bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of aflatoxin b1 in some common poultry feed ingredients and optimum inclusion levels of mycofix binder as feed additive on performance of broiler chickens chickens
Authors: Kehinde H. W. , Sekoni A. A. , Olugbemi T. S. , Onimisi P. A.
Published: February 2021

A preliminary study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) contamination and common moulds growing in some selected poultry feed raw materials in Zaria. Five different feed raw materials:Maize (MZ), soybean cake (SBC), groundnut cake (GNC), brewers dried grain (BDG) and maize offal (M/O), were collected from four feed mills and the open market. The common moulds isolated from the samples were Mucor spp., Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillum spp., Curvularia spp. and Rhizopus spp. AfB1 contamination showed that maize and soya bean cake were less than the 20 parts per billion (ppb) permissible limits for AfB1 in poultry feed ingredients, while BDG, M/O and GNC were 40, 60 and 80 % respectively above 20 ppb permissible limits. A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens to Mycofix a toxin binder. Three hundred and thirty Ross, 1-day old broiler chicks were assigned to five dietary treatments, each with three replicates of 22 chicks per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Treatment 1 was the control diet without Mycofix while treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5 had Mycofix included at 100, 200, 300 and 400 g /100kg diet, respectively at both starter and finisher phases. Experimental diets and water were given to the birds ad libitum during eight weeks of the feeding trial. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using General Linear Model procedure of SAS and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Dunnette test of significance. Results of the starter phase showed that birds fed 400 g/100kg Mycofix diet had the best final body weight (902.67g), weight gain (839.67g) and average daily weight gain (29.98g). Birds fed 200 g /100 kg Mycofix had the lowest feed conversion ratio of 1.6  and the least cost per  kilogram gain(₦138.52).At the finisher phase birds on 400 g/100kg Mycofix diet had the best final weight (2345.3g), weight gain (1403.3g), average daily gain (50.1g), feed conversion ratio (2.1) and least feed cost per kilogram gain (₦167.20). It may be concluded that addition of Mycofix to diets of broiler chickens at 400g/ 100kg at both starter and finisher phases of the study improved performance significantly and gave the least cost of production.
Performance of West African dwarf goats fed supplemented with Myrianthus arboreus leaf meal concentrates
Authors: Fajemisin A. N. , Ibhaze G. A. , Adeyeye A. A.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the performance of West African Dwarf goats fed Panicum maximum supplemented with Myrianthus arboreus leaf meal for 49 days. Four diets were formulated such that diet A contained 0.00% Myrianthus arboreus, diet B contained 10.00% Myrianthus arboreus, diet C contained 11.00% Myrianthus arboreus and diet D contained 12.00% Myrianthus arboreus respectively. A total of twelve (12) West African Dwarf goats were randomly allocated to the four diets with three animals per diet, each serving as a replicate. Parameters assessed were the chemical composition of the experimental diets, growth rate and digestibility coefficient of the animals. The results showed that diet D had the highest dry matter (92.55%) and crude protein (20.55%) contents. The average daily weight gain (g/day) of animals was significantly (P<0.05) nfluenced across the treatments. Animals fed diet D recorded the highest weight gain (19.39g/day) while the least weight gain (7.55g/day) was recorded for animals on diet B. The highest total dry matter intake (340.34g/day) was recorded for animals on diet D while the least (313.18g/day) was observed in animals fed diet C. The best feed conversion ratio(17.55) was recorded in animals fed diet D. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the nutrient digestibility of the experimental animals. The highest dry matter (82.70%), crude protein (86.18%) digestibilities were observed in diet D while the least dry matter digestibility (72.73%) was observed in diet B. However, the least fibre fractions digestibilities were observed in diet D. It can therefore be concluded that supplementation of Myrianthus arboreus leaf meal concentrate at 12% inclusion with Panicum maximum as basal diet for goats can enhance nutrient digestibility and improve growth without any deleterious effects on the animals.
Effect of feed restriction period and strain on growth performance and haematological indices of pullet chicks
Authors: Adewole F. A. , Adeyemi O. A. , Eruvbetine D. , Sogunle O. M. , Egbeyale L.T. , Jejelowo A.
Published: February 2021

An eight weeks restricted feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of restricted feeding and strain on the growth performance and haematological parameters of two strains of pullet chicks. Five hundred and forty chicks comprising of Isa Brown (270) and Bovans Nera (270) strains were assigned to six treatments arranged in a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement of Isa Brown and Bovans Nera on ad libitum (R ), skip-a-day (R ) and skip-2-days (R ) restrictions per week, respectively. Final live weight and weight gain of pullet chicks reduced (P < 0.05) with increasing level of feed restriction. Chicks on ad libitum showed improved (P<0.05) final live weight and weight gain. Results showed significant (p<0.05) reduction in feed intake and body weight of chicks due to restricted feeding. The birds maintained on R feed restriction group recorded the highest significant (p<0.05) values of final body weight (544.57g), feed intake per day (33.70g/day) and daily weight gain (9.82g/day). R birds recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher values of final weight, feed intake and weight gain when compared with R birds with final body weight of 480.84g, daily feed intake of 28.42g/day and daily weight gain of 8.48g. Furthermore, Bovans Nera pullet chicks recorded significantly higher (p<0.05) final weight and daily weight gain when compared with the Isa Brown birds of same age. The R pullets had significantly higher (p<0.05) white blood cells when compared with the R and R birds. Heterophil/lymphocyte ratio (0.52) was  significantly (p<0.05) lower with the Isa brown birds.
Breed and egg weight influence on hatchability and fertility in Sasso, Shika brown and their crosses
Authors: Agaviezor B.O. , Ajayi F.O. , Ebede U.P.
Published: February 2021

The effect of breed and egg weight on hatchability and fertility in Sasso, Shika brown and their crosses was studied. A total of 1,107 eggs comprising 509 Sasso eggs (46 light, 285 medium, 178 heavy), 392 Shika brown egg (141 light, 97 medium, 154 heavy) and 205 Sasso x Shika brown cross (19 light, 145medium, 42 heavy) were used for this study. The eggs were collected, weighed and sent to the hatchery for incubation and hatching. Data on number of fertile eggs, number of fertile eggs hatched, fertile eggs not hatched, eggs not fertile, chicks dead in shell, deformed chicks and total number of eggs were obtained. The results revealed a significant (p
Nutritional evaluation of fermented cocoyam tuber meal (Xanthosoma sagitifolium ) as energy source in place of maize in starter broiler production
Authors: Anyaegbu B.C , Onunkwo D.N. , Ogbonna A.C. , Uzoigwe O.
Published: February 2021

Considering the inherent attributes of cocoyam tuber meal (Xanthosoma Sagitifolium), its appropriate utilization for chicken diets may enhance performance of broiler chicken. This studywas therefore carried out to determine the nutritional evaluation of fermented cocoyam tuber meal as energy source in the diets of starter broilers production. The fermented cocoyam was used to replace maize at various levels to determine the best replacement would give optimal performance in starter broilers diets. One hundred and fifty 150 day old Agrited starter broilers were used for this experiment,. The proximate composition of fermented cocoyam tuber meal (FCYM) showed that it contained 19.5% moisture, 1.30% ash, 3.56% Crude protein, 5.30% crude fibre, 1.9% ether extract and 25.48% NFE. In the starter feeding trial, the fermented cocoyam was used to replace maize at levels of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% respectively in the control diet. Each starter diet was fed to a group of 30 broilers chicks for four weeks using completely randomized design. Each treatment was divided into three replicates of 10 broiler chicks each. Parameters measured include initial body weight, final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cost of production. In the starter feeding trial, the starter broilers on 25% FCYM compared favorably with those on the control diet (P>0.05) in terms of feed intake, feed conversion ratio and body weight gain and hence recorded the higher body weight gain. The cost per kg feed produced was N182.50 for the control diet and the lowest was diet 5 (100% FCYM) which was N82.74. The cost of production (cost/kg feed x feed conversion ratio) of starter broilers per kg body weight gain was lowest for diet 5 (100% FCYM) (N158.86), while the costliest was those on the control diet (N383.25). The results of the trial have shown that fermentation of cocoyam tuber meal for 4 days for formulating starter broiler diets was quite an effective method of processing because fermentation reduced the anti-nutrients content. It was concluded that fermented cocoyam tuber meal could be used in the diets of starter broilers up to 25% without affecting body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio as indicated in this study.
Response of sundried mango seed kernel meal on growth performance of East African land snail (Achatina fulica)Response of sundried mango seed kernel meal on growth performance of East African land snail (Achatina fulica)
Authors: Ebenebe C.I. , Onunkwo D.N. , Amaduruonye W. , Daniel-Igwe G.
Published: February 2021

Fifty-six (56) days feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the response of feeding sundried mango seed kernel on the growth performance of Achatina fulica snails. The mango seeds kernel used as test ingredient was collected, cracked, sundried for two weeks and after which it was milled to obtain mango seed kernel meal. The mango seed kernel meal was used to formulate four experimental diets that meet the nutrient requirements of snails included at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% respectively; designated Diet 1, Diet 2, Diet 3 and Diet 4. Diet 1 served as the control. One hundred and twenty (120) Achatina fulica snails of similar sizes were assigned to 4 dietary treatments and replicated 3 times in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. Each dietary treatment consisted of thirty (30) snails per treatment with ten (10) snails per replicate. Proximate composition of the mango seed kernel meal and the experimental diets were conducted to determine the nutrient contents of the mango seed kernel meal and that of the experimental diet. Data were collected on growth performance parameters. The data collected were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).Results showed that significant reduction (P
Semen characteristics and scrotal size of pubertalWest African dwarf rams fed diets containing (Bitter kola) Seed Meal
Authors: Jinadu K.B. , Akingbade A.O. , Olona J.F. , Adekanmbi O.A. , Popoola M.A. , Agboola T.B. , Olagbaju O.T. , Olufayo O.O. , Oladele-Bukola M.O.
Published: February 2021

The effect of theGarciniaKola Seed Meal (GKSM) on the spermatozoa attributes and scrotal characteristics of West African dwarf rams was assessed in a 16 week study. Twelve West Africa dwarf rams weighing between 12.50 and 13.80kg were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. Rams were fed experimental diets for 16 weeks. The diets included; 0% GKSM, 2.5 % GKSM, 5.0% GKSM and 7.5% GKSM inclusion levels as treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. Each treatment had three replicates while semen was collected once from all replicates in the treatments using electro ejaculator and assessed for semen colour, semen pH, semen temperature, sperm concentration, mass activity, sperm motility and live sperm cells. The results showed that scrotal circumference ranged from 18.16 to 21.00cm and scrotal length from 8.60 to 10.30cm but did not differ significantly (p >0.05) across treatments. Sperm motility (80.00 – 84.16 %) and sperm volume (0.29 – 0.43 mL) were not significantly different (p >0.05). Rams on treatment I had the highest sperm concentration of 2.59 x 10 . Despite the reproductive potential benefits of Garicinia kola, the inclusion of GKSM up to 7.5% in the diets of rams used in this study did not have any direct or adverse effects on the sperm motility, live sperm cells, sperm volume, and scrotal characteristics of West Africand warf rams.
Phenotypic correlations between body weight and morphometric traits in broiler chicken strains
Authors: Nosike R.J. , Obasi E.N. , Nwose R.N. , Igwe R.O. , Onunkwo D.N. , Amaduruonye W. , Nwakpu O.F. , Inyang E.C.
Published: February 2021

A total of 270 one day-old broiler chicks comprising of 90 chicks each ofAborAcre, Ross and Marshal Strains were used for the study. The study was carried out to determine the correlation between the body weight and other morphometric measurements in the broiler strains from 2 to 8 weeks of age and predict body weight of the broiler using linear body measurement. Data were collected on body weight and body measurements to include breast length (BRL), thigh width (TW), shank length (SL), keel length (KL), wing length and drumstick length (DL). There were strong positive and significant (p>0.01) correlations between body weight (BWT) and all morphometric traits in the three broiler strains studied, except breast length (BRL) that showed weak but significant (p
Performance characteristics and cost effectiveness of starter broiler chicken fed goat blood-rumen based-diet supplemented with aromatic plants
Authors: Nwose R.N. , Nwose D.I. , Onunkwo D.N. , Onu P.N. , Nweke F.N. , Adeolu A.I. , Nwenya J.M.I.
Published: February 2021

Goat blood-rumen content mixture based-diet supplemented with aromatic plants was used to supplement soya bean in the performance and economic analysis of birds. It was investigated using one hundred and twenty (120) one day old broiler chicken of Anak strain. Starter birds were subjected to five dietary treatments with each treatment having four replicates of six birds each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Diet 1 was the control with 0% Goat Blood Rumen Content Mixture and aromatic plants (GBRCM). Diet 2 contained 10%GBRCMwithout aromatic plants supplementation. Diet 3, 4 and 5 contained 10% goat blood-rumen content mixture supplemented with garlic (Allium sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinale) and rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis). Parameters evaluated were body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and economic analysis. The results showed that birds fed aromatic plant supplemented diets improved significantly (P
Chemical composition of differently processed false Yam (Icacina tricantha) tubermeal
Authors: Okosun S. E. , Eguaoje S. A. , Ekpenisi G. F. , Uadiale G. B.
Published: February 2021

Freshly harvested false yam (Icacina tricantha) tubers from the wild in Ekpoma located between the tropical rain forest and the derived savanna were differently processed into flour. Samples from oven dried, sun-dried as well as parboil and thereafter sun-dried were subjected to proximate and some mineral elements analysis. The sun dried sample registered the highest crude protein and energy value of 10.21% and 15.744 MJ/Kg which was significantly different (P
Effect of scent leaf meal (Ocimum gratissimum) supplementation on performance, carcass and meat quality of broiler chicken
Authors: Olumide M. D. , Akintola A. S.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the effect of Ocimum gratissimum leaf meal supplementation on the performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of broiler chicken. One hundred and fifty day old Abhor Acre strains of broiler birds were assigned to five dietary treatments with thirty birds per treatment in a completely randomized design. Ocimum gratissimum leaf meal at 0g, 100g, 200g, 300g and 400g per 100kg of feed was added to the diets. The experiment lasted for seven weeks. Data on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were collected. Two birds per replicate were randomly selected, weighed, slaughtered and properly dressed for carcass parameters such as live weight, plucked weight, dressing percentage, head, neck, wing weight, thigh weight, drumstick, organ weight and sensory evaluation was carried out. The result of the performance characteristics showed that there were significant differences (p
Effects of anti-nutritional factors on the nutritional potential of three varieties of lablab bean (Lablab purpureus ) in rats
Authors: Soetan K. O. , Abu O. A.
Published: February 2021

Twenty five Wistar strain rats weighing between 68 to 80g were allotted to five dietary groups. Group I received standard protein diet which served as control, group II received a protein-free diet, which served as a negative control, while rats on III, IV and V were given rawRongai Brown (RB), rawRongaiWhite (RW) and rawHighworthBlack (HB) based diets as the main sources of protein, respectively. The rats were fed 10g experimental diets per day for seven days. a 3-day adaptation period, faecal samples were collected quantitatively for four days, bulked for each rat, weighed, oven-dried at 105 C for 24 hr, milled and stored for analyses. All the rats fed the three varieties of raw lablab beans had significant decrease (p
Effects of pen colour and photoperiod interactions on the performance and respiratory rate of finisher gilts
Authors: Adelowo O. V. , Adebiyi O. A. , Odu O.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of pen colour and photoperiod interactions on the performance and respiratory rate of gilts at finisher stage. Thirty-six crossbred (Large white x Landrace) gilts of mean body weight of 38.12±0.59kg were randomly allotted to four (4) treatments. Pens were painted with different colours: pantone441 (control), pantone293 (blue), pantone185 (red) and pantone361 (green) and exposed to photoperiods of 12, 15 and 18 hours (h). The experimental design was 3x 4 factorial arrangement in a completely randomised design. Performance parameters measured were Feed Intake (FI), Final Weight (FW) and Weight Gain (WG), while Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) was calculated weekly throughout the eight weeks of the experiment. Respiratory and rectal temperatures were also monitored. The main effect of pen colour was not significant (p>0.05) on FW and WG across the treatments while there were no significant variations (p>0.05) in the values of FI and FCR of the gilts due to pen colour. The respiratory rate varied significantly (p<0.05) with gilts in red pen (46.64±2.32) having the highest value. Photoperiod had no significant (p>0.05) effects on FW and WG, while FI and FCR had significant (p<0.05) variation across the treatments [12 h. (5.05±0.37),18 h(4.70±0.22) and 15 (4.68±0.25)]. Interactions of pen colour x photoperiods was also significant for FW, WG, FCR and FI. It can therefore be concluded that rearing gilts at finisher stage in green, blue or red pens gives optimal performance and photoperiod of 12hours gives maximum production.
Quality evaluation of pigs fed poultry by-products
Authors: Fakolade P. O. , Adeoye S. A. , Akinloye T. R. , Oluwasola E. T.
Published: February 2021

Effect of consuming solely poultry-by-products by grower pigs, instead of conventional feeds was the focus of this study. Thirty–six Large White male pigs of 6 weeks 5.7 – 7.5kg were fed Boiled Dead Birds (BDB) (T3), Boiled Hatchery Waste BHW (T2) and conventional pig food PKC (T1). Thus, there were three treatments with 12 pigs per treatment. The pigs were reared for 10 weeks over which the chemical composition, performance and digestibility studies, carcass and organ function, serum and haematological status, and physico – chemical analysis and palatability were evaluated. The study was arranged as a completely randomized design. Daily weight gain, daily feed intake and body weight gain had highest (P<0.05) values of 107.45g. 105.31g and 4513.00g inT1 compared to T2 (37.52g, 63.39g and 1580.00g) and T3 (60.00g, 63.30g and 2520.00g) respectively. Pigs on T3 performed best in physico – chemical evaluation having the lowest (P<0.05) for thermal and cold shortening, cooking loss and thaw rigor but highest (P<0.05) values for water holding capacity than for T1 and T2. Lymphocyte values and white blood cell were best for T3 while T1 had highest in monophils. The T3 had lowest significant cholesterol value (106.80 mg/dL), than T2 (336.76 mg/dL) and T1 (123.88 mg/dL) while T1 did best (P<0.05) in glucose content (84.92 mg/dL), compared to T2 (60.22 md/dL) and T1 (66.63 mg/dL). The T1 had the highest palatability scores (P<0.05) for palatability status than T2 and T3. T1 performed bestin palatability scores, performance evaluation and carcass and organ characteristics, while T2 and T3 led to higher physico – chemical properties, serum and haematological parameters, which had positive significant effect on the health status of the pigs.
Profitability analysis of poultry egg production and marketing in Southern zone of Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Latu M. Y. , Wumnokol D. P. , Guluwa L. Y.
Published: February 2021

Data from a survey in Southern zone of Plateau State was used to assess profitability of egg production and marketing in five markets of Southern Plateau. Primary data was obtained by means of personal interview through the use of a well-structured questionnaire administered to 20 individuals in each of the five markets (Langtang market, Shendam (Nshar) market, Namu market, Garkawa market and Mabudi market). The socio-economic characteristic of the respondents shows that most of them were experienced in the business and were mostly females (96%). The estimated Gini coefficient was 0.81296 which implies that there is a high level of inequality in the production and sole revenue of the respondents. While the gross margin reveals that marketing of eggs in the study area is profitable with gross margin per seller as N12, 029.50 and the benefit cost ratio also reveals that egg marketing is viable in the study area as N10, 799.50 per seller. It is therefore recommended as a means of gainful employment and mitigation to urban migration.
Evaluation of wound healing potentials of neem (Azadirachtaindica) leaf extract on excision wounds in Wistar albino rats
Authors: Olorunsola R. A. , Oke F. , Bagbe A. S. , Ayeyinbo O. A.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to evaluate the wound healing ability of ethanoic leaf extract of Azadirachta indica, incorporated into the feed of albino rats. Twenty-four (24) albino rats of both sexes weighing between 90 to 125g were randomly selected and divided into three (3) groups of 8 rats each. Animals in each group were divided into four (4) replicates of two (2) rats per replicate. Group A had penicillin, group B had neem ointment and group C had Neem incorporated in the feed. The ethanoic leaf extract of Azadirachta indica showed a significantly higher (p<0.05) contraction rate and shortened wound closure time. The healing was 92% (p<0.05) on 10th day compared to 75% and 82% of healing with ground leaf of A. indica incorporated into the feed (neem + feed) and procaine penicillin, respectively. The complete wound closure took place on the 12th day in the case of ethanoic leaf extract of Azadirachta indica while, neem + feed and procaine penicillin the wounds persisted than12th day. The study concluded that the ethanoic leaf extract of A. indica had better potential wound healing activity for excision wounds; justifying its use in the traditional and orthodox medicine.
Phosphorus utilization in pigs fed Aspergillus niger treated wheat offal, brewers' dried grain and palm kernel cake
Authors: Adegbaju S. W. , Akinfala E. O. , Babalola G. O. , Ogundeji S. T. , Babalola G. O.
Published: February 2021

The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) and standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of Phosphorus (P) in Aspergillus niger treated Wheat Offal (WO), Brewers Dried Grain (BDG) and Palm Kernel Cake (PKC), were measured using growing pigs (Large White X Hampshire) of average weight 21.02 ± 0.63 kg in a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement. Six diets based with or without Aspergillus niger were formulated. A P-free diet was also formulated to measure endogenous losses of P. The results of the experiment showed that the ATTD and STTD of P in treated WO (72.22 and 83.26 %), BDG (84.61 and 88.21 %) and PKC (82.36 and 85.68 %) were greater (P < 0.05) than in untreated WO (53.54 and 58.08 %), BDG (67.83 and 73.92 %) and PKC (78.47 and 82.37 %) respectively. The microbial treatment also reduced (P < 0.05) the excretion of P in the faeces from (1.13 to 0.71 g), (0.53 to 0.43 g) and (0.56 to 0.55 g) in WO, BDG and PKC respectively. It was concluded that Aspergillus niger treatment of the WO, BDG and PKC significantly improved the ATTD and STTD of phosphorous and also reduced P-excretion in growing pigs fed these feedstuffs.
Pre and post-gestation blood indices of rabbit does fed graded levels of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf meal
Authors: Ayo-Ajasa O. Y. , Egbeyale L. T. , Abiona J. A. , Fafiolu A. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of neem leaf meal on the blood status of rabbit does before and after gestation. Atotal of twenty-four (24) rabbit does of mixed breeds, with initial average live weight of 1975g were randomly allocated into four (4) experimental dietary treatments; each of which was replicated three (3) times with two (2) rabbits per replicate. The rabbits were fed diets containing 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5% neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf meal. Parameters measured included packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC) and its differentials for haematology while total protein, globulin, albumin, cholesterol, alkaline phosphate (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured for biochemical indices. All data generated were subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance in a Completely Randomized Design. The findings from this study at pre-gestation showed that neem leaf meal (NLM) significantly (p<0.05) influenced basophil and serum total protein, globulin and glucose. Basophil was significantly reduced in rabbits fed 5.0% NLM (0.33%) while the serum components were affected in rabbits fed 2.5% NLM. The result at post-gestation showed no significant (p>0.05) difference in all the parameters measured exceptneutrophils. Neutrophils were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in rabbits on the control diet (26.67%) while rabbits on NLM diets recorded similar values. From the serum component, cholesterol was significantly (p<0.05) highest in rabbits fed 5.0% NLM (62.33mg/dL) and lowest in those fed 2.5% NLM (49.67mg/dL). It was, therefore, concluded that inclusion of NLM in rabbit does' diet up to 7.5% had no adverse effect on the health status of the animals as the values obtained for neutrophils and cholesterol were still within the normal range of rabbit blood profile.
Haematological and biochemical parameters of Kano brown bucks fed graded levels of potash treated neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf meal-based diets
Authors: Garba Y. , Ibrahim Z. H.
Published: February 2021

The haematological and serum profile of Kano brown bucks fed neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf meal was investigated for 63 days. Twelve growing Kano Brown bucks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments with three animals per treatments in a completely randomized block design. Treatment A was the control diet without neem leaf meal while treatments B, C and D had 10%, 20% and 30% potash-treated neem leaf inclusion levels respectively. Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment for analysis of haematology and biochemical parameters. The mean value of packed cell volume, haemoglobin, red blood cell counts and white blood cell counts were significantly (p>0.05) different across all treatments. The mean and standard deviation were 29.00, 90.10; 10.06, 0.39; 9.50, 0.55; 10.5, 1.11; 30.20, 0.08; 10.41, 0.85 and 33.02, 0.45 for PCV, Hg, RBC, WBC, MCV, MCH and MCHC respectively. Mean corpuscular volume was significantly (p<0.05) higher for animals fed 10% inclusion of the tested material ranging from (25.50 - 36.00 fl). Eosinophils, monocytes and basophils were not significantly different across alltreatments while, lymphocytes and neutrophils were statistically significant (p<0.05) across all treatments with mean values of 43.29% and 56.75% respectively. The serum sodium ranged from (145.00 - 150.00 mmol/L), potassium ranged from (4.975 - 5.150 mmol/L) across all treatments. The creatinine value ranged from (85.50 - 103.5 mmol/L) total protein, albumin and globulin showed significant (p<0.05) difference across all treatments. The standard deviation was 0.003, 0.01, 0.02 and 0.18 respectively. Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alanine Aminotransferase and Alkaline Phosphatase were significantly (p<0.05) different across all treatments. The study revealed that potash-treated neem leaf meal could be used as feed for small ruminants, without any deleterious effect on performance and blood profile. It is concluded that dietary inclusion of potash treated neem leaf meal at 10 and 20% improved haemoglobin, packed cell volume and white blood cell counts.
Utilization of Bovine Blood-Rumen Digesta Mixture as Replacement for Soybean Meal and Groundnut Cake Feedstuff in Growing Pigs
Authors: Odukoya S. O. , Saka A. A. , Adedeji O. Y. , Akingbade A. O. , Ijadunola T. I.
Published: February 2021

Mixture of bovine blood and rumen digesta (BBRDM) was evaluated for 56 days as a replacement for soybean meal (SBM) and groundnut cake (GNC) at 100% on protein to protein basis in the diets of growing pigs to assess the nutritive value of BBRDM on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and cost benefits. Hence, a total of 18 growing pigs were allotted on weight equalization basis into three dietary treatments consisting of six pigs per treatment in a completely randomized design. Three diets were formulated such that T : served as the control diet without BBRDM but contained both soybean meal and 1 groundnut cake. T : BBRDM replaced soybean meal and T : BBRDM replaced groundnut 2 3 cake. Result indicated that BBRDM contained 28.65% crude protein, 13.17% ether extract, 5.26% crude fibre, 11.29% ash and 31.65% nitrogen free extract. Dietary treatments did not significantly (P>0.05) influenced the growth parameters observed in this study. Although there were no significant (P>0.05) difference on the nutrient digestibility parameters investigated but birds in T recorded highest numerical values for crude protein (77.23), 3 crude fibre (62.46%), ether extract (92.33%), nitrogen free extract (89.61%), ash (70.28%) and nutrient dry matter (91.67%) while the least values were obtained from birds in T . Cost 1 of feed decreased with the inclusion of BBRDM while the cost per weight gain also improved with the replacement of the conventional feed ingredients. The result also showed that an appreciable amount of money was saved when BBRDM was included in the ration of growing pigs. It is therefore concluded that BBRDM could be used as an animal protein source to compliment plant protein source such as soybean meal and groundnut cake in the diet of growing pigs.
Constraints to adoption of fish farming technologies among fish farmers in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunremi J. B. , Olatunji S. O.
Published: February 2021

In the study the adoption of improved fish farming technologies in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State was investigated. Multistage sampling technique was used. The first stage was purposive selection of seven communities, the next stage was snowball sampling technique used to select 10 fish farmers from each community. Data were collected using  structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results indicated that majority of fish farmers were  ware of fish farming technologies (91.4%). The respondents adopted the facilities for improved fish farming (21.0%), liming  techniques (14.3%), and fish culture management (11.4%). Constraints to farmers' adoption of fish farming technologies are high cost of improved technologies (mean = 3.39), inadequate capital (mean = 3.35), erratic- power supply (mean = 3.12) and inaccessibility to credit facilities (mean = 3.11). It is recommended that agricultural credit schemes be strengthened at all levels, power supply be improved on, marketing structure should be well organized and extension services should be focused on which will enhance high level of technology adoption and result in much anticipated reduction in fish importation through fish farming in the country.
Performance, nutrient digestibility and feed cost benefit of finisher broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with Crina poultry plus
Authors: Onabanjo R. S.
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to determine the effect of Crina Poultry Plus®, a natural blend of essential oils and benzoic acid. on the growth performance, carcass yield and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens. Six treatment diets were formulated by the addition of Crina Poultry Plus (CPP®) at 0, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6g/kg of feed. Two hundred and forty day-old chicks were allocated to the six dietary treatments with each treatment having four replicates. Each replicate had 10 broilers. The parameters measured were live weight, live weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion, protein efficiency ratio, carcass and organ    characteristics, nutrient utilization and feed cost benefit. Results of growth performance showed that there were no significant differences (P>0.05) across the treatment groups, but birds fed diets supplemented with CPP® had significantly heavier body weight (BW), higher average daily weigh gain live weight gain and similar feed conversion ratio when compared with the control group. The dressing percentage, thigh, drum stick, breast cut and back cut were not significantly (P>0.05) different across the treatment groups but those fed diet supplemented with CPP® had higher values when compared with the control diet. The supplementation of CPP® improved nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens. Birds fed diet containing 0.6g of CPP® had numerically lower cost per kg of weight gained compared to other treatment groups. It can be concluded that the addition of 0.6 g CPP® in broiler diets improved performance, carcass, organ characteristics and nutrient utilization of broilers.
Comparative evaluation of fish, crayfish waste, meat and blood meal for broiler production
Authors: Ukoha O. A. , Nsa E. E. , Onunkwo D. N. , Ezike J. C.
Published: February 2021

The effect of different animal protein sources in broiler production was investigated. 300 seven-day old broilers of equal  average initial weight were randomly allotted into five treatment groups with three replications of 20 birds each and at the end of 28 days, birds were weighed again and re-randomized to the five treatment groups with three replicates of 16 birds each. The diets consisted of four animal proteins. Treatment 1 (Control) had no animal protein while diet 2, 3, 4 and 5 had 4% fish meal, 4% crayfish waste meal, 4% blood meal and 4% meat meal, respectively. The study was conducted for 56 days with 28days starter phase and 28days finisher phase. Parameters evaluated were proximate composition of test ingredients, growth performance of experimental animals, nutrient digestibility and economic analysis. The results showed blood meal had the highest (P<0.05) crude protein level (77.68%) followed by fish meal (54.53%), crayfish waste (48.08%) and meat meal (41.67%). Cray fish waste meal had the highest (P<0.05) crude fibre (6.07%) while blood meal had the least (2.98%). Fish meal had the highest ether extract (5.99%) followed by crayfish waste meal (4.03%), meat meal (3.67%) and blood meal (3.93%). There were nonsignificant (P<0.05) differences in feed intake during both starter and finisher phases across the treatment groups. Blood meal significantly (P<0.05) depressed final live weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio while other ingredients showed (P>0.05) similarities in the above parameters apart from in protein efficiency ratio for which meat meal only showed significant (P<0.05) depression. The least cost per kg feed and least cost per kg weight gain (naira) were observed with birds on crayfish diets. There was better (P<0.05) digestibility of crude protein by birds on treatment diets 1 and 2 followed by 3 and 4 while birds than on treatment diet5 had the least value (58.10%). Conclusively, the use of crayfish waste meal in broiler starter diets and combined proteins in broiler fisher diets should be encouraged.
In vitro evaluation of mixed silage of Pennisetum purpureum and orange fleshed sweet potato vines
Authors: Akinbode R. M. , Afuape S. O. , Adebayo K. O. , Rafiu A. S. , Adekoya A. O.
Published: February 2021

The study was aimed at determining the in vitro nutritive value of mixed silages of pennisetum purpureum and orange-fleshed sweet potato vines and evaluating their potential of being a new feed resource for ruminants during the dry season. Pennisetum purpureum (Pp) and orange-fleshed sweet potato vines (OFPV) were ensiled in experimental silos bottles after wilting for 24 hours in the following proportions viz:100%Pp (T1), 75%Pp +25%OFPV (T2), 50%Pp +50%OFPV (T3), 25% Pp +75% OFPV (T4) and 100% OFPV (T5). Each treatment was replicated ten (10) times and was kept for 14 and 28 days in the laboratory at a room temperature (20 – 25°C). The chemical composition of the silage at 14 and 28 days was determined. In vitro gas production of the silages was carried out for 48 hours. In vitro fermentation kinetics and gas production parameters of the silages were also estimated. Results revealed that ensiling periods had significant (p<0.05) effect on the dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) contents of the silages. Silage of 28 days had highest CP (13.45%) and lowest NDF and ADF contents (40.10 and 25.48% respectively). Silage containing 100% OFPV recorded highest (p<0.05) crude protein (15.95%), ash (15.81%) and lowest NDF (32.25%) and ADF (22.50%) contents. Gas production was lowest (p<0.05) in T1 at all incubation periods, and it increases with inclusion of OFPV, T5 had significant (p<0.05) highest gas production. Least gas production was observed in T1 at 42 and 48 hours incubation period (15.17 and 17.17 mL/200mg DM respectively). Silage of 28 days had the best potential gas production (37.51 mL). Fractional rate of gas production was higher in 28 days silage (0.06mL/hr), T3 (0.05mL/hr), T4 (0.05mL/hr) and T5 (0.06mL/hr) while lag phase was lowest in these silages. In vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), metabolisable energy (ME) and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) were greater in silage of 28 days (63.73%, 5.01MJ/Kg DM and 0.02mL) with least percentage methane production (33.34%). Also, IVDMD, in vitro organic matter digestibility (OMD), ME, and SCFA increased as level of OFPV in the silages increases with T5 having the highest values for these parameters. Percentage methane production was least (p < 0.05) in T5 (26.55%). It can therefore be concluded that Pennisetum purpureum be supplemented with OFPV up to 75% and ensiled for 28 days or beyond to produce better quality feed resource for ruminants during the dry season. Ensiling 100% OFPV is also highly recommended as it exhibited the best nutritive potential.
Haematological and serum biochemical indices of broiler chickens fed roselle seed (Hibiscus sabdariffa l.) cake based diet as replacement for soyabean meal
Authors: Onunkwo D. N. , Ezike J. C. , Amaduruonye W. , Nathaniel J. , Daniel-Igwe, G.
Published: February 2021

Feeding trial experiment was carried out to evaluate the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of broiler chickens fed graded levels of Roselle Seed Cake (RSC) as replacement of a conventional protein source. Proximate composition was done to determine the nutrient content of RSC and experimental diets. The experiment contained graded levels of RSC replacing soya bean cake (SBC). One hundred and twenty (120) day old Ross broiler chickens were used in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The broiler chicks were assigned to five dietary treatments with three replicates each with 8 birds per replicate and 24 birds per treatment. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated for the broiler straight diet. Diet 1 served asthe control diet while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 8%, 16%, 24% and 32% RSC respectively. Data were collected and analyzed using analysis of variance and the mean was separated using Duncan multiple range test. The findings from the study showed that there were no significant (P?0.05) differences in all the parameters measured for haematology across dietary treatment means except for the white blood cell. The blood biochemical composition showed no significant (P?0.05) differences in total protein, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein and creatinine across dietary treatments. RSC as an alternative feedstuff can replace soya bean cake at 24% in the diet of broiler chickens for improved haematological and blood biochemical of broilers. Roselle seed cake can replace SBC at the broiler chicken straight ration at 75% (24% dietary RSC) inclusion for better performance.
Piliostigma thonningii leaves as dry season feed supplement for West African dwarf goats
Authors: Jemiseye F. O. , Akinlade J. A. , Ogunwole O. A. , Adedeji B. S.
Published: February 2021

A persistent issue with ruminant production during the dry season in the tropics is scarcity of forages. Producers are faced with the search for alternative feed supplements to address this issue without compromising productivity. Acceptability of Piliostigma thonningii as dry season feed supplement to West African dwarf (WAD) goat was investigated in this study. The WAD goats (n=15) were divided into three treatments of five goats each in a completely randomized design. The animals were fed with Panicum maximum without supplementation at 100% (T1), 90% Panicum maximum+10% Piliostigma thonningii (T2) and 80% Panicum  maximum+20% Piliostigma thonningii (T3). Fresh water was also made available throughout the trial that lasted six weeks. Chemical analysis of the forages was observed while feed intake, weight gain and nutrient digestibility were monitored. Results showed that Piliostigma thonningii had a higher (15.25%) crude protein and lower (57.38%) neutral detergent fibre contents than the grass. Both had comparable energy values. Piliostigma thonningii had relatively high mineral contents while the anti-nutrient contents of phytate and oxalate were relatively low. Although the crude protein intake increased with increasing levels of supplementation, the total dry matter intake was not favoured beyond 10% level of Piliostigma thonningii level. It can be concluded that there was no advantage in feeding West African dwarf goat Piliostigma thonningii beyond 10% level.
Growth, morphology and haematology of Double-spurred Francolin (Francolinus bicalcaratus): A prelude to its captive breeding and domestication
Authors: Aro S. O , Adewumi A. A. , Ogunjinmi A. A.
Published: February 2021

It has been documented that broadening the genetic diversity of the livestock population through captive breeding and eventual domestication of game animals could be one of the palliatives for reducing animal protein malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa. One of the game birds with wide culinary appeal in West Africa that can easily be captive-bred is the Doublespurred Francolin (Francolinus bicalcaratus). This study was therefore conducted to determine the growth, morphology and haematological indices of Double-spurred Francolin reared under intensive management condition. Eighteen eggs of Double-spurred Francolin collected from the wild were artificially incubated and hatched into chicks. These chicks were subsequently reared intensively for 24 weeks while taking data on their feed intake, growth, plumage development, vocalization and haematological indices. The growth curve of F. bicalcaratus was modelled from which the peri-pubertal period of this bird was determined. Also the number of rectrices and remiges from day old to the 24th week of age were determined while the first adult vocalization was observed in the fifth month. Francolinus bicalcaratus displays sexual dimorphism in terms of body size, vocalization and tarsal spur number and development. Double-spurred Francolin has growth and morphometric parameters that are similar to its other phasianid relatives and can therefore fit into the food security equation geared towards solving the perennial animal protein malnutrition problem especially in the West African sub-region. It is concluded that the bird is a good candidate for domestication and conservation, a two-in-one effort that could re-write its current global signature as an endangered bird species of West Africa.
Effect of irish potato peel and yam peel meals on the performance and nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits
Authors: Yaqoob R. , Omage J. J. , Ahmad Y.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to evaluate the nutritive value of Irish potato peel meal (IPPM) and  yam peel meal (YPM) on the performance of weaner rabbits. Twenty-five weaner rabbits  were assigned to five dietary treatments of five rabbits each, and were individually caged in a  completely randomized design. The rabbits were fed the dietary treatments, where treatment  one (T1) was the control with no IPPM and YPM, treatment two (T2) and treatment three (T3)  with 20% and 30% IPPM, respectively while treatment four (T4) and five (T5) had 20% each  and 30% each of the combination of IPPM and YPM, respectively. The parameters measured  were initial weight, final weight, average feed intake, average weight gain, feed to gain ratio,  water intake, feed cost/Kg gain, proximate composition and feed digestibility of the feed  materials. The result showed that average daily feed intake was significantly higher  (P<0.05) in the rabbits fed with the control diet (T1) compared to the other treatments. The  feed to gain ratio were similar in all the treatments. The feed cost per kg gain was  significantly different (P<0.05) across the treatments. crude protein, crude fibre and ash  digestibility were significantly higher in T1 (control) compared to T2, T3and T5, but was  similar to T4. ether extract and NFE digestibility were significantly higher (P<0.05) in T1  compared to all other treatments. It is concluded that, Irish potato peel and yam peel meals  can be used to replace maize in the conventional rabbit feed without any adverse effect on  their growth performance and nutrient digestibility.