body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and total water intake as well as the mortality except for the overall feed intake. Birds in T1 had the highest final body weight of 1870.33g which is followed numerically by birds in T4 with 1860.00g, T2 with 1798.33g and T3 with a numerical value of 1775.67g respectively. FCR was nonsignificant (p>0.05) but differs numerically across the treatment groups with birds in T4 having the least value of 2.01. Mortality value was highest in T1 (control) with a non-significant (p>0.05) value of 0.67while T2 had no mortality recorded. It can be concluded from the experiment that the groups treated with Aloe vera gel extract showed better performance in weight, FCR, and mortality compared to the control.
EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAIL (Cortunix cortunix japonica) FED GRADED LEVELS OF DRIED SWEET ORANGE PEEL MEAL (Citrus sinensis)
Authors: Agubosi O. C. P. , Jubril A. E. , Eneida M. A , Oluwafemi R. A. , Kazeem J.
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to evaluating the growth performance Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) fed graded levels of dried sweet orange peel meal. A total of one hundred and eighty (180) birds were used for this study. A total of six experimental diets was formulated with inclusion levels of DSOPM at 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5% respectively. Data was collected on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Data collected on performance parameters was subjected toanalysis of variance and means was considered different at P < 0.05. The revealed that there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in the mean initial body weight but in parameters such as the mean final body weight, mean body weight gain and feed conversion ratio, the result revealed significant (P < 0.05) difference and this was also observed for feed intake of quail birds fed the experimental diets. The study concluded that the performance of birds on inclusion diets of 0.5% - 10% DriedSweet Orange Peel Meal (DSOPM) was similar but lower, compared with the higher values in the control diet. The study recommends that 10 – 15% inclusion may be considered since adult unsexed quails fed with the diets had an average weight which fell within the recommended average weight of adult quails (100-160g)
RESPONSES OF NIGERIAN LOCAL COCKERELS TO DIETARY VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENTATION
Authors: OGBUEWU I. P. , UYALOR C. H. , IWUJI T. C. , ETUK E. B. , EMENALOM O. O.
Published: December 2024

A five-week experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary vitamin A (VA) supplementation on blood testosterone and semen quality characteristics of Nigerian local cockerels. Sixty-four, pubertal local cockerels were divided into 4 groups of 16 birds, and each group replicated four times. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design designated Q (0 mg VA per 300 g dry matter (DM feed)), Q (0.75 mg VA per 300 g dry matter (DM feed)), Q2 (1.50 mg VA per 300 g dry matter (DM feed)) and Q, (2.25 mg VA per 300 g dry matter (DM feed)). Semen and blood samples for analysis were randomly obtained from 2 birds in each replicate and analysed statistically. A quadratic equation was used to determine the VA levels for optimum serum testosterone and semen values. Daily VA supplementation at 0.75 mg/ 300g DM feed increased (P<0.05) ejaculate volume and sperm concentration value. In addition, daily VA supplementation at 1.15 mg/300 g DM feed increased normal sperm and active motile cells by 1.78% and 24.51%, respectively while, daily VA administration at 2.25 mg/300 g DM feed reduced (P<0.05) sluggish motile cells by 57.32% and increased (P<0.05) serum testosterone by 49.00%. Results of quadratic function revealed that VA levels of 2.03, 3.27, 2.24, 1.22, 2.57 and 2.08 mg/300 g DM feed supported optimum ejaculate volume, pH, sperm concentration, active motile sperm and normal sperm production while the highest ratio of 4.16 supported optimum testosterone level. There are significant (P<0.01) regression effect on sluggish motile sperm and serum testosterone value of local cockerels on daily VA. It is concluded that daily vitamin A supplementation at 0.75 -2.25 mg /300 g DM feed positively influenced blood testosterone and some semen traits of local cockerels.
ASSESSMENT OF CASSAVA PEEL MEAL, METHIONINE AND ENZYME ON SERUM METABOLITES OF GROWING RABBITS
Authors: OLORUNTOLA O. D. , AYODELE S. O. , OLORUNTOL D. A. , ADEYEYE S. A.
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the effect of cassava peel meal (CPM) inclusion, methionine (MET) supplementation and enzyme (ENZ) supplementation on serum chemical indices of growing rabbits. Two hundred and forty 5-weeks old rabbits were randomly distributed into 8 experimental diets/groups (1,2,3,4,5,6,7 and 8) with factorial arrangement (2x2x2) including 2 levels of CPM (0 and 350 g/kg), 2 levels of MET (5.6 and 8.3 g/kg) and 2 levels of ENZ (0 and 0.5 g/kg). Total protein (TPR) and albumin (ALB) concentration in rabbits fed diet 5 (350 g/kg CPM; 5.6 g/kg ENZ) were lower than the rest diets. TPR and ALB concentration were low at 350 g/kg CPM but improved by 8.3g/kg methionine and 0.5 g/kg enzyme supplementations. CPM inclusion tends (P=0.09) to increase the creatinine level, while 8.3g/kg methionine and 0.5 g/kg enzyme supplementations (P<0.05) reduced the creatinine level. Bilirubin level increased (P<0.05) with 350 g/kg CPM inclusion but was reduced by 8.3 g/kg methionine. The alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspertate amino transferase (AST) levels increased (P<0.05) with 350 g/kg CPM inclusion. However, AST level tends (P-0.09) to reduce with 8.3g/kg methionine. Production of healthy rabbits with 350 g/kg CPM based diet required raising methionine supplementation to 8.6 g/kg and/or 5.0 g/kg enzyme supplementation.
UTILIZATION OF BITTER LEAF (VERNONIA AMYGDALINA) MEAL AS FEED FOR WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) GOATS
Authors: OLOSUNDE A. O. , ODEYINKA S. M.
Published: December 2024

This study determined the utilization and the optimum level of offer of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) meal (BLM) to West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed graded levels of bitter leaf meal. In a 20-week trial, twenty four West African Dwarf (WAD) goats of both sexes, 5-7 months old, were randomly allotted to four treatments of graded levels of BLM (0% BLM (Control diet), 15% BLM, 30% BLM and 45% BLM diets) in a completely randomized design to determine the utilization of bitter leaf meal as feed for West African Dwarf goats. The diets served as supplements to a basal ration of Panicum maximum. Two digestibility trials were carried out. Data obtained were statistically analyzed with the General Linear Model and significant means were separated using the Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The digestible ether extract intake and digestible organic matter of goats on 0% BLM were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the values obtained for goats on bitter leaf meal diets. The average daily weight gain (g/day) for goats on 0% BML was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of others. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in the percentage mortality of the goats fed experimental diets. The percentage mortality of goats on 30% and 45% BLM were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of others. It was concluded that bitter leaf meal can be included in the diets of (WAD) goats up to 15% without any deleterious effect.
EFFECT OF FEEDING LOW DIETARY ENERGY LEVELS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS DURING THE FINISHER PERIOD
Authors: UMAR A. M. , UBAYI M. R. , MOHAMMED A. , ADAMU S. H. , NAYAWO A. A. , NASIR M.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed at investigating the effect of low dietary energy on growth performance of broiler chickens at finisher stage. Two hundred and twenty five, four weeks old Amok broiler chicks were weighed and allotted to three dietary treatments containing 2 400 ME Kcal/Kg, 2 600 ME Kcal/Kg and 2 800 ME Kcal/Kg designated as A, B and C, respectively. Each treatment was replicated three times with twenty-five birds per replicate. Results showed that feed in take decreases as the energy value of the feed increases. There was statistical significance (P<0.05) in feed in take between birds fed diets A, B and C. The weight gain values of birds fed diets B and C were statistically similar which differs with birds fed diet A. There were no statistical differences between the treatments in terms of final live weight and feed conversion ratio. The study recommended that low energy diets should be formulated for poultry so as to minimize the accumulation of cholesterol in between the muscle fibres and on visceral organs which can consequently affects the physiological and metabolic functions of the birds, organoleptic characteristics, marketability of the products and health status of the consumer.
COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT CEREAL GRAINS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER STARTER CHICKENS
Authors: YISA G. , EDACHE J. A. , KAMSHIWE B. , YARO B. , OKWECHIME A.
Published: December 2024

This study was designed to compare the effects of different cereal grains on growth performance of broiler starter chickens. In a completely randomized design, 225 ten-day-old Marshall broiler chicks were allotted 5 dietary treatments containing Yellow maize (YM), White maize (WM), Guinea corn (GC), Millet (ML) and Cereal Processing Offal's (CPO) as the main energy contributors. Each treatment comprised of 45 birds made up of 3 replicates of 15 birds. The study lasted for 18 days. Results showed that average daily feed intake (83.54, 79.50, 81.35, 74.82, 62.03g/day), average daily weight gains (38.95, 34.84, 34.89, 27.06, 26.09g/day), feed conversion ratio (2.14, 2.28, 2.33, 2.77, and 2.38) and feed cost per kilogram gain (₦ 237.54, 243.23, 270.97, 241.46 and 183.12) in that order respectively differed significantly (P<0.05) between dietary treatments. Birds fed diets containing maize as major source of energy were better than the birds fed the other treatments in growth performance. However, the birds fed diets containing cereal processing offal's were significantly (P<0.05) cheaper to raise compared to the other treatments. Therefore, cereal processing offal’s may be used solely or in combination with maize as major energy source in broiler starter diets for cost effective feeding.
PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAILS FED DIETS CONTAINING Moringa oleifera LEAF MEAL IN SUDAN SAVANNAH REGION OF NIGERIA
Authors: TAMBURAWA M. S. , ABUBAKAR A. W. , HASSAN A. M. , MADAKI S.
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to determine the performance and egg quality characteristics of Japanese quails. Five diets were formulated containing Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) at 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10% levels designated as Treatment T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Ninety (90) four weeks old Japanese quails were fed these diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment was replicated 3 times consisting 6 quails per replicate. The experiment lasted 5 weeks. Feeds were offered daily and water was supplied ad libitum. The results of the performance of quails showed there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the final body weight (143.80 -165.23g), percent body changes (24.45-30.32%), daily feed intake (23.23-26.87g) and hen day egg production of quails (67.34 - 88.54%): The feed cost per kilogram gains (90.14-95.95 N/Kg gain) and feed conversion ratio (3.27- 4.28). The quails fed 7.5 MOLM diets had efficiently utilized the feed at lowest cost compared to others. The results of eggs qualities characteristics showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in the eggs weights among the treatments means. However, the eggs length (2.81-3.16 cm), albumen weight (2.69 2.89g) and egg yolk weight (2.72- 3.73g) were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the treatments. Albumen and yolk weights were recorded highest for quails fed 7.5% MOLM diets. The Hug Unit value evaluated was significantly (P<0.05) better for quails fed 7.5% MOLM diets compared to other treatments. Based on this study, it was therefore concluded that Moringa oleifera leaf meal can be included in the diet of Japanese quails up 7.5 % without any detrimental effect on the performance and egg quality characteristics with some reduction in the cost of production.
PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF PROCESSED COCOA (Theobroma cacao) POD HUSKS
Authors: ADEYEYE S. A. , AGBEDE J. O. , ALETOR V. A. , OLORUNTOLA O. D.
Published: December 2024

Performance characteristics of growing rabbits fed graded levels of processed (ash treated and rumen liquor fermented) cocoa (Theobroma cacao) pod husks were investigated. One hundred and twenty (120) rabbits were randomly allotted to four (4) dietary treatments at 0, 10, 20, and 30% inclusion levels and designated as diets 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. Each treatment group was replicated ten (10) times with three (3) rabbits representing a replicate and was fed ad-libitum for 56 days. The final live weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio of rabbits in diets 2 and 3 were similar to those on control diet but was significantly (P<0.05) higher than diet 4. Up to 20% processed cocoa (Theobroma cacao) pod husks may be included into rabbits' diets.
RESPONSE OF BROILER STARTER CHICKENS FED KAURA BASED DIETS SUPPLEMENTED WITH ENZYMES
Authors: Oladipo M. F. , Onimisi P. A. , BAWA G. S.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens fed Kaura based diets supplemented with Ronozyme phytase, Ronozyme protease and Roxazyme G2 G and a combination of protease and G2 G. Four hundred broiler chicks were allotted in a completely randomized design to five (5) dietary treatments each replicated thrice, with25 chicks per replicate. Treatment 1 was maize based diet; T2, Kaura based diet with phytase; T3, Kaura based diet with protease; T4, Kaura based diet withG2 G; and T5, Kaura based diet with a combination of protease and G2 G. The diets were formulated to meet standard requirements. Water and feed were offered to the birds ad libitum for the four-week period of the experiment. Data collected included the initial and final weight, weight gain and feed consumption were recorded on weekly basis. Feed/gain ratio was computed for each treatment. Blood samples were also taken from the birds for blood haematology. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in the final body weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed/gain ratio. Birds fed Kaura with protease and G2 G inclusion had significantly (P<0.05) highest final body weight and weight gain. Feed/gain ratio, feed cost and feed cost/Kg gain were not significantly (P>0.05) different. All the parameters measured for blood quality were not significantly (P>0.05) different for all the treatments. It may be concluded that G2 G and the combination with Protease in Kaura based diets improved growth performance optimally for broiler starter chicks. Blood quality was not compromised with Kaura diets supplemented with enzymes.
PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAIL BIRDS (Coturnix coturnix) FED ON WHOLE OR GROUND MILLET WITH OR WITHOUT ENZYME INCLUSION
Authors: Bafolayan S. , Sekoni A. , Jegede J. O. , Afolayan M.
Published: December 2024

The performance of Japanese quail chicks (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) fed on whole millet grain diets treated with or without enzyme as a dietary source of energy was studied. A total of one hundred and fifty unsexed two-week-old Japanese quail chicks (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) of average weight (44g/bird) were used for the study. The birds were weighed in equal groups of 10 and randomly distributed over 15 pens after which they were placed on 5 dietary treatments. Three of these diets consist of enzyme-treated whole millet substituting maize at 25, 50 and 75% levels while the remaining two diets consist of 100% maize (Control die:) and 100% ground millet respectively. Enzyme Maxi- grain was used. The dietary energy and protein of each diet were 2900kcal/kg and 23% CP respectively. The experiment which was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) had each of the five treatments replicated three times with each replicate feed assigned to 10 chicks per pen. Parameters measured or calculated include feed intake, body weight gain, feed efficiency, feed costs, feed cost/kg weight gain and mortality. At the end of the study samples of birds from each replicate were slaughtered to determine weights of carcass, leg, heart, liver, gizzard, back, breast and intestine. The study lasted 6 weeks (February to April, 2014). The results showed that differences in the feed efficiency were not significant (P>0.05) while final weight, weight gain and feed costkg weight gain decreased significantly (P<0.05) across the enzyme-treated diets, the feed intake and age at first egg drop increased significantly (P<0.05). Also, the results of carcass analysis did not show significant differences (P>0.05) in dressing percent, wing, leg, heart, liver and breast weights; however, the gizzard, back and intestinal weights were all significantly different (P<0.05). The Control gave the best performance, although its performance was not significantly different (P>0.05) from that of the diets containing 100% ground millet. Whole millet-containing diets had no adverse effects on mortality. It is therefore concluded from this study that enzyme-treated millet should not be used to substitute maize at higher than 50% level in quail chick diets.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF RABBITS FED GRADED LEVELS OF HYDROLYSED AND KERATINASE TREATED FEATHER MEAL DIETS.
Authors: OLORUNTOBA K. J. , AYANWALE B. A. , AREMU A. , EGWIM C. E.
Published: December 2024

Sixty (60) weaned mixed breed of rabbits aged between 6 and 7 weeks were used in an experiment that lasted 91days. Hydrolysed feather meal was included in their diets at 0%, 10% and 20% levels designated as CTRL, HFM10 and HFM20 respectively while keratinase treated feather meal was included in the diets of the remaining treatment groups at 10% and 20% levels designated as KTFM10 and KTFM20 respectively. Growth and nutrient digestibility parameters were analysed; rabbits fed the keratinase treated feather meal diet at 10%, posted significantly (P<0.05) higher mean values in growth parameters measured. So also they had significantly (P<0.05) higher dry matter and crude protein digestibility, but showed no significant (P>0.05) differences in other digestibility parameters measured. This showed that keratinase treated feather meal could be included in the diets of rabbit for better utilization and performance.
NUTRITIONAL POTENTIAL OF KENAF GRAIN-LEAF MIXTURES MEAL AS REPLACEMENT FOR GROUNDNUT CAKE MEAL IN THE DIET OF WEANED RABBITS
Authors: POPOOLA Y. A. , OWOSIBO A. O. , AWE A. O. , HARRY B. J. , OMOLE A. J. , FAYENUWO J. O. , ODEJIDE J. O. , OKPEZE V. E.
Published: December 2024

Groundnut cake meal is a good source of plant protein but it is expensive hence there is need to look for other alternative source of protein which is less expensive in order to reduce feed cost which is the most limiting factor in livestock production. This study was conducted to determine the effect of feeding rabbits with the mixture of kenaf leaf and grain meal (KGLM) as replacement for groundnut cake meal fraction of the diet on performance characteristics, and cost benefits of weaned rabbits. A total of thirty six weaned rabbits of mean weight 566.452.65g were randomly allotted into four dietary treatments replicated three times and each replicate contained ten rabbit per replicate in a completely randomized design. Four diets were formulated to contain KGLM at 0% (KGLM1) Control, 50% (KGLM2), 75% (KGLM3) and 100% (KGLM4) as replacement for groundnut cake meal fraction in the diet of weaned rabbit. The mean weight gain of rabbits fed diet containing 0% and 50% KGLM was not significantly influenced by the diet. The highest cost/weight gain was recorded in the diet that contained zero% KGLM while the lowest cost/weight gain was reported in KGLM4
EFFECT OF ANTIBIOTICS (TETRACYCLINE) INCLUSION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER STARTER BIRDS
Authors: EREKE S. O. , OKORIE A. U. , ERAKPOTOBOR G. T. I. , AMODU J. T. , SAMUEL F. U. , ALAO R. , ABDULRAHMAN M.
Published: December 2024

A total of sixty, day old Anak 2000 broiler birds were used in an experiment, which lasted for 56 days, to determine the effects of antibiotics (tetracycline) on the growth performance, of the birds.The birds were randomly assigned to three treatment diets in a completely randomized designed (CRD) and each treatment group was further sub-divided into four replicates. Three basal diets were used in the experiment. Treatment 1 was un-supplemented diet while treatment 2 and 3 were supplemented with 5g of antibiotics/25kg of starter diet and 2.5g of antibiotics/25kg of starter diet respectively. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. From the study, it was observed that there was a significant difference (P<0.05) among the treatments in average total body weight gain, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency. This point out that antibiotics inclusion in broiler starter diets has effect on the bird.
NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION OF GRADED LEVELS OF CASSAVA PEEL MEAL FOR GROWING JAPANESE QUAIL (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Edache J. A. , Tuleun C. D. , Yisa A. G. , Muduudtai U. R. , Okpala E. J. , Dabi P. D.
Published: December 2024

A feeding trial of 6 weeks duration was conducted to determine the effect of replacing maize with cassava peel meal of CP: 2.93% and ME; 3042.70kcal/kg on the performance of growing Japanese quails. One hundred and fifty two (152), a week old quails of mixed sexes were randomly allocated to five diets in a completely randomized design. The five isonitrogenous (25% CP) diets incorporated 0, 8.29, 16.58, 24.87 and 28.37% of cassava peel meal at the expense of maize. The diets, however, varied in energy levels from 2,706.45 (Diet A) to 2,558.10kcal/kg M (Diet E). Diets B (2,662.92), C (2,619.80) and D (2,576.42) were lower than for diet A. Each diet was replicated three times. Feed intake (16.75, 16.32, 16.74, 16.69 and 16.91g/bird/day), weight gain (3.39, 3.42, 3.44, 3.44 and 3.55g/bird/day), feed conversion ratio (4.94, 4.77, 4.87, 4.85 and 4.78) did not differ significantly from the control. However, feed cost/kg gain was significantly higher (p<0.05) on diet A (370) than on diets D (320.00), and E (313.33) respectively. Other differences were not significant. Feed cost per kg diet decreased from 74.53(diet A) to 65.10 (diet E) and has a cost saving of 12.65% over the control diet. It is concluded that cassava peel meal could replace 100% of maize in growing quail diet without negative effect on performance.
HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SEROLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF COCKERELS FED DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TIGER NUT (Cyperus esculentus) SEED MEAL
Authors: ONUNKWO D. N. , IGWUENE M. C.
Published: December 2024

A forty-nine days investigation into the haematological characteristics and serum biochemistry of cockerels fed varying levels of tiger nut seed meal diets were conducted. Five different diets were formulated such that tiger nut replaced maize at 0% (T1), 25% (T2), 50% (T3), 75% (T4), and 100% (TS) respectively in a Completely Randomized Design. The control diet (TI) contained no tiger nut. One hundred and twenty (120) four weeks old cockerels procured from Liberation Farm, Umuahia were used for the experiment. The cockerels were arranged into five dietary treatments, each containing three replicates with eight birds per dietary treatment and eight birds per replicate. Result indicated that the White Blood Cell (WBC), Red Blood Cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV). heterophil; lymphocyte, monocyte and basinophil except the eosinophil were not affected by the replacement of maize with tiger nut. The test diet recorded lower eosinophil (2.33-3.67 x 103/ul) compared to the control (5.67 x 103/ul) the eosinophil values however were still within the normal acceptable range, 1-6 x 103/ul. Higher eosinophil value of the control suggests that it was immunologically challenged, whereas, the lower values of eosinophil in the test diets may suggest inherent physiochemical properties of the tiger nut that reduced the vulnerability of the animals against worm infections associated with higher values of eosinophil. TS recorded lymphocyte value (44.67 x 103/ul) slightly lower than normal range values. Therefore inclusion of tiger nut at any level lower than 100% will favour optimum haematological function of the cockerels. The dietary treatment affected the serum bilirubin, creatinine and cholesterol levels but did not affect the serum total protein, globulin, albumin and blood urea. T4 recorded the highest bilirubin (0.28 g/dl) which compared with the control (0.21 g/dl) suggesting more efficient metabolism. Total protein and globulin decreased, whereas, creatinine increased as level of tiger nut increased. Urea and albumin did not portray a definite trend. Higher creatinine values are associated with higher crude protein. While this is true for control diet (0.38 mg/dl), it was not for the T4 and T5 whose higher creatinine values (0.38 mg/dl) are attributed to the presence of antinutrients such as oxalates which binds proteins resulting in high catabolic products, including creatinine. T3 containing 50% of tiger nut is recommended as the most tolerable level to replace maize due to its lowest FCR. high body weight, comparable haematological characteristics. lowest urea and moderate creatinine value.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKEN FED DIETS CONTAINING VARYING LEVELS OF COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata) MILLING WASTE AT THE STARTER PHASE
Authors: Malik A. A. , Ijaiya A. T. , Popoola R. O. , Owolabi R. O. , Okedunwon O. S. , Olalere O. M. , Malik A. F.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of feeding diets containing varying inclusion levels of cowpea milling waste (CMW) on the growth performance and economic characteristics of broiler chicken at the starter phase. A total of 180 one-week-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks were used for the Study; they were randomly allotted into three dietary treatments, T1, T2 and T, containing 0, 20 and 40 % dietary inclusion level of CMW respectively. Each treatment was replicated thrice and made up of 20 birds per replicate. The birds were fed ad-libitum for three weeks under a deep litter management system and data collected on their growth performance. Results show that though there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in body weight gain and feed conversion ratio among the dietary treatments, Ty (having 40% dietary inclusion level of CMW) showed a slightly better performance over the Control Diet (T) with feed conversion ratio of 2.72 and final body weight of 583.33g.On the economic analysis, cost savings per kg was highest for T3, followed by T. Therefore, it can be concluded that CMW can be included up to 40 % in the diets of broiler starter as a protein and energy source with no detrimental effect on their growth performance and economic characteristics.
PRELIMINARY STUDY ON OCCURRENCE OF POLYTHENE BAGS AND OTHER FOREIGN BODIES: RELATED COMPLICATION IN SHEEP AND GOAT ASSOCIATED WITH POOR WASTE DISPOSAL IN DAMATURU TOWN, YOBE STATE NIGERIA
Authors: YERIMA J. , SHINGE G. J. , JAJI L. M.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted at Damaturu ultra-modern abattoir in Yobe state from August November,2014. Total of 7916 sheep and goats were recorded in the abattoir before slaughter. The overall prevalence of polythene bags was n= 1685 (21.21%) and n= 158 (1.99%) for other foreign bodies which include ropes, leather, sacks, hair and threads. The frequency of occurrence of polythene bags and other foreign bodies was 42.32% in sheep, 57.27% in goats and 27.22% in sheep and 72.78% in goats respectively. The study also revealed a higher presentation of female goats 461(27.36%) and 331(19.64%) of female sheep than male goats 191(11.34%) and 146(8.66%) of male sheep at 3-4 year of age. This also indicated that, sex and age have interaction in ingestion of these materials. The present study revealed that presence of polythene bags and other foreign bodies are higher in female sheep and goats at the age of 3-4 years. This may be as the result of high nutritional demand during pregnancy, lactating and period prior to mating
IN SITU CRUDE PROTEIN DISAPPEARANCE AND FERMENTATION CHARACTERISTICS OF FOUR LEGUMINOUS BROWSE SPECIES
Authors: NJIDDA A. A. , BELLO B. , OMOTOSHO S. O.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted to determine the crude protein degradation kinetics of browse forages of semi arid of Nigeria. Crude protein (CP) contents were higher (P<0.05) in all the browse forages. Higher numerical values of neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), lignin and cellulose were recorded. The result showed significant differences (P<0.05) for all the ant-nutritive substances. Crude protein (CP) degradability after 24, 48, 72 and 96 h of ruminal incubation were higher (P<0.05) in all the browses. Insoluble 'a' fraction) were high for the browses. The insoluble but fermentable CP ('b' fractions) were low (P< 0-05) among browse forages. Numerically lower values of CP 'e' fraction were found in browses whereas CP potential degradability were higher (P<0-05) in all the experimental leaves. The potential degradability was high in all the browse forages. Thus, these results may be related to both the better feeding value of forage consumed by the animals and better performance of livestock in these areas. The soluble fraction 'a', rate of degradation 'c' and effective degradability 'ED' were generally low for all the browse forages while the insoluble but degradable fraction 'b' and potential degradability a+b were high for all the browse forages. Base on these findings, it can be concluded that the browse forages are of good nutritive value and can be use as protein supplement to ruminant livestock during long period of dry season.