bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of broiler to skip a day (SAD) feeding
Authors: Oyedeji J. O. , Atteh J. O , Adedeji S. A.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and eighty day-old broilers were used to investigate the response of broilers to skip-a-day feeding regime. Broiler chicks were either fed ad libitum or subjected to 1,2,3,4 or 5 week skip feeding thereafter fed ad libitum to market age. Result at market age showed that feed intake was significantly reduced (P<0.05), P>0.025) while weight gain and feed to gain ratio were not significantly affected (P>0.05, P>0.025)by skip a-day feeding. Skip-a-day feeding did not affect mortality of broilers (P>0.05),P>0.025), protein retention, fat retention and fibre utilization were comparable for broilers in all treatments (P>0.05, P>0.025). Abdominal fat pad was significantly reduced (P<0.05,P<0.025) by the skip-a-day feeding when compared with ad libitum feeding. The economic data showed that cost of production was reduced (P<0.05, P<0.025) by the application of skip-a-day feeding. However cost to benefit ratio remained comparable (P>0.05, P>0.025) when the two feeding systems were compared. It was concluded that, if approximately applied, skip-a-day feeding could result in sufficient cost reduction to be of commercial importance.
The study of linear body measurements of West African Dwarf (WAD) lambs and kids under traditional management system
Authors: Ogungbayi A. T. , Abiola S. S. , Ozoje M. O.
Published: February 2021

Linear dimensions of WAD lambs and kids were compared under traditional management system from birth to weaning age of 3 months. At hirth, male and female lambs were comparable to their kid counter parts in body length (BL) and Height-at-withers (HW) but inferior to kids in Heart Girth (HG),, Mean HG for lambs at birth was 23.09cm while that of kid was 26.62cm. At 3 months, mean HG for lambs was 49.40cm while that of kids was 46.24cm. Birth type had significant effects 
(P<0.05) on linear dimensions at birth and weaning. For both species, linear dimensions increased with increase in birth and weaning weights. The superiority of WAD lambs is body dimensions Compared to WAD kids is indicative of better frame size in lambs at post weaning age.
Preliminary studies on Tephrosia species: Effect of seed treatments on germination
Authors: Babayemi O. J. , Daniel I. O. , Bamikole M. A. , Ogungbesan A. , Oduguwa B. O.
Published: February 2021

Germination tests were conducted on the seeds of three species of Tephrosia (T. bracteolata, T. candida, and T. linearis) to investigate potential seedling establishment and possible pre-treatments to improve seed germination. Pre-culture treatments were: i) No treatment (control), ii) rubbed in sand paper, iii) soaking in boiled water for 30 seconds, iv) for 3 minutes, v) for 5 minutes, vi) soaking in concentrated sulphuric acid, and vii) soaking in water for 24 hours. After treatment, a total of two hundred and fifty seeds (5 replicates each of 50 seeds) were cultured on moist filter paper for 15 days. Cumulative percentage germination, percentage dormant seeds and germination rates were calculated. Seeds of all the species of Tephrosia exhibited innate dormancy at varying levels, but most pronounced in T. linearis. Soaking seeds in boiled water for 30 seconds to 5 minutes resulted in higher seed germination (p<0.05) than other pre-culture seed treatments in all the genotypes. Percentage hard seeds were also minimal in seeds treated this way, indicating effective dormancy alleviation in Tephrasia by these treatments. From the trial, soaking seeds in boiled water for 30 seconds is recommended as treatment of Tephrosia seeds to enhance germination and optimal potential seedling establishment.
Yield performance of commercialized upland fish farms in Ondo state of Nigeria
Authors: Mafimisebi T. E.
Published: February 2021

The study examined the socio-demographic characteristics of fish farmers, evaluated the profitability of upland fish farms in the study area and determined the key variables to which profitability is responsive. Empirical results showed the majority of the fish farms came into business less than ten years ago while 62.0% of the managers of the fish farm had formal education. The total farm size of the twenty-two fish farms surveyed was 229,112m2 and the average size of a fish pond unit was 1.863m2. Table fish production was preponderant over fingerlings production. About 70.0% of the fish farms practised monoculture, 23.33%used polycultural method and 6.67% employed both. The major fish species commonly cultivated were Tilapia, Alextes, Heterotis and Catfish. The fixed cost per hectare of fish farm for the period studied was ₦517,591.48  while variable cost stood a 
2,053906.68. The most important components of fixed costs were labor (41.02%), bore-hole and water pumps (22.10%.) and land and pond construction (14.5%). For variable cost the most expensive items were fish feeds (51.44%). fish seeds (17.30%) and transportation and fuel (13.16%). The average profit per hectare of fish farm was ₦960,037.57 per year. Various profitability ratios revealed that investment in uppland fish farms is a worthwhile business but investor's need to do something about the fluctuating trends of some of the indices since the desirable trend is either a consistent increase or decrease. A sensitivity analysis carried out showed that profitability is more responsive to the unit price of fish compared with cost of inputs. The NPV, B/C and IRR were ₦1,571,710.15, 1.53 and 52.4% respectively. The three indicators attest to the fact that fish culture is very profitable in the study area. It is recommended that the various governments make access to Iand and investible funds at affordable rates a priority in the study area. There is also the need for the establishment of a modern hatchery which will supply fingerlings to fish farmers at subsidized rates.
The influence of lactation stage on the milk constituents of Sahelian goats
Authors: Ibeawuchi J. A , Ahamefule F. O. , Ringim I. A
Published: February 2021

Twelve lactating sahelian goals aged between 2 and 3 years and averaging 25kg body weight were selected from the herd of the University of Maiduguri Teaching and Research Farm, for a 19-week lactation study. The does were classified into early mid and late lactation stages and maintained daily on 1kg concentrate mixture per animal in addition to grazing on Gambia Grass. Milk collected were analysed for total solids (TS), butterfat, protein, solids-non-fat (SNF), Ash and energy. The mean percentage values (M+SE) of colostrum were TS 14.96 ± 0.41; butterfat 8.58±1.0; protein 5.64±0.31; ash 0.93±0.07; SNF 6.37±0.51; and energy 3.21 ± 0.39 MJ/kg. The overall mean values for mature milk were 13.18±0.27, 7.52±0.18, 4.81±0.14, 0.76±0.03, 5.66±0.16% and 2.79±0.12 MJ/KG respectively for TS. fat, protein, ash SNF and energy. There was a gradual decline in the values of all the components of colostrum from day 1-6 after kidding. Generally, colostrum constituents were higher in concentration than those of mature milk on the 7th day after parturition. The mature milk constituents tended to increase with advancing lactation. Milk constituents (especially Fat, Protein and SNF), as evident from this study could be manipulated through feeding.
Evaluation of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as a substitute for soya bean meal in the diet of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings
Authors: Obasa S. O. , Dada A. A. , Alegbeleye W. O.
Published: February 2021

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) meal was substituted for soybean meal in the practical diets for Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings. Six iso-nitrogenous diets (35% crude protein) were formulated in which heat-treated soybean meal was replaced at varying levels (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%) with protein from pressure-cooked and sun dried pigeon meal (23% crude protein). Nile tilapia fed 60% pigeon pea meal had significantly (P<0.01) better growth response and nutrient utilisation. Growth was depressed in low pigeon pea fish and also in high (above 60%) pigeon pea diets. The poorest feed conversion ratio was observed from 100% pigeon pea fed fish.
Experimental infections of domestic rabbits (oryctolagus cuniculus) with Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosma congolense: A comparative study
Authors: Ezeokonkwo R. C. , Agu W. E.
Published: February 2021

Comparative study of single infections of domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with Nigerian isolates of Trypanosoma brucei (Gboko strain), and Trypanosoma congolesense (Binchi strain) was carried out in the laboratory for clinical and haematological effects. Eighteen rabbits of 10-14 weeks old weighing between 600- 1200 grams were used for the study. The rabbits of both sexes were randomly selected and divided into groups. The level of infection was studied by determining red blood cell (RBC) count, haemoglobin estimation, total and differential white blood cell (WBC) count, changes in body weight, mortality, rectal temperature  changes and other clinical signs of trypanosomiasis. There was significant reduction (P<0.001) in the total red blood cell counts and haemoglobin level in the rabbits when compared to the control rabbits with the effect being more pronounced in those rabbits infected with T. congolense. The white blood cell count was also highest in those rabbits infected with T. congolense. Both parasites produced similar clinical symptoms which included weight loss, unthriftiness, anorexia, fever, paleness of mucous membrane, and oedema of the facial region. One death was recorded in each of the infected group. Possible reasons for the significant differences in the total red blood cell count, haemoglobin level, and total whitre blood cell count are discussed.
Phenotypic relationships between gestation length and preweaning litter traits in rabbits.
Authors: Durunna O. N. , Ogundu U. E.
Published: February 2021

A total of 135 kittens from 22 kindlings were used to determine the relationship between gestation length (GL) and some preweaning litter traits alongside the weight of their 12 dams. Average daily gain at 21 days (ADG21), average litter weight at birth (ALWB), kindling to weaning viability (KWV), litter size at birth{L.SB), litter size at 21 days (LS21), litter weight at 21 days(LW21), litter weight at birth (LWAB), and still birth number (SBN) when subjected to multiple regression analysis revealed non-significant t-test value with GL. However, Average litter weight at 21 days (ALW21) was highly significant (P<0.01) suggesting that such can be used to predict GL. Weight of doe (WOD) was highly significant (P<0.01) showing that such parameter is important for predicting GL. A high R2 value was obtained indicating that the variability in GL is explained by the linearity of the preweaning litter traits and WOD. However the correlation coefficient R, (0.89) revealed a high degree of association between the preweaning litter traits in the rabbits and the weight of doe in a linear form. The F-value was significant at P<0.05 indicating that WOD and the preweaning litter traits in rabbits have significant contribution to the variation in GL. The correlations among traits were positive and significant for majority of the traits, which include live birth number (LBN), ADG21, ALW21, KWV, LS21, and LW21. However SBN had negative correlation with other traits.
Effect of enzyme supplementation on the utilization of shrimp waste meal based diets by broiler chicken
Authors: Oduguwa O. O. , Fanimo A. O. , Jegede A. V.
Published: February 2021

The effects of enzyme supplementation of shrimp waste meal (SHM) based diets on the performance and nutrient utilization of starter and finisher broilers were studied. One hundred and twenty day old broilers (Anak sirain) were randomly divided into four groups of 30 birds each. Each group was further divided into three replicates of 10 birds each. The birds were assigned the four dietary treatment in 2 X 2 factorial design, Diets 1 and 3 had fish meal as the sole animal protein source, diets 2 and 4 had shrimp waste as the animal protein source. Diets 1 and 2 were without enzymes while diels 3 and 4 were supplemented with enzyme. Records of performance, nutrient utilization, blood parameters and carcass characteristics were taken. The values of average final weight, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio at starter and finisher phases were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the dietary treatment. The daily feed intake of the starter broilers fed diet 3 (fish meal based diets with enzyme) was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of other treatment. Birds fed fish meal diet without enzyme had the highest serum uric acid and serum cholesterol at the starter phase. Finisher broiler fed fish meal based diet without enzyme had a significantly (P<0.05) higher serum creatinine value. Carcass characteristics measured were not significantly influenced by the dietary treatments. It was concluded that SWM can be employed as an animal protein source in broiler diets. The exogenous enzyme (Roxazyme G) used did not effect any appreciable improvement on the utilization of SWM based diets.
Incidence of trypanosomosis in a Muturu herd at Nsukka, South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Anene B. M. , Eze J. I. , Nnaji T. O. , Anya K. O. , Udegbunam S. O. , Ezekwe A. G.
Published: February 2021

A herd of 38 Muturu cattle under semi-intensive system of management at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Agricultural Farm, southeastern, Nigeria, was examined for the presence of trypanosome infection over a one year period (April, 1998 - March, 1999). The aim was to assess the incidence of trypanosoniosis and factors that may affect its occurrence variation. Infection was widespread in the herd (67.9%) during the period. Out of the factors (season, sex and age) only season showed a significant effect on the occurrence of trypanosomosis. The incidence was highest in the third quarter of the year corresponding 10 the late rainy season period, followed by the fourth quarter (early dry season, and was least in the first quarter (late dry season). This seasonal incidence varied between 2.6% (CI, 0.3 - 9.196) to 20.396 (CI,12.0-30.8%) 411 the infections were due to Trypanosoma vivax and the principal tsetse vector was Glossina tachinoides. Parasitaemic animals were able to control anaemia as their PCPs vere similar to those of uninfected animals (P>0.05). The importance of these findings in relation to the general epizootiology of trypanosomosis and animal production in the area is discussed.
Carcass and non-carcass characteristics of Bunaji (White Fulani) cattle
Authors: Lamidi O. S. , Oni O. O. , Adamu A. M. , Alawa C. B. I. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

Offal parts and carcass component data from 40 Bunaji bulls bought from open market and culled from the herds were slaughtered for beef at the meat laboratory of the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) were used to determine the carcass components and Offal yield of bunaji cattle. Dressing percentages of the caule ranges between 53.05±1.44 and 51.03±0.23 for the bulls and cows respectively. The differences were not significant (P>0.05). The bulls have significantly (P<0.05) heavier live weight, carcass weight, quantity of beef and hump muscles than cows. On the average the bulls gave 119.03±3.22kg of beef compared to 110.77±7.22kg of boneless beef produced by the cows. This value represented about 65.55±0.51 and 63.8±1.14% of the carcass weight of the bulls and cows respectively. The bulls have significantly (p<0.05) heavier external offal (54.75±1.72kg) than the cows (43.38±2.44kg). These represented about 17.28±0.23 and 15.28±0.71% of the live weight of the bulls and cow's respectively. The total internal offal (liver, kidney, heart, spleen, lungs, trachea, stomach and intestines) are similar (P<0.05) between the bulls and cows and represented about 5.25±0.15 and 6.75±0.34% of the carcass weight of the bulls and cows respectively. The results of this study show that the File Fulani cattle compared favorably with other African breeds in terms of carcass and non-carcass output. However, a larger proportion of the weight is in the external offal that are nutritionally of low value.
Use of the African locust bean, Parkia biglobosa waste slurry as energy feedstuff in practical diets for Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus L
Authors: Akegbejo-Samsons Y. , Ojini J. N.
Published: February 2021

An assessment of the nutritive value of the waste slurry of the African locust bean, Parkia biglobosa as an energy source in practical diets for tilapia was carried out in glass aquaria. Five diets (35% crude protein) were formulated in which yellow maize was replaced at varying level with parkia slurry waste as follows: Diet 1, (100% slurry), diet 2, (100% yellow maize); diet 3 (75% slurry, 25% yellow maize), diet 4 (50% slurry, 50% yellow maize), diet 5 (25% slurry, 75% yellow maize). Growth performance and nutrient utilization of the fish were based on average daily weight gain (ADG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and protein efficiency ratio (PER). Good growth and feed utilization efficiencies were obtained in all diets, however diet 5 had significantly better growth and food utilization with the highest average daily weight gain (ADG) of 0.60, SGR (2.32) and PER (3.05% per day). Difference in SGR were not significantly different between all diets. The result showed that parkia slurry was better utilized by tilapia fish in diets 3 and 5 where their replacements were neither wholly nor equal.
Performance evaluation of growing rabbits fed varying levels of rumen content and blood rumen-content mixture
Authors: Dairo F. A. S , Aina O. O. , Asafa A. R.
Published: February 2021

A total of 42 growing rabbits of different crossbreds with initial average weight of 1.20kg were fed rations in wghuch rumen content (RC) and blood-rumen content (BRC) proteins were substituted for groundnut cake protein in a completely randomized design. they were grouped into 7 treatments for 3 replicates, each containing 2 rabbits. They were fed RC and BRC in a practical diet at 10, 20 and 30% dietary inclusion levels for 56 days. The average daily feed intake(ADFI), average daily weight gain (ADWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) were not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by the treatments. The dry matter and protein digestibility coefficients were significantly (P<0.05) affected. The feed cost per kg diet and feed per kg gain were significantly(P<0.05)influenced. Among the internal organs evaluated, the liver and the kidney weights, small intestine and caecum length were also significantly (P<0.05) influenced. The dressing percentage was also affected significantly (P<0.05). The study showed that RC and BRc could be influenced at 305 dietary inclusion in growing rabbit's ration without deleterious effect. However, further investigation into long-term effect of feeding on the orgns of the animal is suggested
Comparison of the prevalence of trypanosomal infection in indigenous cattle in the Guinea and Derived Savannah Vegetational Zones of South-Western Nigeria.
Authors: Adedapo A. A. , Saba A. B. , Arowolo R. O. A. , Abatan M. O.
Published: February 2021

wo hundred and two blood samples from White Fulani breed of cattle, comprising 130 from the Guinea Savannah and 72 from the derived Savannah vegetational zones of South-Western Nigeria were examined for presence of trypanosomes. These animals were reared under the nomadic system of management such that they were constantly exposed to tsetse bite both during the day and night The results of this analysis showed that the prevalence of trypanosomal infection in the Derived Savannah and Guinea Savannah vegetational zones were 45.8% and 27.5 % respectively. Though the incidence of trypanosomal infection is less in the Guinea Savannah vegetational zone reluta to the Derived Savannah, livestock production during the dry season is severely limited due to inadequate pasture at this time of the year.
Growth performance of Oreochromis niloticus fed diets in which cooked soybean replaced fish meal
Authors: Adeparusi E. O.
Published: February 2021

Five experimental diets were formulated. In the control diet fishmeal was used as the sole source of dietary protein. The protein of the fishmeal in the control diet was replaced with varying levels of dehulled and cooked soybean meals at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 90% levels to supply 30% crude protein as required by Oreochromis niloticus._All diets were maintained iso-nitrogenous (30% crude protein) and isocaloric (285 Kcal/100g DE, 428.89+ 2.31 Kcal/100g GE) by varying the amount of corn. In a 56 days feeding experiment Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings were fed the diets. The feeding trial was conducted in glass aquaria. Evaluation of growth parameters and nutrient utilization of the fish was based on weight gain, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency ratio and protein productive value. Best growth and nutrient utilization was obtained in fish fed the control diet and it decreased as the soybean level increased in the diet. Cost of diets reduced with inclusion of soybean meal. However, the cost of 1kg gain in body weight of Oreochromis niloticus was lowest on the control diet due to lower feed conversion ratio. Statistic analysis revealed that the soybean inclusion levels in diet is negatively correlated to weight gain and protein gain but has a strong positive correlation with lipid content of the fish carcass.
Effects of replacing dietary fish meal or soybean meal with shrimp waste meal on the performance of laying hens
Authors: Oduguwa O. O. , Mercy A. O. , Oso J.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and forty-four (144) 45 week old laying hens of Black Nera strain were used in an experiment to determine the effect of replacing dietary fish meal (FM) or soybean meal (SBM) with shrimp waste meal (SWM) on the performance of laying birds. The birds were randomly allocated to three groups of 48 birds each. Each group was further divided into four replicates of twelve (12) birds each. Three iso-proteinous and iso-caloric diets were formulated such that a practical layer diet which served as the control diet (diet I) contained soybean meal (SBM) and fishmeal (FM) as the major protein sources. In diet 2, the FM in the control diet (25gkg') was replaced by SWM (40.43kg ') (protein for protein), while SWM (201.5gkg"') was made to replace the SBM (180gkg') in the control diet (protein for protein) in diet 3. The birds were given feed and water ad libitum. The experiment lasted 10 weeks. The performance in terms of feed intake, hen-day production, egg number and efficiency of egg production (i.e. dozen egg per kg feed) indicated that birds on diet ? (SWM/SBM) performed equally well as those in the control diet. Performance was however significantly (P<0.05) reduced when SWM replaced the protein supplied by SBM in which case about 20% of SWM was employed. There were no significant differences in the albumen height, shell thickness, egg shape index and haugh units of eggs produced. Birds on diet 3 however had the lowest (P<0.05) values of egg weight, egg length, egg breadth and the weights of yolk and albumen, Results of this study showed that shrimp waste-meal at minimal level (4%) can successfully replace fishmeal in a practical layers diet without negatively affecting performance or egg quality of the birds. However, replacing 180g SBM/kg with 201.5g SWM/kg diet had detrimental effect on performance probably because of the high level of SWM that was employed.
Solubility and bioavailability studies of limestone sources with layers.
Authors: Tion M.A. , Njoku P.C. , Ogundipe S.O.
Published: February 2021

Six limestone sources, oystershell, bone meal and dicalcium phosphate were tested for solu and bioavailability in vitro and in vivo. In the in vitro solubility, 1, 0.5 and 0.25 gram of each som was reacted with 100, 50, 25mls of 12N HCl respectively for 30 minutes. The in vivo bioavai. utilized fasted laying chickens, which were force fed 3. Og calcium from each source. Faecal Pain lasted for 48 hours. Calcium was determined by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Result vitro solubility test indicated high solubility rate for dicalcium phosphate (78.9%). Other 5:1:4 produced low solubility values below 40% except for bone ineal. Limestone sources were simi,-:: oystershell. The in vivo bioavailability values of local sources (limestone, oystershell and me meal) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher (87% - 92%) than the imported dicalcium phosa (84.0%). Low solubility of local sources resulted in longer retention time in the GIT, which :-2: the "metering out" effect that produced high bioavailability mean values observed in this Oystershell is universally accepted as a good calcium source for layers. The tested limestone sur was similar to oystershell. It was concluded that any of the sources tested can be used in arz close proximity without fear of adverse effect.
The effect of calorie to protein ratio of practical diets on performance and carcass quality of broiler chickens
Authors: Tion M.A. , Orga M.T. , Adeka I. A.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and ninety two sexed broiler finisher chickens were utilized in a completely randomized design to test the dietary effects of calorie: protein ratio on the performance and carcass quality of Broilers raised 10-63 days of age. Sixteen birds (8 males and 8 females) per pen and 48 per diet were Assigned at random to 12 homogenous pens, each measuring 3.5 x 1.75m? in an open sided poultry house. Feed and water were offered ad libitum. Al the end of the feeding trial, 2 birds of each sex (4 birds/pen and 12/diet), which had their weighis close to the pen average, were selected for carcass evaluation. Processed birds had their abdominal and gizzard fats recovered and weighed. Results showed that calorie: protein ratio had no significant effect on all the performance traits measured. However, statistical analysis of mean values for feed intake and feed: gain ratio was close to attaining significant level at P<0.05. Carcass traits (final body weight, fat weight, and percentage fat) were however significantly (P < 0.05) affected by calorie: protein ratio. The study gives an indication that calorie: protein ratio as wide as 178:7 can be gainfully utilized in this country for finishing broilers to market weight > 2.0kg) in 63 days.
Comparative performance of young growing rabbits fed diets containing cracked and cooked jackbean and jackbean soaked in water prior to cooking
Authors: Udedibie A.B.I. , Essien C.A. , Obikaonu H.O.
Published: February 2021

Studies were conducted to determine the effects of dietary inclusion of cracked and cooked jackbean ICAC JOB) and jackbean that was soaked in water for 72 hours prior to cooking (SACJB) on the performance of young growing rabbits. Five experimental diets were made such that diet I (control) contained no jackbean while diets 2 and 3 contained CACIB at 20% and 30% levels, respectively; diets 4 and 5 contained SAC B also at 20% and 30% levels, respectively. Each diet was fcd to a group of 5 rabbits individually housed for 8 weeks. Feed intakes of the control group and groups on CACIB diets were significantly (P<0.05) smaller than those of the groups on SACJB diets. The groups on 20% and 30% SACJB diets also recorded significantly (P<0.05) higher growth rate than the groups on the control and CARB diets. The feed/gain ratios of the groups followed similar pattern. The weights of the hearts, livers and lungs were not affected by the treatments (P>0.05). There were also no significant differences (P>0.05) in dressing percentage of the groups. Thigh muscles of the groups on SACJB diets contained more fat and less protein relative to the other three groups.
Photostimulated changes in egg production and reproductive performance of the Guinea fowl in a sub-humid tropical environment.
Authors: Oke U. K. , Herbert U. , Joseph K.
Published: February 2021

The effect of photo-induced changes on egg production and reproductive performance of female guinea fowl was studied by exposing the birds to three photo-regimens, namely natural daylight all day for 12 weeks (NDL), 8 hours of light per day for 8 weeks (8L-16D) plus supplementary light for 16 hours per day for 4 weeks (16L-8D) (RSL), and provided natural daylight all day for 8 weeks plus supplementary light at 16 hours per day for 4 weeks (SL). Weight gain during the pre-laying period was similar (P>0.05) in all the treatment groups between 20-36 weeks of age. The reverse was the case during the laying period between 36-52 weeks, which coincided with the age at sexual maturity. Feed intake was similar (P>0.05) for the NDL and SL groups during the pre-laying period but the RSL group had significantly lower (P<0.05) feed intake than the others. Overall laying mortality was lowest in the RSL birds. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in body weight for all the groups. Age at first egg was significantly lower (P<0.05) in the RSL (207 d) than in the NDL (249 d) and SL (235 d) birds which were similar (P>0.05). The guinea fowls which received 8 weeks of restricted light (RSL) responded more rapidly in terms of day-to-first-egg after exposure to 16 hours of light and achieved significantly higher (P<0.05) level of egg production than the other two groups. The overall economy of production, in terms of cost, revealed that RSL birds performed better than the NDL and SL, in that it cost N36.58 and 127.05 more to produce each NDL and SL guinea fowl at point of lay respectively. The results indicate that different light regimes altered the time during which egg production response took place and apparently affected the genetic potentials of the groups with regard to egg mass and total number of eggs laid during the period covered by this trial.
Environmental factors affecting pre-weaning survival of Red Sokoto goats.
Authors: Oke U. K. , Taiwo B.B.A. , Buvanendran' V. , Olorunju S.A.S. , Adu I.F.
Published: February 2021

Effects of environmental factors viz, hirth year, parity, sex, birth type and season of birth on preweaning survival of Red Sokoto goats (RSG) using production records kept between 1978 - 1985 at the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Shika-Zaria were investigated. Birth year, parity and season of birth significantly (P<0.05) affected preweaning survival while birth type and sex of kid did not. The mean survival to weaning at 3 months was 72% and was highest in does with 4 or more parities (77%) and least in primiparous does (66%). Survival was significantly higher during harmattan and worse during the dry season. Losses were more concentrated in the O 7 days of life in primiparous does during the dry season. Overall productivity of does and interac lions between parity and birth cype significantly affected survival. Breeding RSG older than one year to kids preferably during 'harmattan' would improve preweaning survival of the kids.
Effects of breeds and seaon on semen quality and fertility pf bucks in a humid tropical environment.
Authors: Nwoko N. , Ibe S. N.
Published: February 2021

A breeding programme, which spanned over four seasons (early dry, late dry, and early rainy, late rainy), was carried with one west African Dwarf (WAD) buck, one red sokoto (RS) buck, eight WAD does and eight RS does. The buck were subjected electrical stimulation wiht an electrd-ejaculator and their semen collected and analysed.Fertility rate was significant (P<0.05) higher in WAD than in RS in early dry season. There was no significant eason effect (P,0.05). of season on fertility of WAD. Fertility was least in the early dry season in RS and the difference from other season was significant (P,0.05). The effect of season on both semen volume and concentration was significant (P,0.05). There was a progressive increase in both parameter from early dry season to late rainy season. However, RS showed superiorityover WAD in both parameters in all the seasons. There were no significant effects of breeds or season on allother parameters studied. The indication is that both breeds could be used for all-year-round breeding with adequate feeding in the zone. However, for purpose of artificial insemination, RS bucks, which produce larger quatities of semen with higher concentration, should be preferred.
Effect of processing methods on the utilization of shrimp waste by broiler chickens
Authors: Jegede A. V. , Oduguwa O. O. , Fanimo A. O. , Bamgbose A. M. , Agunbiade J. A.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and forty unsexedd broiler birds of Anak breeds af one week of age were used to study the utilization of potash treated shrimp waste meal (SWM) in broiler diets fed as mash or pellet form in a 2x2x2 factorial experiment. The birds used were randomly allotted to eight treatment groups with three replications. SWM used was either polash treated or untreated, plate willed or hammer milled. Growth performance, muirient utilization, and carcass characteristics were measured. Potash treatment of SWM led to a significant increase (P<0.05) in final live weight of the birds at starter phase, but such effear was not noticed at finisher phase. Starter broilers fed mash diets had a significantly (P<0.05) higher mean final live weight (579.08), than those seed pellet diet (493.12). but the difference at fisher phase was not significant. The processing methods did nor significantly (P>0.05) improve the performance of the birds or finisher phase, though slight improvement was noticed in bird's fed pelleted diets. The processing methods did not significantly (P>0.05) influence the protein retention, ash and ether extract digestibility at starter phase. Crude fibre digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) improved by plate milling and pelleting of the diets, and the interactions of the processing methods. Dry marier digestibility and crude protein retention of finisher broilers were significantly (P<0.05) improved by the dietary treatments. It was concluded that the treatments employed yielded no commendable performance in broilers. Pelleting of SWM based diets slightly improved iis utilization by finishing broiler chickens.
Effects of varying dietary protein levels on the performance of laying Japanese quail(Coturnix coturnix japonica) in a semi-arid environment
Authors: Babangida S. , Ubosi C. O.
Published: February 2021

Four dietary treatments differing in protein levels were compared to ascertain the protein requirement of laying Japanese quail in a semi-arid environment. One hundred and twenty quails were randomly assigned to four treatments (TI — 22%CR T2 — 20%CP T3 — 18%CP and T4 - I6%CP) in a completely randomized block design Each treatment was replicated thrice with ten quails each. Feed intake, body weight gain, hen day egg production, feed conversion ratio FCR), egg quality and hematological constituents were the response criteria. The study lasted seven weeks. Feed and water were provided ad libitum throughout the experimental period No significant (P> 0.05) effect of dietary protein was observed for feed intake, average body weight gain, hen-day egg production, F CR, dressing percentage and hematological parameters. Average body weight was significantly (P<0,05) enhanced by high dietary protein. Egg weight and Haugh unit were signiﬁcantly (P<0. 05) better for the groups fed the higher protein levels (20 and 22% CP). Hen-day egg production, albumen index, specific gravity, shell weight and percent shell were not affected (P>0.05) by dietary protein levels. The costs of producing l kg egg in the treatment groups were ₦25926, ₦21007, ₦252.44 and ₦1263./10 for T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively. It was concluded that about 20%CP is required in the diets of laying Japanese quail under a semi-arid environment of Nigeria.
Soybean in pre-ruminant nutrition: A review
Authors: Okagbare G. O. , Akpodiete O. J.
Published: February 2021

Soybean,Glycine max, is a highly nutritious seed. It contains high quality protein and unsaturated fat. Despite the high nutritive value of soybeans, its use has been limited by a number of anti- nutritional .factors which are capable of causing adverse nutritional and physiological responses in animals. Several processing methods such as heat treatment, use of chemicals such as acids, alkali and alcohols or a combination of these have been developed and used to reduce or completely eliminate these anti-nutritional factors and hence improve its utilization. This review addresses the nutritive value of soybean, anti-nutritional factors, effect of processing on the nutritive value of the seed and the utilization of soybean in milk replacers for pre-ruminants. Well processed soybean can provide high quality proteins that can be used to replace milk proteins in milk replacers for pre ruminants. Studies on utilization of milk replacers by pre-ruminants are scanty in Nigeria. More effort needs to be devoted to research in this area.
Effects of Leucaena leucocephala supplementation to basal hay on Energy and Protein metabolism in West African. Dwarf sheep
Authors: Osakwe I. I.
Published: February 2021

Energy and protein utilization and quantitative retention of protein, fat and energy was investigated with twelve castrated West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep averaging (23.0 h 2.4 kg BW) in nitrogen and energy balance trials. Dried leaves of Leucaena leucocephala were offered as supplement at two levels 25% (diet 2) and 50% (diet 3) of dry matter intake (DM1), replacing hay in the basal hay diet. The basal hay diet without supplementation was the control. Measurements were performed by means of nitrogen and carbon balances and with the use of indirect calorimetry The digestibility and utilization of protein were influenced (P<0.05) by supplementation. Metabolisability of energy (ME/ GE) was on the average 42.9 (SEM 4.3)% being significantly (P<0.05) different among treatments. Diet 2 had a higher (P<0.05) retained protein (9.6 g/d) compared with the control diet and hence a superior (P<0.05) protein utilization than the control and diet 3, respectively. It was concluded that Leucaena leuccocephala improved protein utilization and retention in WAD sheep.
On-farm evaluation of the growth of Muscovies under free-range and confinement in the south-eastern Nigeria
Authors: Udedibie A. B. I. , Ogbonna R. C.
Published: February 2021

A 13-week on-farm study was conducted to determine the growth performance of Muscovies under free-range and confinement in south-eastern Nigeria. Forty-five (45) ducklings from 4 mothers were subjected to free-range system of production while another 45 ducklings from another 4 mothers were raised under confinement. At 13 weeks of age, the ducklings raised under confinement weighed an average 3.25kg which was significantly (P<0.05) heavier weights from their counterparts under free-range system. Breast, thigh and back weights of the ducks raised under confinement were also significantly (P<0.05) heavier. Weights of the internal organs (liver, gizzard, heart and kidney) were not affected by the treatments (P>0.05).The ducklings under confinement consumed on the average 123.6gm of feed daily with feed conversion ratio of 3.96%. Those under free-range system recorded 31% mortality as against the 11% recorded by those under confinement.
The structure of the ovotestis of the common African land snails found in Abeokuta, South Western Nigeria.
Authors: Idowu A. B. , Akinnusi O. A.
Published: February 2021

A comparative study of the structure of the ovotestis of African land snails found in Abeokuta was investigated. Of all the five snails species found and dissected, Archachatina marginata, Achatina achatina, A. fulica, Helix pomatia and Limcolaria aurora, only the ovotestis of H. pomatia could not be observed. The positioning, shape and arrangement of the ovotestis was the same for all the other four species. The ovotestis is embedded in the digestive gland at the anterior region of the coiled posterior end of the visceral mass. It is cream coloured and made up of sac-like lobes arranged on a single plane. It is differentiated into an ovariaon and testicular region. The number and size of the ovotestis differ significantly (P<0.05) in all the snails. Each lobe is made of several follicles and the number of which varied in the four species. Statistical analysis showed that live weight, shell length, shell width and shell circumference of the snails had no significant influence on the size on their ovotestis. Meiotic metaphase spreads of the ovotestis tissues revealed chromosome numbers 2n=56, 2n=44, 2n=54 and 2n=28 for A. marginata, A. achatina, A. fulica and L. aurora
THE EFFECT OF FEED RESTRICTION AT THE STARTER PHASE ON PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: Tion M , Orga M. T. , Adeka I. A.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and twenty five day old straight run broiler chicks were utilized in completely randomized design to test the effect of restricting feed intake of four groups of chicks to 92.5% 85.0%, 77.5% and 70.0% of the unrestricted (control) group in the starter phase and following adlibitum feeding for all groups in the finisher phase. The treatments were simply designated as A, B, C, D and E. The starter phase in which the restriction was carried out lasted 28 days and the finisher phase 42 days. Parameters evaluated during the starter and finisher phases included; growth rate, feed conversion ration and mortality rate. Results show gain in weight among all groups while the group fed diet B and the control had comparable weight gain at the starter phase. The percentage weight difference between the control and each of the other dietary groups was: 4.4%, 8.4%, 8.6% and 10.4% for the treatments B, C, D and E respectively. Feed gain ration improved as the level of restriction became stricter. Following ad-libitum feeding of all grops at the finisher phase, the feed restricted groups at the starter phase voraciously increased their feed intake, thus, producing comparable performance values with the unrestricted (control) group in weight gain in the 8th week of the study. Although birds in all groups averaged more than 2000g final live weight in 10weeks, significant differences exist between groups that were fed diets C, D, and E that were restricted at the starter phase, an indication that complete compensatory growth was not obtainable. Feed gain ration improved for restricted groups. Mortality rate did not show any trend attributable to levels of feed restriction. This study shows that broiler chicks fed restricted levels of balanced diet at the starter phase but later fed ad-libitum at the finisher phase could attain a finished weight of about 2000g or more at a market age of 10 weeks (70 days) with an improvement in feed gain ration.
A STUDY OF RURAL LIVESTOCK FARMER’S PATRONAGE OF VETERINARY SERVICES FOR HEALTHCARE OF SMALL FARM ANIMALS IN OGUN STATE
Authors: Fabusoro E. , Lawal-Adebowale O. A. , Akinloye A. K.
Published: February 2021

This study on rural livestock farmers was conducted with a view to assessing the extent of patronage of veterinary services by the farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. A multistage random sampling was used to select on hundred and twenty (120) livestock farmers, with a bias for small farm animals. Goat, sheep, rabbit, pig and chicken constituted the common small farm animals raised by the selected farmers. It was however observed the small farm animals were infected by certain pests and diseases that call for treatment. About 63.3 percent of the respondents take to self-treatment of their animals, using local control measures. Out of the remaining 35.7 percent of the respondents that patronized the veterinary services, only about 6.7 percent of them do so regularly. A chic-square test of the relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of the livestock farmers and patronage of the veterinary services (at 5% significant level) shows that there was significant relationship between patronage and age, educational status and experience in livestock management by the farmers. Also a test of correlation relationship between the cost of veterinary services and patronage shows a significant relationship between the two variables (r = 0.087, and r = 0.574 at 5% significant level). It was thus concluded that rural livestock farmers’ patronage of the veterinarian services was low in Ogun State, with recommendations that the extension agency in the state should intensify effort in promotion of veterinary services among the livestock farmers for patronage.
INVESTMENT PROSPECTS IN INTEGRATED FISH CUM POULTRY FARMING SYSTEM
Authors: Akegbejo-Samsons Y. , Omoniyi I. T. , Adeosun F. I.
Published: February 2021

The study examined the feasibility of a small scale integrated fish cum poultry farming project utilizing concrete tank of 4 x 4.8x3.5m. 900 post fingerlings of Clarias gariepinus (52 2.7g) were stocked in 3 concrete tanks at the rate of 1fish per 5m2 and fed diets containing 38% (Diet 1). 33% (Diet 2) and 31% (Diet 3) crude protein levels. Three battery cages containing 15 laying birds were installed on each tank. The birds were fed with layer mash (CP 18%) while the fish were fed with 300kg of fresh maggots and pelleted feed. At the end of 213days, growth response and nutrient utilization of fish were based on Average daily weight gain, (DWG 4.48) relative growth rate (RGR 1834.27) and specific growth rate (SGR 1.39). Final weight ranged from 949.2g to 963.2g. Daily weight ranged from 4.46g to 4.52g. Feed cost for fish was drastically reduced while revenue from poultry was significantly increased. The profitability analysis of the operation showed that table size Charias production generated return to investment of 31.19%, a rate of return on fixed cost 163.79% and a rate of return on variable cost of (161.07). The financial analysis reveals a viable investment.
Estimation of Liveweight from Chest Girth and Wither Height Measurements in West African Dwarf Goats
Authors: James I. J. , Osinowo O. A. , Amoo T. O.
Published: February 2021

Linear and geometric regression equations were used to estimate liveweight of two hundred and eighty six semi-intensively managed West African Dwarf (WAD) goats from Chest girth (CG) and Wither height (WH) measurements. CG accounted for 52 and 58% variation in the liveweight of goats using linear and geometric equations respectively, thus showing a curvilinear relationship. WH accounted for 31% variation in liveweight of goats using both equations. CG measurement was found to be more reliable for estimating liveweight of WAD goats than WH measurement. Using linear regression equation, CG and WH estimated the liveweight of females better than males with average increases of 57% and 25% R' values respectively. Using geometric regression equation, CG and WH also estimated the liveweight of females better than males with average increases of 55% and 22% R' values respectively. In essence, CG and WH measurements estimated the liveweighi of does better than bucks using both regression equations. Generally, CG and WH better estimated the liveweight of goats that are greater or equal to 3 years old than goats that are greater than / year but less than 3 years old and goats that are less or equal to 1 year old using both regression equations. Even though, each of the geometric or linear regression equations may be used to estimate liveweight of WAD goats with a high degree of reliability in a specific class of animals, it would be simpler and less cumbersome to use the regression equation obtained from pooled data to estimate liveweight in all animals