bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between udder measurements during pregnancy and partial daily milk yield in goats
Authors: James I. J. , Osinowo O. A.
Published: February 2021

Relationship between udder measurements during pregnancy and partial daily milk yield (PDM) in ten West African Dwarf (WAD), three Red Sokoto (RS) and Sahel goats was studied. Udder width (UW), udder circumference (UC), distance between teats (DBT) and teat length (TL) were measured monthly before conception and during pregnancy up to parturition. PDM was determined weekly for 12 weeks of lactation commencing from 4 days post partum. There was a slight increase in udder dimensions within the first 2 trimesters of pregnancy (day 0 - 100) and then followed by an exponential increase during the third trimester (last 50 days of pregnancy) across the breeds. Sahel does had the largest udder dimensions with highest average PDM while WAD does had the smallest udder with lowest average PDM. The highest correlations between udder growth curve parameters and average PDM were obtained with A (r. 0.795) and b (r = 0.609). Thus, udder size at conception and during pregnancy appeared to be a significant determinant of average PDM per lactation and could be more important to average PDM than the rate of increase in udder size during pregnancy.
Urban animal agriculture: consumer perspective of rabbit meat in Ibadan metropolis
Authors: Jaiyebo O. I. , Ajayi F. T.
Published: February 2021

Traditionally, agricultural research has focused on production issues even though demand issues should usefully complement production research. Focusing on demand issues will help to improve decision-making in production and marketing activities. With all the merits of rabbit meat, the study revealed that a large proportion of the population in Ibadan metropolis who desire to regularly eat this meat do not have access to it. About 36.00% of those who eat this meat purchase directly from rabbit keepers at prices considered to be high. About 20.00% of all the respondents indicated preference for processed (smoked) rabbit meat, thus creating an opportunity for urban animal farmers to produce this meat for a ready market. This is an avenue to increase producer income by adding value to the meat through processing.
Some modules of poultry production in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Sanni S. A. , Ogundipe S. O.
Published: February 2021

Poultry production plays a very important role in providing Nigerians with one of the cheapest sources of animal protein. In spite of this great nutritional contribution, some degree of discrepancies exist between its demand and supply vis a vis other economic expectations. This paper evaluates and compares the profitability of four layer production modules using input-output data from secondury sources (research reports and field experiences) and primary sources (2002/2003 input and output prices in Zaria). The modules covered by this paper are: started pullets (0-8 weeks), point of lay pullets (9-20 weeks), commercial egg production (21 - 72 weeks) and full cycle layer production (0)- 72 weeks). Fixed and variable costs were estimated for 500 birds and deducted from gross returns to give the net cash returns. The major investments in the started pullets and point of lay modules were the cost of pullets, accounting for about 61% and 50% of the total cost of production respectively. Feed constituted about 71% and 86% of the total cost of production in the commercial egg and full cycle layer production modules respectively. The analysis also indicate that sales of started and point of lay pullets accounted for over 90% of the gross income from started and point of lay modules while sales of eggs accounted for about 86% of the gross return from the other two modules. Net cash returns were positive for all the modules considered. The returns to Naira invested per year were 0.75, 0.09, 0.14 and 0.16, for started pullets, point of lay, egg production and full cycle layer modules respectively. It is cvident from these results that modules with shorter production cycle tends to generate higher returns to investment, as more batches are turnout per year depending on the length of productiun cycle.
Goat Production in Oyo State: A case study of Ogbomoso town
Authors: Odeyinka S. M. , Okunade G. K.
Published: February 2021

The study was conducted in two Local Government areas (LGAS) of Oyo State: Ogbomoso North and Ogbomoso South L.G.A. The study was carried out through the use of structured questionnaires. A total of 90 questionnaires were administered randomly in the two LGAS. Questions were asked based on background, production system, constraints to goal production e.l.cof the respondents. The data were analyzed separately using descriptive analysis. The results showed that 95.2% of household owners of goat were females while the major farms emplored male labour. West African Dwarf goat was the common breed of goat raised in the two LGAS. Majurin of the household owners of goat practised free range system of production (86.7%) while u lurge percentage of the major farms practiced intensive system of production (80%). There were no specialized housing and feeding programmes, a larger percentage of both categories fed crop residues such as cassava peels, cornstarch meal residues, and cowpea husk to the goats. The household owners of goal seldom feed forage to their goats (20%) while all the major farms fed forage to the goats. The common diseases in the area were diarrhea, pneumonia and mange. Noform of control breeding was practiced among the categories of goat keepers. There is a lack of extension service in the areas because majority of both the household owners (98%) and major farms (60%) did not have access to extension agents. The constraints to goat production in the area include accidents on the road, seasonality of seed supply, diseases, theft, lack of capital and land.
Retrospective study on some diseases causing mortality in West African Dwarf (Fouta djallon) goats during the first year of life: an eight-year study
Authors: Oyeyemi M. O. , Akusu M. O.
Published: February 2021

During an eight-year-study involving 242 kids born between 1993-2000, kid mortality for kids up to / year old was 47.52%. Irrespective of the age group, mortality was generally very high in young kids. The patterns of deaths were as follows: 29.57% before 3 months; 26.96% between 3 and 6 months, 12.17% between 6 and 9 months while 31.30% died between 9 and 12 months of age. Mortality rate for the 6-9 months period was significantly lower (P<0.05) than at other periods. The causes of kids' mortality were bad mothering abilities, malnutrition and disease. Pneumonia (37.39%) and pneumoenteritis (34.78%) were the major causes of death during the first year of life It was found out that kid with birth weight below 1.0kg and twins died before weaning. The introduction of new goat is a source of infectious disease especially PPR in the herd/flock. Also observed, as source is the introduction of new goats at age group 9-12 month. It is recommended that disease prevention, good management including the provision of adequate feeds for good growth and efficient veterinary care should be provided for goats in their first year of lif
Modelling growth in seven chicken genotypes
Authors: Peters S. O. , Ikeobi C. O. N. , Ozoje M. O. , Adebambo O. A.
Published: February 2021

Three non-linear growth models were used to fit weight-age data for seven chicken genotypes: Comparisons were made among these models for goodness of fit, biological interpretability and computational case. Monomolecular and Richards Models overestimated body weight at the early phases of growth. All the three models underestimated the asymptotic mature weight but Gumpertz function gave a better estimate than the other two. Maturing rates were also variable and Richards Model gave the best estimate of K. Using these three non-linear models to describe growth rate of chest girth of the seven chicken genotypes yields a different result from that of the body weight. The point of inflection ranged from - 3 56 for FINA (F/Na) genotype to 28.26 for frizzled (Frx Fr) genotype. Genetic variations in rates of gain, maluring rute und mature size were observed.
Effects of body condition on the reproductive performance of Red Sokoto goats.
Authors: Taiwo B. B. A. , Buvanendran V. , Adu I. F.
Published: February 2021

Effects of the body condition on the litter size, birth weight and kids survival of Red Sokoto goat were examined using seventy eight does aged 1-3 years. The does were flushed by grazing on cultivated pastures in the morning, and when indoor, they were served 500gm of concentrate ration per head per day. Their body conditions were assessed. All does used in this study fell within the body condition 1 with a mean body weight of 20.7kg and the body condition 2 with a mean weight of 24.1kg on a condition scale where 1 is poor and 2 is fair. They were randomly assigned to six sire groups and making lasted ten weeks. All does were reared as a group before and after parturition until the kids were weaned at 12 weeks. Does on condition score 2 significantly higher litter size (1.74) reared more kids to weaning (0.68) and were superior to does on condition score 1in overall productivity measured as number of kids weaned (89.21 vs 45.85%) or weight of kids weaned per doe kidding (4.92 vs 2.40kg). Does on the condition score 2 were twice condition score 1. The large difference in productivity would seem to justify investments in nutrition to breeding does prior to mating
Cytologgy screening of Nigerian ecotype goats for reproductive potentialities
Authors: Otuma M. O. , Berepubo N. A. , Wehke S. N. , Ewa V. U. , Nweze B. O.
Published: February 2021

X-chromatin (drumstick) screening evaluated through the identification of the drumstick appendages of neutrophilis was carried on Nigerian goat breeds. 150 weaner bucks and 150 weaner does were used for the study. Some of the animals exhibited aberrant x-chromatin while some showed normal percentage of incidence of the drumstick. Both genotype and sex differences had significant effect (P>0.05) on the x-chromatin in genotype III (RSG * WAD), Genotype III design should not be used for reproductive purpose except on the ground of fattening for slaughter
Response of starter broilers to diets containing graded levels of rice bran with or without palm oil
Authors: Ibiyo I. M. O. , Atteh J. O.
Published: February 2021

One hundred and forty four(144) day old broiler chicks of hubbard breed from a commercial hatchery were used to investigate the response of broiler chick to 0, 10 and 20% dietary rice bran with or without palm oil in a 5 week feeding trial. Significant interaction between dietary levels of rice bran and palm oil were observed on feed intake, weight gain and feedgain ratio (P>0.05). Increase in dietary levels of rice bran deduced feed transit time in the GIT (P>0.05) while supplementary palm oil had the opposite effect (P>0.05). There was a tendency for dietary supplementation of palm oil to increase protein or fat retention (P>0.05) but had no significant effect on crude fibre retention (P>0.05) but had no significant effect of crude fibre retention (P>0.05). It was concluded that broiler chicks could tolerate up to 10% dietary levels of rice bran without detrimental effects on performance and nutrients retention. With supplementary 5% palm oil added to such a diet, performance was comparable to that of birds fed a standard diet with money saved in the process
Performance and hypo-cholesterolemic response of laying hens fed cassava root sievate - based diets.
Authors: Idowu O.M.O. , Oduweso A. , Daisy E.
Published: February 2021

A total of one hundred and fifty (150) Nera ser-linked layer strains (32 weeks of age) were used to investigate the performance response, blood plasma and egg yolk cholesterol status of hens fed cassava roul sievate (CRS) bused - diets. CRS was used to replace wheat offal at 0, 5, 10, 15 und 20% respectively, resulting in five dietary treatments. Each treatment had 3 replicates with each replicate group having five hirds. The experiment lasted for 10 weeks. No significant effect of diers was noticed in the body weights, weight gain and daily feed intake. Fced conversion per dozen eggs, hen-day egg production and total egg produced significantly declined as CRS levels increased from 0 to 20% in the diets. Diets with 20% CARS had the poorest performance. However, the blood plasma, egg yolk and egg cholesterol concentrations were reduced significantly (p< 0.05) with increased level of CRS Dietary treatment with 20 % CARS had the lowest (P< 0.05) cholesterol concentration. Inclusion of up to 20% CRS led to 35% reduction in plasma total cholesterol, while 18 and 17% reductions were obtained in the egg yolk total cholesterol and total cholesterol per egy respectively. Replacement of up to 10% (w/w) wheat offal by CRS is therefore recommended 10 effectively reduce cholesterol content of the plasma ,egg yolk and whole egg by 20%, 10% and 17 % respectively at performance level that are comparable with that of the control group.
Effect of dietary inclusion of Anthonata macrophyla meal on the performance of broiler starter chicks
Authors: Durunna C. S. , Udedibie A.B.I. , Uchegbu M.C.
Published: February 2021

A 28-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of Anth:-:: macrophylla meal on the performance of broiler starter chicks. Anthonala macrophyla was harvested from the wild, wushed, chopped into tablets, sun-dried and milled to produce the test meal. The meal contained un diy matter basis 21.11% crude protein, 1.90% crude fat, 2.00% total ash, 5.03% crude fibre and 54.36% nitrogen free extract. Five (5) broiler starter diets were formulated to contain the meal at 0,5,10,15 and 20% level, respectively. One hundred and eighty (180) day-old Anak broiler chicks were divided into 5 groups of thirty-six birds each and randomly allocated to the five treatment rations in a completely randomized design (CRD). Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, protein efficient ratio, cost of production of one kilogramme of each test feed among others and carcass characteristics. At 15 and 20% dietary levels. Anthonata macrophylla significantly (p<0.05) depressed feed intake, daily weight guin, feed conversion and protein efficiency ratios and final weight gain of the birds. Organ weight parameters showed no significant (P>0.05) differences among the treatments. The results of this investigation suggest that Anthonata macrophyla meal can be included in broiler starter ration up to 10% without any deleterious effect on the birds and at this level of inclusion, feed cost was reduced by 10%.
Predication of body weight of the domestic rabbit at different stages of growth using linear body measurements
Authors: Akanno E. C. , Ibe S. N.
Published: February 2021

Data on body weight and linear body measurements (LBMs) namely ear length (EL), body width (BW), body length (BL), Head to shoulder (HS), Shoulder to tail (ST) and length of leg (LL) of 363 progeny of locally adapted Dutch , New Zealand White and crossbred rabbits at 3,6,9 and 12 weeks of age were analyzed to obtain phenotypic correlations between the various traits and prediction equations for body weight, using different linear body measurements. There were high and positive correlations between each of the linear body measurements and body weight and between the LBM themselves. The values ranged between 0.57 and 0.85, 0.34 and 0.89, 0.27 and 0.83 and 0.41 and 0.75 in weeks 3, 6, 9 and 12, respectively. Hence, it was possible to predict body weight of live rabbits from their linear body measurements, as an aid to farmers in areas where sensitive scales are not available. Except in purebred New Zealand White NZWxNZW, body: length (BL) was a good predictor of 3- week body weight (IBW) in all breed groups. Body width (BW) and BL only were good predictors of 6-week body weight in all breed groups. For predicting 9- week body weight, shoulder to tail drop (ST) was important in all breed groups in addition to either BW, ear length (EL) or body length (BL). ST and BW were important predictors of 12-week body weight generally in all breed groups.
Profitability of semi-intensive and intensive egg production in South-West and South-South zones of Nigeria.
Authors: Okoruwa V. O. , Obuyelu A. E. , Ikoyo-Eweto O.
Published: February 2021

The paper examines the profitability of two improved poultry systems (semi-intensive and intensive egg production system)i in the South-West and South-South zones of Nigeria using descriptive statistics, farm budget analysis approach and the benefit-cost analysis. The data for the study were ob­tained through a multi-stage sapling approach from 70 poultry farmers selected from four states (Edo and Delta in South-South; Lagos and Oyo in the South -West) in the study area. Empirical evidence from the analysis shows that the poultry farmers are predominantly male and mostly single. A greater proportion (80%) of them fell between the ages of 31-50 years and had a least secondary school education. Majority of the farmers (86%) used black nera breed because of its high productiv­ity, resistance to diseases and environmental stress and good quality carcass when disposed as spent layer The study further reveals that differences exist in profitability between the two groups of poultry farmers as the net income of farmers using the battery cage system was about 1.8 times the net income of farmers using deep litter system. However; the benefit-cost ratio indicates that both group of farmers are making profit since the benefit-cast ratio of their poultry business exceed one.
Sperm production rate, gonadal and extragonadal sperm reserves in slaughtered White Fulani (Bunaji) bulls in a lowland tropical environment
Authors: Bitto I. I. , Okpale M. I.
Published: February 2021

Reproductive tract morphometry, sperm production rates, gonadal and extragonadal sperm reserves in Bunaji bulls were evaluated using samples from a total of 13 mature animals. The morphometric characteristics of the reproductive organs had generally low values but showed normal development. The daily sperm production (DSP) averaged 1.23 ± 0.16 x 109, while the daily sperm production (DSG/g) was 0.62 ± 0.11 x 107. Gonadal sperm reserve was 2.17 ± 0.73 x 109 while extragonadal sperm reserve was 3.82 x 109 for caput, 2.68 x 109 for corpus, 4.36 x 10 (for cauda epididymis and 0.62 x 109 for the ductus deferens. The relative contributions of the epididymal segments and the ductus deferns to the total extragonadal sperm reserves were 33.28%, 23.34%, 37.98% and 5.40% respectively. Testicular morphomeric characteristics correlated highly with themselves and with sperm production parameters as well as extragonadal sperm reserve. While these results provided information that would be useful in the determination if male/female ratio during mating and artificial insemination programmmes, the study also shows that good sires could be obtained from these animals for breeding and improvement programmes in this breed.
EFFECT OF DURATION OF COOKING MUCUNA UTILIS SEED ON PROXIMATE ANALYSIS, LEVELS OF ANTINUTRITIONAL FACTORS AND PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: Tuleun C. D. , Patrick J. P.
Published: February 2021

The effect of cooking regime on the proximate composition, gross energy and anti-nutitional factors (trypsin inhibitor, phytic acid, hydrogen cyanide, tannin, oxalates and saponins) of Mucuna utilis seed was investigated. Two experiments were conducted with 120 seven-day old broilers of equal average initial weight to evaluate the effect of duration of cooking mucuna seed at 100oC for 20, 40 and 60 minutes on performance. Results showed that duration of cooking did not have any significant (P >  0.05) effects on the dry matter, crude fibre and gross energy. However, the crude protein, either extract and nitrogen free extract significantly (P < 0.05) decreased. The anti-nutrients; tannins, trypsin inhibitory activity, hydrogen cyanide, total oxalates significantly (P < 0.05) reduced with increase in duration of cooking. Feed intake, weight gain feed conversion efficiency, protein intake and utilization were significantly (P < 0.05) improved with increase in cooking time. It was concluded that raw Mucuna utilis seeds contain high levels of anti-nutritional factors and may be unsuitable as feed ingredient but cooking reduced the anti-nutritive substances in the raw seeds.
PERFORMANCE AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF RABBITS FED FERMENTED AND UNFERMENTED COCOA POD HUSK
Authors: Adejinmi O. O. , Hamzat R. A. , Fapohunda J. B.
Published: February 2021

This study was designed to investigate the performance and nutrient digestibility of rabbits fed cocoa pod husk (CPH). Thirty weaner rabbits of about five weeks old were used for the study. They were allotted to five treatment consisting of three replicates of two rabbits each. Diet T, served as the control with 0%CPH, Diet T2 and T3  contained 30% unfermented and fermented CPH respectively. The experiment lasted for ten (10) weeks. The results showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ration of rabbits fed increasing levels of inclusion of fermented and unfermented CPH in experimental diets. The apparent nutrient digestibility also improved with increasing levels of fermented and unfermented CPH in the diets. However, rabbits performed better on the fermented CPH than the unfermented CPH based diets.
FEEDING VALUE OF CASHEWNUT TESTA FOR BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: Fanimo A. O. , Adebayo A. J. , Oduguwa O. O. , Biobaku W. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to investigate the response of broiler chickens to diets containing cashewnut testa (CNT). Two hundred and four (204) day-old unsexed Arboracre broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatment consisting of three replicates of seventeen chicks each. The treatments consists of a control and three other diets with CNT included at 5, 10, and 15% as a substitute for wheat offal in the control diet. Cashewnut testa had 1.5, 20.0, 54.0, 17.0, 2.0, and 94.5% crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), nitrogen free extract (NFE), ether extract (EE), ash and dry matter (DM), respectively. Weight gain was highest (P < 0.05) in birds fed 5% CNT diet (35.24g) while the lowest and feed: gain ratio values. The CP retention and digestible EE, CF, NFE, ash, DM and total digestible nutrient were not significantly (P <0.05) affected by CNT in the diets. The serum metabolites were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by the levels of CNT in the diets. Total serum protein increased (P < 0.05) with increasing level of CNT in the diets. Among the carcass parameters measured, breast, neck and back weight were highest (P < 0.05) for 5%CNT diet while abdominal fat, small intestine and large intestine weight increased (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of CNT in the diets. No significant effect (P > 0.05) in juiciness, flavor intensity, tenderness and off flavor was recorded among the meat samples from the broiler fed the diets. Meat lipid and ash increased (P < 0.05) in the CNT diets. Cost of feed per kg decreased while cost of feed per kg live weight gain increased (P < 0.05) with increasing level of CNT in the diets. It was concluded that 5% CNT could replace wheat offal in broiler diets.
Performance characteristics and cost benefit of feeding weaner rabbits cashew nut residue based diets
Authors: Akinnusi F.A.O. , Bamgbose A.M. , Ogunola A.B. , Alade A.A.
Published: February 2021

A 42-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the performance characteristics and cost benefit of feeding weaner rabbits cashew nut residue (CNR) based diets. Three dietary treatments containing: 0.10 and 20% CNR at the expense of maize on a weight for weight basis were used. Eighteen weaner rabbits (mixed breeds and sexes) were randomly divided into three groups of six rabbits each in a completely randomized design (CRD). The average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by the dietary treatments. But rabbits fed 10% CNR based diet had the highest values for average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake while rabbits fed the control diet (0% CNR) had the least value for feed conversion ratio. No mortality was recorded for all the dietary treatments. The feed cost/kg diet (₦), feed cost/kg live weight gain (₦/kg) and cost of feed consumed/day (₦) decreased steadily with increasing level of cashew nut residue meal. The saving on feed cost (%) was not significantly affected (P>0.05) by the dietary treatments, but increased across the groups. However, the saving on feed to produce 1kg live weight was significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the CNR based diets. Rabbits fed 10% CNR based diet had the highest value of 9.66% than their counterparts fed other diets. It is concluded that cashew nut residue could be incorporated into rabbit diet at 10% without compromising the performance
Effects of duration of cooking whole or crushed African Locust Bean (Parkia Filicoidea, Welw) seeds on the levels of some Anti Nutritional Factors and growth performance of young rabbits
Authors: Bawa G.S. , Adegbulu M.T.
Published: February 2021

Chemical analyses and a growth trial were carried out to determine the effect of duration of cooking whole or crushed African locust bean seeds on the proximate compositions, levels of some anti-nutritional factors and growth performance of young rabbits. Samples of whole or crushed African locust bean seeds subjected to 30. 45 or 60 minutes duration of cooking respectively, were analysed for proximate composition and levels of some anti-nutritional factors. In a completely randomized design, a 56-day feeding trial was also conducted using 63 young rabbits of mixed breeds with an average initial weight of 415.00g to evaluate the effect of cooking whole or crushed African locust bean seeds at 100°C for 30, 45 or 60 minutes on growth performance. The diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous (20% CP). Diet 1 with raw African locust bean seeds served as the control. The animals were offered feed and water ad libitum. At the end of the growth trial, 5 rabbits per treatment were selected and slaughtered for carcass analysis. The results showed that cooking African locust bean seeds whole or crushed for 30, 45 or 60 minutes had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the proximate composition. However, cooking the seeds, either whole or crushed resulted in a significant (P<0.05) decrease in trypsin inhibitors activity (TIA), phytic acid, tannin und hydrocyanic acid content of the raw seeds. Feed intake, average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly (P<0.05) improved as the duration of cooking increased. The cost per unit gain decreased significantly (P<0.05) as the duration of cooking increased from 30 10 60 minutes. It was concluded that ruw African locust bean seeds contain some levels of anti nutritional factors which could limit their nutritional value in monogastric diet. Cooking whole or crushed African locust bean seeds at 100°C for 60 minutes was considered optimum for young rabbits. There was no significant (P>0.05) advantage of crushing before cooking
Survey of some plants utilized as feed by the Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus Temminck) at Akpaka Forest Reserve, Onitsha, Nigeria.
Authors: Ebenebe C.I.
Published: February 2021

Field studies were conducted for 10 months (September 2001 to June 2002) to identify plans consumed by grasscutters in the wild ar the Akpaka Forest reserve located at Latitude 6o 09'N and longitude 69o 47'E North eastern of Onitsha, in Onitsha North Local Government Area of Anambra State. Twenty-two plant species were observed to be utilized as feed by the grasscutter at Akpaka forest reserve. Of these Twenty-two plants, fourteen were grasses of the family gramineae, Three were tuber crops, four were fruits and only one - Chromoleana odorata was a shrub (weed). Nine of these plants were not documented by earlier authors. Ten of these plants were chosen and analyzed for both proximate and mineral composition based on their food value, high level of utilization by grasscutters and their abundance. The results showed that these plant materials were low in crude protein, high in fibre, moisture and nitrogen free extract and also low in all the minerals and therefore may not satisfy the nutritional requirements of the animals for improved productivity This paper therefore recommend inclusion of concentrate, vitamins and minerals in the diet of grasscutters.
Effect of season on Ejaculate Quality of three phenotypes of Nigerian Local Cocks
Authors: Machebe N.S , Ezekwe A.G
Published: February 2021

Twenty four (24) adult Nigerian local cocks comprising 8 normal, 8 frizzle and 8 naked-neck were subjected to two ejaculations per week for seven weeks in each season (early rain, lale rain, early dry and late dry seasons) using the massage technique. Ejaculates were subjected to both physical and chemical evaluations. Results showed a significant (P<0.01) seasonal effects between phenotypes in reaction time. In all the seasons, naked-neck and frizzle cocks had higher (P<0.01) ejaculate volume, sperm motility and total sperm than normal cocks. A highly significant (P<0.01) phenotype by season interaction was observed with naked-neck producing better quality ejaculates during the dry season when compared to other phenotypes. Significant (P<0.05) differences were noted in the percent abnormal sperm among the seasons. There were no significant season by phenotype interactions (P>0.05) in most of the chemical parameters (Na+1, K+1, Ca2+, Mg2+, and total protein) evaluated. However, a gradual increase in seminal protein was observed among the phenotypes with a peak during late dry season. The cations (particularly sodium, potassium and calcium) and chloride constituents of ejaculates were significantly lower during the late dry season than at most other seasons. From these results it was concluded that the naked-neck and frizzle cocks appear superior to the normal cocks in semen output and quality under the humid tropical environment.
Effect of graded levels of pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Meer) crush waste on the performance, carcass yield and blood parameters of broiler chicken
Authors: Lamidi A. W. , Fanimo A. O. , Eruvbetine D. , Biobaku W. O.
Published: February 2021

A 56 - day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate pineapple crush waste (PCW) as dietary fibre source in broiler diets. Five straight diets were formulated to contain the PCWat dietary levels of 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10.0% as replacement for wheat offal. One hundred and fifty (150), day-old "Anak 2000" broiler chicks were randomly allotted to the 5 diets containing three replicates per treatment with 10 chicks per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). The final body weight, daily weight, daily feed intake and daily protein intake were generally higher in the birds fed diet 2 (2.5% PCW). There were significant (P<0.05) differences in daily feed intake and daily protein intake between the group on diet l and the other groups, while daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio were statistically the same (P >0.05) across the treatments. Digestible crude fibre values significantly (P < 0.05) decreased with increasing levels of PCW in the diets while the other digestibility percentages were comparable (P >0.05) in all dietary treatments. Values for the hematological parameters and blood serum chemistry did not deviate (P >0.05) statistically from established normal values for chicken. However, liver weights significantly increased (P < 0.05) across the dietary treatments while other organs observed did not differ significantly (P >0.05) in weight across the treatments. Cost per kg feed decreased as the level of PCW inclusion in the diets increased while the cost per kg weight gain showed that birds sed on diet 4 (7.5% PCW) were the most economical to produce. The results suggest that PCW could replace wheat offal in broiler diet up to 10.0% as a dietary fibre source without any deleterious effect.
Effects of dietary levels of heat-treated sheep manure (HSM) on the performance and egg quality parameters of laying hens
Authors: Abeke F. O. , Ogundipe S. O. , Sekoni A. A. , Bale J. O. , Adeyinka I. A. , Oni O. O.
Published: February 2021

A 6-Oching ina was conducted to deneme the creatof dietary inclusion of heartreated' sheepam (HSM) performance ander quality powerers of Shikarbow layers. The HSW anased and found lo con 85.95% dry after 16.88crude protein 24.42% inde fibre, 7.95% der chracr. 263/%45L 1.32%ealewwand's piraspore. The wrobasahlen (WE) was Bologically ansawdard fowd to be Jostalg. Free iconVenom die ware formulated to condan HSV .0 25.5.0 75 and 100 percent. Each arte dizia treatment was aplicadoreenmes with seven bir par replica ('making a loal of robuz for enperimenta completely domised'derig. Dirl, which who sharp e , vedar de corular IF TE HYIT Wwd/or the formulation of the diers. The bus were howed singh uncages. The larger vere First named on the comtroldet wuch Coed verline or vol plementing factor fora de umewaan period of real-orie daws. During Nils period, w e arees were broken ofwd polk colour car wen derer und wsing the Rocher You Colour Fan (RYCH). By the twentirsday W RYCF) on had dropped to the lowest value of an Thebe were tonplaced on experimenti dies for suck witchcreda prod ofó months. Powerers 

m used for the eye quality included would colour Haugkwiwalue yolk index and shell bucksFor the performance characteristics, parawers manured andmed percent Aer dry and den haundeee production, peroni peakog production, Gedinale, fed conversion criciencykred2 and feed cost per 12 eus produced Restes obranned d e nutrievur the dietary level of HSM. He lower Keed intake, criciency offeedurization, recent or day and her houseder production and final body weer However the Roche Yard Colour Fan scores (RYCF incard' w increase in dietary levels of HSM. This indicates that HSM can be fed in laying her dierpia 5% mclurion lewe noo d good mornice and on acceptable RYCF score of timecayolk colour bur beyond is level performance may be adversely affected
Magnesium requirement of young West African dwarf goats for maintenance
Authors: Arigbede T. O. , Taiwo A. A. , Arigbede O. M. , Oduguwa B. O. , Bamikole M. A.
Published: February 2021

Eighteen growing West African dwarf WAD goats of equal number of sexes, aged 6-7 months with average weight of 6.23 +0.50kg were used in a 9-wk feeding trial to study the influence of dietary supplementation of magnesium sulphate (MgSO, 7H,0) at 0, 1 and 2% in isonitrogenous (11.50%CP) and isocaloric (2.83 ME Mcal/kg) diets with a view to estimating Mg requirement for maintenance. The three levels of supplementation were used to obtain three diets 1, 2 and 3 containing 0.02, 0.13 and 0.22% Mg respectively. The goats were divided into three groups of six animals, and each group was randomly allotted to one of the three diets. Results showed that Mg supplementation had significant (P<0.05) effects on Mg intake, absorption, balance, serum Mg, red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) counts: and highly significant (P<0.01) effects on dry matter intake (DMI), growth rate, serum glucose (GLU), total protein (TP) and haemoglobin (Hb) concentration. Treatment effect on packed cell volume (PCV) was not significant (P >0.05). The general trend depicted an increasing dietary Mg supplementation with decreased DMI, body weight change, serunt GLC, TP, PCV, Hb concentration, RBC and WBC counts at 2% Mg level of supplementation. Dietary supplementation of Mg at 1% (D2) however supported best animal performance as evidenced by the outstanding responses of the goats in terms of DMI (0.446 g/day/kgLW), body weight change (30.01g/day), feed conversion 

114.48), Mg digestibility (80.51%), Mg balance (0.091 g/day/kgLW), PCV (36%) and TP (70.70g/1). 72 x model relating Yg intake to balance gave Mg minimum requirement of young WAD goats for 

: - kgLIT with significant (P < 0.05) correlation coefficient (r = 0.98). Dietary O V ER H. however must not exceed 1% of the total diet to avert a decline in animal
Effects of dietary levels of sun-dried sheep manure on productive performance and egg quality parameters of Shika-brown layers
Authors: Abeke F. O. , Ogundipe S. O. , Sekoni S. A. , Adeyinka I. A.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was conducted to test the effect of dietary levels of sun-dried sheep manure (SSM) on egg quality parameters and productive performance of Shika-Brown layers. Six isonitrogenous and almost isocaloric diets were formulated to contain SSM at 0.0, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 % level of inclusion. Diet I, which had no sheep manure, served as the control. White maize was used for the formulation of the diets. Each of the six diets was replicated four times with five birds per replicate in a completely randomised design experiment. The birds were housed singly in cages. The laying hens were first maintained on the control diet which contained very little or no yolk pigmenting factor for a depigmentation period of twenty-one days. During this period, samples of eggs were broken out and yolk colour scores were determined using the Roche Yolk Colour Fan (RYCF). By the twenty-first day, the (RYCF) scores had dropped to the lowest value of one. The hens were then placed on the experimental diets for the study, which covered a period of twelve weeks. Parameters measured for the egg quality included egg yolk colour, Haugh unit value, yolk index and shell thickness. For the performance characteristics, parameters measured included percent hen day and hen housed egg production, percent peak egg production, feed intake, feed conversion efficiency (kg feed/12 eggs) and feed cost per /2 eggs produced. Results obtained indicate that dietary levels of SSM had a significant (P<0.05) effect on RYCF scores and feed intake but had no significant (P>0.05) effect on other parameters such as egg weight, Haugh unit, yolk index, shell thickness, shell weight, percent shell, feed conversion efficiency, feed cost (N/12 eggs), percent hen day, hen housed and peak egg production.
Storage characteristics, digestibility and nitrogen balance in west african dwarf sheep fed preserved elephant grass, caged layer waste and cassava peel diets during dry season
Authors: Sowande O. S. , Aina A. B. J. , Oguntona E. B. , Fanimo A. O. , Adewole F. A. , Adesanya O. A.
Published: February 2021

The storage characteristics, digestibility and nitrogen balance of three experimental diets consisting of elephant grass at 45, 40 and 35%, and caged layer waste at 25, 30 and 35 %, respectively with fixed quantity of cassava Deels and sawdust ash at 28 % und 2 %, respectively were assessed using West African Dwarf sheep. Result showed that there was a significant (P<0.05) reduction in the nutrient composition of the feed in terms of DM, CP, ash, NFE, Pand K while the contents of EE, NDF, ADF, ADL, Ca, Mg, Na, Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn were not influenced (P>0.015) by the length of storage. Apparent digestibility of DM, CP, ash and NDF was high but not significantly affected by the composition of the experimental diets. However, digestibilities of CF, ADF and ADL were significantly higher (P<0.05) in rams offered diets 1 and 2 than the rams fed diet 3. Nitrogen balance in the rams fed the experimental diets was high (69.04 to 74.90% of intake) but similar (P>0.05) among the treatments. It was concluded that the experimental diets have good potentials for dry season feeding of small ruminants.
Estimation of availability and distribution of browse species and number of small ruminant animals among farmers in selected communities of Nsukka Area of Enugu State.
Authors: Onyeonagu C. C. , Asiegbu J. E.
Published: February 2021

A study of browse plants in Nsukka rural communities was conducted between February and March 2005. Structured questionnaires were administered to farmers in four communities in Nsukka Local Government Area. Twenty (20) browse species belonging to 14 families were identified. All the sampled respondents kept sheep and/or goats and depend on the natural pasture as the main source of browse plants for the animals. Fifty five per cent (55.0%) of the farmers sampled practised stall feeding while 45.0% of the respondents left the farm animals to roam and graze, especially during the dry season after crop harvests. The mean stock number per farmer in this study was 4.9 for goats and 1.0 for sheep with the highest numbers being in the Eha-Alumona community. In Obukpa community, sheep did not feature significantly. Species in the families of Bignonaceae, Chrysobalinaceae, Fabaceae, and Moraceae, are common in all the communities. The family of Moraceae has the largest number of commonly utilized browse plants.
Castration: Its economic implications on swineherd profitability
Authors: Aro S. O. , Olowofeso O.
Published: February 2021

A 16-week trial was conducted to investigate the effect of castration on the profitability of the weaning to finishing operation of the swine enterprise. Eighteen pigs were allotted into three treatments comprising the male castrates (MC), the intact males (IM) and the intact females (IF), respectively. The pigs were exposed to the same management and environmental conditions throughout the duration of the trial. Total costs per treatment were N67,583.14, N68, 256.34 and 167,583.14 for the I.M, M.C and I.F and did not show any significant difference (P>0.001). The gross margin per treatment however gave values (revenue) of N85,268±40.62 for the intact male group, N68,962±26.56 for the male castrate group and N69,588±35.38 for the I.F group with statistical significant differences (P<0.001) between the I. M group and the other two groups. 97.08 cycles or 32.35 years were needed as the pay back period for the M.C. group. 33.67 cycles or 11.22 years for the I.F group and 3.82 cycles or 1.27 years for the I.M. group. The calculated return on capital employed (ROCE) gave values of 1.03 %, 26.17% and 2.97% for the M.C., I.M and I.F groups respectively. The study revealed an enormous economic damage that could be inflicted by castration as a management practice on the profitability of the weaning to finishing operation of the pig enterprise. The study also unlocked the huge economic benefit that could accrue to farmers when intact males as opposed to their male castrate counterparts are used in this line of pig production enterprise.
Effect of Sex on some Growth Criteria and carcass Yield in Cobb Broiler strain
Authors: Ajayi F. O. , Ayorinde K. L.
Published: February 2021

The effects of sex on some growth criteria in Cobb broiler strain were studied. A tottal of two hundred and sixty-four chicks comprising one hundred and thirty-fuor males and one hundred and thirty females were used.  Analyses of the results showed ni significant (P>0.05) sex variation in the all growth criteria: body weight, body length, keel length, drumstick length, shank length and shank thickness at 3 and 6 weeks of age.  The males were however, significantly heavier than the females at 9 and 12 weeks of age: the difference being 114.94g at 99 weeks and 186.67g at 12 weeks of age. The eviscerated weight of the female expressed in percentage of live weight was marginally higher than that of males (63.76% and 62.50% respectively).The portion of breast in female broilers was also higher than male broilers. IT could be inferred from this study that females had less inedible parts (blood, intestine and feathers) than males.
Replacement of Value of Sweet Potato(Ipomea Batatas) Meal For Maize in Practical Diets Fed to Quail (COnturnix cotu-rnix japomica) Chicks
Authors: Edache J. A , Musa U. , Ehizokale M. U. M. , Esilonu J. O. , Okapala E. J. , Karisin P. D. , Yisa A. , Zwandor N. J.
Published: February 2021

A six- week feeding trial was conducted to determine the value of sweer potato in diets fed to216 Japanese quail chicks in a brooding house. Four isonitrogenous (22%CP) diets tagged A, B<C and D incorporating graded levels (0. 13.73, 23,73 and 38.73%) of sweet potato meal respectively as replacement for maize were used in the trial. The M.E levels of the diets flunctuated between 2692; diets D and 2708kcal/kg M.E; diets B. Each treatment was replicated thrice. Food intake was higher (p<0.05) on diet B (818.62) than the rest of the diets (A:702.10g, C: 688.51 and D: 689.96g). Difference in weight gain (A:122g, B:130.50g. C:121.37g, D:122.15g) were not significant( p>0.05) among the treatments. Feed cost/kg gain was higher(p<0.05) for diet D(134.81) than other diets (A:97.87, B:94.23, C:104.94). Results of this study showed that dietry level of 38.73% sweet potato meal was suitable for growth of Japanese quail chicks provided the diets are isonitrogenous and contained metabolizable energy of between 2692 and 2798kcal/kg
Milk production from primiparous Bunaji cows fed Pennisetum purpureum with or without supplements
Authors: Akinlade J. A. , Smith J. W. , Taiwo A. A. , Adekunle I. O , Akangbe F. G.
Published: February 2021

The feeding value of three supplements to a basal grass (Pennisetum pupureum) diet was investigated using sixteen Bunaji cows. The three supplements were Pueraria phaseoloides, Leucaena leucocephala and brewers dried grain (BDG). The rate of supplementation was 30% of the daily dry matter requirement. The experimental arrangement used was a completely randomized design and euch diet was tested using four animals per diet for an experimental duration of 60 days. Parameters measured included feed intake, milk yield and composition. There was substitution effect of supplement intake on the basal grass diet intake. The intake of supplements enhanced (P<0.005) crude protein intake. The milk yields were low and values ranged from 1.1 to 2.6 kg (4% fat corrected milk/day). Supplementation increased (P<0.05) milk, fat and protein yields of the lactating cows. However, milk yields of supplemented groups were similar (P>0.05). Milk from animals fed Leucaena and BDG supplements had the highest fat 102.2 and protein 93.12 g/d contents. Milk fat contents were normal and similar (P>0.05) among the treatments. Low milk protein contents were recorded except for BDG supplement. It was concluded that the feeding of forage legumes enhanced milk production in lactating Bunaji cows.
Effects of supplementing Rice Straw with Pigeon Pea Forage on Performance of Yankasa Sheep
Authors: Jokthan G. E. , Lakpini C. A. M. , Adamu A. M. , Akpa G. N.
Published: February 2021

Studies were conducted to evolution the feeding value of rice straw (RS) supplemented with varying levels of pigeon pea forage (PPF)as dry season feed for yearling Yankasa ewes. Twent yearling ewes with an average live weight of 15.02kg were randomly assigned to four treatments. Five ewes ner treatment comprising a basal RS diet fed ad libiitium (0.0% PPF), and ad libitium RS supplemented the feed ingredients showed tha RS had 10.81% CP, 5/11% liginin and 4.2% silica while ppf had 15.75% CP, 3.63% ligmim and 0.5mh/kg tannin. in terms of mineral contents analyzed. PPF was higher thanRS only in calcium. The results of the feeding trial showed increase feed intake with increase in level of PPF supplementation. Ewes on the unsupplemented and 0.5% body weight supplementation lost weight (-2.01kg and -1.6kg respectively) while those on 1.0 and 1.5% supplementation had minimal(1.25kg and 1.06kg respectively) weight gain. The digestibility and nitrogen balance showed significant difference (p<0.05) in the digestion of DM, NDF and ADF across the treatments. Supplementing RS diet wit o.1% of the body weight PPF resulted in better digestibility of all nutrients. Nitrogen retention across all treatments were high and ranged between 86.18 to 90.06 percent