bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IN VITRO ASSESSMENT OF GRAIN OF PARADISE ADDITIVE AS ANTIMCROBIAL GROWTH PROMOTER: EFFECT IN RUMINANT DIET
Authors: Isah O. A. , Akinola O. S. , Adelusi A. O. , Ibrahim T. O. , Adesina O. O. , Olajide O. V. , Olatunji M. A. , Olajide O. O. , Adebayo T. O. , Haruna M. G. , Adegboye O. R. , Kuye O. M. , Emmanuel H. O. , Emmanuel P. O.
Published: December 2024

This research was carried out to assess the replacement of conventional antibiotics (tetracycline) with a spice such as Grain of Paradise (Aframomum melegueta) as a growth promoter in ruminant production. The results of proximate, fibre and phytochemical analyses of the spice revealed the presence of appreciable quantities of tannins, saponins, phenols, oxalates, alkaloids etc. The in vitro studies using inoculum from cattle showed that at 24th, 30th and 33rd hour of incubation, similar but lowest gas production was observed in substrate containing 2% tetracycline (17.00, 21.33 and 22.67 mL/200mg) and 2% spice (18.00, 21.67 and 23.00 mL/200mg) respectively, than other treatments. Percentage methane/total gas produced by 1% spice additive (18.89 mL/200mg) is similar (p>0.05) to 2% spice additive (19.44 mL/200mg), but lower (p<0,05) than in 2% tetracycline additive (35.36 mL/200mg). Ammonia nitrogen produced by substrate containing 3% spice additive had lowest value (13.61mL/0.80 mg/dL). Inclusion of spice at various levels has no effect on total Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA) and individual VFA production. In conclusion, spice such as Grain of Paradise (Aframomum melegueta), can therefore be used as a growth promoter feed additive to replace tetracycline at 2% inclusion and to reduce the effect of enteric methane production by ruminant animals. This might solve the problem of residual effects of antimicrobials in meat produced by ruminant animals for human consumption.
EFFECT OF FICUS THONNINGII (STRANGLER FIG) LEAF EXTRACT ON RUMEN FERMENTATION PARAMETERS AND MICROBIAL COUNT OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS
Authors: Oshijo A. D. , Adebayo K. O. , Kareem H. I. , Toluwanimi F. T. , Aderinboye R. Y.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of Ficus thoningii leaf extract (FLE) on rumen fermentation parameters and microbial count of West African dwarf goats fed total mixed ration in an 84-day feeding trial. Twenty-four West African dwarf goats were divided into four treatment groups and FLE were administered orally via syringe every morning at four varying levels (0, 5, 10 and 15mL) per animal per day for each of the four treatments respectively. The phytochemical composition of FLE was determined. Rumen fluid of the goats was collected at the end of the study and the pH, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), ammonia-nitrogen, and microbial population were also determined. The study revealed that FLE contains tannins, cyanogenicglycosides, total phenol, flavonoid, trypsin inhibitor, phytate oxalate, alkaloids and saponin . TVFA was higher (p<0.05) in goats administered 15mL dosage (101.70mM) while ammonia-nitrogen was higher (p<0.05) at 10 and 15mL doses. FLE increased (p<0.05) fungi count in goats administered the various doses of FLE. Bacteria and protozoa counts were not significantly (p>0.05) influenced by administration of FLE. However, the values obtained for bacteria count increased while that of protozoa count reduced by the end of the study. It was therefore concluded that FLE can be used up to 15 mL dosage to manipulate rumen fermentation to increase TVFA and ammonia nitrogen production.
PHYTOCHEMICAL INDICES OF SHIVAN (GMELINA ARBOREA) AND SANDPAPER (FICUS EXASPERATA) LEAVES AS FORAGES FOR RUMINANTS
Authors: Okewoye A. T. , Asaolu V. O.
Published: December 2024

Browses and shrubs can contribute to reduce feeding cost for ruminants. They are known to contain phytochemicals, some of which have great potentials as substitutes for classic antibiotics and can enter the structure of feed additives with a promising effect on animal production. There is however, paucity of information on the phytochemical contents of Gmelina arborea and Ficus exasperate leaves. Thus study qualitatively and quantitatively assess the levels of phenols, tannin, saponin, steroids, flavonoid, terpenoid, reducing sugar, phytates, anthraquinones, cardiac glycoside, alkaloids and volatile oils in the leaves. The qualitative screening revealed the presence of all the investigated phytochemicals in the two fodders. Quantitatively, Gmelina arborea had significantly (P< 0.05) higher contents of phenols (624.36 vs. 99.22 mg/100g), flavonoid (126.49 mg/100g), tannins (153.79 vs. 103.36 mg/100g) and phytate (152.99 vs. 105.81 mg/100g) compared to Ficus exasperata. No significant (P>0.05) differences were observed in the contents of the other investigated phytochemicals. It can be concluded that the two fodders show promise as ruminant feedstuffs, with Gmelina having an edge, from the standpoint of their phytochemical compositions.
POTENTIALS OF RAUVOLFIA VOMITORIA LEAVES AS AN ANTIMETHANOGENIC FEED ADDITIVE FOR RUMINANTS
Authors: Aderinboye R. Y. , Salami T. A. , Akinbode R. M. , Adebayo K. O. , Fasae O. A.
Published: December 2024

Methane (CH4) mitigation potentials of Rauvolfia vomitoria leaves when used as phytogenic additive was evaluated using the in vitro gas technique. Substrate (200 mg) consisting of Megathyrsus maximus and concentrate in ratio 7: 3 was incorporated with R. vomitoria leaves at levels of 0, 1, 2 and 3% dry matter (DM) in a completely randomized design. Incubation was done in 100 mL glass syringes at 39oC for 48 h with total gas and CH4 production measured. Results showed that R. vomitoria leaves contained high saponin content (10.34%). Methane production was reduced (P < 0.05) at 2% inclusion while total gas production was not significantly affected with R. vomitoria leaves inclusion. It can be concluded that R. vomitoria leaves can be used as an additive at 2% inclusion in ruminant diet for reduced methanogenesis which has beneficial implication for efficient utilization of dietary energy.
INFLUENCE OF COPPER GLYCINE SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF SHEEP
Authors: Saka A. A. , Adedeji O. Y. , Akinosun A. A. , Akinwande A. A. , Chibuzo N. V.
Published: December 2024

A feeding trial was conducted for 90 days using sixteen (16) West African dwarf (WAD) Sheep to evaluate the influence of Copper Glycine (Cu-G) supplementation on carcass characteristics of WAD sheep. The sheep were randomly assigned into four dietary treatments in a Completely Randomized Design. Cu-G supplementation was incorporated at varying levels of 0, 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg to formulate four (4) dietary treatments. After feeding trial, three sheep were randomly selected and slaughtered for carcass evaluation to obtain the wholesales cut (rump, neck, flank, shoulder, loin, breastplate, rack). Cu-G supplementation did not significantly (P>0.05) influence carcass characteristics of WAD sheep. Slaughter weight, shoulder, flank and heart values obtained in this study ranged from 21.52-25.19, 7.88-9.57, 2.88-4.07 and 0.35-0.63 % respectively. It can be concluded that Cu-G supplementation in diets of WAD sheep had no influence on the carcass characteristics of West African Dwarf.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND WEIGHT GAIN BY GOATS FED BLACK PEPPER SUPPLEMENTED DIETS)
Authors: Ogundeyibi K. O. , Omotoso O. B. , Fajemisin A. N. , Akinyemi O. F.
Published: December 2024

(A Seventy (70) days study aimed at investigating growth performance and (weight gain by) goats fed black pepper supplemented diets was conducted. The study involved twelve (12) West African Dwarf goats aged 1-2 years with an average live weight of 5.02±0.23 kg. A (basal) diet was formulated and supplemented with varying levels of Black pepper as A= (Control diet) 0mg, B= 250mg, C= 500mg, and D= 750mg. Parameters investigated were (nutrient composition), nutrient intake, (nutrient digestibility nitrogen utilization) and performance characteristics of the goats. Data generated were subjected to one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at (P<0.05) results revealed that, diet C had the highest numerical weight gain values (3.67kg), ranges from (5.13- 8.80), followed by diet D which is 5.07 – 8.62, Diet A ranges from 5.0- 8.28 and diet B from 4.90- 8.20. Goats fed diet C (65.48 g/day) had the highest daily weight gain while those fed diet D converted their feed to flesh (4.23) better than other goats however, any diets could be fed to enhance Performance of the goats since there was no significant (P>0.05) differences among the performance parameters. The study concluded that black pepper as an additive could serve as an affordable and sustainable way of improving protein quality of diet and fiber utilization by ruminants).
ASSESSMENT OF GINGER (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE), GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM), BLACKSEED (NIGELLA SATIVA), CLOVE (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM) AND NUTMEG (MYRISTICA FRAGRANS) OILS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, AND MORPHOMETRIC INDICES OF CLARIAS GARIEPINUS JUVENILES
Authors: Amulejoye F. D. , Olusola S. E. , Adeniji M. A.
Published: December 2024

Medicinal plant extracts, have been demonstrated to be efficient to replace chemical additives or antibiotics, decreasing metabolic waste production, and improving fillet quality. Thus, plants extracts have been widely studied to discover their potential use in aquaculture. Thus, this study was carried out to determine effect of essential oils extracted from Zingiber officinale (ginger, ZO), Allium sativum (garlic, AS), Nigella sativa (Black seed, NS), Myristica fragrans (nutmeg, AF) and Syzygium aromaticum (clove, SA) on growth performance and morphometric indices of Clarias gariepinus juveniles. Two hundred and fifty (250) juveniles of Clarias gariepinus of average weight 17.05 ± 0.02g were used for the experiment with 20 fish per treatment, replicated twice and fed at 3% body weight. Effects of the therapeutic oils were assessed using growth performance such as weight gain, feed conversion ratio and production productive index and morphometric parameters (standard length, total length, height, dorsal width) for the period of 56 days. Results indicated that dietary group T3 had the highest growth performance (30.34g) and survival rate (95%) among the treatments. Diets containing AS, SA, and MF oils had higher total length, standard length and heights when compared to the oil. The oils were observed to have positive effects on growth performance, and morphometric indices. By harnessing the benefits of these oils, fish farmers can improve the growth rates and reduce the reliance on synthetic additives and antibiotics, thus promoting environmentally friendly and health-conscious aquaculture practices.
ASSESSMENT OF SUSTAINABLE FISHING TECHNIQUES AND CHALLENGES AMONG ARTISANAL FISHERS IN RIVER IBI, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Onimis M. M. , Dauda A. K. , Oshimagye M. I. , Ogunremi J. B. , Adesina S. A.
Published: December 2024

The study investigated the assessment of sustainable techniques in fishing activities and challenges among Artisanal Fishers in River Ibi, Taraba State, Nigeria. A total of 200 respondents were used as the sample size for the study through purposive and simple random sampling techniques selected in four major fishing communities (Ibi town, Sarkin kudu, Dampar, and Nwonyon) within the Local Government Area. Data obtained was subjected to descriptive (percentage and frequency) and inferential (mean). The result showed that the artisanal fishers are predominantly male (87.5%), married (70.0%); had formal education (81.9%). Ban on use of explosive ( x =3.00) and ban on use of chemicals ( x =2.98) are the major sustainable fishing techniques among artisanal fishers, Payments of fine ( x =3.00), seizure of fish caught ( x =2.89 ) are the major penalties for the contravention of sustainable fishing techniques while open access nature of the fisheries (100.0%), climate change (100.0%) and post-harvest losses (99.0%) are the major challenges among the artisanal fishers.. The study recommended that Government should enlighten fishers on the awareness on sustainable fishing techniques its implications and proper enforcement on the fishing regulation should be put in place.
HAEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL RESPONSES OF TWO STRAINS OF COMMERCIAL LAYERS FED VARYING DIETARY LEVELS OF ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID
Authors: ARO S. O. , BAKI O. I. , AWONEYE O. O.
Published: December 2024

The effects of varying levels of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on haematological and biochemical parameters in laying bird were investigated. Four standard layers diets were formulated into which ASA was included at 0.00%, 0.025%, 0.050% and 0.075% of the diets in which 0.00% of ASA served as control diet. One hundred and ninety-two layers comprising 96 Isa Brown (1B) and 96 Harco Black (HB) were allotted randomly into the four treatment diets at 48 birds per treatment. replicated four times at 12 birds per replicate. The birds were with these diets for the entire 16 weeks of the experiment. Blood samples were taken from the birds at the end of the experiment to determine the haematological and biochemical responses of the birds to the treatment diets. Results showed that there were significant breed differences in ESR, Hb, RBC and PC V between the 1B and 1 1B breed. The 1B breed had higher (P<O.05) Hb (7.86±0.14g/l00ml versus 7.36±0.20g/100ml), RBC (2.27±0.17x106mm versus 1.97±0.11 x 106mm) and PVC (23.61±0.41% versus 22.09±0.61%) than the Harco Black (HB) breed which had higher ESR (4.60±0.40mm/hr versus 3.22±0.34mm/hr) than the IB breed. The treatment levels of ASA did not have significant effects on all haematological variables but there were significant effects on the heterophil and monocyte component of the EBC when breed and treatment levels were considered together. There were breed differences in the albumin and globulin levels. The HB breed had higher serum albumin while the IB breed had higher globulin level. The use of ASA in the diet significantly lowered the serum cholesterol level from 117.69mg/dL in treatment 1 to 85.39mg/dL in treatment 4. ASA also lower serum Alkaline Phosphatase from 96.041U/L in treatment 1 to 79.021U/L in treatment 4. The interactions between breed and ASA levels significant differences in all biochemical parameters measured. The common trend of event was an increase in total protein, AST, ALT and Creatinine and a decrease in serum cholesterol and ALP in both the IB and HB breeds as the levels of ASA increased in the diets. It can be concluded that IB had higher Hb, RBC and PC V than the HB breed. The use of ASA in the feed at the levels used in this study did not have any significantly effect on the haematological parameters but ASA had a better ameliorative action on the heterophil content of the 1B than on the HB breed. Also. IB had higher serum globulin levels than the HB breed. The use of ASA lowered the serum cholesterol and ALP levels in the birds.
CHILLING AT DIFFERENT TIME INTERVALS; THE INFLUENCE ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BEEF
Authors: APATA E. S. , ENIOLORUNDA O. O. , KOKUMO O. E. , APATA O. C.
Published: December 2024

This study was carried out at Meat Science Laboratory of the Department of Animal Production College of Agricultural Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus Ayetoro Ogun State. The aim was to investigate the effect of delayed chilling on physicochemical properties of 3kg of thigh muscle cut (Semi-membranosus muscle) of freshly slaughtered N'dama bull (Bos taurus) purchased from Ayetoro slaughter slab. It was sub-divided into 6 portions of 500g and each portion represented a chilling treatment; TO= (Normal Chilling) control; T1: Chilling after 2hrs delay; T2 = Chilling after 4hrs delay, T3 Chilling after 6hrs delay; T4 = Chilling after 8hrs delay, T5= Chilling after 10hrs delay. Data were collected on a completely randomized design experiment and analyzed statistically. The results showed that delayed chilling had significant (p<0.05) effects on all the physical and chemical variables tested in this study. It was observed that these variables increased favourably up to 6hrs of delayed chilling (T3) and started to decrease beyond that time. It is recommended therefore, that chilling of beef should not be delayed beyond 6hrs for wholesome beef.
A HISTOMORPHOLOGY OF THE ONE HUMPED CAMEL (Camelus dromedarius) THYROID GLAND.
Authors: BELLO A. , UMARU M. A. , SHEHU S. A. , DANEJI A. I. , ABUBAKAR M. B. , SULEIMAN M. H. , ALIYU R. M.
Published: December 2024

An anatomical study involving the thyroid glands of 15 healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius) of different sex group A (Males) and group B (Females), were investigated under for gross and microscopic anatomy. Gross studies revealed that thyroid glands were located in between the third ring of trachea and the laryngopharynx portion of the pharynx and had two lobes, connected by an isthmus. They appeared to be reddish brown in colour. The values of weight, length, width and diameter of thyroid glands were show no significant difference between the groups (P>0.05). Histological observation revealed that the thyroid gland consisted of a connective tissue capsule and trabeculae were found extending from the capsule into the substance of the gland, which divided it into lobules. Each lobule consisted of two sized follicles in variable numbers, the large and small. The large follicles were lined by low cuboidal epithelium, while the small follicles were lined by high cuboidal to columnar epithelium. The follicles had colloid material in their lumen, probably an apocrine secretion from the lining epithelial cells. There was no evidence of Parafollicular or C-cells in thyroid glands of camel.
PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT OF RADIO-ULNAR AND TIBIO-FIBULAR BONES IN RED SOKOTO GOAT (CAPRA HIRCUS): A HISTOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Abiaezute C. N. , Agbowo G. C. , Okorie K. O. , Nwaogu I. C.
Published: December 2024

Ability of ruminate neonates to run with the herd hours after birth necessitated this study. This study, therefore, was carried out to evaluate morphometry of radio-ulnar and tibio-fibular bones during prenatal period in Red Sokoto goat (RSG) and determined the specific gestation days of primary and secondary ossifications. A total of 45 abbatoir-sourced foetal samples obtained from slaughter houses were used for the study. The foetuses were categorized into eight age groups, based on established aging formulae. The radio-ulnar and tibio-fibular bones of foetuses were collected and prepared for histological examination. Results showed that primary ossification centre of the diaphysis was established by gestation day (GD) 54 in RSG fetuses with formation of tiny bone spicules in the diaphysis. This ossification spread towards the epiphysis by GD 57 while the epiphysis remained quiescent. Secondary ossification centre in the epiphysis was observed by GD 65 with numerous cartilage canals which coalesced into larger ones by GD 75, all associated with osteogenic tissues. Well advanced secondary ossification centre was observed by GD 90. Well-developed epiphyseal cartilage which separated well-formed and advanced diaphyseal and epiphyseal bones was observed at GD 105. Complete ossification of the diaphysis and epiphysis, leaving an epiphyseal plate, was observed at GD 124.
NUTRIENT AND PHYTOCHEMICAL IMPLICATION OF DRY GUINEA HEN WEED (PETIVERIA ALLIACEA) AS GROWTH PROMOTER IN GROWING PIG DIET
Authors: Mafimidiwo A. N. , Rabiu L. A. , Samuel O. B. , Omofunmilola E. O. , Odumbaku K. O.
Published: December 2024

In a 10-week experiment to determine the phytogenic effect of supplementing growing pig diets with dry Guinea Hen Weed (GHW), thirty-six unsexed (Large white x Landrace) pigs were randomly assigned to four Diets where GHW was supplemented at 0, 0.5. 0.75 and 1.0%. The pigs were placed nine per treatment with each treatment having three replicates of three pigs each. Dried leaves of the GHW was analyzed for its nutrient and phytogenic composition before incorporation into the diets and the compounded ration was equally analyzed. Feed and cool clean water were offered the pigs ad-libitum during the period of the trial. Growth performance characteristics of the pigs were measured weekly and the average were taken. The result showed that the phytogenic components of the dry leaf of GHW were seldom higher than those earlier reported in the leaf extract. It also revealed that dry GHW led to a reduced feed intake in the pigs when compared to the control. Better feed conversion ratio was observed in pigs fed the diet supplemented with 0.5% GHW. Similarly, highest weight gain was observed therein. The research concluded that pig’s diet can be supplemented with 0.5% GHW for optimum performance and thus recommended.
SEMEN CHARACTERISTICS AND SCROTAL BIOMETRY OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF RAMS FED AMMONIUM SULPHATE FORTIFIED DIET
Authors: AKINLADE A. T. , OSOSANYA T. O. , AREE O. S.
Published: December 2024

Ammonium sulphate (AS) is non-protein nitrogen sources widely used as a feed additive for ruminants to provide sulphur (S) to the diet. This study assessed the semen characteristics and scrotal biometry of West African dwarf rams fed AS fortified diets at 0. 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5g/kg to the concentrate diet as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Sixteen WAD rams with average body weight of 12.20+0.12 kg were used and fed for 105 days. Each treatment had four replicates while semen was collected once from all replicates in the treatments. There was significant difference in the sperm concentration (x 109/mL) with T4 (160.06) having the highest while T1 (136.00) had the lowest. The total sperm ejaculate followed the same trend as sperm concentration with the lowest value recorded for rams fed T1 (98.24) while those on T4 (150.66) had the highest value. There were significant differences in the values recorded for the scrotal circumference and length. however, scrotal width, testicular weight, scrotal length and scrotal circumference values in T4 was numerically higher than other treatments. It can be concluded that AS fortified diets at 7.5g/kg improved the semen quality positively.
ANALYSIS ON THE COST BENEFIT OF CLARIAS GARIEPINUS (BURCHELL,1822) HATCHLINGS FED BAKER’S YEAST, EGG YOLK AND MILK POWDER AS STARTER DIETS
Authors: Nababa A. S. , Idris M. , Yahaya I. , Ogunmefun G. S. , Ekaette E. E. , Yusuf S. K. , Yusuf Z. A. , Ali M. E.
Published: December 2024

Analysis on the cost benefit of Clarias gariepinus hatchlings fed baker’s yeast, egg yolk and milk powder as starter diets was carried out at the National Biotechnology Development Agency, Katsina state for the period of three (3) months. The aim was to evaluate the cost benefit analysis of Clarias gariepinus fry fed Fed baker’s yeast, egg yolk and milk powder in the form of a feed. Feeding trial involved using four different food items: shell-free Artemia as control (T0), baker’s yeast (T1), chicken egg yolk (T2) and powdered milk (T3). The results showed that treatment 2 (T2-egg yolk) showed relatively higher mean yield cost/fry similarly it has the highest profit index compared with the control, T1 and T3 respectively. Production costs of C. gariepinus fry across all the treatment was (₦/fry) 2.80. Higher weight gain was observed in the control (1.52g) followed by treatment 3. Clarias gariepinus hatchlings shown to have higher growth potentials by average cost of production when fed egg yolk at early stage of development.
HAEMATOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF USING GARLIC AS AN ADDITIVE IN BROILER PRODUCTION
Authors: BOT M. H. , AJIMOHUN F. F. , STEPHEN R. R. , OLAIYA O. D.
Published: December 2024

An experiment that involved the haematological effects of using garlic (Allium sativum) as an additive in broiler production was carried out in Livestock Investigation Department (L.I.D) of the National Veterinary Research Institute (N.V.R.I), Vom. The experiment lasted for eight weeks. A total of 144 day old broiler chicks of Aburica breed were used for the study in a completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were allotted into four (4) treatments with each having three (3) replicates. Processed garlic was added into the drinking water of each treatment at Og, 3g, 6g and 9g per liter of drinking water representing treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. The result of haematological analysis showed that all the parameters were significantly (P>0.05) different across the dietary treatments. The white blood cells did not show significant (P<0.05) difference except for T4 that indicates slight difference in value. However, birds in T4 gave the best in terms of white blood cells, haemoglobin, Lymphocytes and Monocytes compared to the control treatment (TI). Packed cell volume (PCV) level of T4 was the Lowest among the dietary treatment. It can therefore be concluded that garlic as an additive in drinking water showed no deleterious effect in haematological parameters of broiler chickens.
REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF MICE ADMINISTERED VARIED CONCENTRATIONS OF MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE
Authors: GBORE F. A. , JINADU D. T.
Published: December 2024

The impact of varied concentrations of monosodium glutamate (MSG) - a food additive, on the reproductive performance of mice was evaluated using 96 mice -28 males and 68 females, divided into four groups (n = 7 males and 17 females per treatment). Group I received no MSG, group 2 received I mg, group 3 received 2 mg, and group 4 received 4 Ing per gm body weight of 40% aqueous solution of MSG every 48 hrs for six weeks, constituting treatment groups A, B, C, and D. After the sixth week, 15 female mice selected from each treatment were randomly allotted to three male mice of corresponding treatment for multiple mating for 48 hrs. The female mice from each treatment group were monitored through gestation after confirmation of copulation using plug as an index of mating. The conception rate and gestation length increased while the mean live weight of pups decreased with increase in the concentrations of MSG administered. Compared with the weights of pups from the control, the weight of pups from mice in treatment groups B and C decreased by 10.66 and 26%, respectively. The conception rate and the average number of pups decreased significantly (P<0.05) at 2mg of MSG/g BW compared to the control and those administered I mg of MSG/g B W. The gestation length increased significantly (P<0.05) at 21ng of MSG/g BW (treatment C). Dead pups were recorded from mice administered 2mg of MSG/g B W. The result also showed that female mice administered 4mg of MSG/g BW did not give birth. The study revealed that high levels of MSG had adverse effect on the reproductive processes in the laboratory animal. The consumption of MSG, though a flavour enhancer food additive, should be reconsidered taking into account its potential adverse effects on reproductive processes.
PRELIMINARY STUDY ON EFFECT OF ACCESS TO PASTURE OF FINISHED BROILERS ON THEIR ABDOMINAL FAT CONTENT AND CARCASS PORTIONS
Authors: ADEFIOYE R. A. , SONAIYA E. B.
Published: December 2024

Access to pasture improves poultry welfare and product quality. Increased locomotor activity in the pasture can lower the proportion of body fat and improve leg health. Pasture provides fresh grass, insects and worms which lead to enhanced product quality. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of access to pasture on abdominal fat content and other carcass characteristics. Eighteen (18) mature Hubbard-classic broilers at eight (8) weeks of age were used for the study. The birds were separated into two treatments with nine birds per treatment. Treatment 1 was the birds placed on pasture, while treatment 2 was the birds kept indoors on deep litter. Data from both treatments were analyzed as from a completely randomized design and compared using t-test. The result shows that there was no significant difference (t0.05) between the two treatments in all the parameters considered. Hence, it was concluded that pasture access for finished broilers has no effect on abdominal fat content and carcass traits compared with finished broilers on deep litter. Key Words: Finished broilers, pasture access, abdominal fat, carcass characteristics.
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS) IN EDO STATE: IMPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION DELIVERY
Authors: IGENE C. A.
Published: December 2024

This study examined some Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) willingness to engage in agricultural extension delivery in Edo State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 143 NGOS and analyzed using descriptive statistic. The study found out that most NGOs is the study area had health (53.1%). economic (vocational skills capacity building) (35.7%), and advocacy/good governance (32.9%) orientation. Agricultural (mean = 3.93), economic (mean = 3.75) and educational development (3.66) focused NGOs indicated greater willingness to engage in extension delivery. The study therefore recommends a greater use of these NGOS by the extension agency in the State to foster the development of the agricultural sector.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED WITH GRADED LEVELS OF ROSELLE CALYX (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)
Authors: AWODOLA-PETERS O. O. , YAHAYA M. O.
Published: December 2024

The study evaluated the effect of graded levels of the Roselle calyx (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) Arbor acre broiler birds were used for the six (6) weeks study, they were randomly assigned to five treatments of thirty birds each, (Tl, T2, T3, T4 and T5) which had broiler chicks fed with feed incorporated with Roselle calyx as feed additive at 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% respectively. The birds were further randomly sub-divided into three replicates often birds each using a Completely Randomized Design. Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio was computed. At the end of the study, two birds were randomly selected from each replicate for the carcass characteristics and evaluation. The data obtained were subjected to ANOVA and means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The result of obtained showed that the initial weight, average daily feed intake, total feed intake and carcass characteristics were not significantly different across the treatment means while the final weight, total weight gain and total feed intake value were significantly differed with the highest value of final weight at Tl (1266.67g/b) and lowest value at T4 (1133.33g/b). It was therefore concluded that the inclusion level of Roselle calyx at 1% compared favourably with the control.
COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE GROWTH OF BODY AND TESTES OF CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus) AND TILAPIA (Tilapia niloticus) REARED IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS
Authors: ONU J. E. , IBRAHIM U. I. , BELLO A.
Published: December 2024

A comparative study on the growth of body and testes of Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Tilapia (Tilapia niloticus) was done. A total of ten (10) male fish of each specie were used. Five male catfish and Tilapia were used at 2, 4 and 6 months of age. Mean body weights, absolute and relative weights of the testes of each specie were determined in grammes (g) and subjected to statistical analysis. The results showed that Catfish grew significantly (p<0.05) faster than Tilapia at 2, 4 and 6 monthsof age. The results further showed that the mean absolute weights of testes of Catfish were significantly (p<0.05) bigger than that of the Tilapia at 2, 4 and 6 months of age while the relative testicular weights of Tilapia were significantly (p<0.05) bigger than that of the Catfish at 2 and 4 of age. However, at 6 months of age, the relative weights of the testes of Catfish was significantly (p<0.05) bigger than that of Tilapia. The significance of these results is discussed.
GROWTH RESPONSE OF AFRICAN CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus) FED AFRICAN STAR APPLE KERNEL DIETS
Authors: AGBABIAKA L. A. , NWANKPA R. A.
Published: December 2024

An investigation was conducted to determine the effect of African Star Apple Kernel (Chrysophyllum africanum) based diets on the growth of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) for 8 weeks. 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. Result on growth performance indicated significant (P<0.05) differences in weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and Specific growth rate of fish between the control group and those fed the trial diets.
COMPARATIVE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER FINISHER CHICKENS FED TWO PROTEIN SOURCES
Authors: ONIMISI P. A. , DASPAN M. A. , GAJI Z. M.
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the comparative performance of broiler finisher chickens fed soybean cake (SBC) and groundnut cake (GNC) as protein sources. A total of 216 four weeks old broiler chickens were allocated to three dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. Each treatment had four replicate with 18 birds per replicate. Treatment diets were; TI SBC based diet, T2 (SBC and GNC based diet in a ratio of 50:50) and T3 GNC based diet. Treatment diets and clean water were supplied ad libitum for the four weeks of the experiment. Growth parameters taken include; initial weight, final weight, weekly weight gain, weekly feed consumption, while feed to gain ratio, feed cost in /kg and feed cost/kg gain were computed for each treatment. Nutrient digestibility study was carried out at the end of the experiment. Feed consumption decreased significantly (P<0.05) from the SBC based to the GNC. Body weight gain was similar for SBC and SBC/GNC diets which were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the GNC diet. Feed to gain ratio followed a similar trend. Feed cost in /kg was significantly lowest for GNC diet (62.59) and highest for SBC diet (75.30). However, feed cost per Kg gain (D/Kg gain) was significantly lowest for SBC/GNC diet (147.92), and highest for SBC based diet (166.62). Percent digestibility of CP differed significantly (P<0.05) but digestion was similar (P>0.05) for CF, EE, ASH, and NFE. It can therefore be concluded that GNC at 50 % in the diet as protein source significantly decreased cost of production while producing similar weight gain compared to SBC.
EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF CAMEL RUMEN CONTENT ON CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS IN THE SEMI - ARID ZONE OF NIGERIA
Authors: MOHAMMED G. , ASHEIKH L. G. , KOLO U. M. , CHANA Z. M. , MUSA A. A. , USMAN Y.
Published: December 2024

The effects of feeding different levels of camel rumen content CRC on carcass characteristic of broilers chickens were evaluated. The camel rumen content was included at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% levels into diets 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively as replacements for maize and groundnut cake. One hundred and fifty (150) day-old Hover Marshal breed broiler chicks were randomly assigned to the five diets in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Each treatment was replicated three times with10 birds per replicate. The experimental diets and drinkable water supplied ad libitum throughout the experimental period of nine weeks. At nine week of the experiment 3 birds per replicate were selected for carcass measurement. The backs, hearts, kidneys, lungs, liver and spleen were not significantly (P > 0.05) different among the treatment groups while others parameters were significantly (P<0.05) different among the treatment groups. However, all the values recorded were comparable with values of other workers who slaughtered broiler chickens with similar weight and ages. Therefore, the study indicating that can up to 20% CRC can replace with maize and groundnut cake without adverse effect on the carcass parameters of broiler chickens.
EFFECTS OF VARYING PASTEURIZATION TEMPERATURES ON PHYSICO- CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF MILK FROM WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS
Authors: SAFIYU K. K. , OLADOSU O. J. , ODUTAYO O. J. , SOGUNLE O. M.
Published: December 2024

Raw West African Dwarf goat milk (800 mL) was purchased to determine its physical and chemical properties after undergoing varying pasteurization temperatures. The milk sample was divided based on pasteurization temperatures into four treatments (0, 65, 75 and 85 °C) containing 200 mL of milk each. Each treatment was further sub-divided into four replicates containing 50 mL each. After heating, milk samples from each replicates were cooled and physical and chemical properties were determined. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. The results revealed a pH range of 6.21 to 6.33; viscosity and total solids were significantly (p<0.05) higher in milk samples heated at 85 °C (270.00 (m2/s) and 30.38%, respectively) than 107.67 (m/s) and 15.64%, respectively recorded at 0 °C. Also, the value of titratable acidity of milk samples was highest at 65°C (0.59). In addition, moisture, crude protein and ash contents were significantly (p<0.05) highest (84.36, 0.47 and 2.26%, respectively) at 0 °C and lowest (69.62, 0.27 and 0.66%, respectively) at 85 °C. However, Ether Extract and calcium contents of heated milk were significantly (p<0.05) highest (16.32% and 552.53 mg/L, respectively) at 85 °C and lowest (8.90% and 310.43 mg/L) at 0 °C. It was concluded that West African Dwarf goat milk pasteurized at 65 °C had better milk pH and acidity.
COMPARISON OF EGG PARAMETERS BETWEEN ISA BROWN AND HARCO BLACK LAYERS FED DIFFERENT LEVELS OF DIETARY ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID
Authors: ARO S. O. , IBHAZE G. A. , ALETOR V. A. , ADEMOLA O.
Published: December 2024

This study was carried out to investigate the egg parameters of layers fed different levels of Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA). One hundred and ninety-two layers comprising 96 Harco Black and 96 Isa Brown breeds were assigned to four different treatment diets with levels of aspirin at 0.00%, 0.025%, 0.050% and 0.075% for diet 1(D1), diet 2 (D2), diet 3 (D3) and diet 4 (D4) respectively. Diet I with no inclusion of ASA served as the control. The birds in each treatment were replicated four times with 12 birds per replicate. All the birds were fed with these diets for 16 weeks. The data on body weight change, egg weight, mortality, egg mass index, hen-day and hen-housed production were recorded. The results showed that the final weight differed significantly between the two breeds and among the four treatment diets. The Isa Brown (IB) breed was heavier (1614.12+20.93g) than the Harco Black (HB) breed (1493.63±24.13g). The final weight of the birds increased with increase in the inclusion of ASA from 1481.25±50.13g in D1 to 1589.77+40.58g. In D4. The two breeds of the birds also differed significantly in terms of percentage mortality. The HB breed recorded 8.20% mortality while 4.30% was recorded for the IB breed. The egg mass index improved with the inclusion of ASA in the diets. Egg weight was heavier (57.66g) in HB than in IB (56.64g) while the administration of ASA improved the hen-day production from 67.39% in D1 to 72.85% in D3. The hen-day production was better improved in HB breed with dietary inclusion of ASA than in the IB breed. Better improvement in hen-housed production in HB was also recorded with dietary ASA which increased from 59.28% in D1 to 64.99% in D4 while it slid from 73.56% in D1 to 54.99% in D4 in the IB breed. In conclusion, the inclusion of ASA in the diets of laying chickens could be beneficial in terms of reduction of mortality rates and improvement of egg production parameters like egg mass index, percentage hen-day and hen-housed production.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKS FED VARYING LEVELS OF RUMEN FILTRATE-FERMENTED EARTH BALL (ICACINIA MANNI) MEAL DIETS
Authors: EFFIONG O. O. , HARRY B. J. , UDORA D. D.
Published: December 2024

The research was designed to evaluate the feeding value of rumen filtrate fermented Icacinia manni (earth ball) meal on broiler chicks. The rumen filtrate was prepared by submerging fresh rumen digesta obtained from the rumen of cattle, immediately after slaughtering in water on capped plastic container at the rate of 1kg of digesta /litre of water. The mixture was centrifuged vigorously using a metal rod for 5 minutes, residue filtered and the filtrate incubated for 72 hours under room temperature (24°C; The incubated filtrate was used to ferment the peeled earth ball for 48hours. The fermented sample was drained and sundried prior to proximate analysis and feed formulation. Five broiler starter diets were formulated with Diet I designated as control, while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 had maize in the control diet replaced with I. manni meal. A total of one hundred and fifty (150), day-old broiler chicks were divided into five (5) groups of 30 chicks per group, with each group assigned to one of the experimental diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). The proximate composition showed that I. manni meal was inferior to maize in its crude protein content but better than maize and cassava meal in ash and ether extract composition. The weights of birds decreased significantly with the increasing levels of the I. manni in the diets. Birds fed control diet recorded the highest average daily feed intake. The cost per kg of feed reduced with increase in dietary level of the rumen filtrate fermented I. manni meal. Birds fed control diet had the highest cost of feed consumed; while birds on 60% processed I. manni meal had the least cost/kg. It was concluded that rumen filtrate fermented I. manni can replace up to 30% of maize in broiler starter's diet.
IN VITRO NUTRITIVE VALUE ASSESSMENT IN GOATS OF OIL PALM PRESS FIBRE SUBJECTED TO SOLID STATE FERMENTATION
Authors: EGBUNUOGIE B. O. , BAMIKOLE M. A. , IKHATUA U. J.
Published: December 2024

Oil palm press fibre (PPF) is a lignocellulolistic material. Its usage as energy feed for ruminant is limited by high fiber. Delignifer such as white rot fungi e.g. Pleurotus tuberregium (Fr. Singer) has been found to successfully degrade lignocellulolistic wastes using solid-state fermentation (SSF) technique. The objective of the study was to determine the chemical composition (CP, ash, OM, NDF, ADF and hemicellulose) of raw and biodegraded PPF and in-vitro fermentation parameters of raw and biodegraded PPF as well as diets containing them. Biodegradation significantly increased in-vitro DMD (P<0.05) and OMD insignificantly (P>0.05). Optimum DMD was at 30 % and 40% for untreated and treated PPF diets respectively. It is therefore concluded that untreated PPF may not be fed above 30% level in WAD goats' diets while the treated can be included up to 40%. Keywords: PPF, in-vitro, chemical composition, DMD, OMD.
PHYTOGENICS (LEMON AND ORANGE PEELS) INFLUENCED THE HEAMATOLOGY, SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY AND LIPID PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: FAFIOLU A. O. , ALABI J. O. , GODWIN C. G. , DADA I. D. , TENIOLA A. A.
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the effect of phytogenic feed additives (Lemon peel, LP and Orange peel, OP) added singly or in combination to basal diets on the haematology, serum biochemistry and lipid profile of finisher broiler chickens. 320 Marshall strain, mixed sexes, broiler chickens were given the basal diet supplemented with no additive (T1), 500g/tonne of LP (T2), OP (T3), or LP+OP (T4) in a study which lasted for 3 weeks (d 22-42). Blood samples collected at d 42 were assessed. Data generated were analyzed by ANOVA using PROC GLM of SAS (2007). Results showed that highest (P<0.05) PCV (30.00%), total protein (6.89 g/L) and albumin (3.67 g/L) were observed in birds on LP+OP. Hb and RBC were not affected by the treatments imposed. Serum creatinine, uric acid and liver enzymes (AST and ALT) activity were significantly reduced with inclusion of LP and OP in broiler diets. Increase (P<0.05) HDL and decrease total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides were observed in broilers fed LP and OP. The study concluded that dietary supplementation of LP and OP had positive influence on blood profile and exert cholesterol-lowering properties in broiler chickens.
EFFECT OF SUBSTITUTING MAIZE WITH SORGHUM, MILLET OR ACHA' ON THE GROWTH AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILERS
Authors: HALADU S. , SONAIYA E. B.
Published: December 2024

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects on the growth and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens of substituting low inputs grain, acha', or medium inputs grains, sorghum and millet, for the high inputs grain, maize. Four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets for both the starter and finisher phases were formulated with maize, sorghum, millet and 'acha' as the main source of energy as treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Marshall broiler birds were brooded up to 2 weeks before the treatments were introduced. From then up to 8 weeks of age, body weight, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality were recorded. The results of the study show no significant differences (P>0.05) between the four treatments in final body weight and average daily gain but birds on treatment 4 ("acha') had significantly lower feed intake and superior feed conversion ratio than the other experimental diets. It was concluded that maize can be replaced with sorghum, millet and 'acha without adverse effects on performance of broiler chickens.
SOCIO–ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING MARKETING OF POULTRY FEEDS IN ETSAKO EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Omoniyi L. O. , Ogunyinka A. I. , Ishola O. O. , Bifarin J. O.
Published: December 2024

The study assessed the effects of socio-economic variables on the marketing of poultry feeds in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. The study described the socio-economic characteristics of poultry feed marketers, determined their profit and the factors affecting the revenue of the marketers. Data were collected with the aid of a well-structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling technique was used to select ten communities and six poultry feed marketers were purposively selected from each of the communities making a sample size of sixty. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statisticsand regression analyses. The study showed that 85% of the respondents were male, 75% were below the age of 60years. Furthermore 88% were married. The average profit made by the poultry feed marketers was ₦938,300. Regression results showed that quantity of feed bought (X6) and cost of purchase (X7) were significant at 5% level. The major problems faced by the poultry feed marketers was high marketing cost. Therefore, it was recommended that governments should improve on the condition of road network to reduce the cost of transportation.
An insight on production, marketing and profitability of one humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) at Garin Alkali livestock market, Yobe State, Nigeria
Authors: Ghude M. I. , Musa A. , Alkali H. A. , Maigandi S. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted at Garin Alkali livestock market, Yobe State, Nigeria with the aim of obtaining information from camel keepers and marketers. A survey using structured questionnaire to retrieve information was used. From the present study, majority (68%) of the respondents was between the ages of 40–50years and all of them were males. Camel keeping and farming/business were the predominant occupation of the respondents (84%). All of them were committed to camel fattening with feed supplementation after grazing while transporting camels were through trekking as indicated by 88% of them. Prices of camels appreciated during Eid–El–Kabir festivity and all of them reported camel keeping as a profitable venture. In conclusion, the present report indicated that camel production contributed immensely to the improvement of livelihood and poverty reduction to the rural dwellers from the studyarea