bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional evaluation of forage as feed resources on the haematological parameters of pigs
Authors: Uzegbu H. O. , Onunkwo D. N. , Ndelekwute E. K. , Ukonu E. C.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial was conducted with a total of 30 pigs to evaluate the potential of fresh Pannicum maximum forage on pigs. The trial lasted for 63 days. Five diets were formulated which contained 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% levels of the fresh grass forage. Each diet formed a treatment which was offered to the pigs. Each treatment was replicate, arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The pigs were feed 4% of their body weight and water was offered ad-libitum. The blood composition of pig in terms of packed cell volume, haemoglobin, white blood cell, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration significantly (P<0.05) improved even with the inclusion of fresh grass forage of 20%, while mean corpuscular volume did not significantly (P>0.05) differ from the control which contained 0% forage. It is therefore concluded that fresh Pannicum maximum forage could be used in pig ration at 25% inclusion level without any effect on the animal.
Performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens fed graded levels of fermented and toasted seed meal
Authors: Tsado D. N. , Dikko A. H. , Alabi O. J. , Kperun T. N. , Jiya B. K. , Ojapah M. O. , Ibrahim A. , Olatunji B. D.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of fermented and toasted Albizia lebbeck seed meal (FTALSM), on the growth performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens at the starter and finisher phases. One hundred and fifty (150) day old chicks (Abo acres) were used for this study and were divided into five treatments (with three replicate each containing 10 birds) using a completely randomized design (CRD) for eight weeks. The treatments were five diets containing 0% (control), 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of fermented and toasted Albizia lebbeck seed meal (FTALSM), respectively and were tagged Diet 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The diets were formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous. The feed intake at the starter phase was significantly higher (p<0.05) in Diets 3 and 4 which had 10 and 15% inclusion of FTALSM, respectively. Diets 2, 3 and 4 also differ significantly (p<0.05) in final body weight and total weight gained from the control diets. The results at the finisher phase indicated that, there were significant differences (P<0.05) in all the parameters measured except for mortality. Birds fed Diet 2 performed significantly better in weight gain (1453g) and feed intake (3087.25g) compared to the control group. Birds on the control and Diet 2 had similar feed efficiency, the values were however, better than those on the other treatments. The results of nutrient digestibility showed birds fed Diet 5 (20% FTALSM) recorded significantly (P<0.05) low digestibility values in all parameters measured. The results showed that fermentation and toasting reduced phytase, oxalate and cyanide by 41.87, 26.67 and 99.94 % respectively. It can be concluded therefore, that FTALSM can be included up to 15 % in broiler chickens starter diets and 5 % in the finisher diet for optimum growth performance.
Effect of graded levels of differently processed Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) seed meal on the performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens
Authors: Owosibo A. O. , Okere I. A. , Adedokun G. A.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted to determine the effect of graded levels of differently processed Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) seed meal on the performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty (150), 28-day old birds were randomly allotted to 5 dietary treatments of 3 replicates of thirty birds each. Each replicate had 10 birds. The treatments were: T1 - control diet with 0% inclusion level of Roselle Seed Meal (RSM) while the four other diets had 50% of raw (T2: rRSM), soaked (T3: sRSM), boiled (T4: bRSM) and  fermented (T5: fRSM) Roselle Seed Meal in a complete randomized design. At the end of the 28thday of the feeding (week 8), parameters measured were on performance and carcass characteristics. The data collected were analyzed using ANOVA of SAS with the means, where significant, were separated using the Duncan's Multiple Range Test. Final weight (FW) and weight gain (WG) were highest in birds on T5. Birds on T5 had the least feed conversion ratio (FCR) value (2.62). Feed intake and percent mortality did not differ significantly among birds on the different dietary treatments. Birds on T5 had significantly (p < 0.05) higher values for live weight (LW), thigh weight (TW) and neck weight (NW). Percentage eviscerated weight, breast weight, drumstick weight, shank weight, wing weight and back weight did not differ significantly among the birds on the different treatments. The gizzard (G), liver (L) and spleen (S) had the highest values in birds on T3 (G: 2.53%), T1 (L: 2.34%), T5 (S: 0.18) being significantly (p<0.05) different from T

5 (G: 2.04% and L: 1.87%), T2 (S: 0.08%), T3 (S: 0.08%) and T4 (S: 0.09%) respectively. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences observed among the treatments for percentage heart weight. It can be concluded that processing methods enhanced the utilization of Roselle seed meal with the best being the fermentation method as revealed by its feed conversion ratio, live weight and some carcass parameters when Roselle Seed Meal was substituted for 50% of soybean meal in the broiler finisher diets.
Haematological and hormonal implications of feeding varying levels of zinc gluconate to male rabbits
Authors: Ogbu O. C. , Herbert U.
Published: February 2021

This paper examines the impact of zinc gluconate fed to male rabbits at different levels on their blood haematology and hormone (interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICSH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Thirty-two (32) male rabbits of about two (2) months old weighing averagely 1.050kg 0.032 were assigned to four treatment groups. The results were subjected to analysis of variance while means were separated with Duncan Multiple Range Test. There were significant (p<0.05) difference on the packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin level, white blood cell and neutrophils parameters measured. These differences did not take a definite pattern that could be attributed to effect of zinc on the rabbits like tumour or poor physiological status. The level of hormone also differed significantly (p<0.05) in the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level. The FSH hormonal level increased as the level of zinc gluconate increase T2 (4.0x10-3) T3 (3.9x10-3) T4 (3.9x10-3).It could be concluded that using zinc as high as 100ppm and 150ppm has no detrimental effect on the blood haematology and general hormonal physiology of male rabbits.
Effect of feeding African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) fruit pulp diets on growth performance and nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits
Authors: Malik A. A. , Ijaiya A. T. , Patrick D.
Published: February 2021

A total of forty five weaner rabbits aged 5 to 6 weeks, with average initial weights of 700.00 ±0.05 g, were used to determine the effect of feeding Parkia biglobosa fruit pulp (PBFP) diets on growth performance and nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits. They wererandomly assigned to five treatments consisting of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 % dietary inclusion levels of Parkia biglobosa fruit pulp, to form Treatments T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively, in a completely randomized design experiment. The feeding trial lasted for 12 weeks to determine: feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio. At the end of the 11 week of the experiment, a nutrient digestibility trial was carried out using two rabbits from each replicate that were randomly selected and transferred to specially constructed metabolism cages. Faecal collection was carried out for five days using the total collection method. Results showed that there were significant (P<0.05) differences in final body weight, body weight gain, total feed intake, feed conversion ratio and mortality among the treatments. Growth performance was significantly (P<0.05) improved for up to 20 % dietary inclusion level of PBFP, and significantly (P<0.05) declined as the level of PBFP increased across the diets. The apparent nutrient digestibility was significant (P<0.05) for dry matter, crude fibre and ether extract; but not significant (P>0.05) for crude protein, ash and nitrogen free extract as well as for total digestible nutrients among the treatments. Hence, inclusion of PBFP in the diets of weaner rabbits at 20 % level gave the best results in terms of growth performance and apparent nutrient digestibility
Effect of plant spacing and intercropping with two species on growth and yield of forage maize
Authors: Ike K. A. , Nwaigbo L. C. , Ukachukwu S. N. , Ukpabi U. H. , Obasi C. P. , Okiyi P. C. , Odoemelam V. U.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Abia State University, Umuahia Campus, Nigeria, from the month of May to October, 2012 to determine the effect of plant spacing on the growth and yield of forage plant, maize (Zea mays), intercropped with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata sub spp. Dekintiana) and Bambara nut (Vigna subterenea). The treatments included two plant spacings (50x50 cm and 100x100 cm) either in sole or intercropped system viz: maize-cowpea 50x50 (MC50), maize-cowpea 100x100 cm (MC100), maize-Bambara nut 50x50 (MB50), maize-Bambara nut 100x100 (MB100), sole maize 50x50 (SM50) and sole maize 100x100 (SM100). The cowpea and Bambara were planted at two seeds per hole while the maize was planted three seeds per hole. NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer was applied 4 weeks after planting (WAP) at 200 kg/ha. The results obtained showed that maize growth and yield were significantly (P<0.05) affected by plant spacing and intercropping. Data at week 5 showed that MC100 and MB100 both had the highest values of 382.06 cm and 368.58 cm , respectively for leaf area, while SM100 recorded the lowest value of 190.66 cm . The same treatments recorded the highest (P<0.05) values for stem girth at weeks 5 and 7. Lowest leaf/stem ratio was 0.28 for SM100 while the highest value of 0.68 was recorded for MC50. The intercrops at closer spacing (SM50 and MC50) had similar values (P>0.05) for herbage yield and their values were significantly higher (P<0.05) than those recorded for the other treatments. Based on the findings, MC100 and MB100 had higher growth indices than the other treatments whereas the intercrops at closer spacing had higher herbage yield.
Growth performance, correlation and regression estimates of seven-chicken strains in South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Atansuyi A. J. , Ihendu U. C. , Chineke C. A.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the growth performance, correlation and regression estimates of seven-chicken strains in South-western Nigeria using a total of 300 day-old chicks. The birds were divided into seven groups based on their strain. The seven strains are Normal feather (NF), Fulani ecotype (FE), Frizzle feather (FF), naked neck (NN) and Transylvania indigenous strains while Hubbard and Marshal were meat-type exotic chickens. There were forty- five (45) unsexed day-old chicks in each strain except the Frizzle feather that were 30 in number. Completely randomized design (CRD) was used for the trial that lasted for 8 weeks. The birds were fed experimental diets ad libitum throughout the period of the study. Results showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in the initial and final weights of the birds. It was observed that exotic strains weighed heavier (3569.73gHB) than their indigenous counterparts (1391.11gNF). However, the Fulani ecotype weighed heaviest (1840.99g) among Nigeria indigenous strains during the experimental period. This showed that FE strains are generally heavy breed chicken and could be incorporated into a meat producing indigenous chicken if improved upon. The result of the correlation coefficients showed that a very strong, positive and highly significant (P<0.001) relationship existed between body weights and linear body measurements as most of the values are (>0.40). All the body parameter examined had significant (p<0.01) and direct relationship with the body weight. Shoulder-to-tail length (STL) had the highest coefficient of 0.98.The high correlation estimates obtained in this study could be as a result of pleiotropy, heterozygosity or linkage of genes in the birds. The three functions were highly significant (p<0.05) for all the parameters studied. This shows that the functions well described the parameters. On the basis of coefficient of determination (R ), the body weight of poultry birds at any age can be predicted most accurately with BRG using cubic function.
Dietary evaluation of fermented cocoyam tuber meal (Xanthosoma sagitifolium) as energy source in place of maize in broiler chicken production
Authors: Anyaegbu B. C. , Ogbonna A. C. , Adedokun O. O. , Onunkwo D. N.
Published: February 2021

Considering the inherent attributes of cocoyam tuber meal (Xanthosoma sagitifolium) and its appropriate utilization in chicken diets may enhance performance of broiler chicken. This study was therefore carried out to determine the dietary evaluation of fermented cocoyam tuber meal as energy source in the diets of finisher broiler production. The objectives of the study were to determine the proximate composition of raw and fermented coco yam tuber meal and their anti-nutrient content (Tannin), cyanide, saponin, phytate and oxalate); to determine the effects of replacement value of maize with different levels of fermented coco yam tuber meal on the growth performance of broilers; to determine the economics of production of broilers using such diets. The fermented cocoyam was used to replace maize at various levels to determine the best level that would give optimal performance in broilers diets. One hundred and fifty (150) agrited finisher Anak broilers at 4 week were used for this experiment. The proximate composition of fermented cocoyam meal showed that it contained 19.15% moisture, 1.30% ash, 3.56% crude protein, 5.30% crude fiber, 1.90% ether extract and 25.48% NFE. In the finisher trial, the replacements were 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of FCYM for maize in the control diet. Each finisher diet was fed to a group of 30 finisher broilers at 4 weeks using Completely Ramdomized Design (CRD). The parameters measured include: initial body weight, final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, cost of production and carcass characteristics. In the finisher feeding trial, the broiler group on 25% FCYM recorded the highest body weight gain which was significantly different (P<0.05) from those on the control diet and the rest of the treatment groupsThe internal organs expressed as percent of the live weight were not affected by the treatments. The cost of production (N135.28) was lowest for diets 5 (100% FCYM) while the highest was the control treatment. The result of the trial have shown that 4 day fermentation of cocoyam tubers for processing broiler diets was quite an effective method of processing cocoyam tubers for use in broiler diets because fermentation reduced the anti-nutrient contents in cocoyam tubers. It was concluded that fermented cocoyam tuber meal could be used in the diet of finisher broilers up to 100% without affecting body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio as indicated in this study.
Chemical composition of snail meat species (Archachatina marginata and Achatina achatina) in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinnusi F. A. O. , Adeoye A. S. , Adeleke D. F.
Published: February 2021

The cost of procuring meat as an animal protein source in Nigeria is on the increase. There is therefore the need to source for alternative cheap source of animal protein that can serve the populace the nutritive value needed in the body system. The study was carried out to assess the proximate composition and mineral analysis of the two species of snail meat (Archachatina marginata and Achatina achatina) in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State Nigeria. The result revealed that snail meat (Archachatina marginata and Achatina achatina) were found to contain; 0.16g/100g and 0.18g/100g of Crude fibre, 1.43g/100g and 0.79g/100g of Ash content, 1.53g/100g and 0.88g/100g of Ether extract, 22.75g/100g and 11.92g/100g of Crude Protein, 0.09g/100g and 0.19g/100g of NFE (Nitrogen Free Extract), 74.06g/100g and 86.1g/100g of moisture content respectively while the mineral content of snail meat (Archachatina marginata and Achatina achatina) was found to be 1.216mg/g and 1.343mg/g of Phosphorus, 0.426mg/g and 0.438mg/g of Magnesium, 0.084mg/g and 0.093mg/g of Iron, 2.011mg/g and 2.046mg/g of Calcium, 1.934mg/g and 1.967mg/g of Potassium, 0.795mg/g and 1.000mg/g of Chlorine. The overall nutritional potential of the two species was quite good. These results show that these species of snail are highly nutritive. The findings were discussed in line with the importance and implication of the uses of edible land snail meat to man. It is therefore recommended that there is need to increase animal protein production in Nigeria and other developing countries of the world as a panacea to imminent problem of malnutrition.
Antibacterial properties of rain tree ( ) and Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia ) used as fodder in ruminant nutrition
Authors: Ajayi F. T. , Omotoso S. O. , Babayemi O. J.
Published: February 2021

Acetone and ethanol extracts of Albizia saman (ASL) and Tithonia diversifolia (TDL) leaves used as fodder for ruminant were evaluated for their antibacterial properties against selected pathogenic bacteria. Phytochemical screening was determined according to standard procedures, while antibacterial activity was by agar well diffusion and broth micro dilution methods. The levels of tannin (0.29 and 0.34 mg/100g); saponin (0.75 and 0.59 mg/100g); oxalates (0.17 and 0.14mg/100g); and phytate (0.11 and 0.12 mg/100g) in the fodder plants were below critical levels that may affect digestibility in ruminants. Acetone and ethanol extracts from ASL and TDL showed maximum zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (19.00 and 14.50 mm; 23.00 and 21.50 mm) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15.50 and 12.00 mm; 18.50 and 17.00 mm), respectively compared to Gentamycin (9.97 mm). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of acetone and ethanol extracts from ASL ranged from 0.10 to 0.28 mg/mL and 0.13 to 0.22 mg/mL, while TDL extracts ranged from 0.20 to 0.32 mg/mL and 0.20 to 0.31 mg/mL, respectively for all the tested organisms. Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of ethanol extracts from both plant ranged from 0.5-0.80 mg/mL and 0.7-0.90 mg/mL compared to MBC values (0.02-0.04 mg/mL) of the reference antibiotic (gentamycin) for all the tested bacteria species. In conclusion, antibacterial properties exhibited by the plant extract implied that the bioactive compounds are potential antibacterial agents against pathogenic bacteria of ruminant or foodborne pathogens in vitro.
Effects of coconut oil on the weight and blood status of grazing cattle fed concentrate as supplementary feed
Authors: Adelusi O. O. , Oni A. O. , Aderinboye R. Y. , Arigbede O. M. , Onwuka C. F. I.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the effect of coconut oil inclusion on thesupplementary feed intake, weight gain, haematology and serum biochemistry of grazing cattle. Twenty-five (25) White Fulani cattle weighing 138±2.21 kg were randomly allotted to five treatment groups of coconut oil administration (0 g/day, 50 g/day, 100 g/day, 150 g/day and 200 g/day) in a completely randomised design. The animals were grazed for 84 days and supplemented with concentrate throughout the experimental period. Data on feed intake, weight gain and blood profile of cattle were analysed using one-way analysis of variance. Results obtained showed that coconut oil did not affect (P>0.05) the supplementary concentrate intake of grazing cattle. Lower (P<0.05) weight gain was observed with animals fed coconut oil at 50 g/day (9.64 kg) but increased to 17.64 kg with 150 g/day. Packed cell volume, haemoglobin and white blood cells were not affected (P>0.05) by coconut oil. Thehighest (P<0.05) red blood cell (6.91×10 /L) and platelet counts (67.00×10 /L) wererecorded at 150 g/day coconut oil. Total cholesterol, HDL and LDL values were increased (P<0.05) with increasing levels of coconut oil. Values obtained for HDL (166.00 mg/dL to 145.15 mg/dL) and LDL (135.00 mg/dL to 88.40 mg/dL) decreased when the level of oil was increased from 150g/day to 200g/day. Administering coconut oil up to 150 g/day is recommended as it increases the body weight gain of cattle and maintain the normal PCV and haemoglobin concentration of the animals
Nutritive evaluation of different energy sources in broiler chicken diets under the tropical climate of Nigeria
Authors: Jirgi D.J. , Abeke F.O.
Published: February 2021

This study was aimed at evaluating the nutritive value of different sources of energy in broiler chicken diets on the growth performance and haematological parameters of broiler chickens. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets (23.17% CP; 2831 Kcal/ME; 21.73% CP; 2929Kcal/ME) for the broiler starter (0-4 weeks) and finisher phases (5-8 weeks), respectively were formulated. Treatment 1 is the control diet while treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5were sorghum, pearl millet, cassava and sweet potatoes based diets, respectively. A total of 225, 1 day-old NAPRI X broiler chicks were randomly allotted to the five treatments with three replicates each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Data were subjected to ANOVAα0.05 . The results showed that final bodyweights (503.44 g and 2302.77 g), feed intake (819.67 g and 3073.70 g) and weight gained (453.61 g and 1892.07 g) were significantly (P
Preliminary findings on some reproduction indices following administration of Diclair®HP-FSH to rabbit-does
Authors: Leigh O.O. , Oyewunmi A.O.
Published: February 2021

Preliminary study of some reproductive indices on administration of daily double dose of 25 IU Diclair®HP-FSH to 20 (16 Treated, 4 Control) crossbred adult rabbit-does weighing 1.24 ± 0.26 kg, was conducted. Does housed four per group in hutches were fed concentrates (20% CP) and water ad libitum. Parameters were evaluated 12 hours (h) post 2nd, 4th, 6th and 36 h post 6th injections (I). The differences between control and treated body weights (1.19±0.04 and 1.28±0.48 kg), control (3.52±0.26 g) and treated (3.74±4.21 g) whole genitalia were not significant (P>0.05). The differences between control and treated left (0.04±0.01 and 0.12±0.08 g) and right (0.04±0.01 and 0.14±0.08 g) ovarian weights were significant (P0.05). The differences between control and treated number of follicles present on the left (24.74±6.02 and 44.88±14.26) and right (23.88±5.84 and 46.75±14.67) ovaries were significant (P
Newcastle disease virus antibodies in apparently healthy commercial layers in Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria
Authors: Olufemi F. O. , Olatunji O. , Omoshaba E. O.
Published: February 2021

Several authors have worked on Newcastle Disease (ND) with respect to the incidence, prevalence and epizootiology of the disease and the antibody status in non-vaccinated birds in Nigeria. However, current information on the antibodies of the Newcastle Disease virus in apparently healthy commercial poultry birds with known vaccination records in Abeokuta Metropolis is scanty. This study was conducted, using Heamagglutination Inhibition assay (HI) technique, to detect Newcastle Disease virus (NDV) antibodies in routinely vaccinated commercial poultry birds in the 3 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Abeokuta that form the Abeokuta metropolis. Haemagglutinating NDV antibodies were detected in the apparently healthy layers thus indicating a widely circulating NDV in areas. A potency test of the vaccines used on the farms was determined using Heamagglutination test and their values ranged between 2 and 2 . The sero-prevalence of NDVantibodies in the 3 LGAs showed there was no significant difference (p >0.05). Of the 120 sera tested, 82 (68.33%) had detectable NDV antibodies but only 81.67% had HI protective titre of > 2 and 18.33% had low seroconversionwith titre 2 or less.
Microbial modulating effect of xylanase enzyme supplemented rice husk on the gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens
Authors: Aderibigbe T. A. , Ateh J. O. , Okukpe K. M.
Published: February 2021

The development of antibiotics-resistance pathogens in poultry which poses threat to human health has necessitated the search for alternative to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) to improve gut microflora in poultry diets. One of the alternatives to AGPs is probiotics which are beneficial organisms. The prebiotic potentials of enzyme supplemented high fibre feedstuffs (HFFs) are not known. This study was conducted to assess the prebiotics potential of xylanase enzyme supplemented rice husk (RH) on broiler chickens (in-vivo). The study showed that replacement of maize with RH irrespective of levels supplemented with 100ppm xylanase enzyme caused a reduction in feed intake and an increase in weight gain and better FCR. It was observed that birds fed diet with 10% RH supplemented with xylanase enzyme out-performed birds fed diets with 20 or 30% RH supplemented with xylanase enzyme and closer to the birds fed the control diet which was with better FCR. Enzyme supplementation of RH helped in increasing and improving protein, ether extract and fibre digestibilities. The identification of microbes (Fungi and Bacteria) showed that dietary levels of RH (10, 20 or 30% inclusion) with supplementation of enzyme xylanase enhanced the growth of beneficial microbes which resulted in inhibition or elimination of the opportunistic/pathogenic microbes. The result of the cost benefit analysis also showed that 10% inclusion level of RH supplemented with xylanase enzyme gave the best result of a beneficiary reduction in the cost of production with the best improved broiler performance. The use of enzymes is therefore recommended when RH are required as prebiotic source in the gut of broilers.
Haematobiochemical indices of broiler chickens fed probiotic supplemented shea kernel cake meal based diet
Authors: Aguihe P. C. , Kehinde A. S. , Halidu S. K. , Osaguona P. O , Jeje C. A.
Published: February 2021

A 49-day experiment was conducted with a total of 240 Arbor acre broiler chicks, to determine the effect of probiotic supplementation on graded levels of shea kernel cake meal (SKCM) on their haematological and serum biochemical indices. The birds were randomly grouped into four dietary treatments comprising of 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% inclusion levels of SKCM as T1 , T2 , T3 and T respectively in a completely randomized design having 5 replicates with 12 chicks each. Diet T served as the control, without SKCM and probiotic addition, while diet T2 , T3 and T4 were supplemented with 0.5g/kg Biovet-YC® at both starter and finisher phases. Feed and water were given ad-libitum and routine management were strictly observed. At the end of the feeding trial, three broilers per replicate were randomly selected and blood collected using hypodermal syringe into two different labeled bottles with or without an anti-coagulant (EDTA) for haematology and serum biochemistry investigation respectively. The results showed that there were significant (P<0.05) increase in the white blood cell count and corresponding decrease (p<0.05) in serum triglyceride and cholesterol concentration of birds fed probiotic supplemented SNCM diets. However, other blood parameters measured were not affected (p>0.05) by the probiotic supplementation. Therefore, it can be concluded that incorporation of probiotic supplemented SKCM up to 15% inclusion level did not have any deleterious impact on blood status of the broilerchickens.
A case of gastric ulcers and intussusception due to Ascariasis in a 4-months old American Hampshire boar in Sabon Gari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Danbirni S. , Nenshi N. P. , Dauda B. B. , Pewan S. B. , Sackey A. K. B.
Published: February 2021

A Four months old American Hampshire boar weighing about 35kg from a back-yard piggery in Sabon Gari Local Government Area, Kaduna State was presented with the chief complains of restlessness, shivering and pasty perineum. There was no medical history. Physical examination revealed, pale ocular mucus membrane, restlessness, shivering and pasty perineum. The vital parameters were above normal ranges. Faecal sample from the rectum was taken to the helminthology laboratory of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for helminth egg detection and identification. Based on the tentative diagnosis of Ascariasis and enteritis, 35mg of a 17% piperazine adipate solution and 700mg of a 20% oxytetracyline long acting were administered orally and deep intramuscularly, respectively as single doses. The boar died 2 hours after therapy. Post-mortem examination revealed; distended ingesta-filled stomach, ulceration of the stomach mucosal wall with tarry (blackish) haemorrhages, Ascaris suum in the stomach and small intestine, intussusception of the small intestine and empty distal portion of the intussuscepted small intest ne. The helminthology laboratory result indicated eggs of Ascaris suum. Based on the helminthology laboratory result and the post mortem examination findings, it was concluded that the b ar died of gastric ulcer and small intestine intussusception due to Ascariasis. Routine deworming and deworming record keeping in order to know when the next deworming is due were advocated to the farmer.
Hormone inducive effects of Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) extract on the reproductive performance of Bucks
Authors: Okukpe K. M. , Adeyina A. O. , Alli O. I. , Ajao B. H. , Odesanmi O. M. , Olaniyi A. W. , Adua M.
Published: February 2021

Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) is a small evergreen tree of the myrtle family known for its unopened reddish-brown flower bud with strong aromatic flavor that are used for culinary purpose and are believed to have aphrodisiac properties. The objective of the experiment was to assess the effect of clove extract on hormone profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) bucks. One hundred and fifty WAD bucks with average weights of 10kg were randomly assigned to five treatments with 30bucks per treatment in a completely randomized design. Treatment A (control) and B were subcutaneously administered 0.1mL/kg of normal saline solution and 0.1mL/kg sildenafil citrate, respectively. Treatments C, D and E were administered 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3mL/kg of clove extract, respectively. The result showed a significant increase in WBC while PCV decreased with corresponding increase in extract doses. The extracts also significantly cause a reduction in creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) with a significant increase in serum urea and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). There were significant increase in serum testosterone and prolactin while follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were reduced. It was therefore concluded that subcutaneous administration of syzygium aromaticum extract could enhance sexual function at low doses of 0.1mL/kg body weight of bucks with no observable tissue damage.
Age – Related changes in serum biochemical parameters in the domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Adebisi K. A.
Published: February 2021

The influence of age on serum biochemical components in the domestic rabbit was investigated. The serum total protein (g/dL), albumin (g/dL), globulin (g/dL), creatinine (mg/dL), urea mg/dL, cholesterol (mg/dL), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP; iu/l), Aspartate aminotranferase (AST; iu/l) and Alanine amimotransferase (ALT; iu/l) were assessed in 24 male rabbits at 7, 14 and 21 weeks of age to represent weaners, growers and pubertal stages. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance at á . Results of 0.05 serum biochemistry revealed a steady significant increase in total protein (4.2±0.3; 5.3±0.5; 6.9±0.2), albumin (2.2±0.7; 2.8±0.4; 4.0±0.2), globulin (1.9±0.3; 2.5±0.4, 2.9±0.2), cholesterol (49.5±1.1; 56.4±4.2; 62.4±5.4) and creatinine (0.8±0.1; 1.2±0.1; 1.9±0.3) at 7, 14 and 21 weeks respectively. Serum urea levels were similar across the ages. The values recorded for ALP and AST at 7 weeks (39.6±7.5; 101.1±6.7) and 14 weeks (38.7±6.4; 104.5±8.7) were significantly higher than the 21 weeks (33.5±2.7; 95.8±5.9) while ALT at 7 weeks (27.33±5.6) was significantly lower than 14 (38.2±3.9) and 21 weeks (37.4±3.0). The age of the rabbits had a significant effect on their serum biochemical parameters. They should therefore be grouped according to age when setting serum reference values for them.
Sexual dimorphism and phenotypic correlations among growth traits of exotic turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)
Authors: Adeoye A. A. , Oladepo A. D.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine sexual dimorphism and phenotypic correlations among growth traits of six month old exotic turkeys raised at the Turkey Unit, Teaching and Research Farm of Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa. Bodyweight, shank length, thigh length, body length, wing length, wing span and breast girth for Meleagris gallopavo (female and male) were measured using standard methods. Data collected on 102 exotic turkeys comprised of 61 female and 41 male were subjected to analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation. Bodyweight, shank length, thigh length, body length, wing length, wing span and breast girth for females were 8.16 kg, 8.31 cm, 22.29 cm, 68.47 cm, 32.93 cm, 73.65 cm and 57.24 cm respectively, while the corresponding values for males were 8.84 kg, 9.97 cm, 23.40 cm, 76.27 cm, 35.87 cm, 80.27 cm and 60.20 cm. The effect of sex on the variables was significant (p<0.05) except on bodyweight and thigh length. The bodyweight and thigh length were numerically higher in males (8.84 and 23.40) and lower values observed in females (8.16 and 22.29). The correlation coefficients were all positive for both sexes except in females where the correlation between bodyweight and shank length was negative (-0.031). Among the males the correlation coefficients ranged between 0.447 and 0.859 while in the females it ranged between -0.031 and 0.539. Sexual dimorphism was displayed virtually in all the variables considered and in a similar trend bodyweight could be predicted virtually by all the linear body measurements considered.
Comparative evaluation of the effects of three local spices on nutrient and organoleptic qualities of rabbit meat
Authors: Ekpo J. S. , Sampson S. O. , Eyoh G. D. , Sam I. M.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three different spices of Monodora myristica (African Nutmeg), Zingiber officinale (Ginger), and Piper guineense (African Black Pepper) on nutrient composition and organoleptic characteristics of dried rabbit meats. The three spices collected as seeds were processed into meals and applied on the fresh meat cut (loin) obtained from 10 rabbit bucks. The treatments were arranged as: T (200g meat without 1 spice) which served as control, T (200g meat +5% Nutmeg) T (200g meat + 10% Nutmeg) 2 3 ,T (200g meat + 5% African Black Pepper) T (200g meat +10%) T (200g meat +5% 4 5 6 Ginger) T (200g meat +10% Ginger). Each treatment was oven-dried before presented to 7 taste panel that adjudged the test for colour, flavour, tenderness, juiciness and overall acceptability. Samples of each spice and the processed meat were analyzed for nutrient composition. Result obtained showed that the meat is made up of protein, 50.52%, fat 6.45%, ash 5.05%, fibre 3.23%. Proximate composition of Ginger showed that it was significantly (P<0.05) higher in protein and Ash but lowest in fat and fibre while Nutmeg recorded highest fat and lowest protein level. African Black Pepper however recorded highest (P<0.05) level of fibre. The mineral and Phytochemical results of the spices indicated that Ginger and Nutmeg contained moderate levels of Phenols, saponins and glycoside. However, Ginger was higher in flavonoid and Ca even as Nutmeg was higher in flavonoid and K. African black pepper was high in Saponins, Alkaloid, Cu and Na than other spices. Results also indicated that there were significant (P<0.05) differences in terms of flavour, tenderness and overall acceptability even as meat spiced with Zingiber officinale scored highest (P<0.05) in tenderness, flavour and overall acceptability at 5% and 10% level using a 9-point hedonic scale, followed by Monodora myristica, which was not different (P>0.05) from the control while the least score was recorded in Piper guineense. Similarly, nutritional composition of meats improved in terms of protein, ash and fibre significantly (P<0.05) especially Zingiber officinale in terms of increased protein, minerals and fibre while reducing fat compared to other spices.
Effect of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas lam.) Peel meal as replacement for maize on growth performance and cost of feeding weaner rabbits
Authors: Ibrahim H. , Olaniyi O. J.
Published: February 2021

The experiment was carried out to determine the effect of replacement of maize with sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas lam.) on growth performance and cost of feeding weaner rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). A total number of thirty-six (36) weaned rabbit of mixed sexes were used for the experiment. The rabbits were allotted randomly into four dietary treatments and replicated thrice with three rabbits per replicate and were designated: control (T): normal 1 compounded diet without sweet potato peel meal, T had the compounded feed which 5% 2 sweet potato peel meal, T had compounded diet with 10% sweet potato peel meal and 3 treatment four (T) had the compounded diet with 15% sweet potato peel meal. The 4 experiment lasted eight weeks and data were obtained on growth performance and cost benefit. The parameters considered on growth performance include initial weight, final weight, total body weight gain, daily weight gain, weekly weight gain, daily feed intake, total feed intake and feed conversion ratio while that of cost benefit include cost of purchasing different experimental feed stuff. The results obtained on growth performance showed that there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in the parameters monitored. Cost of feeding was also not significantly different (p>0.05). However, higher profit index (174. 64) was recorded in T1 and lower benefit cost ratio (166.68) was recorded in T4 for total cost of feed intake per rabbit. In conclusion, sweet potato peel meal can be uses as a good replacement for maize in rabbit production without any adverse effect on the performance of rabbit.
Management problem of crop residues production in Aliero Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors: Muftau M. A. , Kwaido A. A. , Ayuba M. S. , Kadi N. , NaAllah Y.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to examine the management problems of crop residues production in five villages within Aliero Local Government Area of Kebbi State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 75 respondents within the study area. The data collected was analyzed using simple statistical tools such as frequency counts and percentages. The family size of the respondents showed that more than half (52.41%) had 5-8 members. Majority of the respondents were within the age categories of 23-32 (39.60%) and 32-42 years (33.30%). It was observed that most of the respondents were male (78.08%) with different educational background. The study revealed that about 47.95% of the respondents were farmers. Mixed cropping is common to the household with cereal and legume crops combination; sorghum/groundnut (6.85%), millet/groundnut (28.03%) and sorghum/cowpea (36.99%). Various storage methods existed among the house hold in handling crop residues as majority (45.21%) kept crop residues on the roof tops and the least (9.59%) kept crop residues on the tree branches. Crop residues were from groundnut straws, cowpea straws, maize stover, millet stover and rice straws with sorghum stover constituting the highest (30.14%). Majority of the respondents (39.74%) source their crop residues from self production. The study also showed that all the respondents encountered one or more management problems which limit crop residue production and they include high cost of irrigation (78.08%), inadequate storage structures (75.34%) and inadequate capital (68.86%) among others constitute the prominent problems to crop residue production in the study area.
Response of two Brachiaria species to swine manure application rates: effect on biomass yield, nutritive quality and acceptability by WAD sheep
Authors: Ojo V. O. , Adeyemi T. A. , Adewuyi A. I. , Akinyemi T. R. , Akinade G. A. , Amodu J. T.
Published: February 2021

Rising inorganic fertilizer prices have led to return to the use of organic nutrient sources to reduce cost and improve pasture productivity. The present study determined the response of Brachiaria ruziziensis and Brachiaria mulato II to swine manure application rates: effect on biomass yield, nutritive quality and acceptability by WAD sheep. The experiment was a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement laid out as a split-plot design with three swine manure application -1rates (0, 5, 10 t ha ) as the main plot and two Brachiaria species (B. ruziziensis and B. mulato II) as the sub-plot replicated three times. Growth parameters were determined at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after sowing, while dry matter yield was determined at 8 weeks after sowing. Chemical composition and in vitro gas production of the harvested grass samples were conducted and the acceptability of the forage material by WAD sheep was also determined. Results showed that B. ruziziensis was morphologically taller than B. mulato II at all weeks of growth. The heights of the plants significantly (P < 0.05) increased with increasing manure application rate at all weeks of growth. A significantly (P < 0.05) higher dry matter yield was recorded for -1B. ruziziensis than in B. mulato (6.24 vs. 4.16 t ha ). Dry matter yield of the plants increased as the rate of manure application increased. The crude protein content of both grasses increased significantly (P<0.05) as the level of manure inclusion increased. The highest significant (P<0.05) (14.00 ml/200mg DM) gas volume produced was recorded for B. -1ruziziensis fertilized with 10 t ha of manure while the least gas volume (7.50 ml/200mg DM) was recorded for B. mulato unfertilized at 24 hours of incubation. Brachiaria ruziziensis -1fertilized with 5 t ha of swine manure was most preferred by the sheep. In conclusion, herbage yield increased as the swine manure application rate increased, also chemical composition and acceptability by sheep was higher in B. ruzuziensis than with B. mulato II.
Effect of garlic rhizome (Allium sativum) powder supplemented diets on the haematology and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens at starter and finisher phases
Authors: Onunkwo D. N. , Nathaniel J. , Ezike J. C. , Amaduruonye W. , Daniel-Igwe G.
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of garlic rhizome powder on blood profile of broiler at different growth phases (starter and finisher phase). One hundred and twenty Abor acre broiler chicks were used for the study and the chicks were randomly distributed into four treatment groups and the treatment groups were then divided into different replicates with each replicate having 10 chicks i.e. 30 chicks in each treatment group. The garlic powder was included at different inclusion levels and the treatments were designed as T1: basal diet with no garlic powder, T2: basal diet supplemented with 0.5% garlic powder T3: basal diet supplemented with 1.0% garlic powder and T4 having 1.5% garlic powder. Starter diet was offered to the birds for the first four weeks of the feeding trial and finisher diet was also provided for the birds within 5th to 8th week. Daily feed intake and weekly body measurement were taken. At the end of the starter phase, blood was collected for haematological and serum biochemistry analysis also blood was collected for blood profile analysis at the seventh (8th) week of the experiment. The blood samples collected were analyzed for haematological  parameters which include haemoglobin, Packed cell volume, Red blood cells, White blood cells, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin, Mean corpuscular volume, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, heterophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and serum biochemical parameters which include Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline Phosphate, Cholesterol, Total protein, Albumin, Globulin, Uric acid and Creatinine. Results showed that the effect of feeding graded levels of garlic rhizome powder on the haematological and serum parameters were significant (P<0.05). The cholesterol levels of experimental birds dropped significantly with increasing levels of garlic in the diets. Inclusion of garlic powder on broiler feed had no significant difference (P>0.05) on the creatinine level. Therefore 1.5% inclusion of garlic should be added to broiler feed to enhance production of broiler lean meat with lowest cholesterol.
Effect of replacing maize with graded levels of sweet potato vine – cassava composite meal on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass characteristics and economics of production of weaned rabbits
Authors: Shaahu D. T. , Tiough S. M.
Published: February 2021

The study was carried out to determine the feed value of replacing maize with graded levels of sweet potato vine – cassava composite meal (SPV-CCM) to rabbits. Five treatment diets were formulated to contain SPV-CCM inclusion levels of 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Thirty weaned rabbits of mixed breeds and sexes were used for the experiment. They were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments with one rabbit as a replicate in a completely randomized design. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Parameters measured were that of growth, digestibility, carcass and economics of production. The result showed that there was no significant (P>0.05) difference effect on final weight, total weight gain, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio across the dietary treatments. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference on crude protein digestibility, crude fibre and ether extract which were within the required values for rabbit. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference on live weight at slaughter, dressing percentage, heart, liver, kidney, lungs/trachea, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, caecum, large intestine and visceral fat, there was however, a significant (P<0.05) difference in dressed weight, pancreases, spleen and kidney fat. A high cost of feeding, cost per kilogram diet and production was recorded in T and low cost of feeding, cost per kilogram diet and production in T . The result showed that 1 5 maize could be replaced by SPV-CCM up to 100% without any adverse effect on their performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics. However, the optimum performance was observed when 75% SPV-CCM replaced maize in the diet. Replacement of maize with SPV-CCM has relative cost advantage over the control diet and so should be incorporated in the diet of rabbit up to the level considered in this study.