bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF THE PROXIMATE, PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ESSENTIAL OIL COMPOSITION OF CLOVE (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM) AS PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVE
Authors: Yunana Y. L. , Olugbemi T. S. , Onimisi P. A. , Salihu E. A. , Saleh I.
Published: December 2024

Potential of clove as a phytogenic feed additive lies in its reported antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Clove buds contain approximately 15 to 20% volatile essential oils dominated by eugenol. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate proximate, phytochemical and essential oil composition of Syzygium aromaticum as potential source of phytogenic feed additive in poultry diet. Samples of Syzygium aromaticum was obtained, processed and subjected to laboratory analyses to determine proximate, phytochemical and quantitative essential oil (EO) composition using steam distillation procedure. Result showed that Syzygium aromaticum contained crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE), nitrogen free extract (NFE) and ash content of 4.96, 31.20, 6.13, 61.57 and 5.24 %, respectively. Additionally, the phytochemical analysis showed that Syzygium aromaticum contained 1.74, 2.68, 1.37, 5.16 and 2.10 % alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols and tannins. The quantitative determination of the EO content of Syzygium aromaticum showed it contain 10.68 % EO. In conclusion, ztudy showed that Syzygium aromaticum contains an appreciable levels of nutrients which may supply certain nutrients to diets in addition to their health promoting properties. Hence, Syzygium aromaticum can be included in livestock diet for balanced microbiota and possibly to improve growth performance.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND COST ANALYSIS OF BROILER CHICKS FED VARYING DIETARY LEVELS OF BENZOIC ACID
Authors: Ani A. O. , Okafor P. C. , Osita C. O. , Oyeagu C. E. , Akuru E. A. , Ogwuegbu M. C. , Edeh H. O. , Ugwu C. M.
Published: December 2024

A four-week study was conducted to evaluate the growth performance of broiler chicks fed varying dietary levels of benzoic acid. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) day-old unsexed “Arbor acre” strain broiler chicks were randomly assigned into five treatment groups. Each treatment group contained 24 birds replicated three times with 8 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). The treatments were designated as follows: Treatment 1,0g benzoic acid; Treatment 2, 2.5g benzoic acid per kg of feed; Treatment 3, 5.0g benzoic acid per kg of feed; Treatment 4, 7.5g benzoic acid per kg of feed and Treatment 5, 10g benzoic acid per kg of feed. Parameters assessed included final body weight (FBW), total weight gain (TWG), daily weight gain (DWG), total feed intake (TFI), daily feed intake (DFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Feed and water were provided ad libitum. The results showed that dietary treatments had significant (p<0.05) effects on FBW, TWG, and DWG. The FBW, TWG, and DWG increased with increasing levels of benzoic acid in the diet. Birds fed diet containing 10g of benzoic acid per kg of feed (treatment 5) had the highest FBW, TWG and DWG values (1081.49±23.74g, 1041.19±47.20g and 37.19±1.69g, respectively). There were no significant (p>0.05) differences among treatments in initial body weight (IBW), TFI, DFI, FCR, cost of total feed intake (CTFI) and feed cost per kg gain. It was concluded that up to 10g of benzoic acid can be included in the diet of broiler chicks for optimum growth performance without any deleterious effect on birds.
PERFORMANCE OF LAYING BIRDS FED DIETARY LEVEL OF MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE
Authors: Ibidiran O. E. , Adu O. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out at the poultry unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, The Federal University of Technology, Akure. A total of 144, 16 weeks old Isa Brown were purchased They were fed commercial grower mash until they e reached 20% laying performance (22weeks of age) before they were subjected to the experimental diets for sixteen weeks. The pullets were weighed at the beginning of the study and randomly allotted to the experimental diets containing 0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00 and 1.25g/kg Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). Each treatment was replicated 4 times with 6 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design, data was analysed using SAS 2008. The birds were fed twice daily (morning and afternoon) and water was provided ad-libitum. The birds were housed in a three-tier cage system. Feed consumption and weight gain and live weight of birds at the last week of the experiment were recorded while feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. Eggs were collected weekly and egg quality (egg weight, egg length, egg width, shell weight and shell thickness) were determined. The results showed that egg weight, egg length, egg width, shell weight and shell thickness were significantly influenced (p<0.05) by the treatments. Also, feeding birds with 0.75% MSG improved hen day production and feed efficiency through least feed conversion ratio. Egg weight, egg length and egg width of eggs gotten from birds fed 0.25% MSG diet were better.
SEMEN CHARACTERISTICS AND SPERM ABNORMALITIES OF EXOTIC AND INDIGENOUS RABBITS IN THE SUB-HUMID TROPICS OF NORTHERN NIGERIA
Authors: JATTO E. , OMONTESE B. O. , ADEWUYI A. B. , SHINKUT M. , EGBODO B. , ECHEKWU W. O. , RWUAAN J. S. , REKWOT P. I.
Published: December 2024

This study was designed to evaluate the semen characteristics and incidence of sperm abnormalities in exotic (ER) and indigenous (IR) rabbits in the sub-humid tropics of northern Nigeria. Rabbits comprising ER (n=5) and IR, n=5) were subjected to once weekly semen collection regiment for five weeks. Semen samples were evaluated for volume, colour, pH, spermatozoa concentration, percent live and motility. Spermatozoa abnormalities (detached head, free tail, bent tail, coiled tail) were evaluated. Semen volume was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the ER than IR being 0.6 ml ± 0.16 and 0.32 ml± 0.08, respectively. Semen colour, spermatozoa motility, percent live cells and normal cells did not differ between ER and IR. Spermatozoa concentration was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the ER (211 x 10±27.15) than in IR (67 x10° 27.64). Overall, higher incidence of sperm abnormities were observed in ER than in IR, although not significantly. It was concluded that semen of ER and IR in the ab-humid tropics of northern Nigeria show similarities except for semen volume and spermatozoa concentration which was higher in the ER.
INFLUENCE OF SEASON ON SERUM PROFILES OF SOME NUTRITIONAL METABOLITES DURING THE OESTRUS CYCLE IN SAVANNAH BROWN GOATS
Authors: KAWU M. U. , LAKPINI C. A. M. , AYO J. O. , FATIHU M. Y. , YAQUB L. S. , HABIBU B. , ABDULLAHI A. , SHITTU M. , ALUWONG T. , AMBALI S. F.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out to determine the effect of seasonal changes and oestrous cycle phase on serum levels of some nutritional metabolites in Savanna Brown (SB) goats. Twenty multiparous (n = 20) and cycling SB goats aged between 2-5 years (2-4 parity) and body mass index (BMI) of 20.17 ± 0.2 kg and 6.2±0.4 were used for the study. Ten animals were used per season. In each season, the animals were synchronized to the oestrus with a single injection of 7.5 mg PGF (Lutalyse). The animals were bled by jugular venipuncture for glucose, cholesterol and total protein determination of serum during the first oestrous cycle following treatment with PGF2. Blood sampling was done at d 0 and d 1 of the induced oestrus, twice weekly subsequently, and finally on d 0 and d lof the second estrus after PGF, treatment. The mean serum glucose concentration was higher (P < 0.05) in the cold-dry (4.3±0.1 mmol/L.) than in early rainy (3.8 ± 0.1 mmol/L) season cycles. The mean serum cholesterol concentration was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the early rainy (3.7 ± 0.1 mmol/L) than in cold-dry (3.2±0.1 mmol/L) season cycles. There was no significant difference in mean serum total protein concentrations between the cold-dry and early rainy season cycles (cold-dry season: 64.6 +0.8 g/L vs early rainy season: 66.2±0.7 g/L; P>0.05). It is concluded that season but not oestrous cycle phase affects serum concentrations of some nutritional metabolites during the oestrous cycle in SB goats. It is therefore recommended that producers and clinicians should take into cognizance the seasonal variation in serum profiles of some energy substrates in feed formulation and reproductive herd health management in SB goats in the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria. Keywords: Nutritional metabolites. Oestrous cycle, Season, Savannah Brown goats
ON-BOARD THERMAL LOAD AND THE EFFECTS OF a-TOCOPHEROL AND ASCORBIC ACID ON COLONIC TEMPERATURE OF TRANSPORTED QUAILS (Coturnix coturnix Japonica)
Authors: MINKA N. S. , AYO J. O.
Published: December 2024

This study investigated on-board thermal load and the effects of antioxidants vitamin E (VE, a- tocopherol) and ascorbic acid (AA) on colonic temperature (CT) of 80 male Japanese quails transported by road for 2 h. The birds were divided into 4 groups: VE- and AA-treated groups, administered with 60 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight, respectively, of VE and AA, control transported group, administered with 0.5 ml of sterile water, and sedentary non-transported group. Shortly after the administration of the antioxidants, the birds were transported by road for 2 h. The CT of the birds was recorded before, during and immediately after transportation and on the third day of post-transportation period. On-board thermal load inside the vehicle was assessed using the enthalpy comfort index (ECI) which measured the amount of heat in kcal, contained in I kg of dry air. The ECI inside the vehicle during transportation fluctuated between 90-110 KJ/Kg. The CT recorded during transportation in the control quails were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the values recorded in VE and AA treated birds. Immediately after transportation, the CT was significantly (P<0.05) lower in VE (40.1±0.2°C) birds compared to the values obtained in AA (41.3±0.6°C) treated, control (42.5+0.4°C) and sedentary (40.8±0.4°C) quails, respectively. Mortality was not recorded during transportation. In conclusion, 2 h of road transportation induced hyperthermia and high thermal load, the effects of which were ameliorated by VE and AA. The ameliorating effect was more pronounced in quails administered with VE.
EFFECT OF VARYING DIETARY ENERGY LEVELS ON PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAILS CHICKENS (COTURNIX COTURNIX JAPONICA)
Authors: Saleh I. , Isma’il M. U. , Abdulkadir K.
Published: December 2024

Performance of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) was tested using different energy levels. Total of four hundred and fifty quail birds were randomly allotted to five different dietary treatments in a completely randomized design arrangement. The birds were further divided into three replicates per each treatment with 30 birds per replicate. Each treatment was assigned to one of the following test diets, diet 1: 2800kcal/kg ME, diet 2: 2900kcal/kg ME, diet 3: 3000kcal/kg ME, diet 4: 3100kcal/kg ME and diet 5: 3200kcal/kg ME. The Total feed intake of birds fed diet 1, 2 and 4 were significantly (P< 0.05) higher than birds fed 3 and 5. Dietary energy levels significantly (P<0.05) affected feed intake, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio across the dietary energy levels. An increase in metabolizable energy from 2800kcal/kg ME to 3200kcal/kg ME resulted in linear decrease in weight gain and feed intake. The live weight, breast weight, back weight, and intestinal length were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the energy levels. The haemoglobin, PCV, MCHC, MCV, Albumin and Cholesterol were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by the energy levels. RBC, MCH, Globulin and Total protein were significantly (P<0.05) affected by energy levels.
INFLUENCE OF DIETARY INCLUSION OF CALOPOGONIUM MUCUNOIDES LEAF MEAL ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKEN
Authors: Uzegbu H. O. , Aliyu A .M. , Ebubechukwu P. S. , Moses O.
Published: December 2024

A feeding trail was conducted to ascertain the dietary inclusion of Calopogonmum mucunoides leaf meal on the performance of broiler chicken. A total of 60 3 weeks old broiler birds were used. Four diets which contained 0.0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6% levels of the forage meal were formulated. The trial was in a completely randomized design of four treatments replicated into three with 5 birds per replicated. Weight and feed intake of the birds were taken weekly and daily respectively. These were used to calculate weight gain, daily weight gain, total feed intake, daily feed intake FCR, PER and daily protein intake. Results obtained show that significant difference (P < 0.05) existed among final weight gain, total weight gain, daily weight gain, daily protein intake and protein efficiency ratio while such parameters like total feed intake, daily feed intake and feed conversion ration were not affected. It was concluded that the inclusion of C. mucunoides meal with 0.2% improved final weight, total weight gain, daily weight gain, daily protein intake and protein efficiency ratio in broiler chicken.
EFFECT OF SOYBEAN, SORGHUM AND TIGER NUT OFFAL COMPOUNDED WITH SHEEP BONE MEAL ON JAPANESE QUAIL PERFORMANCE
Authors: Idahor K. O. , Dogara M. U. , Yusuf A. K. , Gambo D. , Yakubu A.
Published: December 2024

A feeding trial was conducted with one hundred and thirty-two Japanese quails at 5 weeks old, to determine the influence of soybean offal, sorghum offal and tiger nut offal compounded with sheep bone meal, on feed intake, sexual maturity and mortality. The experimental diets were designated as T1: Commercial feed (Control), T2 (50% soybean offal and 50% sheep bone meal), T3 (50% sorghum offal and 50% sheep bone meal) and T4 (50% tiger nut offal and 50% sheep bone meal). The birds were weighed and randomly grouped into four experimental treatments, based on weight with three replicates of 11 birds per treatment, in a completely randomized design. The birds were offered the experimental diets with clean drinking water ad libitum for 5 weeks. Data collected were proximate compositions of the sheep bone and experimental feeds as well as feed intake, age at first egg drop and mortality. It was observed that the sheep bone contained 17.5% crude protein, 47.7% ash and 9.4% crude fibre. While T1 feed contained 13.13% crude protein, T2, T3 and T4 had 24.06%, 21.69% and 20.94%, respectively. The weekly feed intake was higher (104.78g) in T1, compared to 92.78g, 72.89g and 55.18g recorded in T2, T3 and T4, in that order. While the hens in T1 started laying at 6 weeks old, the treated birds did not lay eggs at all throughout the experimental period. There was mortality among the hens in T2 (0.73), T3 (0.76) and T4 (0.91) yet, no single death was recorded in T1 (0.0). Consequently, combination of soybean, sorghum and tiger nut offal with sheep bone at 50:50 weight for weight ratio, may be deleterious to Japanese quail hens. However, since this trial is at the preliminary phase, detailed investigation may be required.
CHANGES IN HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF RABBIT BUCKS FED COTTONSEED CAKE BASED-DIETS SUPPLEMENTED WITH OR WITHOUT KIGELIA AFRICANA FRUITS
Authors: Akanbi O. J. , Ajayi B. A. , Osunkeye O. J.
Published: December 2024

In this experimental study, 60 rabbit bucks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. The treatments included a control group without cottonseed cake (CSC) (T1), CSC-based diets without supplementation (T2), powder of Kigelia africana fruits supplementation (T3), extract of Kigelia africana fruits supplementation (T4), and a combination of powder and extract supplementation (T5). After a 14-week feeding period, blood samples were collected for hematological parameter analysis. Results showed significant decreases (P<0.05) in packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration (Hb), and white blood cell (WBC) count in bucks fed CSC diets without Kigelia africana fruits supplementation. However, supplementation with Kigelia africana fruits extract and powder-extract combination significantly increased (P<0.05) these parameters. The study concludes that CSC negatively impacted certain hematological parameters in rabbit bucks, but supplementation with Kigelia africana fruits showed potential corrective effects.
THE CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND INTERNAL ORGANS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED FERMENTED BAOBAB (ADANSONIA DIGITATA) SEED MEAL
Authors: Gyang I. Y. , Abang F. B. P. , Damang P.  J. , Ashom S. A. , Ajiji I. , Damter S. A. , Dastu A. J. , Yakubu R. N. , Pofwan P. G.
Published: December 2024

This research was conducted to determine the carcass characteristics and internal organs of broiler chickens, fed fermented baobab (Adansonia digitata) seed meal (FBSM). The feeding trial was conducted at Dan-Agro Farm, a Sub-sidiary of Dan-Agro Products, located at Zawan, Jos-South Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. Five (5) treatment diets were used for the experiment. T1 is the control while diets T2, T3, T4 and T5 contained 12 % inclusion levels of (FBSM) for 0, 48, 72 and 96hrs, respectively. A total of 240 one day old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were raised in a deep litter system and allotted five experimental diets, replicated four (4) times in a completely randomized design. Each replicate had 12 chicks of 48 chicks per treatment. At 8weeks old, two (2) broiler chickens from each replicate (n = 40) were randomly selected, weighed, slaughtered for the carcass and internal organ analysis. Carcass characteristics were not significantly (P<0.05) affected by dietary treatments. Dietary treatments had no significant (P>0.05) effect on internal organs, except on length of intestine. In conclusion, since the average live weight of chickens fed FBSM, ranged 1.96 – 2.22 kg/bird, a value within the recommended live weight 1.6 - 1.8 kg/bird. This suggested that baobab seed meal has potentials for use as a source of protein to produced broiler chicken to table size.
MODULATORY EFFECT OF ASCORBIC ACID ON HEART RATE RESPONSES OF DONKEYS TO PACKING DURING THE HARMATTAN SEASON
Authors: OLAIFA F. , AYO J. O. , AMBALI S. F. , REKWOT P. I.
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the heart rate responses of packed donkeys adminstered with ascorbic acid during the harmattan season. Six donkeys administered orally with ascorbic acid (200 mg/kg), dissolved in distilled water, and subjected to packing served as experimental animals; while six others, administered with distilled water only, served as controls. The heart rate (HR) of each donkey was recorded at 6:00 h pre-packing, and 30 min, 2 h and 4 h post-packing. The HR values recorded 30 min post-packing in control donkeys (75.88 ± 4.49 beats/min) were higher (P < 0.05) than the value of 59.25 ± 3.97 beats/min obtained in experimental donkeys. The HR values obtained 2 h post-packing in both control (64.21 ± 1.34 beats/min) and experimental donkeys (58.00 ± 1.73 beats/min) were not significantly (P > 0.05) different from that recorded 30 min post- packing. In conclusion, administration of ascorbic acid pre-packing alleviated the adverse effects of work stress in donkeys during the harmattan season.
PROXIMATE AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF FICUS SPECIES COMPOSITE LEAF POWDER
Authors: Ewegbemi O. T. , Osowe C. O. , Olajide O. O. , Adu O. A. , Chineke C. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out to evaluate the proximate and phytochemical composition of three Ficus spp (Ficus carica, F. exasperata and F. thonningii). Fresh leaves were harvested, air-dried and milled. Samples of the composite mix was subjected to laboratory analysis to determine the proximate and phytochemical. Results obtained indicated that the composite leaf powder contained Moisture content, ash, Fat, Crude Fibre (CF), Crude Protein (CP) Crude fat, ash and Carbohydrate 9.99%, 10.59%, 4.58%, 21.03%, 10.83% and 42.94% respectively. The composite contains phenol, flavonoids, alkaloids tannins, phytates, anthraquinone, and cardiac glycosides. The most prevalent phytochemical was phenol. In CONCLUSION, the composite mix contains a significant number of nutrients and phytochemicals which could be employed as a natural feed supplement in animal nutrition. More research is needed to assess the efficacy of the composite leaf powder as a feed supplement on animal performance and health.
EFFECT OF ULTRA-DIETARY VITAMIN AD AND E ON CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF FINISHER BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: Alaba O. , Sogede B. A. , Ogunwole O. A.
Published: December 2024

Effect of ultra-dietary vitamin AD (iu) and E (mg) supplementation on physical and chemical characteristics of broiler meat was assessed using 72 unsexed four-week-old broilers randomly assigned to eight experimental diets. Diet 1 was the control without any vitamin supplementation while diets 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 were supplemented with 200E + 1000D3; 4000A, 200E + 2000D3; 8000A, 200E + 3000D3; 12000A, 1000D3; 4000A, 2000D3; 8000A, 3000D3; 12000A and 200E, respectively. The diets were fed to 72 finisher Arbor Acres plus broilers for 10 days after which the birds (3 birds per replicate) were slaughtered and dissected. Carcass performance traits, primal cuts, external offal, organ weights and meat quality characteristics were significantly improved (p˂0.05) for birds fed vitamin AD and E supplemented feed. Sensory evaluation for birds fed supplemented diets were statistically similar (p˃0.05) to the control. It implies that supplementation of broiler feed with vitamin AD and E may improve carcass characteristics and meat quality of broilers. However, further experiments with longer period should be conducted to confirm the optimum period of supplementation.
A STUDY OF COMMON QUAIL LICE INFESTATION IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS
Authors: ADAMU Y. A. , ALAYANDE M. O. , BELLO A. , ONU J. E. , UMARU M. A. , SADIQ Y. A.
Published: December 2024

Two hundred Japanese quails from different locations in Sokoto metropolis were collected and examined between October and November for ectoparasites. All the birds were dusted with Rambo" (Permenthrin 0.60%)) powder for lice recovery. The recovered lice were then cleared with lactophenol overnight, before been examined under the light microscope (x 40). Of the 200 quails examined, only 4 (2%) were infested with lice. The lice recovered were Menacanthus sp 2%, Lipeurus sp 2% and Gonoides sp 0.5%. No other ectoparasite was found. Lice infestation constitutes the common ectoparasitism of Japanese quails in Sokoto metropolis and is a very low, with little or no observable harm.
THE USE OF EMBRYONATED CHICKEN EGGS WITH MATERNAL ANTIBODY TO NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF LA SOTA STRAIN VIRAL ANTIGEN
Authors: ADAMU J. , ABAH S. S.
Published: December 2024

Embryonated eggs from Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) flocks are used ideally in the production of Newcastle disease vaccine. However, in developing countries where SPF flocks are not available, embryonated eggs from healthy chicken flocks are utilized. The present study assessed the use of embryonated eggs having maternal antibodies to Newcastle disease virus (NDV) for the propagation of NDV La Sota vaccine strain. Log, hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody titers to NDV in sera of 18 Isa White breeder chickens were determined. Subsequently within one week, 60 eggs were collected from the breeder hens and incubated for 12 days. Maternal antibodies to NDV in the 12-day-old embrayonated eggs were determined from the egg yolk and allantoic fluid. Two fertile eggs each from five hens were then inoculated with 0.1 or 0.2 mL of La Sota vaccine reconstituted in PBS with pH of 7.4 (200 doses/mL). In addition, three eggs from different hens were inoculated with 0.1 mL of the La Sota vaccine. Log: hemagglutination (HA) NDV titers in allantoic fluid were determined from the eggs three days post inoculation. The geometric mean of HI log, antibody titers to NDV detected in sera, yolk and allantoic fluid of eggs were, 7.37, 7.09 and 1.93, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p 0.05) between NDV HA log: titers in allantoic fluid harvested following inoculation with 0.1 (between 9 log: to 11 log:) and 0.2 (between 8 log: to 12 log:) mL La Sota vaccine. There was no correlation (r=-0.28) between antibodies to NDV in sera of breeders and the viral titers obtained in allantoic fluid of their embryonated eggs post inoculation with La Sota vaccine. The results of this study indicate that embryonated eggs with maternal antibodies to NDV could be used for propagation of NDV to yield high viral titers. Hence, it is recommended that breeder flocks raised for the purpose of producing eggs intended for NDV vaccine production could be duly vaccinated against field NDV infection.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATOLOGICAL PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED STRAIGHT DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH BIONIC PREBIOTIC (HILYSES) AND HARDCORE YEAST CELL WALL (IMMUNO WALL)
Authors: Onunkwo D. N. , Nwachukwu K. T. , Wogu K. R. , Ezenyilimba B. N. , Ndukwe O.
Published: December 2024

This research aimed to examine the impact of dietary supplementation with bionic prebiotic (hilyses) and hardcore yeast cell wall (immuno wall) on the growth performance and haematological indicators of broiler chickens. A total of 120-day-old broiler chickens were acquired from a reputable hatchery and distributed into four experimental diet groups: a control group (0%) and three treatment groups (0.25kg, 0.50kg, and 0.75kg) in a Completely Randomized Design. Data were collected concerning growth performance and haematological indices. The results demonstrated that the inclusion of prebiotics and yeast led to significant improvements in various performance parameters. Notably, birds fed the diet with 0.75kg of supplementation exhibited the highest final weight (2680.75g), followed by the 0.50kg group (2525.45g), while the control group (2407.55g) and the 0.25kg group (2450.00g) had lower final weights. The weight gained per bird showed similar trends, with the 0.75kg group (2638.40g) leading, followed by the 0.50kg and 0.25kg groups, while the control group had the least weight gain (2363.25g). Average daily weight gain and feed intake also revealed enhanced performance in the groups with supplementation. Additionally, the feed conversion ratio demonstrated that birds on the 0.75kg supplementation diet were more efficient at converting feed into body mass. Haematological parameters showed no significant (p>0.05) differences among the groups except for white blood cell (WBC) and packed cell volume (PCV). WBC levels increased with higher prebiotic inclusion, and the 0.75kg group had the highest value. PCV values were also significantly higher in the 0.50kg and 0.75kg groups compared to other dietary treatments. The differential white blood cell counts showed no significant impact on lymphocyte, heterophil, monocyte, and eosinophil counts. The percentage of lymphocytes and heterophils, as well as eosinophils, increased with greater prebiotic levels. In CONCLUSION, the study found that supplementing broiler diets with prebiotics significantly increased body weight gain and improved feed conversion ratios compared to the control diet. Moreover, the hematological parameters of broiler chickens fed the treatment diets were comparable to those of the control group, suggesting that prebiotics and yeast can be safely included in broiler diets up to 0.75% without adverse effects on haematological parameter.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH BIONIC PREBIOTIC (HILYSES) AND HARDCORE YEAST CELL WALL
Authors: Onunkwo D. N. , Ndukwe O. , Wogu K. R. , Mbah I. K. , Ezenyilimba B. N.
Published: December 2024

In a bid to boost productivity, several dietary manipulations have been carried out on poultry, ranging from inclusion of growth promoters, hormones, organic acids, enzymes (Chuka and locally sourced additives Thus, this study was carried out to assess supplementation of regular diet of broiler chickens with bionic prebiotic (Hilyses) and hardcore Yeast Cell Wall (Immuno Wall). The experiment utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 120 unsexed day-old chicks randomly allocated into four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4), each consisting of 30 chicks and replicated three times. The initial live weight of the broiler chicks at day old was recorded. The birds were weekly weighed to determine the live weight and weight gain. The quantity of feed offered to the birds daily and the left over the next morning were measured to ascertain feed intake. Mortality was noted. Over the 56-day experimental period, the results demonstrated notable improvements in various performance traits attributable to the inclusion of prebiotic and yeast supplements, except for the initial weight, which exhibited not statistically significant (P>0.05) difference among the treatment groups. Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed in the final weight, with birds fed diet 4 displaying the highest final weight, reaching 2680.85g. In contrast, the final weights of birds fed diet 3 and 2 were 2525.55g and 2450.10g, respectively, while those on diet 1 had the lower final weight of 2407.65g. It is worth noting that as the inclusion levels of prebiotic and yeast increased across the dietary treatments, a significant (p<0.05) enhancement in final weight was consistently observed. The findings of this study unequivocally demonstrate the favourable growth performance of the treatment diets across all parameters examined. Specifically, it is evident that T4, with a 0.75% inclusion of prebiotics and yeast cells, yielded the highest final bod weight than both the other trial diets and the control diet. These findings highlight the potential for enhanced broiler chicken performance and overall health when incorporating these dietary additives.
CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND ORGAN WEIGHT OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH BIONIC PREBIOTIC (HILYSES) AND HARDCORE YEAST CELL WALL
Authors: Onunkwo D. N. , Nwaokeke C. I. , Wogu K. R. , Ndukwe O. , Ezenyilimba B. N.
Published: December 2024

The discovery that the use of antibiotic in food animals is fueling the increasing problem of transmitting resistance bacteria from food animals to man has led to the search for an alternative to the use of antibiotics. To this end, the supplementation of broiler chickens' straight diet with Bionic Prebiotic (Hilyses) and Hardcore Yeast Cell Wall (Immuno Wall) on carcass characteristics and organ weight was investigated. The experiment utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 120 unsexed day-old chicks randomly allocated into four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4), each consisted of 30 chicks and replicated three times. Carcass and organ weight was measured and determined at the 8th week. The carcass results obtained indicate significant (p < 0.05) differences among the treatment groups for live weight, dressed weight, dressing percentage, thigh, and back cuts. In particular, the live weight of birds that were fed diet 4 (2680.85g) was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to birds fed diet 3 (2525.55g). On the other hand, birds fed diet 1 (2407.65g) and diet 2 (2450.10g) exhibited the lower live weight values. It is noteworthy that the live weight increased significantly across the dietary treatments as the levels of prebiotic and yeast inclusion in the diets increased. In the context of the poultry industry, a paramount objective is to maximize yield percentage, obtain saleable products, and subsequently enhance the edible portions of the birds. Typically, the incorporation of feed additives has the potential to augment metabolic rates, leading to favourable changes in the size of several internal organs, as evidenced in this study. These findings highlight the potential for enhanced broiler chicken performance and overall health when incorporating these dietary additives.
EFFECT OF DIETARY REPLACEMENT OF MAIZE WITH GRADED LEVELS OF SORGHUM WITH AND WITHOUT ENZYME (ENZYBLEND®) ON THE HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF GROWING RABBITS
Authors: Tarhemba F. , Torhemen M. , Mashi A. M. , Wayo S. N. , Sarwuan G. D.
Published: December 2024

Maize is one of the major sources of energy in rabbits feed. The use of sorghum is to reduce prices in feeds and effect of replacing maize as energy source for rabbit demands research. A study lasting 84 days was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Akperan Orshi Polytechnic Yandev, Gboko to determine the haematological and serum indices of replacing yellow maize with red sorghum in rabbit diets with or without enzyme. A total of 54 weaner rabbits of mixed strains and sexes with initial body weight of 690.84-794.83g were assigned to 9 dietary treatments containing 6 rabbits per treatment with 1 rabbit per replicate in a completely randomized design of 4×2+1 factorial arrangement having two levels of enzyblend supplementation (with & without). Dietary treatments included: D1: 0 %, D2 :25 %, D3: 50 %, D4 :75 % D5: 100 % red sorghum replacement. The results showed that, PCV, eosinophil and monocyte were Significantly (P>0.05) higher (39.75, 3.13 and 3.50 %) respectively, while WBC, HB and MCV had no significant (p<0.05) effects. Albumin, Globulin, Creatinine and Cholesterol were significantly (P<0.05) higher (4.20, 3.24, 0.93, and 118.96) respectively. Total protein and Uric acid had no significant (P>0.05) difference for serum biochemical parameters with or without enzymes supplementation. The study therefore recommends 100 % sorghum inclusion level without any deleterious effect.
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF ENSILED FICUS LYRATA WITH VARYING PROPORTION OF COWPEA HUSK FOR DRY SEASON RUMINANT PRODUCTION IN BALI, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Sylva-Nyom I. , Lamidi A. A. , Mashi A. M. , Mohammed M. D. , Dubagari N. G.
Published: December 2024

Dry season production of ruminant in north central part of Nigeria is a challenge. Edge-row plants, being used as shade in livestock rural communities are available all year round. Full potentials of Ficus lyrata has not been explored. This study was therefore, conducted to evaluate the physical characteristics proximate composition and mineral assay of ensiled Ficus lyrata with varying proportion of cowpea husk for dry season ruminant production. Fresh leaves and their soft stalks of Ficus lyrata were harvested in September and wilted for 12 hours before chopping into 2-3cm particle size. Chopped forage was mixed with cowpea husk at 0%, 20% 40% and 50% then, 3% blended honey residue was added as additive for all treatments. The materials were ensiled and analyzed for Dry Matter (DM), chemical composition, silage features and mineral contents. Results showed that DM contents were between 41.52- 45.35%. CP varied from 12.54-14.15% and increased with increased proportion of cowpea husks. CF ranged between 23.32-23.93% and increased as cowpea proportion increased. EE varied among treatments (T1 =3.78%, T2=2.96%, T3=3.07%, T4=3.42%). Ash content (9.62-12.09%) increased as cowpea proportion increased. The NDF content of the silages ranged from 46.41-50.74%. Minerals investigated were Ca (1.93-33.22%), P (0.19-0.40%), K (1.00-1.41%), Na (0.84-1.10%), Mg (0.25-0.60%) and iron (32.1-35.8ppm). The silage had sweet vinegar taste, pleasant aroma, smooth texture and colour range of brownish green, olive green and yellowish green, It was concluded that the silage showed good physico-chemical properties which can meet the nutrient requirements of ruminant. Ficus lyrata can be ensiled with cowpea husks up to 50% and utilized by ruminants during dry season.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BODY WEIGHT AND SOME BIOMETRIC PARAMETERS OF PROGENIES OF INDIGENOUS CHICKENS AND THEIR NAPRI X CROSSES
Authors: ABBAYA H. Y. , AKPA G. N. , ALABI I. I. , ORUNMUYI M.
Published: December 2024

indigenous chickens. They include Normal feathered (N), Naked neck (Na) and Frizzle feathered (F) and their crosses with NAPRIX to form crosses of Normal X NAPRIX (NNPX), Naked neck X NAPRIX (NaNPX) and Frizzle X NAPRIX (FNPX) to evaluate their potentials for genetic improvement of body weight. Body weight and biometric traits at 28, 56 and 84 days and their correlation were evaluated. Body weight (B W), body length (BL), shank length (SL) and thigh length (TL) differed significantly (P<0.05) with NNPX having the highest values for the measured traits while body girth (BG) did not significantly differ (P>0.05). The correlation between traits was highly positive and significant (P< 0.01; r= 0.62-0.99) except for moderate relationship in NaNPX between BW and BG (P< 0.05; r= 0.31). This indicated that normal feather chicken can respond more fastly when subjected to genetic improvement among the indigenous chickens.
COMPOSITION OF RICE STRAW ENSILED WITH UREA AND MOLASSES AT VARYING LEVELS
Authors: Kwaido A. A. , Saleh S. , Nasiru A.
Published: December 2024

Feeding rice straw only does not provide enough nutrients for ruminants to maintain high production levels due to the low nutritive value of this highly lignified materia also these high level of lignification and low nitrogen content are the main deficiencies of rice straw, affecting its value as feed for ruminants. Urea is fed as a replacement for a part of the protein in a ration. Urea is frequently included in ruminant diet to partially replace protein ingredients. Molasses help in facilitating the natural preservation by lowering the PH and producing lactic acid bacteria also molasses is added in Ruminant diet as a source of energy. The objective of this researchwas to assess change in nutritional composition of rice straw ensiled with urea and molasses at varying levels. Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was used in this experiment ,with four treatments and three replications each. The treatments were A (1kg of Rice Straw + 20g molasses + 40g Urea), B (1kg of Rice Straw + 40g molasses + 40g Urea), C (1kg of Rice Straw + 60g molasses + 40g Urea) and D (1kg of Rice Straw + 80g molasses + 40g Urea).Sample were thoroughly mixed and ensiled for a period of five weeks. At the fifth week the samples were opened and taken to the laboratory for proximate and minerals analyses. Crude protein content had a significantly (P<0.05) higher value in treatment C (32.56%) which had 60g molasses, followed by treatment B (27.57%) with 40g molasses, then treatment D (24.95%) with 80g molasses and the least value was obtained in treatment A (23.64%) which had 20g molasses. The Crude Fiber CF was higher in the treatment D (19.01%) with 80g molasses, followed by treatment A (16.51%) with 20g molasses, then treatment B (1 5.01) with 40g molasses and the least value was obtained in treatment C (12.01%) which had 40g molasses. The calcium content recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher value in treatment C(2.36%) which had 60g molasses, followed by D (2.12%) with 80g molasses, then treatment A (1.76%) with 20g molasses, and the least value was in recorded in B (1.23%) with 40g molasses while phosphorous content had significantly (p<0.05) higher value in treatment A (12.85%) with 20g molasses, followed by C (12.45%) with 60g molasses, then B (12.25%) with 40g molasses, the least value was obtained in treatment D (11.95%) which had 80g molasses. Conclusively this study indicated that Rice Straw ensiled with varying levels of molasses and Urea was improved nutritionally.
PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF UNCULTIVATED FORAGES AS AFFECTED BY POULTRY MANURE IN ALIERO LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF KEBBI STATE
Authors: Muftau M. A. , Danladi G. H.
Published: December 2024

Adequate management of grasslands are crucial for efficient supply of quality uncultivated forages that will support optimum livestock production. Therefore, the proximate composition of uncultivated forage species as affected by varying levels of poultry manure was investigated in the semi-arid area of Aliero LGA of Kebbi State at the Botanical Garden of Kebbi State University of Science and Technology during the 2021 rainy season. Treatments consisted of two varying poultry manure rates (0.00kg/T and 1.50kg/T) representing treatments 1 and 2 respectively which were applied two weeks before the commencement of the experiment, on two blocks consisting of three plots per block with each plot measuring (2.5m x 1.5m). The plots were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). All the free growing natural pasture within each plot were cleared to allow regrowth under rain-fed regime. There were two (2) weeks fortnightly visits to observe the regrowth of the forage species and to remove weeds from the experimental plots and to clear the paths which lasted for nine weeks. After nine weeks of free growth, one (1) replicate from each treatment was randomly selected for herbage harvest with the use of a sharp sickle. The cut forages were oven dried at 650 C for 48 hours to determine the proximate composition. The dominant forage species identified are; two forbs (Euphobia convolvuloides and Sida cordifolia), three grasses (Eragrotis tremula, Axonopus spp and Pennisetum horndeoides) and one legume (Crotalaria spp). The poultry manure application rates had significant (p<0.05) effect on the proximate composition of the uncultivated forage species with the highest CP (15.90%) and NFC (68.60%) were recorded for Crotalaria spp and Axonopus spp respectively. The study indicated a positive response of the uncultivated forages to poultry manure application for better proximate composition.
EVALUATION OF PROXIMATE AND PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM AND TRIGONELLA FOENUM GRAECUM AS PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVES
Authors: Aliyu A. M. , Bawa G. S. , Abdu S. B. , Afolayan M. , Musa A. , Abubakar M.
Published: December 2024

The study was carried out to evaluate proximate and phytochemical composition of Syzygium aromaticum and Trigonella foenum graecum as potential sources of phytogenic feed additives in poultry diet. Syzygium aromaticum and Trigonella foenum graecum were obtained, cleaned and milled into meal. Samples of the meals were subjected to laboratory analyses to determine proximate and phytochemical. Results showed that Syzygium aromaticum contained crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE), ash and nitrogen free extract (NFE) of 16.40 %, 17.50 %, 16.86 %, 10.41 % and 38.83 %, respectively. Trigonella foenum graecum had CP, CF, EE, ash and NFE content were 5.19 %, 10.81 %, 6.13 %, 72.07 % and 4.28 % respectively. Both plants contain phytates, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, oxalates and saponins with flavonoids indicating the most abundant phytochemical present. In conclusion, results showed that Syzygium aromaticum and Trigonella foenum graecum contain nutrients that may be available when fed to animals in addition to their medicinal or ayurvedic properties. Syzygium aromaticum and Trigonella foenum graecum can be included in livestock diets for improved performance and balanced microbiota.
EFFECTS OF GROUNDNUT FOARAGE ON THE ENSILING QUALITY OF GAMBA GRASS
Authors: Ahmad M. Y. , Abubakar S. A.
Published: December 2024

The study was designed to determine the effects inclusion of groundnut forage on the ensiling quality of gamba grass. Field grown gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus Kunth.) was incorporated with groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) forage at graded levels and ensiled for 21 days incubation period in laboratory silos. After incubation period, the resultant silages were scored for colour, aroma, and pH. Proximate compositions, fiber fractions, digestible matter, dry matter intake, metabolizable energy and reference feed value were also determined. The result revealed that the resultant silages moderately acidic, pale yellow coloration and averagely very sweet. Groundnut inclusion improved CP, EE, NFE, Ash, TDN, DDM, DMI, RFV and ME with corresponding declined in fiber fractions. Groundnut inclusion at 60% level is recommended for ensiling gamba grass. Further research to determine voluntary feed intake and animal performance were also recommended.
FERTILIZER EFFECTS OF BOVINE RUMEN CONTENT ON PERFORMANCE OF GAMBA GRASS (ANDROPOGON GAYANUS) IN SEMI-ARID REGION, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Girgiri A. Y. , Kolo U. M. , Bislava M. B. , Bislava M. B. , Kagu H. M. , Abbator F. I. , Chana Z. M. , Saleh H. , Modu H. G. H.
Published: December 2024

Animal waste in developing countries like Nigeria due to its bulky, low-grade composition and high water content. Research on the use of this waste as a plant nutrient source is limited, but Gamba grass has shown potential as a high-yielding option for utilizing these wastes. Therefore, the objective of the study was to determine the effects of bovine rumen content as fertilizer on growth components, yield and quality of Andropogon gayanus (Gamba Grass) in semi-arid region of Borno state. A Nine plots measuring 3m x 3m each were laid in a completely randomized design (CRD) Three levels (0, 8 and 12t/ha-1) of bovine rumen content were applied into the soil with three replication. Gamba grass tiller crown were transplanted at 50cm x 50cm intra and inter row spacing. The parameters measured were plant heigh, plant width, leaf width, leaf length and number of tillers while a cutting of 10cm from each treatment (replicate) was done at different age after transplanting (4,6 and 8 weeks) and yield harvesting was done at 97 days. The results indicated that bovine rumen content significantly (P<0.05) influenced growth components of A.gayanus. There wass no significant (p>0.05) effect on all growth components at weeks 4 and 10 between the treatment (0, 8, and 12t/ha-1) respectively. However, it was observed that plant height increasde with increase in number of cutting interval with the higher regrowth at 10 WAT with 108.60 at 8ton/ha, and lowest with 96.60 regrowth height at 0ton/ha respectively. Based on the findings of this study, it was suggested that rumen contents at the rate of 12ton/ha is recommended. The study recommended that further studies should be carried out during the raining season to ascertain the potential yield and herbage quality of A. gayanus on different rumen contents rates.
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE NUTRITIVE VALUE OF GRASSES IN HUTAWA GRAZING RESERVE, BIRNIN KEBBI, KEBBI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Umar B. K. , Muftau M. A. , Ribah M. I. , Bello S.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted to evaluate the proximate, mineral compositions and phytochemical constituents of grasses collected from Hutawa grazing reserve, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. A 50m×50m plot size was measured and demarcated on a 5-km transect. Grasses along transect were harvested at about 2cm above the ground, using a sickle, tied together and weighed. The reading obtained from each quadrat was then recorded as fresh weight (in grams). The grasses were separated and recorded using common and botanical names. Representative sample for each grass species was dried, milled and taken to the laboratory for proximate, minerals and phytochemical analysis. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using SPSS software package. Results of the proximate composition of harvested grass species showed significant differences (P<0.05) in crude protein (CP), crude fibre, ether extracts, ash and nitrogen free extract. The CP was higher (P<0.05) in Dactyloctenium aegyptiumm (1.02%). The results of the mineral compositions of grasses harvested revealed a significant (p<0.05) difference on all the parameters evaluated. Commelina bunghalensis showed higher levels of Na (2.17g/kg), P (4.43g/kg) and Zn (2.03g/ kg) but with low concentration of K. The highest Ca (3.4g/kg) and Fe (2.17 g/kg) were observed in Digitaria horizontalis while Eragrostic tremula showed higher (p<0.05) concentrations of Mg (1.55g/kg) and K (3.03g/kg). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids while steroids were undetected. In conclusion, the grasses obtained in Hutawa grazing reserve of Kebbi State have high nutritive value.