bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) (Linn] [Gaertn] meal on sperm production rate, gonadal and extragonadal sperm reserves in male rabbits
Authors: Bitto I. I.
Published: February 2021

Twenty grower male rabbits of mixed breeds were used to evaluate the effect of Kapok seed meal on sperm production and sperm storage capacity: Five bucks each were randomly assigned to each of four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets containing decorticated Kapok seed meal at 0), 10, 15 und 20% levels. After 8 weeks of ad libitum feeding, four bucks per treatment were randomly selected from each treatment group, sacrificed and their testes evaluated for sperm production, the efficiency of spermatogenesis and sperm storage capacity. The results did not show any significant differences (P>0.05) between the treatments in Daily sperm production (DSP), Daily sperm production/ gram testis (DSP/g) as well as in gonadal and extragonadal sperm reserves. These results suggest that decorticated Kapok seed meal had no significant effect on sperm production in breeding bucks at an inclusion level of up to 20%. KSM may thus be a useful source of protein for rabbit bucks.
Effect of palm kernel cake and deoiled palm kernel cake on the performance of cockerels
Authors: Adesida S. A. , Agunbiade J. A. , Eniolorunda O. O.
Published: February 2021

Forty (40), thirteen weeks old cockerels were allocated to five dietary treatments after balancing for weight. The eight birds on each dietary treatment were replicated four times, such that two birds served as a replicate. In diet 1 (control) contain 0% Palm Kernel Cake (KPC) and Deoiled Palm Kernel Cake (DOC). Diet 2 and 3 continued 40% KPC, Diet 2 was presented in mash form while Diet 3 was presented in pellet. Diets 4 and 5 contained 40% DOC, Diet 4 was presented as mash while diet % was presented as pellet. Dietary treatments had no effect (P>0.05) on daily weight gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Significant dietary effects (P>0.05) were however noted for daily feed intake (FI) and weight of spleen. In ecocomic terms Diet one was the most expensive (#30.03/kg) while Diet 4 was the cheapest (#15.85/kg). Birds on Dietary Treatment 1 elicited the highest cost/kg weight 314.13/kk weight gain while it cost #160.50 to gain 1kg of weight by birds on Diet 4. The results obtained in this study indicated that both PKC and DOC can be used to some appreciable extent in the feed of cockerels. The use of PKC and DOC considerably feed costs of cockerels.
Growth indices and haematological parameters of weanling pigs fed dietary fumonisin B1
Authors: Gbore F. A. , Ogunlade J. T. , Ewuola E. O. , Egbunike G. N.
Published: February 2021

The effects of dietary fumonism B1 (FB1), an environmental mycotoxin produced by fungi of the genus Fusarium, on performance  and haematological parameters was investigated using 24 male Large White weanling pigs. The animals were divided into four groups, with six animals per group. Each group received one of the four diets containing approximately 0.20, 5.0, 10.0 and 15.0 mg FB1/kg constituting diets 1 - 4 respectively, in a completely randomized design. Blood sample was collected from each of the ear vein of each animal at the end of the 4- month feeding trial for haematological analysis. Lower feed intake and a non-significant (P>0.05), but FB1 concentration-dependent decrease in live and daily weight gains in animal fed diets 2, 3, and 4 were observed. Also, dietary FB1 generally ahd significant influence on haematological parameters. The daily and the final live weight gains of animals fed diet 4 were 92.3 and 92.6% respectively, of the control values. Animals fed diets containing 10 and 15 mg FB1/kg suffered significantly (P<0.05) reduced erythrogenesis, while only animals fed the diet containing the highest FB1 concentration suffered significantly (P<0.05) reduced concentration of red blood cells and reduced anaemia, with impaired respiratory capacity. The investigation demonstrated that dietary FB1 concentration above 5.0 mg/kg is a potential health risk that may induce adverse physiological response, which can be assesses using haematological parameters in growing pigs. The study suggests that the United States Food and Drug Administration's recommended maximum levels of 10 ppm (=10 mg/kp) total fumonisins in the diet is above the no-observable-effect level (NOEL) for swine.
Evaluation of the meat quality Yankasa rams fed graded levels of biscuit waste
Authors: Eniolorunda O. O. , Apata E. S. , Badejo B. B. , Okubanjo A. O.
Published: February 2021

Twenty Yankasa rams aged between 10 and 12 months with average weight of 12.15kg were used to evaluate the effect of different levels of biscuit waste and Leucaena leucocephala meal inclusion in diets on the quality of their meat samples. The rams were randomly assigned to five treatment diets of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% an d100% of combined biscuit waste and Leucaena leucocephala in replacement for combined maize and wheat offals or B0, B1, B2, B3 and B4 diets with four rams per diet for 91 days. Data were collected on physical, chemical and sensory variables of meat samples. The results showed that there were significant (P<0.05) differences in the cooking loss, water holding capacity, crude protein and overall acceptability of meat samples from the rams. All the parameters measured were better in meat samples from rams fed treatment diets B1 (25%) and B2 (50%) inclusion of biscuit waste and Leucaena leucocephala meal. The results revealed that feeding biscuit waste to Yankasa rams can improve the quality as well as the consumer acceptability of Yankasa rams meat (mutton).
Frequencies of different phenotypes and body parameters of mature indigenous chicken in deciduous rainforest zone of Nigeria
Authors: Fajemilehin S. O. K.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted using 800 adult local chickens comprising 355 males and 445 females, which were obtained from 2 major markets in Ado Ekiti, the capital city of Ekiti state, Nigeria. Convenience sampling technique was employed in selecting animals for observation. The birds were individually observed for phenotypic expression of shank colour, feather morphology, feather structure, polydactyly, ptylopody and comb types. The number in each group was expressed as a percentage of the total number of birds. The body size parameters measured include body weight, body girth, body length, shank length, wing length, toe length, keel length and shank diameter. The result revealed that the phenotypic frequencies of birds with dominant genes for feather morphology (FF, Ff), feather structure (NaNa + Nana), poly dactyl (PoPo + Popo) and ptylopods (FshFsh + Fshfsh) were 0.033, 0.037, 0.042 and 0.046 respectively, while that of the recessive gene carriers were 0.967, 0.963, 0.958 and 0.954 respectively. The calculated gene frequencies for frizzled (F), Naked neck (Na), Polydactyly (Po) and ptylopods (Fsh) were 0.035, 0.024, 0.034 and 0.035 respectively. The local chicken showed different plumage coloration with black, brown and pink predominating. The male birds were superior to their female counterparts with significant differences (P<0.05) in all the parameters measured except weight.
Characteristics of Reproductive Tracts of Repeat Breeders in Cattle
Authors: Kubkomawa H. I. , Nafarnda W. D. , Neils J. S.
Published: February 2021

The study observed the characteristics and assessed abnormalities in reproductive tracts of repeat breeders in cattle. Fourty (40) herds were sampled during the study and fifty seven (57) repeat breeders were identified. The animals had normal reproductive tracts with good body condition scores (BCS) ranging from 2.5- 4.5. There was no correlation between the ages and the body condition scores of the repeat breeders (r = -0.4576. Higher number of repeat breeders were found within the ages of 3 -6. Variation within the ages of the repeat breeders were not significantly associated. Physical and behavioral characteristics observed were: crystal clear eyes; appearing more like a castrated bull; physically strong; active; vibrant; alert; stubborn; wild; temperamental; aggressive and difficult to handle; very sensitive to their environment and have a quick idea of the presence of a stranger which they show by having their ears in erect disposition signaling a sign of insecurity and danger. They always appear as superior animals in the herds; and could even be used as draught or pack animals with a very good output. They could yield better meat compared to none repeat breeders in the herds. Thus, most repeat breeders are not sterile, have normal oestrus cycle every 18-24 days but rather suffer from lowered fertility resulting to huge economic waste due to more services; reduced milk yield; wide calving interval and culling rate. It was concluded that repeat breeders suffer from lowered fertility which results into reduced milk yield, wide calving interval and culling rate.
Effect of Soil Moisture Level on the growth of the Giant African Land Snails, Archachatina marginata and Achatina achatina in different season.
Authors: Sodipe O. G. , Osinowo O. A. , Ozoje M.O. , Idowu A. B. , Onadeko S. A.
Published: February 2021

This study focused on the evaluation of the effect of soil moisture on the feed intake and weight gain of the Giant African Land snails, Achatina achatina and Archachatina marginata in different seasons using a 2 x 2 x 4 factorial experiment with soil moisture at two levels (low 25ml of water/ week and high 100ml water/week), species at two levels (Achatina achatina and Archachatina marginata) and season at four levels (cold dry, hot dry, hot wet and cold wet) constituting the three factors. Result showed that there was a significant seasonal differences (P<0.001) for weekly feed intake of snails in which values of 3.85, 2.53, 3.88 and 4.44g were recorded in cold dry, hot dry, hot wet and cold wet seasons, respectively. Monthly weight gains of 5.41g recorded for Archachatina marginata was significantly higher (P<0.001) than the value of 1.94g recorded for Achatina achatina. There was significant interaction (P<0.001) between soil moisture level and species on monthly weight gains of the snails. The feed intake and weight gain of snails (4.28 g and 6.43 g) in the high soil moisture treatment was significantly (P<0.01) higher than those in the low soil moisture treatment (3.07 g and 5.30 g). In conclusion, it is evident that species, season and soil moisture level affected the feed intake and weight gain of the Giant African Land Snails
Prevalence of Swine Diseases in Ijebu Division of Ogun State
Authors: Talabi A. O. , Oyekunle M. A. , Abiola J. O. , Makinde G. E. O. , Akinleye S. O. , Ettu R. O. , Oyejobi Y. A.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out by visiting 20 towns/ villages in Ijebu-division of Ogun State, where a total of 5,043 pigs were observed for various disease conditions. Blood and faecal samples and skin scrapings were collected from 137 sick animals, of which 3.65% were positive for the presence of Trypanosoma brucei. The following gastrointestinal nematode eggs were found in the faecal samples evaluated: Ascaris sp. (45.26%), Strongyles (10.22%), Strongyloides sp. (5.11%) and Trichuris sp. (2.92%). Sarcoptes scabiei which was the only ectoparasite of pigs encountered in this study accounted for 12.41% of the 137 skin scrapings collected. A total of 606 out of 5,043 animals were found to be clinically sick. Identified disease conditions include wound infection (33.50%), diarrhea (22.11%), piglet anaemia (15.84%), mange (10.89%), tail sore (6.44%), foot rot (4.95%), mastitis (2.97%), metritis (1.82%) and pneumonia (1.49%).
Effects of drinking water sources on performance and carcass indices of broiler chickens
Authors: Asaniyan E. K , Adene I. C. , Adekunle S. A
Published: February 2021

Water samples were taken from four different sources (Well, stream, borehole and treated). Chemical and bacteriological analyses of samples carried out to determine, lead, cadmium, manganese, aluminium, sodium, bacteria counts and isolates revealed that mineral elements were significant (P<0.05) among water samples from four different sources except for lead. Apart from the treated water sample; results of the bacteria counts and isolates revealed that the water samples contained some levels of bacteria species (Klebsiella oxytoca, Pseudomonas aeniginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus faecalis and Enterobacter cloacae).Then an experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of the water sources on broiler performance and carcass parameters. Except for the birds on the treated water that had significant (P<0.05) weight gain among the water sources, generally, the performance indices were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by the treatments. Carcass parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by the treatments except for the neck. Hence, this investigation tends to reveal that the outcome of the chemical and bacteria analysis of the water samples did not have significant (P>0.05) effect on broilers performance and carcass growth. Therefore, within the limit of this study; in terms of period and location, any of the investigated water samples is good for broiler consumption without any detrimental effect to their wellbeing.
Cost benefit analysis of level of Ziziphus (Ziziphus mauritiana) leaf meal inclusion in the diet of growing rabbits
Authors: Abdu S. B. , Hassan M. R. , Adamu H. Y. , Yashim S. M. , Abdulrashid M. , Duru S. , Jokthan G. E.
Published: February 2021

Thirty (30) growing rabbits of mixed breeds and sexes with an average initial weight of 526.92±0.25g  ere used for this study to determine the effect of level of inclusion of Ziziphus leaf meal (ZLM) in concentrate diet on the performance of growing rabbits. The experiment was in a completely randomized design involving five treatments, which represented five diets with 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% levels of ZLM inclusion. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in weight gains, feed intake and feed:gain ratios. Treatment 2 had the highest weight gain (though not significantly different (p>0.05) from treatment 1 and the best feed /gain values.The cost benefit analysis shows a 40.51 % reduction in the cost of feed, following a 10 % inclusion of ZLM in the diet (T2) over the control (T1), while 46.35 and 47.94 % reduction were observed following 20 and 30 % ZLM inclusion (T3 and T4) respectively. In term of apparent profit made, T1 recorded the highest profit (N 35.29) over all other treatments, which was followed by T2 (N30.49), T3 (N15.11) and T4 recorded the least (N 12.99). Inclusion of RHSM in the diet of rabbits resulted in reduction in the cost of feed and feed cost efficiency. From the results obtained it was concluded that  dried ZLM could be incorporated up to 30% in the diets of growing rabbits without any adverse effect on their performance.
Consumers preference for rabbit meat as a source of animal protein in selected Local Government Areas in Rivers State
Authors: Akinola L. A. F. , Ironkwe M. O.
Published: February 2021

The study was designed to determine consumer’s preference for rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniclus)meat with respect to its production and consumption in Khana, Gokana, Tai and Eleme Local Government Areas (LGAs) making up the Ogoni Kingdom in Rivers State, Nigeria. A sample of 80 respondents (20 per LGA) were selected and interviewed using structured questionnaires. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages. The result indicated that the availability of animals reared or hunted in the LGAs apart from poultry were in the order of goat (47.5%), sheep (28.8%), rabbit (11.3%), grass-cutter (8.8%) and monkey (3.8%). Producer’s preference for rearing animals also followed a similar order. Demographic characteristics of the rabbit farmer showed that most of them were males (above 50 years) who had tertiary education and kept 1-20 rabbits both for family consumption and sales. Although more of the respondents(47.5%) were aware of rabbit as an animal, goats were more domesticated in the area but they indicated their readiness to increase the production and consumption of rabbit (77.5%).Further investigation revealed that consumers had high preference for goat and sheep meat,medium preference for rabbit and grass-cutter meat and low preference for meat from monkey. Among the factors identified that were capable of boosting rabbit production were the rich vegetation in the area, the ability of the rabbits to survive on roughages with little or no proprietary feeds, low cost of production, short gestation period and the high prolific nature of rabbits. It is therefore believed that with the good knowledge of goat and sheep production by most of the respondents in the area, which has some similarities with that of rabbit production, any effort targeted at improving the people’s preference for rabbit production and consumption in the LGAs (through radio jingles or seminars) will increase animal protein intake, create jobs, alleviate poverty and enhance rural livelihood
Visual assessment, proximate composition and cost analysis of three differently processed discarded vegetable-bovine blood-rumen content mixtures
Authors: Ekunseitan A. , Balogun O. O. , Eruvbetine D. , Abiola S. S. , Sogunle O. M. , Ogunade I. M. , Egbeyale L. T. , Ayoola A. A. , Akinola O. F. , Allison I.  B. , Osho S. O.
Published: February 2021

With increased search for least-cost alternative feed resource in animal production, this study was conducted to determine the visual properties, chemical composition and cost analysis of three differently processed discarded vegetable-bovine blood-rumen content mixture as potential alternative feed resource. These mixtures were obtained by mixing whole bovine blood, discarded vegetable and rumen content at ratio 1:1:1 under different processing methods. The processed mixtures obtained were in three categories: discarded vegetable-fresh bovine blood-fresh rumen digesta (D1), discarded vegetable-ensiled bovine blood-fresh rumen digesta (D2) and discarded vegetable-fresh bovine blood-ensiled rumen digesta (D3). The mixtures were cooked and sun-dried to constant moisture content and thereafter were subjected to particle size reduction. Chemical composition of the products indicated a good potential nutritional quality with metabolizable energy and crude protein contents ranging from 9.66 to 10.49 MJ/kg and 40.79 to 50.21, respectively. Crude fibre concentrations were relatively low (8.39-13.14) for most of the products compared to conventional protein sources. Visual assessment of processed mixtures revealed D1 to be brownish in colour while D2 and D3 tend towards grey. In terms of odour, all three test mixtures were strongly pungent. Processed mixture D1 had an intermediate texture (it was neither finely ground nor coarse) where D2 and D3 had a finely ground texture. Cost analysis revealed a lower production cost for the three processed mixtures indicating its adequacy to replace soybean and other plant and animal protein sources in terms of their cost/kg inclusion in diet. Processed mixtures can serve as suitable replacements for soybean meal in terms of chemical constituents and reduced cost/kg feed for animal.
Heterotic effect on body weight and morphometric traits of crossbred buck kids of Red Sokoto and West African Dwarf goats
Authors: Nwachukwu E. N. , Okoji. G. U.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of crossbreeding on body weight and morphometric traits of crossbred buck kids produced from a mating of Red Sokoto(RS) and West African Dwarf(WAD) goats in a humid tropical environment. Results showed that the main crossbred (RS x WAD) buck kids had significantly higher body weight at 20 weeks (8.98 ± 0.43kg) than the reciprocal (WAD X RS) individuals (8.22± 0.12kg) . The Red Sokoto (RS X RS) buck kids maintained overall superiority for body weight (10.48  ±0.49kg) and other morphometric traits namely; body length (72.62 ± 3.18cm), height-at-withers (54.62 ± 3.10cm) and heart girth (63.20 ± 2.41cm)than other genetic groups. Direct and percentage heterosis for body weight and the morphometric traits were positive for the RS x WAD buck kids except for body length which was negative. The reciprocal WAD x RS buck kids had negative values for all measured parameters indicating that the WAD sired buck kids showed no improvement for these body traits following crossbreeding. It was therefore concluded that rapid improvement in growth traits of WAD goats could be achieved by main crossbreeding involving mating of RS bucks with WAD does.
Evaluation of fermented pineapple (Ananas comosus) peel meal as a substitute for maize meal in the diet of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Obasa S. O. , Alegbeleye W. O. , George F. O. A. , Abdul W. O. , Bamidele N. A. , Okon M. T. , Olaleye W. I.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of fermented pineapple peel meal (FPM) on Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings. One hundred and eighty (180) fingerlings of Nile tilapia (1.35±0.13g) were stocked and fed at 5% body weight per day for 56 days. Four iso-nitrogenous diets containing 35% crude protein in which corn meal was replaced by fermented pineapple peel meal at 0% (FPM0), 25% (FPM25), 50% (FPM50) and 75% (FPM75) were formulated and prepared. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in growth, nutrient utilization, survival, protein digestibility and blood parameters between the fish fed the reference diet (FPM0) and fish fed diet FPM75. Weight gain (3.57g) was highest in fish fed diet FPM75 and lowest (2.18g) in fish fed diet FPM50. Feed conversion ratio was lowest (1.70) in fish fed diet FPM25 and highest (1.77) in fish fed diet FPM50 while protein efficiency ratio was highest in fish fed diets FPM0 (1.22) and lowest (I.03) in fish fed diet FPM50.Highest value of packed cell volume (36.33%) was in fish fed diet FPM25 while the lowest value (33.00%) was recorded in fish fed diet FPM75. From the above results therefore, yellow maize could be replaced with fermented pineapple peel meal at 75% level in the diet of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus without affecting fish growth, nutrient utilisation, protein digestibility and the blood profile.
Comparative chemical composition of 24-hour fermented sweet orange fruit (Citrus sinensis) peel meal and maize and effect on performance response of starting pullet chicks
Authors: Oyewole B. O. , Oluremi O. I. A. , Aribido S. O. , Ayoade J. A.
Published: February 2021

The study evaluated the effect of 24-hour fermentation of sweet orange fruit (Citrus sinensis) peel meal (24SOFPM) on its chemical composition and performance response to graded levels of peel meal in the diets of pullet chicks. Dry matter, crude protein and phosphorus level in 24SOFPM were close to that of maize. While limonene was higher in 24SOPFM, phytate was higher in maize than the 24SOPFM. One hundred and forty-four fourteen dayold Nera black pullet chicks were assigned to four experimental diets F0, F10, F20 and F30. SOPFM substituted maize in F0, F10, F20 and F30 respectively at 0, 10, 20 and 30%. The feeding trial lasted the remaining 6 weeks of the chicks’ phase. The study design was Completely Randomized Design. Daily feed intake was not significantly different (p>0.05). Average body weight gain was significantly different (p<0.05) and was depressed with no definite pattern in the SOPFM based diets. FCR was significantly different (p<0.05). Substitution of maize with SOFPM significantly (p<0.05) reduced feed cost/25kg, feed cost/bird and cost of production while decreasing efficiency of feed utilization for growth. Apparently, SOPFM might be a potential feedstuff which could substitute a proportion of maize in pullet chick’s diet when fermented for 24 hours.
Response of broiler chickens to graded levels of locust beans (Parkia biglobosa) pulp meal
Authors: Abeke F. O. , Bawa G. S. , Bot M. H.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and twenty five, day-old Arbour Acre broiler birds were use to investigate the effect of graded dietary levels of Parkia biglobosa pulp meal (PBPM) on the performance, haematological and carcass parameters of the birds from 0-8 weeks of age. Five isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets were formulated to contain PBPM at 0,10,20, 30 and 40 percent respectively making a total of 5 treatments. Each treatment was replicated three times with 15 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design experiment. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. Records taken included weekly weight changes and weekly feed intake. There was no record of mortality throughout the duration of the experiment. Results obtained showed a decrease in the bird’s performance as the dietary levels of the pulp increased. The final weight (g/b) and weight gain (g/b/day) decreased from 2122 and 33.91 for the control to1309 and 20.97 for the 40% inclusion level of PBPM meal respectively However birds placed on 10% dietary level had a performance that were not significantly (P>0.05) different from those placed on the control diet which were on standard broiler starter and finisher rations. Also it was observed that values obtained for the haematological parameters fall within the range often reported for healthy birds indicating that the pulp did not impart any deleterious effect on the health of the birds. It can be concluded that broiler chickens can be fed up to 10% dietary level of PBPM without adverse effect on the performance of the birds.
Effect of different combination levels of palm kernel cake, yam peel and plantain peel meals as partial replacement for maize in broiler starter diets.
Authors: Etuk E. B. , Anopueme B. , Etuk I. F. , Ekpo J. S. , Emenalom O. O. , Esonu B. O.
Published: February 2021

Ninety six unsexed day old Marshall broiler chickens were divided into 4 groups of 3 replicates each on weight equalization basis (42.87 – 43.24g). The chicks were used to determine the effect of partial replacement of maize with combinations of palm kernel cake (PKC), yam peel meal (YPM) and plantain peel meal (PPM) in broiler starter diets. Four broiler starter diets were formulated such that diet T1 (control) contained 54% maize. Diets T2, T3 and T4 contained PKC, YPM and PPM in the ratios, 1:1:2, 1: 2:1 and 1: 1: 2 replacing 50% of maize. The chick groups were each randomly assigned to one of the experimental broiler starter diets in a completely randomised design (CRD) experiment. The feed and water were offered ad libitum. Results indicated that birds on diet T4 recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher (861.63g) body weight gain than those on other diets. Feed intake followed similar trend with birds on diet T1 recording significantly (p<0.05) lower (1564.63g) value than other groups. Feed conversion ratio was comparable (p>0.05) for all groups while feed cost savings relative to the control diet ranged from 23.51 – 24.51%. Birds on diets T4 recorded the lowest feed cost per kg body weight gain. It is concluded that combinations of PKC, YPM and PPM could safely replace 50% of maize in broiler starter diet with 1: 1: 2 combination ratio producing a superior performance.
Effect of fibre and digestible energy levels on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility and caecal fermentation of growing rabbits
Authors: Osho S. O. , Oso A. O. , Akpan I. E. , Ayanniyi T. A. , Ogunade I. M. , Jegede A. V. , Sobayo R. A. , Adegbenjo A. A. , Durosaro S. O.
Published: February 2021

A seventy-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary fibre and digestible energy (DE) level on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility and caecal fermentation of growing rabbits. The experiment was laid out in a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement of 3 levels of fibre (low (249 – 258 g/kg NDF, 149 - 157 g/kg ADF), optimum (349 – 381 g/kg NDF, 188 - 193 g/kg ADF) and high (430 – 456 g/kg NDF, 249 - 253 g/kg ADF)) and 3 levels of DE (low (8 – 8.5 MJ/kg), optimum (10.5 – 11 MJ/kg) and high (12 – 12.30 MJ/kg)). A total of one hundred and thirty five weaner rabbits were allotted to 9 dietary groups of 15 rabbits each. Main effect of fibre showed that the final live weight and weight gain of rabbits increased (P < 0.01) while Ca retention reduced (P < 0.001) with increasing dietary fibre level. Rabbits fed (249 – 258 g/kg NDF, 149 - 157 g/kg ADF), had the worst (P < 0.05) feed to gain ratio. Rabbits fed (349 – 381 g/kg NDF, 188 - 193 g/kg ADF) had the highest apparent dry matter (P < 0.05), ether extract (P < 0.05), NDF (P < 0.001), ADF (P < 0.001) and organic matter digestibility (P < 0.001). Main effect of DE showed that rabbits fed high DE recorded the highest (P < 0.05) weight gain. Highest (P < 0.01) apparent dry matter, crude protein, ash, NDF, ADF, organic matter digestibility and Ca retention were recorded with rabbits fed optimum DE diet. Rabbits(445.70g/kgNDF, 252.10g/kgADF and 8.01MJ/Kg) recorded the highest (P < 0.001) final live weight, weight gain and feed intake (P<0.05) while rabbits fed (249 g/kg NDF, 149 g/kg ADF and 8.17MJ/Kg) had the least (P < 0.001) final live weight, weight gain, apparent dry matter digestibility, NDF and ADF digestibility. Highest (P<0.001) NDF digestibility was obtained with rabbits fed (370.79 g/kg NDF, 189.61 g/kg ADF and 10.84MJ/kg). Not withstanding the DE level of the diets, rabbits fed with (430 – 456 g/kg NDF, 249 - 253 g/kg ADF) recorded the highest (P<0.05) total VFA and acetic acid concentration. Rabbits fed (445.7g/KgNDF, 250.09g/KgADF and 10.52MJ/kg) recorded the best growth performance, improved caecal fermentation with no adverse effect on apparent nutrient digestibility.
Vitamin and mineral analysis of fish liver oil, some locally available spices and vegetables
Authors: Bolu S. A. , Balogun O. O. , Sola-Ojo F. E.
Published: February 2021

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the vitamin and mineral contents of some locally sourced ingredients such as fish liver oil, Adansonia digitata, Telfaria occidentalis, Celosia spp, Amaranthus cruentas leaves, Xylopia aetiopica, capsicum frutenscen, Saccharomyces cerevicae, rice bran, palm oil and colostrums. The results indicated that fish liver oil was the most potent source of vitamins A, D, E and B12 represented by 9x10 6 iu/100g, 48000icu/100g, 30mg/100g, and 40.5mg/100g, respectively. The B-Complex vitamins were present among the spices and vegetables analyzed. Saccharomyces cerevicae was observed to a potent source of thiamin (9.4mg /100g) and niacin (41.8 mg / 100g). Capsicum spp and Telfaria occidentalis had ample amounts of riboflavin, thiamin and niacin. Rice bran had the highest amount of pyridoxine, 28.6mg/100g, while panthothenate was present more in the milk (8.2mg/100g) than other materials analysed. The mineral composition of the materials analysed showed that they have fairly uniform potency. Amaranthus cruentas was found to contain more mineral with 3.0, 1.4, 5.13, 1.10, 5.04 and 1.09% for copper (cu), Zinc (Zn), potassium (K), Sodium (Na), Calcium (ca), and magnesium (mg), respectively. The results of the analysis indicated that vitamin and mineral potencies of these ingredients can be harnessed for the production of vitamin and mineral premix for animal feed formulation
Heat balance, haematology and serum chemistry of layers under varying stocking density reared in locally fabricated metal-type cage system
Authors: Bello K. O. , Adiatu A. E. , Osunlakin M. O. , Oni O. O.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and thirty five 18weeks old Bovans Nera Black strain pullets were used in a 10week study to determine their heat balance and blood profile under varying stocking density in locally fabricated metal-type cage system. The cages were stocked 2, 3 and 4birds/cell. Daily ambient temperature and relative humidity of the cage and rectal temperature of the birds were taken and heat balance calculated. Record of Packed cell volume (PCV), Haemoglobin concentration (Hb), Red blood cell (RBC), White blood count (WBC) and differential of the birds were taken at beginning and end of the study for the haematological indices while blood glucose, total protein, Albumin and blood urea were taken for the bio-chemical measurements. Ambient temperature, relative humidity, and heat balance showed no significant (P>0.05) difference with cage stocking density. Cage stocking density had significant (P<0.05) effect on rectal temperature of layers. Bird stocked 3/cell recorded the least (41.14oC) rectal temperature while those stocked 4/cell recorded the highest (41.27oC). All the haematological parameters of the birds were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by stocking density of the cage type. Bio-chemical measurements were not significantly (P>0.05) different among layers under varying stocking density of the cage except total protein (P<0.05). Layers stocked 4/cell recorded highest (5.22g/dl) total protein while those stocked 3/cell had the least value (4.37g/dl). However, the values were within the normal range recommended for healthy chicken. The study concluded that locally fabricated metal-type battery cage could be used to rear layers and stocking density of 3birds/cell is ideal without compromising the welfare of the birds.
Fecundity and condition of Chrysichthysnigrodigitatus (Family Claroteidae) in Yewa Lagoon, Nigeria
Authors: Taiwo I. O. , Olopade O. A. , Tiamiyu A. I.
Published: February 2021

The minimum and maximum standard length of females caught was 8.0cm (14.5g body weight) and 14.6cm (53.4g body weight) respectively while the males were 10.1cm (19.8g) and 17.1cm (68.6g). The gonadosomatic index (GSI) for females ranged between 6.55 and 25.57 while males ranged between 5.68 and 16.55. Significant (P<0.05) relationships were observed between standard length, body weight, gonad weight and fecundity. There was significant (P<0.05) relationship between body weight and fecundity. Body weight and GSI had no significant (P>0.05) relationship with condition factor in C. nigrodigitatus in Yewa Lagoon. The condition factor (K) ranged between 1.58 and 2.92 for the females while males ranged between 1.08 and 2.79. The condition of female fish was slightly better than that of male fish of the same length.
Effect of egg size on hatching quality and post-hatch performance of indigenous chickens
Authors: Lamidi A. W. , Abiola S. S. , Ozoje M. A. , Adeyemi O. A. , Ojelade A. Y. P.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of egg size on hatching quality and post-hatch growth performance of normal feathered indigenous chickens. Hatchable eggs, grouped into three sizes: medium/control, small and large, were incubated to obtain day-old chicks. One hundred and eighty (180) day-old chicks were allotted to three treatment groups according to the egg sizes from which they were hatched. Egg size significantly (p<0.05) influenced chick hatching weight. Chicks hatched from large eggs were the heaviest (36.89g) while those obtained from small ones were the smallest (31.02g). Daily growth rate (DGR) was progressive and uniform in both cockerels and pullets in the first 8 weeks of life across the treatment groups. It was concluded that egg size, though could determine chick hatching weight, but not a good predictor of post-hatch growth performance in normal feathered indigenous chickens
Effect of organic acids fed through drinking water on carcass and internal organs of broiler chickens
Authors: Effiong O. O. , Umoren U. E. , Sylvester G. S.
Published: February 2021

The price of Maize as a major source of energy in poultry feeding is becoming increasingly prohibitive in Nigeria hence this study investigated the effect of toasted Earth ball (lcacinia manni) as an alternative energy source. Fresh tubers of lcacinia manni were collected, peeled, washed, sliced and milled into a paste which was further pressed to reduce the initial moisture content using a hand press. The dehydrated paste was transferred to an earthen-pot and toasted at 100C using firewood as fuel until moisture content was reduced tol0-12%. The dried sample was chemically analysed for proximate and anti-nutrient components and later used to formulate five experimental diets which contained 239%crude protein (CP) and 2,800kcalkg of metabolizable energy (ME)for the starter and 20% CP and 2,900kcal/kg of ME in the finisher phases Diet I was the control while diets 2, 3, 4and 5 contained toasted I. manni replacing maize at 15, 30, 45 and 65% levels, respectively. Two hundred and twenty live (225) Anak-2000 day-old chicks of a commercial strain were shared into five experimental groups of 45 birds each which were further divided into three replicates of 15 birds using completely Randomized Design for the experiment that lasted for 56 days. Toasting as a processing method reduced the compositions of hydrogen cyanide (81.89%), total oxalate (62.56%) and soluble oxalate (56.0%). Phytate increased by 20.0% in the toasted sample. Birds that were fed 15% I. manni diet had the highest (P<0.05) daily weight gain and feed intake of 33.21g and 90.07g, compared to other treatment groups including control. Feed conversion ratio did not differ significantly among treatment groups. The level of inclusion of I. manni in all the diets significantly influenced the organs characteristic of the birds. The group of birds fed on the 60% I. manni meal diet had the highest (P<0.05) percentage weight for the gizzard, heart liver proventriculus and intestine It was concluded that toasted I. Mani meal could replace up to 15% of maize as an energy source in broiler diets.
Effect of feeding different commercial chick vitamin-mineral premixes at varying inclusion level on performance of pullets chicks
Authors: Bawa G. S. , Adeyemi O. A. , Karsin P. , Shamaki D.
Published: February 2021

A 56-day feeding trial using 1836 day-old dominant brown strain pullet chicks was conducted to assess the effect of feeding different commercial chick vitamin-mineral premixes type at varying levels of dietary inclusion on growth performance, haematological and serum biochemical indices. The birds were divided into 12 groups of 153 birds each and each group was assigned to one of the experimental diets in a3x4factorial arrangement. Each treatment group was further subdivided into 3 replicates of 51 birds each. The birds were fed twelve iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets containing three commercial vitamin-mineral premixes types designated as XVM, YVM and ZVM, respectively. Each vitamin type was included at 0.15, 0.25, 0.35 and 0.45%, respectively Feed and water were provided ad libitum. A wide variation in the micronutrients and antioxidants levels exists among the premix type. Feed intake was not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the dietary treatments. However, final weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and cost per gain were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the premix type and their levels of dietary inclusion. Except for total protein and Haemoglobin, the results showed no significant differences (P>0.05) on the values of all the blood parameters measured. The study suggest the need to be careful in choosing premixes type for chick rearing as some of them may be deficient in some essential vitamins and minerals. It was concluded that the use of YVM premix type at 2.5 kg per tonne (0.25% inclusion level) was cheaper and more efficient in supporting the growth performance of pullet chicks.
Salmonella organism transmission in hatching broiler egggs
Authors: Olorunsola R. A. , Eruvbetine D. , Idowu O. M. , Oyekunle O. , Ogunade I. M.
Published: February 2021

The vertical transmission of Salmonella organism in hatching broiler eggs were investigated in selected states in South-Western Nigeria. Hatching eggs were obtained from fifteen major hatcheries. five (hatchery A, B, C, D and E from each State [Lagos (LA), Oyo (OY) and Ogun (OG)]. A total of 300 hatchable eggs of 20 eggs from each hatchery were collected. Individual egg was broken and separated into Shell, albumin and yolk. The samples were incubated into buffer peptone water and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. Typical colonies of salmonella grown on Xylose lysine deoxycholate agar were seen as lining black center and lightly transparent zone of reddish colour which were further cultured on nutrient agar plates for confirmatory test. The biochemical characterization was carried out using rapid kit for the identification of members of Enterobacteria family. The study revealed that Salmonella pullorum was isolated from the albumin in hatchery (OG-A) and hatchery (LA-A), Salmonella arizorae was also isolated in the Yolk from the hatchery (OG-C), Salmonella gallinarum was found in the albumin in Ogun hatchery (OG-A), however, Salmonella paratyphi A was isolated in the albumin in Oyo hatchery B (OY-B). It is evident from the study that salmonella organism reside in various fractions of the egg like albumin, shell and yolk.
Growth indices, haematological and serum biochemical response of weaned rabbits fed growth promoters
Authors: Ewuola E. O. , Omoniyi B. A. , Omotoso J. O.
Published: February 2021

The use of feed additives and plant extracts in rabbit husbandry offers an acceptable way to improve welfare, health and meat quality of rabbits as alternative to the use of antibiotics. In a six-week feeding trial, growth rate, nutrient digestibility, haematology and serum biochemical indices of weaned rabbits fed dietary prebiotics and probiotics as natural growth promoters were investigated. Thirty–two weaned crossbred rabbits of 6–week old with average weight of 446.75±32.1g were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatments. Diet 1 served as the control without test ingredients while diets 2 (prebiotics-Biotronic®at 4kg/ton), 3 (probiotics- Biovet®-YC at 500g/ton) and 4 (symbiotics: Biotronic® SE and Biovet®-YC) were other treatments. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency, nutrient digestibility, haematological and serum biochemical variables were monitored. The design of the experiment was a completely randomized design. Feed intake was similar among dietary treatments while weight gain of rabbits fed diets 1, 2 and 3 was the same but significantly (p<0.05) higher than rabbits fed diet 4. Feed conversion ratio was not significantly influenced by the treatments. Feed efficiency was significantly (p<0.05) higher in rabbits fed symbiotic supplemented diets compared to others. The dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ash, nitrogen free extracts and ether extract digestibility were significantly (p<0.05) higher in rabbits fed diets 2 and 3 than those on diets 4 and the control. Packed cell volume and haemoglobin were significantly (p<0.05) higher in rabbits fed diets 3 and 4 than diets 1 and 2. Erythrocyte and leukocyte count were not significantly different among the treatments. Total protein, albumin and globulin examined revealed that they were not significantly influenced by the dietary treatments, however, alkaline phosphatase was significantly (p<0.05) higher in rabbits fed test diets than the control. Biotronic®SE and Biovet® -YC in this study had a potential to enhance growth in rabbit when used as feed additive without any adverse effect on health status of the animal.
Response of two strains of broiler chickens to feeding trough shapes
Authors: Sogunle O. M. , Odekunle E. T. , Adeyemi O. A. , Olaniyi O. A. , Ekunseitan D. A. , Jege C. A. V.
Published: February 2021

This study determined the effect of feeding trough shapes on the growth performance, carcass characteristics and cost benefit analysis of 180 broiler chickens of two strains (90 birds each of Marshal and Hubbard strains) subjected to circular, rectangular and square-shaped 2 feeding troughs with a surface area of 900 cm each. The broiler chicks were brooded for two weeks and thereafter allotted into six treatment groups of 30 chicks each, consisting of 3 replicates of 10 chicks per replicate. Daily weight gains were recorded and at the 8th week, 3 broiler chickens that were of average weights for each replicate were used for carcass evaluation. Data were analysed using PRO GLM at 5% level of significance. Results showed that feeding trough shapes significantly (P< 0.05) influenced the final weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Birds on circular feeding trough recorded the best feed conversion ratio (2.98±0.03). The feeding trough shape and strain did not significantly (P>0.05) affect the cut-up parts and organs measured. In the interaction between strain and feeding trough, the dressing percentage was significantly (P<0.05) affected, but did not follow any trend. Marshal strain on square feeding trough recorded significantly (P<0.05) lowest production cost (N539.25) while Hubbard strain on circular feeder had the highest cost of N605.46. It was concluded that, in terms of cost of production, the square and rectangular shaped feeding troughs could be adopted.
Biomass yield and nutritive quality of four varieties of Pennisetum purpureum as influenced by three cutting intervals in the humid zone of Nigeria
Authors: Ojo V. O. , Dele P. A. , Yusuff R. B. , Olanite J. A. , Jolaosho A. O. , Arigbede O. M.
Published: February 2021

This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of cutting intervals on the dry matter (DM) yield, yield components and nutrient contents of four varieties of Pennisetum purpureum. Varieties experimented include: Local green, Local purple, S13 and S15. These were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. All the four varieties of P. purpureum were cut at intervals of 4, 8 and 12 weeks after cutback (WAC) to represent first, second and third cutting intervals respectively. Results showed that the dry matter yield of the P. purpureum grasses significantly decreased from first to third cutting intervals. Variety S15 recorded a higher (P < 0.05) dry matter yield (13.26 t ha-1) at the first cutting interval. Variety S13 had higher leaf proportion (89) at first cutting interval and tiller density (137.00 tiller-1 m2) at third cutting interval (than the other varieties). Cutting intervals had significant effect (P < 0.05) on the crude protein (CP) content of the grasses which was higher at second cutting interval for S15. In contrast, the neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) increased from first to third cutting intervals for all the varieties. The CP and fibre contents of the Pennisetum varieties at different cutting intervals were within the levels recommended for optimum animal performance.
Prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum in sheep in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinkuotu O. A. , Fagbemi B. O. , Jacobs E. B. , Oseni S. O. , Adeyanj J.
Published: February 2021

The prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum infection in sheep was determined in Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria. Faeces from randomly selected sheep were analyzed using the Enzymelinked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Cryptosporidium parvum antigens were detected in stools of 174 sheep by the use of a commercial ELISA kit. A total of 28.7% of the stools were positive for the antigens. The infection rates decreased with age, the pre-weaned lambs (51.1%) having a significantly higher (p<0.05) in males (42.9%) and sheep with diarrhoeic stools (41.8%) than in females (17.5%) and sheep with formed stools (17.9%) respectively. This study therefore reveals that the prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum infection is high in sheep reared in Abeokuta and may serve as a reservoir for human infections.