bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching Animal Genetics and Breeding: What are the resources available to instructors?
Authors: Durunna O. N. , Schonwetter D. J. , Crow G. H.
Published: February 2021

The dynamism of education requires that teaching and learning follow suit. The globalization of education community has made materials for teaching and learning easily accessible but sometimes being aware that these resources exist is challenging. The present resource manual attempts to address this by highlighting some of the teaching and learning resources that are available to the instructor in animal genetics and breeding. The availability of the Internet has improved the access to teaching resources that will be of assistance to teachers and learners. Taking cognizance of this rich resource, a teaching resource portfolio relevant to the animal genetics and breeding has been developed. The portfolio includes some textbook resources for improvement of general teaching skills and course development; educational visual resources such as videos and internet sites: publishing companies that provide teaching texts as well as ancillary teaching resources; some journals relevant to animal genetics and breeding; and brief descriptions of the items contained in the portfolio. Some recommended articles focusing specifically on current issues in teaching that facilitate the process of learning for students as it may pertain to the animal genetics and breeding classroom as well as online sites of relevant humor content resources are provided. As such, this teaching resource manual is timely in providing instructors in animal genetics and breeding with the links to important teaching resources.
The Effect of Genotype and Age of Layer Breeders on Egg Quality Traits
Authors: Olawumi S. O. , Ogunlade J. T.
Published: February 2021

The external and internal qualities of 120 eggs (60:60) from Isa Brown (IB) and Bovan Nera (BN) layer breeders were evaluated at 15th and 30th week of their production. The genotypes differed significantly (P<0.09) m external egg quality traits except egg weight and egg length. IB recorded higher values in egg width, eggshell weight, eggshell thickness, shape index and shell ratio than BN, while the reverse trend was for egg length. This implies that IB genotype produced eggs with thicker shells than BN, which invariably will lead to a reduction in the rate of cracks and leakages both on the farm and in the hatchery thereby enhancing better hatchability. The age effect was significant (P<0.05) for all the external egg quality traits. The analysis showed that eggs produced at 30th week were better in terms of external quality traits with the exception of egg shape index. There was positive and significant (P <0.05) interaction effect between genotype and age on eggshell width and shell ratio but not for other traits. As regards internal egg quality traits, the genotypes differed significantly (P<0.05) in all the traits except yolk width, yolk height and albumen weight. IB recorded higher (P<0.05) values in yolk weight, albumen width and yolk ratio than BN, while the latter recorded higher values in albumen height, albumen ratio and haugh unit (HU) than the former The effect of age on internal traits was positive and significant (P<0.05) with the exception f yolk width, albumen width, yolk ratio and albumen ratio. The result showed that the 30th week analyses recorded higher (P<0.05) values in these traits than 15th week. This implies that the quality of breeding eggs improves with the advancing age of the birds. Breed x age interactions were significant for yolk weight and albumen width but not found for other traits. IB genotype was considered the best for external egg quality traits and produced thicker eggshell. However, BN genotype produced superior egg quality than lB having recorded higher values (P< 0.05) in HU, which is a determinant of egg quality
The Effects of Pelleted and Unpelleted All Mash Broiler Diets on Performance, Carcass Quality and Internal Organ Developments of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Tion M. A. , Wuanor A. A.
Published: February 2021

The performance, carcass traits and internal organ development of broiler chickens as influenced by dietary form (pellet or mash) were assessed using 180 straight run Ana 2000, (14 to 63 days of age). Soyabean meal (SBM) mash diet was used as a reference diet. Full fat soybean (FFSB) was the other mash diet. The pelleted diet was a commercial source. Results showed lack of significant (P>0.05) influence of diet form on performance traits in the starter phase SBM mash diet produced the least feed cost per kg gain. In the finisher phase, feed intake and weight gain were not influenced significantly (P>0.05) by diet form but feed to gain ratio was improved significantly (P<0.05) for the SBM mash diet. Feed cost per kg gain was least on the pelleted diet. The cumulative effect of diets showed lack of significant (P>0.05) effect on feed intake. Weight gain was least (P< 0.05) for broilers fed FFSB diet. Broilers fed pelleted and SBM gained similar weights. Feed cost per kg gain was least on SBM mash diet. Relative values for New York dressed, dressed weights, and breast of birds fed FFSB mash were significantly (P<0.01) lower than SBM mash and pelleted diets. Sex had no influence on relative values except abdominal fat where females had significantly (P<0.05) more fat than males.
Nutritive attributes of Sesbania parchycapa fodder in a crop-livestock farming system
Authors: Akinlade J. A. , Larbi A. , Awojide A. A. , Adekunle I. O. , Ojebiyi O. O. , Aderinola O. A.
Published: February 2021

Two experiments were conducted to investigate and compare the nutritive attributes of Sesbania parchycapa (SP) in a crop-livestock farming system. In Experiment 1, the feeding attributes of Sesbania parchycapa (SP) fodder was investigated with 15 West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep, by feeding Panicum maximum (PM) alone and P. maximum supplemented with S. parchycapa (SP) in the ratio of 70:30. The study lasted 28 days, during which feed intake was monitored daily. In Experiment 2, the nutritive value of SP was investigated with WAD sheep and goats by feeding them as sole diets. The study lasted 15 days consisting of 10 days adjustment and 5 days of data collection using 5 each of bucks and rams in a completely randomised design. In the first trial, DM intake (99.5g/kgBW0.75) was higher for the control PM and least (72.8g/kgBW0.75) for SP. Total DM intake followed similar trend. In the second trial, DM (185g/kgBW0.75), CP (40%) and NDF (645g/kgBW0.75) intakes were generally higher (p<0.05). for sheep than for goats. DAM (562), CP (421) and NDF 680g/kg digestibility coefficients were also higher (p<0.05)for sheep than for goats. The N balance and retention (g/h/d) was higher in sheep. Results indicated that intake, digestibility and N- utilisation of S. parcyhcapa by sheep is better than goats although both had a positive N-balance. It could be concluded that apart from the well known positive impact of S. Parchycapa in agro forestry and alley farming systems, it can effectively serve as protein supplement in a small holder crop-livestock farming system.
Effects of Spondias mombin l. On milk composition of lactating West African Dwarf (WAD) ewes
Authors: Oguike M. A. , Udeh M. E.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to investigate the effects of Spondias mombin on milk composition using milk from twelve lactating West African dwarf (WAD) ewes. The lactating ewes were assigned to two treatment groups of six ewes per group, designated T1 and T2 representing control and trial group, respectively The ewes in T2, the trial group were fed Spondias mombin L. post partum while those in T1 the control were not fed Spondias mombin. Colostrum samples were collected from each ewe the first four days following parturition while normal milk was sampled for analysis after two weeks of lambing through 12 weeks of lactation. The constituents studied were lactose, milk protein, butterfat, ash, total solids and solid non-fat. Results showed that the colostrums of ewes fed S. mombin had significantly higher (P<0.05) total solids, and solids not fat contents of 18.34 and 11.31% respectively, than those of the control ewes which were 17.32 and 10.35%, respectively. The other constituents of colostrums of the different groups were not significantly different (P>0.05). At week 2 of lactation, lactose (3.98%) and ash (0.98%) concentrations of normal milk of treated ewes were significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of the control ewes for lactose (3.74%) and ash (0.65%). Also by the 12th week of lactation, ash contents of the two treatments were significantly different (P<0.05) with T2 having higher value. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the normal milk compositions of both groups in weeks 4, 6, 8 and 10. These results suggest that feeding S. mombin to lactating ewes could be useful in improving on the milk composition of WAD ewes and has no adverse effects on their general health and performance.
Foetal wastage in goats slaughtered in Zaria abattoir, Northern Guinea Savanna Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Salami S. O. , Makinde F. A. , Garba G. M.
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out with the aim of determining the age and percentage wastage of foetus due to the slaughter of pregnant does in Zango Abattoir, Samaru, Zaria. Out of a total of 680 female goats slaughtered during three months (January to March, 1998), 275 (40.44%) of the were pregnant. From the pregnant uteri, 460 foetuses were recovered and used for the study. Out of the recovered foetuses 41.09, 21.82 and 37.09% were twins, triplets and single respectively. The weight as well as the crown-rump of the foetuses were measured and the results obtained were used to determine their estimated ages. It was found that the highest percentage (46.2%) 0f the foetuses fell within the first trimeter of pregnancy, while the second and third trimesters had 30% and 23.8% respectively. The regression equations and the results of the correlation analysis showed that the gestational age of the local breeds of goats can be accurately estimated by crown-rump measurement. It was concluded that complete lack of pregnancy dignostic test on does before slaughtering in the abattoirs resulted in heavy losses of foetuses which call to question the role of the veterinary personnel at the abattoir with the consequence reduction in the availability of animal protein in the country. The study also gave an insight into the use of two easily measured variables: foetal weight (FW) and crown rump lenght (CRL) as a means for age estimates in goats.
Performance of West African Dwarf (WAD) Goats Fed Raw or processed pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) seed meal based diets.
Authors: Ahamefule F. O. , Udo M. D.
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to evaluate the effect of processing methods of pigeon pea seeds on the performance and carcass quality of goats using 16 weaner West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed diets containing 15% raw (RPBD), soaked (SPBD), toasted (TPBD) and boiled (BPBD) pigeon pea seed meal. The experiment which lasted for 60 days was laid out in a completely randomized design using diets as treatments. The four diets had same percentage inclusion of every ingredient including pigeon pea seed meal which differed only in process form. Results showed that final weight, total weight, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio differed significantly (P<0.05) among treatment groups. Goats fed boiled pigeon pea based diet (BPBD) had significantly (P<0.05) heavier final weight (10.87kg) than those fed toasted (8.25kg), soaked (7.56kg) and raw (7.25kg) pigeon pea diets. Total weight gain (kg) followed similar pattern as the final weight with the following values obtained for boiled (4.62kg), toasted (2.13kg), soaked (1.56kg) and raw (1.19kg) pigeon pea seed based diets. BPBD had the least feed conversion ratio relative to other diets. However, total and daily feed consumption did not differ (P>0.05) among treatment groups. The best dressing out percent of 58.07% was obtained for the boiled PBD which differed significantly (P<0.05) from values obtained for goats fed raw (33.05%), soaked (36.96%) and toasted (38.72%) pigeon pea based diets. The least cost per kilogram weight gain was obtained for goats fed BPBD (N300), while the highest (N996.15) was from goats fed RPBD. Carcass / organ evaluation showed that warm carcass, loin, set, lungs, kidney and bone to lean ratio were significantly affected by the dietary treatments, and BPBD gave highest values for all except in kidney, liver and bone to lean ratio. The results above suggest that pigeon pea seed can be used generally to improve performance in WAD goats. However, BPBD promoted superior weight gain and dressing percentage, least production cost and FCR as well as superior carcass characteristics relative to raw, toasted and soaked pigeon pea based diets.
Feeding behavior of crossbred pigs reared intensively in Southeastern Nigeria.
Authors: Odo B. I. , Alaku S. O. , Ekenyem B. U.
Published: February 2021

The in situ feeding behavior of pigs was studied for a period of 18 weeks using 3 different but clinically healthy crossbred pigs of varying genotypes. Results showed that there was no marked difference in the pre-feeding, feeding and post-feeding behaviors of the different hybrids used. Observation of feeding behavior showed that all animals fed (picked feed) very intensively during the first 35 minutes of introduction of feed Other activities observed include playing/bullying drinking wallowing, social and courtship behaviors. Rooting and other behaviors like climbing of pen walls were also observed There was no significant difference (P>O.05) in time spent during ingestion (picking of feed) between LW x LC and LC x L crosses. However there was significant difference (P< O. 05) in time spent during ingestion between LWxLC with LWxL crosses, and LCxL with LWxL crosses The total feeding time was slightly higher O. 05) in LWxL than, either of the Other groups. Rooting time was slightly lower in LWx L crosses than in any other group. Total time spent on other major activities like drinking wallowing, playing/ bullying, social/courtship behaviors was slightly higher (P < 0.05) in LWxLC and LWxL than LWxLC crosses. Knowledge of animal behavior is important for improved productivity as well as animal welfare since q deviation from the normal behavior is an indication of ill health.
Response of Japanese Breeder Quails to Varying Dietary Protein Levels in the Tropics
Authors: Bawa G. S. , Lombin L. H. , Musa P. , Payi U. , Shamaki D.
Published: February 2021

A three months feeding trial was conducted to assess the effects of feeding varying levels of dietary protein on productive performance, egg quality characteristics and hatchability using 930 six weeks breeders quails. The birds were randomly divided into five dietary treatment groups of 186 birds, and were further replicated three times with 62 birds (50 females, 12 males) per replicate. They were fed five experimental diets containing either 18, 20, 22, 24 or 26% CP. Feed and water were provided ad libitum throughout the experimental period. The results obtained did not show significant effect (P>0.05) on final live weight, % change in body weight, feed conversion ratio, cost per dozen or crate of egg produced, hen-day-production, hen-housed production and peak egg production across the dietary treatments. However, significant differences (P<0.05) were observed for feed intake, age at peak production, egg weight and percent mortality across the dietary treatments. Dietary protein levels had no significant (P>0.05) effects on Haugh unit, egg shape index, percent egg shell, egg shell index, egg specific gravity and egg shell thickness. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed across dietary treatments for % hatchability, fertility and chick weight at hatch. Chick weight at day-old increased with increase in the level of dietary protein. It was concluded that dietary protein level of 22%CP is required for optimum production, egg quality characteristics and reproductive performance of breeder quails in the tropics
Biodegradation of cassava root sieviate with enzymes extracted from isolated fungi
Authors: Lawal T. E. , Iyayi E .A , Adeniyi B. A . , Adaramoye O.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to investigate changes in proximate, sugars and cell wall components of cassava root sieviates (CRS) treated with extracted enzymes obtained from Aspergillus niger (An), Trichoderma viridae (Tv), Rhizopus stolonifer (Rs) and Mucor mucedo (Mm) applied on autoclaved CRS at 250ml/kg. Another treatment that had a commercial enzyme Roxazyme G2G (RG2G) as the degrading agent was prepared and the enzyme was applied at 150g/tonne as recommended by the manufacturer. At the end of the7 thday after enzyme application, the chemical analysis showed a higher bioavailability of nutrients in the degraded samples than the undegraded sample. Non starch polysaccharides (NSPs) in the CRS was negatively related to crude protein, ash and metabolisable energy (P<0.05) but positively related to crude fibre, pectin, neutraldetergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), hemicellulose and cellulose content . The highest value of metabolisable energy (ME), Ash, crude protein and phosphorus were : 2807.81kcal/kg, 17.32,18.32 and 0.91 g/100gdry matter respectively; obtained when A.niger, T.viridae, A. niger and R. stolonifer enzymes were added respectively .The lowest values of crude fibre, pectin, NDF,ADF, ADL, hemicellulose and cellulose were: 4.82,3.52,30.74, 17.12, 3.74,13.71 and 14.46g/100g dry matter respectively obtained when enzymes extracted from A.niger , R. stolonifer, T. viride ,A. niger, R. stolonifer, M. mucedo and T. viride were applied . Results of levels of sugars (µg/ml) in undegraded CRS showed that glucose level increased by 72.40% (257.34 to 932.22), 67.18%(257.34 to 784.20), 53.75%(257.34 to 556.40), 50.13%(257.32 to 516.06) and 32.53%(257.34 to 381.43) when enzyme preparations from A. niger, T.viridae , R.stolonifer, M.mucedo, and Roxazyme G2G were applied on CRS for degradation respectively . Other sugars that were significantly (P<0.05) increased after biodegradation were galactose, fructose and sucrose. Significant (P<0.05) differences were also expressed in the mineral analysis. After biodegradation, the degraded CRS had better mineral bioavailability as there were improvements in the minerals quantity. The results revealed that the use of enzymes from the above named fungi and the commercial enzymes defiberised the CRS and hydrolyzed the cell walls and hence promoted better availability of energy, crude proteins and other nutrients which were hitherto unavailable.
Effect of honey-flavoured diets on the performance and relative organ weights of finisher broiler chickens
Authors: Obun C. O. , Yahaya M. S. , Olafadehan O. A. , Kehinde A. S. , Adeyemide O. A. , Farouk I. U. , Allison D. S.
Published: February 2021

A 28-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of honey-flavoured diets on performance, nutrient retention, organ weights and economy of production. 0ne hundred and twenty 4-weeks old 'Anak 2000' broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four treatments, replicated three times with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD). Four diets were formulated such that diet 1(0%) contained no honey and served as the control, while diets 2, 3 and 4 contained 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% honey-flavour, respectively. The results showed that diet 4 containing 1.5% honey flavour significantly (P < 0.05) improved the final body weight (1977g), weight gain (1327g), daily weight gain (47.29), feed/gain (2.18) and protein efficiency ratio (2.16) than broiler fed other diets including the control. Broilers on the control diet had the least values of body weight gain (1754g), weight gain (1104g), daily weight gain (39.43g), worst feed/gain (2.59) and protein efficiency ratio (1.80). Broilers fed diet 4 had the highest (P<0.05) nutrient retention of protein (83.80 %), ether extract (86.80 %) and crude fibre (70.50%) while broilers on the control diet had the lowest retention values of protein (65.20%), crude fibre (63.30%) and ether extract (73.70%). The dry matter retentions were similar across the treatments with highest numerical values of 82.80% recorded by birds on diet 4 and least value of 78.80% on diet 1(control). The liver, heart, lungs, kidney and caecum weights did not differ significantly (P>0.05) across the treatments but were numerically higher with increased in the honey-flavoured diets. The gizzard and caecum weights were significantly (P<0.05) increased with increase in honey flavoured diets. Cost per kg feed increased as the level of honey-flavoured inclusion in the diets increased 1.5 % with value of ? 58.00/kg compared to the control diet with ? 47.01/kg while the revenue generated showed that birds fed diet 4 (1.5% honey) were the most economical to produce with value of ? 597.15/bird compared with those on the control (₦ 496.80/bird). Addition of honey at 1.5% demonstrated superiority in this study with no adverse effect on bird's performance and organ.
Degradation of Crude Protein in Groundnut Cake, Guinea Grass (Panicum Maximum) and Rumen Epithelial Scraping based Diets by West African Dwarf Sheep
Authors: Ogunwole O. A. , Akinfemi A. , Akinsoyinu A. O
Published: February 2021

Three West African dwarf rams fitted with rumen cannula, were used in a completely randomized design for degradation of crude protein (CP) of groundnut cake (GNC), Panicum maximum, rumen epithelial scraping (RES), and diets containing increasing levels of RES. Concentrate diets were formulated such that 0% (A), 50% (B), and 100% (C) of groundnut cake were replaced with RES in a diet containing 20% GNC. The soluble fraction a, insoluble fraction b and rumen undegradable protein (RUP) obtained for GNC, grass and RES varied significantly (P<0.05). Significant (P<0.05) variations were also observed for a, b and RUP of the test ingredients. Effective degradability (ED) of CP in GNC, grass and RES (at outflow rate of 0.02) were 38.19, 19.63 and 2.13 respectively. The ED values obtained for the diets decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increased inclusion of RES. Panicum maximum and RES contained significantly higher (P<0.05) level of RUP when compared with GNC. The RUP values obtained for the diets were not influenced (P>0.05) by the inclusion of RES.
Effect of feed particle size on the performance of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)keets
Authors: Sogunle O. M. , Owolabi A. Q. , Olaniyi N. A. , Fanimo A. O.
Published: February 2021

A total of one hundred and fifty, a day-old keets were used in an experiment arranged in a Completely Randomized design (CRD) with the aim of determining the effect of feed particle size on the performance of the keets. The keets were randomly divided into three treatment groups viz; 1, 2 and 3mm particle sizes having 45 keets each. These were further subdivided into three replications of 15 keets per replicate. The keets were reared for 56 days post 21days of brooding. They were fed and watered ad libitum. Data collected were subjected to One-Way Analysis of Variance. The proximate composition of the feed particle sizes were statistically similar (P>0.05) in contents. The results obtained revealed significant (P<0.05) differences in all the parameters considered with the exception of the initial weight. The keets on 2mm feed particle size had the highest final weight of 1529.73 ± 8.74g/bird; the highest weight gain of 26.85 ± 0.16g/bird/day; the highest feed intake of 44.50 ± 0.54g/bird/day; the best feed: gain of 1.66 ± 0.03 and the best protein efficiency ratio of 3.10 ± 0.05. The highest mortality of 33.33 ± 0.00% (n = 15) was recorded in keets fed 3mm feed particle size. The results showed that birds fed 2mm feed particle size depicted potential for efficient utilization of feed which is related to the fine texture of the feed. Hence, it could be concluded that keets up to 11 weeks of age can be managed effectively on feed particle size 2mm.
Relationship between markers and quantitative traits in the Nigerian local chicken
Authors: Ukwu H. O , Ibe S. N
Published: February 2021

A 20-week experiment was conducted to determine the relationship between markers and some quantitative traits in the Nigerian Local chicken. A total of fifty normal female chickens, about 16-18 weeks of age were used for the study. Data were collected bi-weekly on physiological and biochemical markers (packed cell volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, leucocyte count, blood haemoglobin, blood glucose, rectal temperature) and quantitative traits (egg weight, shell thickness, Haugh unit, body weight, short term egg production) from each bird. The association between each identified marker and the quantitative traits was determined using Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient. Rectal temperature showed significant (P < 0.05) positive association with shell thickness and body weight. Packed cell volume showed significant (p < 0.05) positive association with Haugh unit. However, significant (p < 0.01) negative association was found between rectal temperature and Haugh unit. Packed cell volume showed significant (p < 0.01) negative association with shell thickness and egg weight (p < 0.05). Other markers did not show any significant association with the quantitative traits studied. The results of this study suggest that since packed cell volume and rectal temperature showed definite association with important quantitative traits, they should be included in the marker bank that could be used by animal breeders and producers in marker assisted selection.
Protein and energy partitioning for growth by rabbits fed soybean cheese waste diet and lablab hay
Authors: Nwagu F. O , Iyeghe-Erakpotobor G. T.
Published: February 2021

Thirty crossbred rabbits were randomly allocated to five treatment combinations of soybean waste meal and lablab forage hay in a completely randomized design. The treatments comprised graded levels of soybean cheese waste meal diet (SCW) and lablab hay (LH) on a gram: gram basis: 1) 100g SCW: 60g LH (100:60S), 2) 75g SCW: 85g LH (75:85S), 3) 50g SCW: 110g LH (50:110S), 4) 25g SCW: 135g LH (25:135S), 5) 100g rabbit diet: 60g LH (100:60R,control). This gives a total feed supply of 160g/rabbit/day. Metabolic weight gain, empty body gain and composition of gain were significantly (p<0.001) higher for rabbits on 100:60S than 100:60R (control) and decreases with decrease in level of soybean cheese waste diet. Digestible crude protein (DCP) intake was higher (p<0.05) for the control (100:60R) than the SCW levels. DCP maintenance (DCPm) was significantly (p<0.05) lower for rabbits on 50:110S than 100:60S but similar for all other treatments. DCP content of gain, total DCP required for protein synthesis decreased significantly (p<0.001) as level of SCW decreased and LH increased and was higher for 100:60S than the control and other levels. Efficiency of DCP utilization for growth decreased as SCW level decreased and ranged between 0.41-0.85. Digestible energy (DE) intake of rabbits was significantly higher (p<0.001) on 25:135S and lower for 100:60S. More DE was retained as protein, fat and for growth by rabbits on 100:60S than the control and other SCW levels. DE. DE requirement for protein, fat, growth and total energy required for growth also decreased with decrease in level of SCW. The control and 75:85S rabbits significantly had higher DE requirement than 25:135S. Efficiency of DE utilization for growth was similar for the control, 100:60S and 75:85S than 25:135S. Efficiency of DE utilization ranged between 0.21-0.24 and was lowest on 25:135S.
The Effect of Limestone Deposits as Calcium Source on the Performance of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Tion M. A , Offiong S. A , Njoku P. C
Published: February 2021

Four trials (two at the starter phase and two at the finisher phase) were carried out in a study that utilized Anak-180 broiler chickens to evaluate the potentials of six limestone sources (that were procured from Ashaka, Calabar, Jakura, Sokoto, Ukpila and Yandev cement factories) for inclusion in broiler diets as calcium source. The control diet accounted for the seventh dietary treatment. The first chick trial (Trial 1) utilized 525 chicks and the second (Trial 2) utilized 420 chicks from day old to 28 days of age. Dietary treatments in each trial were replicated 3 times such that Trial 1 had 25 chicks per replicate and Trial 2 had 20 chicks. The first finisher trial (Trial 3) utilized 315 chickens with 15 birds per replicate, the second (Trial 4) utilized 252 chickens with 12 birds per replicate from 35 days of age to 56 days. The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design. Measurements were taken for, feed intake, body weight gain, efficiency of feed conversion, leg disorders and mortality rate. Results indicated significant (P<0.05) differences in feed intake and weight gain in trial 1. In trial 2, all performance traits were significantly (P<0.05) different among the diets. Both leg disorders and mortality rate occurred in trial 1 but were mild in trial 2. There were no significant (P>0.05) differences among the limes in the performance traits in trial 3, but trial 4 showed significant (P<0.05) differences among the dietary means for feed intake, and weight gain. Generally, the study showed improved performance traits over suggested bench mark standard in this country. Leg disorders did not affect performance traits adversely; both leg disorders and mortality rate were adjudged to be independent of limestone sources tested. It was concluded that, the limestone sources tested were good calcium sources for broiler diets.
Availability of cassava residues and by-products for goat production in cassava based farming system
Authors: Fasae O. A. , Idowu O. M. O. , Moronkola A. , Ijaduola , O. A
Published: February 2021

A study was carried out to investigate into the availability of cassava residues and by products and the utilization of the residues for goat production in Odeda local government area of Ogun state. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire coupled with occasional farm visits and personal interviews, from the farmers involved in the production of goats and cassava. Results showed that cassava is a major crop in the area and the cultivation of different cassava varieties is common. Cassava leaves, peels and sieviate were the common residues and by-products available and most farmers used these residues to feed their goats. The response of goats to cassava residues based diets was investigated using sixteen (16) West African dwarf goats, aged 4 to 6 months with average body weight of 6.5kg in a completely randomized design. The four treatments used namely (diets A to D) contained varying levels of cassava leaves, peels and sieviate and were repli performance increased (P < 0.05) with increasing level of cassava leaves in the diets. Weight gain of goats ranged from 30.02 to 37.85g/day across the dietary treatments. In conclusion, cassava residues are readily available in the study area and the response of goats fed diet C consisting 50% cassava leaves, 30% cassava peels and 20% cassava sieviate produced the best performance in terms of feed intake, digestibility and weight gain. This can therefore be recommended as best combination strategy in making use of cassava residues in goat feeding in Nigeria.
Dry matter yield, mineral contents and proximate composition of Panicum maximum (Jacq var. Ntchisi) sown with forage legumes
Authors: Ajayi F. T
Published: February 2021

This study assessed the dry matter yield, mineral and proximate composition of Panicum maximum Jacq var. Ntchisi planted with Lablab purpureus (Lablab), Centrosema pubescens (Centro), Aeschynomene histrix (A. histrix) and Stylosanthes guianensis (Stylo) in a 3 x 5 factorial experiment using Randomized Complete Block Design in early, mid and late rainy season. The dry matter yields (DMY) of panicum sown with Lablab (11.82 t/ha/yr) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that observed for other mixtures. The least DMY of 9.46 t/ha/yr was observed for panicum in panicum/ A. histrix mixture. The yields recorded for Stylo and Lablab were highest in mid and late rainy seasons than in the early rain. Panicum sown with Lablab had the highest DM (37.71g/100g DM), Crude protein (CP) (11.36g/100g DM), ether extracts (7.20g/100g DM) and ash content (2.52g/100g DM). Among the legumes, Lablab had the highest CP (23.29 g/100g DM), crude fibre (10.61 g/100g DM) and ash content (3.96 g/100g DM). However, Centro was highest in ether extract (9.30g/100g DM). Panicum sown with Lablab had higher concentration of sodium (Na) and iron (Fe) while panicum planted with Stylo had highest concentration of phosphorus (P). The concentration of calcium (Ca) was similar (P>0.05) among the mixtures but differed (P<0.05) in the legumes. Stylo had the highest Ca concentration (0.72%) whereas highest P and Fe values were observed in Lablab. In conclusion, panicum harvested from panicum/lablab mixture had the highest DMY, CP, EE and ash content of grass in early, mid and late rainy season than the other mixtures.
Carcass yield and internal organs of broiler chickens fed diets treated with organic acids
Authors: Ndelekwute E. K. , Amaefule K. U , Anigbogu N. M , Onen G. E.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different organic acids (OAs on carcass yield and internal organ characteristics of broiler chickens. The OAs were acetic acid (AA) butyric acid (BA), citric acid (CA) and formic acid (FA). One hundred and fifty (150) day old AborAcre - plus chicks were used. There were five dietary treatments. Diet 1 which served as control (CON) contained no OA, while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively contained 0.25% AA, BA, CA and FA which replaced palm kernel cake in which each treatment was replicated three times with 10 birds per replicate and arranged in completely randomized design (CRD). Diets were both isoenergetic and isonitrogenous. The experiment lasted for 8 weeks. Feed and water were given ad libitum. At the end of the 8 weeks of feeding, 3 birds from each replicate giving a total of 9 birds per treatment were slaughtered for carcass and internal organ evaluation. Result from the carcass evaluation showed that there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in dressed carcass weight, thigh, wing and drumstick. All the OAs except BA produced bigger breast meat compared to the birds fed control diet. The weight of the backcut was significantly (P<0.05) reduced by FA compared to the birds on control diet. Birds that consumed FA treated diet deposited more abdominal fat and AA produced the least (P<0.05). Internal organ result indicated that both the liver and the kidney were not negatively affected by OA treated diets. Caecum and the large intestine were significantly larger in than those obtained from birds fed the control diet. Therefore, addition of the OAs except BA to broiler diets could be a good practice considering their positive effect on the breast meat which is a premium cut part.
Prevalence of rumen impaction with non-biodegradable materials in cattle in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Akinrinmade J. F. , Akinrinde S. A.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted on 3031 cattle slaughtered in Ibadan over a period of three months to determine the prevalence of rumen impaction with indigestible garbage and evaluate breed, sex, age and some blood indices as risk factors. Thorough antemortem and postmortern examinations were carried out on each of the animals to determine the breed, health status, sex, age and presence of indigestible garbage in the rumen while blood samples were collected and analysed only for animals with indigestible garbage, to determine total serum protein and phosphorus levels. Results showed overall prevalence of rumen impaction was 10.77% and it differed significantly between breeds, but was highest in the Red Bororo (RB). Sex and age had significant influence on the prevalence of rumen impaction. It was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in females than in males and in older animals than in younger ones. Total serum protein and phosphorus levels were significantly lower than reference values in animals with rumen impaction.
Effects of diets containing alkali-treated Soybeans on performance traits, nutrient digestibility and cost benefits of broiler chickens
Authors: Ari M. M. , Ayanwale B. A. , Adama T. Z. , Olatunji E. A.
Published: February 2021

The effects of diets containing different alkali-treated soybeans on performance traits, nutrient digestibility and cost implication of broiler chickens was evaluated using 240 day-old Anak broiler chickens that were randomly divided into four (4) experimental groups of three replicates each. The soybeans were treated in alkali as follows: soaked in water as T1 (control), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) as T2, Potassium carbonate (K2CO3) as (T3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as T4. The alkali-treated soybeans were incorporated into the diets at both starter and finisher phases using a completely randomized design. There were significant (P<0.05) variations in performance parameters, nutrient retention and bio-economic implication indices measured. The use of potassium carbonate (1% K2CO3) and sodium carbonate (1% Na2CO3) in the processing of soybean recorded greater improvement in the performance traits, nutrient retention and economic returns. These factors accounted for the overall best performance recorded in 1% K2CO3 - treated soybeans which was closely followed by 1% Na2CO3 treated soybean base diets
Effects of raw and toasted Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) seed meal on broiler chicken performance
Authors: Obun C. O. , Adeyemi O. A.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and ten day-old Arbor acre broiler chicks were used to assess the protein quality of raw and toasted Daniellia oliveri seed meal (DOSM) on performance, haematology, and some biochemical indices. Seven treatment diets that contained 0% (control), 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% raw DOSM and 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% toasted DOSM respectively were randomly assigned to seven groups of 30 birds each, replicated thrice with 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Chemical analysis indicated that raw DOSM contained (% DM) 26.50 crude protein, 6.02 crude fibre, 4.30 ether extract, 4.06 ash and 47.47 carbohydrate. The results of the crude fibre (3.19%), ash (2.8%) and nitrogen free extracts (40.51%) were reduced after toasting while the crude protein (28.60%) and ether extract (7.85%) increased. The raw DOSM contained (mg/100g) tannin (2.23), phytic acid (30.39), oxalate (20.02), hydrocyanide (6.05) and saponin (2.08). Toasting treatment eliminate almost completely the anti nutritional compounds in the seeds. Performance data indicate that body weight gain and feed to gain ratio were significantly (P<0.05) better in broiler chicks fed 0.0, 2.5 % raw and all levels of toasted DOSM diets than those on 5.0 and 7.5% raw DOSM based diets. The results of the packed cell volume, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, haemoglobin, serum protein, albumin, glucose and cholesterol of birds on 0.0 %, 2.5% raw and all levels of toasted DOSM diets did not showed any significant effect (P>0.05) but differed (P<0.05) from those on 5.0 and 7.5% raw DOSM. The inclusion of 5 and 7.5 % raw DOSM significantly (P<0.05) decreased weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, haematological and biochemical indices. From the results, it can be concluded that inclusion of 2.50% raw DOSM and up to 7.5% toasted DOSM as a replacement for ground nut meal has no adverse effects on the performance, haematological and serum biochemistry
Evaluation of the toxic effect of aqueous extract of the bark of Morinda morindoides root in male Wistar rats
Authors: Olukunle J. O. , Ajayi O. L. , Adenubi O. T. , Jacobs E. B. , Okediran B. S. , Akinkuotu O. A.
Published: February 2021

The toxic effect of the aqueous extract of the bark of the root of Morinda morindoides was studied in 24 sexually matured, male Wistar rats weighing between 150-200g. The rats were randomly divided into four groups (I-IV). Rats in groups I, II and III received 400 mg/kg, 800 mg/kg and I,600 mg/kg of 50mg/ml of the aqueous extract respectively once daily for 28 days while the control group (Group IV) was given distilled water (5ml/kg) once daily for 28 days after which the rats were euthanized. Following euthanasia, about 3 ml of blood was collected and was divided into 1.5ml each for haematology and serum chemistry. In addition, samples of the kidney, liver, heart, lungs and spleen were also harvested for histopathology. Haematological and serum biochemical values were expressed as mean ± standard error of mean and were analyzed using One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s multiple range test. Lesions observed in histopathology were scored as mild, moderate or severe. Results were considered statistically significant at 95% confidence interval (P<0.05). In this study, there was no significant difference in the haematological parameters, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase between the treated groups and the control. Histopathologically, the extract caused mild, diffuse degeneration of the liver, mild tubular nephrosis; mononuclear cellular infiltration in the heart and mild hypoplasia of the lymphoid nodules in the spleen of rats to which 1,600 mg/kg of the extract was administered. It was therefore concluded that aqueous extract of the root of Morinda morindoides may produce subchronic toxicity at the dosage of 1600mg/kg.
Unethical practices relating to cattle freedom, care and control among the market handlers in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Akinyemi P. L. , Babayemi O. J. , Agulana C. , Bamikole M. K.
Published: February 2021

Study on some unethical practices affecting cattle among the market handlers was carried out. The three major market centres for cattle in Ibadan city (Akinyele, Bodija and Oranyan) were purposively selected. Eighty (80) structured questionnaires were randomly administered to the respondents in order to elicit information on animal freedom, care and control. Percentage of handlers that believed cattle had no freedom of their own was 51.3. In animal care, 40.0%, 31.3%, 30.0%, 12.5%, 7.5% and 5.0% were of the opinion that cattle could be respectively tired, hungry, sick, heady, injured and being in a strange environment might be the reasons for their refusal to obey the instruction of the handlers. In controlling the cattle for a direction, 85.7%, 10.4% and 3.9% of the handlers used ‘wooden rod’ (Sanda), ‘whip’ and ‘stick’ respectively as the best technique. When an animal did not yield to an instruction to move, 84.0% and 16.0% of the handlers respectively employed dragging and beating as the final option. The study showed that majority of cattle market handlers were inhumane in the freedom, care and control of the animals and therefore, recommends that awareness should be created for a better understanding in animal freedom, care and control.
Effect of maternal haemoglobin variants and lamb genotype on pre-weaning growth rate of sheep of Northern Nigerian and their crosses
Authors: Iyiola A. O. , Akpa G. N. , Nwagu B. I. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

Pre-weaning growth trait of sheep of Northern Nigerian (Balami, Uda and Yankasa) subjected to diallel crossing were estimated using 127 lambs. The study was conducted at National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Zaria, Nigeria. Blood (5ml) samples were collected from ewes and rams that produce the lambs to evaluate the effect of parental haemoglobin (Hb) variant on the pre-weaning growth rate of lambs. Weight and average daily gain (ADG) of lambs were obtained at 2 weeks interval to 12th week. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance using General Linear Model Procedure of SAS. Pair-wise difference was used to separate the mean. Frequency of ewes’ Hb genotype in relation to lambs was sorted and tested with Chi Square Procedure of SAS. The result showed that HbAB was the predominant (P<0.01) variant in the studied population, observed in 60% of the ewes and 100% of the sires. Allele A had the highest frequency (62%) in the dam population. The genotypic distribution of Hb variants in the population significantly deviated from Hardy Weinberg equilibrium (χ2 = 50.8, P<0.01). HbAB and HbBB dams gave birth to lambs that were heavier (P<0.01) than lambs from HbAA from birth to 12 weeks of age. Crossbred lambs from Balami rams and Uda ewes (BL x UD) recorded the highest weight (4.47±0.20 kg) at birth while the least weight (1.73±0.20 kg) at birth was obtained from crossbred lambs given birth to by Yankasa rams and Balami ewes (YK X BL). Pure Balami lambs (BL X BL) was outstandingly superior (P<0.05) to lambs from other genotypes starting from the second week of age up to weaning (12th week). BL X BL also recorded the highest (238.09±12.42 g) average daily gain from birth to 2 weeks of age (ADG2). The ADG decreased linearly as the lambs advanced in age from birth to weaning. Balami sheep are capable of expressing their genetic potentials (better growth than others) in the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria. Genetic improvement of growth traits of Nigerian sheep using indigenous stock should focus on the exploitation of genetic potentials in terms of faster growth rate of Balami sheep.
Effect of testosterone enanthate on the growth rate of large white pigs reared in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Ladokun A. O.
Published: February 2021

A total of 48 large white pigs were used in an experiment to investigate the use of exogenous testosterone on the growth of pigs. The pigs were randomly selected as day old piglets, balanced for weight with equal number for each sex, and allotted to two treatment groups, T1, which received Testosterone Enanthate (TE), intramuscularly, weekly, for 24 weeks and T2, the control, which received no hormone but blank injections. Dosage was based on live weight (1.2mg/kg live weight). Corn oil served as the vehicle. The parameters measured include Total weight gain (TWG), Average Daily Gain (ADG), Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI) and Feed Conversion Ratio. The results obtained showed that exogenous testosterone increased weight gain significantly (p<0.05) in both sexes than their respective controls. The same trend was observed for feed intake and feed conversion. Exogenous testosterone also indicated pronounced sex effect on the pigs in this study with males having significantly (p<0.05) higher values than females. It can be concluded from this study that exogenous testosterone can be used to accelerate growth thereby finishing the pigs early. A withdrawal period of 4 weeks before slaughter is however recommended.