bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intake, performance and digestibility of West African dwarf goats supplemented with graded levels of Grewia pubescens and panicum maximum.
Authors: Arigbede O. M. , Olanite J. A.
Published: February 2021

A trial was carried out with 16 females West African Dwarf (WAD) goats to assess their dry matter intake, digestibility and liveweight gain when fed Grewia pubescens as supplement to panicum maximum. The levels of inclusion of G, pubescens were 0, 25, and 75%. The highest nutrient intakes occur at 50% levels of supplementation being 61, 01, 54, 40, 8, 44, 26.07, 19.29, and 6.57gd 3w0.75 for DM, OM, CP, NDF, ADF, and lignin respectively. These were significantly (P<0.05) higher than other levels of intake. The dry matter digestibility (DMD) coefficient Increased significantly (P<0.01) with increased inclusion levels of G, pubescens supplementation. It increased from  52.24% at 0%, which the control or supplement diet to the highest of 80.42% at 50% level of supplementation. Thereafter, the DMD decreased to 79.06% at 75% level of inclusion though the decrease was not significant (P>0.05). The digestibility  coefficient of OM and CP at 50% level of supplementation were also highest being 81.86% and 84.23%  respectively. Digestibility of other nutrient followed the same trend as for DM, OM, and CP digestibility. The liveweight gain of the animals range from 8.81g d-3 for unsupplemented to 10.95, 18.33, and 20.71g d-3 for 25, 50, and 75% level of inclusion respectively. The differences were significant(P>0.05) between 50% and 75% levels of inclusion. The nutritive value index was highest (61.33) for 50% level of inclusion and significant (P<0.05) from other levels of supplementation which, were in turn, higher (P<0.05) than that of unsupplemented animals.
Nutritive value of unripe and ripe plantain (Musa paradisica) peels for weanling rabbits
Authors: Fanimo A. O. , Oduronbi T. O.
Published: February 2021

Dried plantain (Musa paradisiaca) peels (DPP), either ripe or unripe (green), were given to Weaned rabbits to replace maize at O, 10, 20 and 30% levels in isonitrogenous (18% crude protein) diets for 56 days in a 2 x 4 factorial experiment. The 30% inclusion level of DPP depressed (P < 0.05) the final weight gain, daily weight gains, and feed conversion efficiency. Ripe or unripe DPP had no significant (P < 0.05) effect on the performance parameters except feed intake, which was improved (P < 0.05). The interaction between ripe or unripe DPP and inclusion levels significantly (P < 0.05) affected weight gain and feed conversion efficiency. Inclusion of DPP depressed (P < 0.05) dressing percentage and lumbar and limbs weights while the viscera weight was increased Ripeness the plantain peels had no significant effect (P < 0.05) on the carcass yield. There was also increase in profit margin expressed in terms of feed cost/ kg live weight gain with inclusion of plantain peel in the diet. The results of this study showed that ripeness slightly improved the nutritive value of DPP which can be included al 20% in weaned rabbits ' diet to replace maize.
Growth and carcas characteristics of broilers fed alkali processed soybeans
Authors: Ayanwale B. A.
Published: February 2021

An eight-week feeding tial was conducted to investigate the effect of feeding alkali processed soyabeans to broilers.  Soyabeans were processed in aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, sodium sesquicarvonate (trona) and alum respectively. The concentration of each of the salts was 3%. The soyabeans, after drying, were used in compounding 3 diffefrent diets. The control (T1) contained roasted soyabeans while diets T2 , T3 and T4 contained NaCl, trona and alum respectively. Broiler feeding lasted for 8 weeks starting from day - old. The results indicated that feeding NaCl processed soyabeans to broilerss significantly (P<0.05) depressed growth rate, feed consumption and body gain. NaCl treated soyabeans produced feed/gain ratio, protein efficiency ratio (PER), carcass and organ proportion  comparable to thr control. The growth rate, feed intake and weight gain of NaCl to sufficiently inactive trypsin inhibitors and remove a substsntisl proportion of polyphenols and oligosaccharides in soyabeans. It was concluded that since alkaline salts are cheap and readily available all the year round their use in processing soyabeans should be encourage.
Nutritional evaluation of varying proportions of Gliricidia sepium and Ficus thonningii leaves in the diet of young West African dwarf goats.
Authors: Bawala T. O. , Akinsoyinu A. O. , Folorunsho O. R.
Published: February 2021

Sixteen (16) male of West African dwarf goats, aged 6 to 8 months and weighing 4.85 to 6.80kg were used in protein utilization study to monitor performance. The animals were randomly divided into four groups. Each group was fed foliages of Gliricidia sepium and Ficus thonningii mixed in varying proportions such that 0% (diet 1), 25% (diet 2), 50% (diet 3) and 75% (diet 4) of Gliricidia were replaced with Ficus. The feeding lasted 70 days during which dry matter intake, DM1, and changes in body weight were monitored. At the beginning of the last 10days of the trial animals were trans­ferred to individual metabolic cages for daily collection of faeces and urine for 7 days after the 3 days set aside for adjustment to the cages. Results showed that the mean DM1 was 185.15g day', which amounted to about 2.9% of body weight while digestibility coefficient was 65%. The daily weight gains observed for animals on diets containing 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% of Gliricidia replaced with Ficus leaves were 34.30, 34.29, 37.10 and 36.79g day' respectively. The metabolic faecal nitrogen, MFN, and endogenous urinary nitrogen, ELTN, values were 9.42g kg' DM and 0.85g day­'Kg BW0.745 respectively. Regression model that described the relationship between nitrogen, N, balance and corresponding absorbed N values indicated that the combination of Gliricidia and Ficus leaves could furnish nutrient (3.68g day' kg' BW0..75 digestible crude protein, DCP) which might support young WAD goat requirement for maintenance. Data obtained suggested that all the three combinations of diets could be fed to goats but the inclusion of Gliricidiaand Ficus at equal level of 50%p produced highest weight gain (37.10g day-1) and supported better performance
Evaluation and economics of enzyme supplementation on the performance of broiler finishers fed soybean hull meal based diets
Authors: Esonu B. O. , Izukanne R. , Emenalom O. O. , Etuk E. B. , Samuel S. , Ezeoke F. , Mere B. , Inyang O. A.
Published: February 2021

Twenty-eight day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the performance of broiler finisher fed soybean hull based diets supplemented with “Safzyme®”, an exogenous cellulolytic enzyme. Soybean hull also referred to as soyhull, soybean millrun or soybean flakes are by-products of the soybean milling industry. Five broiler finisher diets were formulated such that the diets contained soybean hull meal at 0%, 10% and 20% dietary levels (without enzyme supplementation) and 10%, and 20% dietary levels (with 1.0% enzyme supplementation) respectively. One-hundred and fifty (150) four-week-old Hubbard broiler chicks were divided into five groups of thirty (30) birds each and randomly assigned to five treatment diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). Data were collected on feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and economics of production was also computed. Feed intake increased progressively as dietary inclusion of soybean hull was increased with or without enzyme supplementation. This increase became significant (P<0.05) at 20% dietary level of soybean hull. Daily body weight gains of birds on soybean hull meal diets with enzyme supplementation did not significantly differ (P<0.05) from birds on soybean hull meal diets without enzyme supplementation. Feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency were both significant (P<0.05) at 20% dietary levels of soybean hulls with or without enzyme supplementation. Dietary inclusion of soybean hull without enzyme supplementation reduced cost of feed and production of 1kg of meat while enzyme supplementation negatively affected percent feed cost savings. The results of this trial suggest that supplementation of diets containing soybean hull meal at 20% dietary levels with Safztme®, an exogenous cellulolytic enzyme, at 10% dietary level could not improve the nutritive value of the hulls for broiler finisher birds and also affected negatively percent feed cost saving.
Performance of West African dwarf sheep fed cassava peel-based diets
Authors: Asaolu V. O. , Odeyinka S. M.
Published: February 2021

Chemical compositions of ensiled cassava peels, dried cassava peels and gliricidia on the performance of West African Dwarf sheep were evaluated. Twelve grower rams and ewes between 5-7 months of age were allotted to three treatment diets: D1 (control) diet was 100% gliricidia (GLI) (leaves with bark and soft stem), D2 consisted of 80% ensiled cassava peels plus 20% gliricidia (ENP/GNI) while D3 consisted of 80% dried cassava peels plus 20% gliricidia (DP/GLI). The three test feeds were observed to have more comparable crude fibre contents ranging from 16.07% for ensiled cassava peels to 18.20% for gliricidia. The gross energy values were also comparable ranging from 3.93kcal/gDM for ensiled cassava peels to 4.64kcal/gDM for gliricidia. Gliricidia was however observed to be richer in crude protein and minerals compared to ensiled cassava peels and dried cassava peels. Dry matter intakes, dry matter digestibility and growth rates showed significant (P<0.05) differences with the tilt being in favor of the animals fed on the sole glricidia diet. The energy digestibility of 79.83% for the animals fed on ensiled cassava peels and gliricidia diet was not significanyly (P>0.05) different from the corresponding value of 82.67% observable for animals fed on the sole gliricidia diet. Both values  were however significantly higher (P<0.05) than the values of 74.17% obtained for animals on the dried cassava peel plus gliricidia diet. Feed conversion values showed no significant (P>0.05) differences for the three groups ranging from 8.8. (ENP/GLI) to 10.80 (DP/GLI). Cassava peels supplemented with gliricidia can be used in practical production diets for West African Dwarf sheep with better prospects of utilization through ensiling of the peels.
Reproductive tract morphomerty, foetal dimensions and some biochemical characteristics of tubal and foetal fluids in Caprine females during digestion
Authors: Bitto I. I. , Onwukwe C. O.
Published: February 2021

The changes in genital tract morphometry, foetal dimensions, the relative volumes of foetal fluids during gestation was evaluated in Red Sokoto (Maradi) does using 28 gravid genitalia. Based on the ages of the fetuses, each genitalia was classified into one of the three phases of gestation namely: early, mid and late gestation for a comparison of all the parameters. While both the uterus and placenta were significantly enlarged, (P<0.05) at mid and late gestation, other morphometric characteristics of reproductive organs were similar (P>0.05) between the ages of gestation. There were significant increases in all foetal dimensions namely: foetal weight, total length, crown rump length, curved crown-rump length, vertebral column length and vertebral column and tail length at mid gestation as well as late gestation. Besides the significant increase in total protein in the allantoic fluid, the biochemical characteristics in the foetal fluid were all unaffected by the state of gestation (P>0.05) throughout the period of gestation. This work provides base line information on foetal development in relation to the intrauterine environment in the Red Sokoto breeb. Such information will be useful in breeding programmes aimed at the improvement of this breed in Nigeria.
Evaluation of pineapple crush waste meal as an energy feedstuff in the diets of tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus.
Authors: Akegbejo-Samsons Y. , Omoniyi T.
Published: February 2021

Pineapple crush waste (PCW) was used to replace maize as an energy source in the diets of Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five diets (31.52-32.51% crude protein) was formulated in which yellow maize was replaced at varying level with pineapple waste as follows: Diet 1 (100% yellow maize), diet 2 (75% yellow maize, 25% PCW), diet 3 (50% yello maize, 50% PCW), diet 4 (25% yellow maize, 75% PCW), diet 5 (100%PCW). Growth performance of fish was highest in diet 4 for all investigated growth parameters such as average daily growth (0.73g), final body weight (76.21g) and protein efficiency ratio (2.02). differences in FCR and PER were not significantly different between all diets. Diet with 100% PCW had the least growth performance. Results from the study showed that PCW was better utilized by Tilapia fish when the level of its replacement was either equal or slightly higher than that of yellow maize. Tilapia fish did not thrive well when the maize in practical diets was replaced completely with PCW.
ORGANS REACTION TO INTAKE OF MANSONIA ALTISSIMA IN LAYING HENS AND COCKS
Authors: Ogbamgba K. O. , Wekhe S. N.
Published: February 2021

An experiment was carried out to study the effect of intake of Mansonia altissima in the feed of laying hens and cocks with respect to the testis, ovary, liver and spleen. A tota of 45 birds consisting of 36 Isa-Brown layers and 9 cocks were completely randomized into three treatments. A, B and C, which contained 0, 30 and 50g/kg, pulverized M. altissima bark meal, respectively. Each treatment was replicated thrice and each replicate contained 5 birds consisting of 4 females and 1 male. Results showed enlargement and hyperemia of the testis, severe congestion of the ovaries and venous congestion of the live. However, the spleen appeared normal in both the control and treatment groups. Furthermore, the result showed that there were significant differences (P < 0.05) in the level of egg production between treatment group with group C (50g/kg/feed) laying the highest number of eggs. It was therefore concluded that 50g/kg/feed of M. altissima can be used as an egg booster.
EFFECTS OF ENSILING ON THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND MINERALS CONTENTS OF GUINEA GRASS AND CASSAVA TOPS SILAGE
Authors: Oduguwa B. O. , Jolaosho A. O. , Ayankoso M. T.
Published: February 2021

An experiment to determine the effects of ensiling on the physical properties, chemical composition and mineral contents of guinea grass and cassava tops silage was carried out between January and April, 2004. Cassava (Manihot esculentus var.Texas Cranz) tops and guinea grass (Panicum maximum Jacq var. Ntchisi) were ensiled alone and in mixture using plastic containers lined with polythene sheets. The experiment was a completely randomized design with three replicates comprising of the three plant mixtures i.e. cassava silage, guinea grass silage and mixture of the two. The result of the experiment showed that the silage from the three plant mixtures was similar physically. Although ensiling reduced the DM and CP contents slightly, the lower pH of between 3. 92 and 4. 38 showed that the silage was  well preserved with improved quality due to the drastic reduction in hydrocyanide (HCN) content of cassava tops. Mixing guinea grass and cassava top produced average qualities especially in terms of the structural carbohydrates such as ADF, NDF and lignin with HCN content reduced and increased CP content (25.48%) and minerals. Other properties such as DM, moisture, ash, organic kmatter, cellulose, hemicellulose, gross energy and pH were not significantly different in the silages from the three plant mixtures i.e. guinea grass, cassava tops and mixtures of guinea grass and cassava tops. It was concluded that mixing guinea grass with cassava tops improved the quality of silage produced that ensiling any of them sole.
Effects of cotton seed oil sludge on the performance and carcass characteristics of young rabbits
Authors: Bawa G S. , Orunmuyi M. , Odelewo O.
Published: February 2021

A feeding trial lasting 63 days was conducted using 60 weaned rabbits of mixed sexes and breeds with an average initial live weight of 487.50g. The rabbits were allotted to replicates each. Cotton seed oil sludge (CSOS) was included at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12% levels of the experimental diets respectively. The diets were isonitrogenous (20% CP). The results showed that feed intake, weight gain and feed efficiency were significantly different (P<0.05) across the dietary treatments. The highest weight gain was observed on rabbits fed diet containing 12% level of cotton seed oil sludge (CSOS). The use of cotton seed oil sludge in rabbit diet was cost effective. The percentage reduction in feed cost per kilogram of diet for the 3,6,9 and 12% level of inclusion were 2.90, 6.43, 12.04 and 15.25% respectively. The dressing percentage and percent belly fat increased significantly (P<0.05) with increase in the level of cotton seed oil sludge. A non-significant but slight increase was observed with the carcass weight and weight of the major organs (P>0.05) as the level of cotton seed oil sludge increased in the diet. It was concluded that cotton seed oil sludge (CSOS) can be included up to 12% level in the diets of young rabbits without adverse effects on performance and carcass characteristics.
Response of Laying Hens to total Dietary Replacement of Maize with Cassava.
Authors: Akinola L.A. F. , Oruwari B. M.
Published: February 2021

he response of Isa Brown laying hens during 77–85 weeks of age to peeled unfermented cassava root meal (CRM) as total substitute for maize in diet was examined. Eighty (80) hens were assigned to four dietary treatment groups (T1,T2,T3 and T4) in a completely randomized design. The control diet (CD) contained 40% maize while the proportion of maize in the CD was replaced with 100, 110 and 120% CRM amounting to 40, 44 and 48% of cassava in diet for T2, T3, and T4 respectively. All diets were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. The CRM diets produced statistically significant (p<0.05) improvements by leading to lower feed intake, better feed conversion and increased hen day production (HDP) with increasing levels of CRM in diet. Although the eggs obtained from birds fed the CD had significantly higher yolk weight than those from the CRM, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in egg weight in all treatment groups. The best overall performance was achieved from birds fed 48% (120% replacement) cassava diet.
Utilization of sesame meal as protein source in broiler diets
Authors: Ikani E. I. , Oyibo S. W. , Aduku A. O.
Published: February 2021

A broiler feeding trial was conducted to determine the optimum replacement value of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) meal for soyabean in maize-soyabean diets. A total of 252 day-old Anak 80 strain broiler-type chicks were used. Three replicate groups of 14 birds each were randomly allotted on six treatment diets containing 0, 10, 15, 20, 30 and 40% of sesame meal in the diets. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Results showed that broiler birds fed up to 15% level of sesame meal in diets performed significantly (P<0.05) better than those fed on control diets for all the parameters studied. Feed consumption and feed efficiency values were also significantly lower for birds fed 15% sesame meal diets compared to those on control. However, sesame meal al 30 and 40 percent in diets significantly (P<0.05) depressed growth performance of broiler birds. It was found from this study that, up to 15% sesame meal could be used in maize-soyabean broiler diet without adverse effect on growth parameters.
Effect of Prebiotics and Probiotics as natural growth promoters in broiler chicks
Authors: Ezeokeke C. T.
Published: February 2021

Sixty day-old broiler chicks (Ross breed) were treated with or without prebiotics and probiotics (Natural growth promoters) containing immune extracts at the starter (1-5wks) and finisher (6-10wks) phases. The birds were allocated to no diets (one test and one control) in a contpletely randomized design. Each treatment had three replicates of ten birds per replicate. Energy and protein levels of the diets were 3000 Kcal ME/kg and crude protein (CP) of 20% and 3000 Kcal ME/kg and 17% CP at starter and finisher phases, respectively. The experiment lasted ten weeks. The daily metabolizable energy intake for body maintenance, 146.97 cal./ day for birds on the tesi diet was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those birds on the control diet, 113.04 cal./day at the starter phase. At the finisher phase, efficiency of feed utilization (0.38 as against 0.19), mean weights of live (1920g as against /570g) and plucked (1740 as against 1380g) parts of the treated birds were significantly (P<0.05) betier than the untreated birds. Other parameters measured increased more for the treated birds but were not significant (P>0.05). The immune status conferred on the birds ensured adequate protection from death for the treated birds. The untreated birds suffered 67% more mortality than the treated birds. Though mortality rate was within the acceptable limits for both treated and untreated birds. The results of the experiment showed that Enterococcus faesium, inulin together with cell-wall fragments and immune stimulant extracts as probiotics and prebiotics enhanced growth performance of broiler chicks. The trial was successful.
Efficacy of tobacco extract and Flumethrin Pour-on against cattle tick, Amblyomma variegatum
Authors: Fajimi A. K. , Dauda T. O. , Taiwo A. A. , Ajayi F. T. , Soetan K. O.
Published: February 2021

The comparative efficacies of topical tobacco extract and flumethrin pour -on against the cattle tick Amblyomma variegatum was evaluated. Thirty Ndama cattle were divided into three treatment groups often animals per group viz: Flumethrin treatment group ; Tobacco treatment group 2 and the untreated control group 3, in a completely randomized design. Ticks were counted visually and by palpation of affected areas at 0.7, 21, 28 and 35-day period. Backline application of flumethrin was from the pole to the base of the tail according to manufacturer's instruction while application of tobacco was through the aid of cotton wool soaked in liquid tobacco extract. The flumethrin pour-on produced a significant reduction in tick count by the 21" day reaching as high as 100 %( 43.33 and 0) while the tobacco extract produced comparable result at a longer time of 35 days (46.22 and 0). The tobacco extract however maintained the protection against Amblyomma variegatum in the face of continuous challenge by injective tick larvae up until the 64" day post challenge. Significant re-infestation of ticks could be seen however in the flumethrin count 40 day post challenge. This confirmed the efficacy of tobacco in protecting cattle against tick, Amblyomma variegatum.
The influence of mutual maternal and neonatal recognition on the foster mothering techniques in pigs
Authors: Aro S. O. , Olowofeso O. , Agbede J. O.
Published: February 2021

Mutual maternal and neonatal recognition vis-à-vis four foster mothering techniques were investigated using 32 sows and 128 neonate piglets in a four-week trial. The sows and the neonates were assigned into four foster mothering techniques designated as: Neonates rubbed with an odoriferous chemical and grafted during the day (NRD); neonates without the chemical treatment Cul grafted during the day (NWD); neonates rubbed with the chemical and grafted during the righi (NRN) and neonates without the chemical treatment but grafted during the night (NWN). These four techniques were tested on four sets of sows comprising eight sows per set and four corresponding years of neunuce pigs currprising tirer-ko noonate pigs per set on four different post-partum days (i.e. day 1 to 4 following farrowing). Total acceptance of the dam by the neonate gave a value of 54 with the probability of acceptance of 0.42, while total acceptance of the neonate by the dam was 86 with a probability of acceptance of 0.67. Total rejection and probability of rejection of the dam by the neonates were 74 and 0.58 with values of 42 and 0.33 for total rejection and probability of rejection of the neonates by the dam, respectively. The dams gave a higher percentage acceptance than the neonates while the neonates gave a higher percentage of rejection than the dam. Grafting within the first two days of life would hold a better fostering success on the part of the neonate as they showed more dependence on auditory and visual cues whose acuity may not have been well-developed within these first two days of life while the acceptance of the neonates by the dam could be enhanced by chemical masking of the olfactory cues, which the dam utilizes most for the recognition of her offspring.
Sweet potato as a ruminant feed: Performance of sheep fed mixtures of the forage and root.
Authors: Olorunnisomo O. A.
Published: February 2021

Scarcity of quality forage during the dry season poses a serious problem to ruminant production in southwest Nigeria. Dried sweet potato (SP) vine and root have the potential to bridge the gap in feed supply for ruminants during this period. In a feeding trial, fifteen male West African dwarf (WAD) sheep were used to estimate the nutritive value of SP forage and root as a basat feed for ruminants during the dry season. Experimental diets consisted of SP forage and root in the following proportions, 0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, and 100:0 (forage. root). In the first part of the trial, growing WAD sheep were fed experimental diets for twenty weeks. Dry matter (DM) intake and growth rate of the animals were measured in the second part, digestibility and nitrogen balance of sheep fed the experimental diets were measured. Intake, growth rate, digestibility and nitrogen retention improved significantly (P < 0.05) when SP forage and root were mixed in the diet. The DM intake ranged from 1.8 to 4.9% body weight; growth rate, -34.1 to 86.43 g/day; DM digestibility, 64.6 to 70.4%; and nitrogen retained, 29.5 to 51.0%. Performance, digestibility and nitrogen utilization of WAD sheep was highest when SP forage and root formed equal proportions (50:50) in the diet. Mixing SP forage and root in the diet proved beneficial to growing sheep and equal proportions of the forage and root in the diet appear to be the most appropriate combination.
Reproductive performance of rabbits fed groundnut (Arachis hypogea) haulms
Authors: Abe O. S. , Abiona J. A.
Published: February 2021

The 20 parent rabbits used in this study were randomly assigned to 4 treatments (diets 2-5) plus a control diet (Dietl) while the 20 FI does were maintained on the parental diet. The number of matings per conception were higher in the parent does than the FI does. Generally the Fl does performed better than the parent does in most of the parameters considered. The lowest value of 50.0 and 50.0 obtained in FI does were higher than the lowest value of 33.33 and 25.0 obtained in purent does for conception rate (%) and reproductive efficiency (%) respectively. Although, one cases of abortion and two cases of stillbirth were recorded in parent does, none was observed in FI does. The litter size of FI does which ranged between 4.0-5.5 was lower than the parent does which ranged between 40-6.5 It could however be inferred that the overall superior performance of the FI does may not be unconnected with the inclusion of groundnut haulms in their diet from the start after weaning.
Effect of cooking time on the nutritive value of Lablab Seed in Diets of Young Pigs
Authors: Bawa G. S. , Ogundipe S. O. , Tegbe T. S. B. , Dafwang I. I.
Published: February 2021

Two trials were conducted using a total of ninety-six cross-bred (Large White X Landrace) young pigs to determine the effect of duration of cooking lablab seed on performance and nutrients digestibility. In the first experiment, 60 cross-bred (Large white X Landrace) young pigs averaging 11.50+0.16kg were used to determine the effect of duration of cooking lablab seeds on growth performance. The pigs used were fed iso-nitrogenous (20%CP) diets in which lablab seeds were either fed raw or cooked at 100°C for 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes before incorporation into the diets. A soyabean meal based diet served as the control. Feed intake, daily weight gain, final live weight and feed conversion ratio were significantly (P<0.05) better as the duration of cooking increased. The feed cost per unit gain also decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing cooking time. The second experiment involved 36 cross-bred (Large White X Landrace) barrows averaging 10.48+0.09kg to examine the effect of duration of cooking lablab seeds at 100°C for 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes on apparent nutrient digestibility. The test diets were similar in composition with those used in Trial 1. Intakes and apparent digestibilities of dietary dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fibre (CF), Ash, Nitrogen free Extract (NFE) and nitrogen retention increased with increasing duration of cooking. It could be concluded that, for optimal performance and nutrients digestibility, lablab seeds should be cooked at 100°C for 30 minutes before incorporation into diets of young pigs.
Peri-Urban Small Ruminant Feeding in Ekiti State
Authors: Odeyinka S. M. , Ogunyebi O. O. , Oyedele O. J.
Published: February 2021

This study appraised the socio-economic strata of small ruminant keepers in Ekiti State with emphasis on the feedstuffs fed to the animals. The following towns: Ado Ekiti, Ikole Ekiti, Itapa Ekiti, Ode Ekiti, Omuo Ekiti, Aramoko Ekiti, ljero Ekiti and Igbara Odo which represented the four geographical zones of Ekiti State were selected for this study. Ninety structured questionnaires were administered to small ruminant keepers in the towns at 10 per town. Data were collected on the socio-economic strata of the respondents with emphasis on the feedstuffs fed the animals. A proximate analysis was also carried out on some of the feedstuffs to determine their nutritive value. Descriptive statistical tools were used to interprete the data. About 78% of the respondents kept goats alone, 2% sheep alone while 20% kept a mixed stock of sheep and goat. About 54.4% of the respo initial stock from the local market, 28.9% had theirs as gifts and the rest from contractual agreement and government farms. The largest percentage (38.95) of the respondents had tertiary education, The predominant mode of production was the extensive system and the average flock size was 6 per household. The predominant feedstuffs fed to the animals were the household wastes and agro industrial by-products such as peels of cassava, yam, plantain and other by products of cassava processing. Proximate analysis showed that the predominant feedstuffs cannot satisfy the energy, protein and mineral requirements of the animals, hence the need for a supplementation with other feedstuffs such as Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala which are readily available in the study area.
Influence of Mineral Supplementation on the Composition of Goat Milk.
Authors: Bawala T. O. , Taiwo A. A. , Isah O. A. , Akinsoyinu A. O.
Published: February 2021

Eighteen monoparousLactating West Afriacan Dwarf (WAD) does, with average weight of 25  土 0.80kg  were used in a 12-week feeding trial to examine the effects of dietry mineral supplementation (Dicalcium phosphate and MgSO4 .7H2O) on milk production and composition of Ca. P and Mg The docs were grouped into three of six animal replicate/group and randomly assigned to each of the three isonitrogenous (15% CP) and isoenergetic 9.81MJ/kg ME) Supplementary diets (A,  B,, and C) respectively. The supplementary diet contained graded levels (0.5, 1, and 1.5% of Dicalcium phosphate and MgSO4.7H20 and fed with a basal diet of cyndom nlemfeuns grass in a completely randomized design. Results showed that treatment effects on dry matter intake (DMI (g/dry/kgB )circulating levels (mg/100ml) of ca, P and Mg in milk and sera of WAD does were significant (P <0.05), Variations observed on milk wal said were not significant (P >0.05. Significant (p<0,05) dry matter intake (DMI) (g/day/kgBW) values of 155.55, 174.77 and 193.34 were obtained for does on diets A, B and C respectively; While corresponding significant (P < 0.01) mean milk value of 185.30, 301.20, and 340.05 g/day were obtained significantly different (P<0.05) wear values of Ca, P and Mg levels obtained milk of WAD does on diets A, B and C were: Ca. 121.0, 127.0 and 132.0; P. 84.5, 89.78 and 94.08; and Mg: 18.90, 41.87 and 47.61(mg/100ml); while corresponding values in serumn were Ca: 9.75, 10.0 and 10.13. P: 7.15, 7.57 7.79; and Mg: 3.20, 3.52 and' 4.54 (mg/100ml)respectively.Significant (P < 0.05) positive correlations (r- 0.99, 0.97 and 0.73) existed between and serum Ca, P and Mg contents respectively, suggested that blood is a Secondary source of milk mineral secretion in lactating animals. The general trend was that increasing dietary mineral supplementation resulted in concomitant Increase in dr matter consumption, milk yield and milk mineral (Cu, P. and Mg) contents with does and diet C recording In the best performance. Consequently, dietary Ca. P and Mg levels %DM) in supplementary lactation diet for indigenous WAD goats seemed  to be best at 0.43, 0.35, and 0.17 respectively
Supplementary effect of concentrate feed on the performance and nutrient digestibility of Cane-Rats (Thryonomys Swinderianus) fed a basal diet of Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpurеuт)
Authors: Taiwo A. A. , Fayenuwo A. J. , Omole A. K. , Adebowale E. A. , Fapohunda J. B.
Published: February 2021

A study was conducted to the determine the effects of concentrate supplimentation on performance and nutrient digestibility in cane-rats/grasscutters. There were initiall three treatments: 0%, 10% and 20% concentrate supplementation onas fed basis to a basal elephant grass diet. Fifteen weaned cane-rats with average body weights of 1150g(士365.40) were randomly assigned to the three treatments based on weight and sex. The growth study was conducted for eight weeks. A nutrient digestibility study was also conducted using three grasscutters per treatment. The cane-rats fes 20% supplementary concentrate gained more weight than those offered 10% concentrate feed. Crude protein was better (p<0.05) digested by cane-rats on 20% concentrate feed whereas, ash and ether extract digestibility were better on 10% concentrate feed. The 0% concentrate treatment was terminated because three of the cane-rats(68% mortality) died within three weeks of the study. It is recomendedfrom this study that cane-rats fed a basal grass diet should be supplemented with 20% concentrate on as fed basis
Assessing calcium availability from limestone sources through bone and blood status of chickens
Authors: Tion M. A. , Njoku P. C
Published: February 2021

Calcium (Cu) availability from limestone (procured from different cement factories) was assessed through bone and blood status of chickens using the completely randomized design. Five hundred and twenty five (525) straight run broiler chicks that were 28 days  Of age (trial l), four hundred and twenty (420) broiler finishers that were 56 days of age (trial 2),  and 210 layers that had been laying for six months (trial 3) were used in the study. Six limestone dietary treatments and a control accounted for the seven diets that were assessed Twelve birds per treatment and 4 per replicate that had their weights close to the mean of the pen were selected in the broiler trials (trials I and 2) and three birds per pen and nine per diet were selected in the layer trial (trial 3) for bone and blood samples analysis. Bone samples were analyzed for bone weight, bone length, ash weight, percentage ash, Ca and phosphorus contents of ash and blood samples were analyzed for plasma Ca and alkaline phosphates activity. Results showed similar influence of sources on bone weight, bone length, ash weight and percentage ash. Ca and P contents of ash were significantly (P<0.05) affected by limestone sources but generally. Limestone sources produced mean values that were equal to or than the control diet in the starter phase (trail 1). In the finisher phase (trial 2), only Ca content of ashy varied significantly where Jakura source produced the least mean value. The layer trial (trial 3) also produced mean values that were significant (P <0.05) for Ca content of ash with the Sokoto source producing the least mean value. Plasma Ca and alkaline phosphates enzyme activity attained published values for chickens. It was concluded based on the information from this study that the (h from tested limestone sources was generally available for chicken production.
The effects of limestone sources as calcium source on the performance and eggshell quality of laying chickens
Authors: Tion M. A. , Njoku P. C.
Published: February 2021

Two hundred and twenty four pullets of shaver Star Cross 579 x Hubbard Golden Comet, that were 30 weeks of age and laying at 50% hen day production, were utilized in a completely randomized design to assess the suitability of limestone sources (procured from different cement factories) for laying hen performance and eggshell quality. Oystershell and bone meal were used in the control diet. Results showed that there were no significant (P>0.05) differences between the treatment mean values for initial body weight of chicken, egg production. Feed per dozen eggs. Eggshell thickness and eggshell percentage. However. Feed intake. Final body weight and egg weight varied significantly (P<0.05) among diets. Generally, diets that produced numerically higher rate of egg production resulted in significantly (P<0.05) smaller egg weights.
Influence of feeding frequency on changes in body measurements and carcass characteristics of Red Sokoto Goats
Authors: Bawala T. O. , Akinsoyinu A. O. , Eniolorunda O. O. , Aina A. B. J. , Ogun M. O.
Published: February 2021

Changes in body measurements and carcass characteristics were studied in Red Sokoto raised for 108days on three feeding regimes. Twenty one growing intact male goats with average weight of 8.70±0.23kg were randomly grouped into three, corresponding to the number offeeding (treatments) per day, viz, once OPD (08.00h), nwice TPD (08.00h and 13.00h) and thrice HPD (08.00, 13.00, 18.00) ina completely randomized design. Each goat was offered grass, Panicum maximum and concentrate (17% CP and 3.97 ME, Mcal/kgDM) supplement in separate containers at daily rates of 0.70 and 0.50 kg/head/day based on the number of Jeedings. Body weights and linear body measurements were taken weekly. Four representative goats were slaughtered at the close of the feeding periods to evaluate effect of level of feeding on carcass characteristics. Goats fed twice per day, TPD, had highest (P < 0.05) average weight gain (g/d) of 81.01, against 37.03 and 69.44 obtained for OPD and HPD fed goats. There were significantly differences (P < 0.05) in the changes in body weight, length, chest girth, and height at weithers values of goats as the trial progressed. Skeletal growth as represented by the height at withers HW was observed in all goals but more prominent and steady in OPD and TPD fed goats. Changes (cm) in HW of goats monitored in three stages of 36 days each of 108 day trial were: OPD goats; 3.50, 2.00, and 1.50; TPD goats,1.00, 5.00 and 0.05; HPD goats, 6.00, 3.00 and 0.20. Regression of body measurements on changes in body weight (P < 0.01) showed that chest girth was best in predicting changes in body weight on account of its highest correlation (r2 = 0.77). Similarly, TPD fed goats had highest (P<0.05) dressing % (58.30), carcass weight (7.90kg), carcass condition score (2.50) and offal composition. Corresponding values of 47.48 and 55.70 %, 5.00 and 7.00kg, and 1.00 and 1.90 were obtained for OPD and HPD fed goats respectinveb: Therefore. feeding goats twice per day improved production and could prevent waste of farmer's resources that is associated with higher mumber of feeding
The Effects of Replacing Groundnut Cake with Urea- Treated and Fermented Brewer’s Dried Grains on Nutrient’s Digestibility, Retention and Carcass Characteristics on Broiler Finishers
Authors: Isikwenu J. O. , Akpodiete O. J. , Omeje S. I. , Okagbare G. O.
Published: February 2021

The effects of replacing groundnut cake(GNC) with urea-treated and fermented brewer's dried grains (BDG) in broiler finisher diets were investigated. urea-treated and fermented BDG was used to replace GDC at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels in broiler finisher diets. Diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric to provide 20% crude protein and 3000 kcal/kg metabolizable energy. One hundred and ninety five thirty day old broiler chicks of Anak breed (Anak 2000 strain) were randomly allocated to five equal dietart treatments of 13 chicks per replicate and 39 chicks per treatmentand fed ad libitum in rearing cages. At the end of the 8th week, 9 broilers per treatment (3 birds per replicate) were randomly selected from the five treatment groups for metabolic study. At 8 weeks, two birds per replicate were weighed and slaughtered for carcass measurement. Nutrient digestibililty and retention were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by urea-treated and fermented BDG incorporation in the diets. Nitrogen retention values of 63.80±0.32 and 62.15±0.39% for the control and 25% replacement for the levels  of 50, 75 and 100%. Fat retention values of 97.71±0.39 and 92.49±0.66% for 75 and 100% replacement levels (P<0.05) were significantly higher than values of 53.37±2.72, 52.74±1.72, 42.54±2.37 and 42.75±2.67% for 25, 50, 75 and 100% replacement levels. Carcass quality parameters and organ weights were not significantly (P>0.05) different in all treatment groups. Mortality level (5-7%) was normal and evenly spread across all treatment groups. Results indicate that ureat-treated and fermented BDG can completely replace GNC as a plant protein source in broiler finisher diets.
Effects of Chemical Treatments on Microflora Species on Eggshell and Hatchability of Broiler Eggs
Authors: Egbeyale L. T. , Abiola S. S. , Fanimo A. O. , Sogunle O. M. , Sowande O. S. , Oduguwa O. O.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the effects of three disinfectants on the microbes and hatchabilty of broiler eggs. One hundred and ninety-two medium-sided hatchable broiler eggs were divided into four groups with three replications of sixteen eggs each. Each group of eggs was assigned to each of the following treatments; untreated, NaOCl, H2O2 and KMnO4:HCHO combination (1:2). The eggs were incubated for 21 days. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. The bacteria isolated were Escherichia coli (225-390cfu/ml), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (78-139cfu/ml), Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis (210-268cfu/ml), Salmonella spp (258-313cfu/ml) and fungi (63-101cfu/ml). Significant (P<0.05) variation was observed in the population of the micrfloral species on the egg shell. Escherichia coli were the pre-dominant bacteria recovered from all the samples before treatment. Effects of disinfectants on the microorganisms varied significantly (P<0.05) with KMnO4 + formaldehyde combination having the highest (57.36) effect on Salmonella spp. Similar effect of NaOCI and H2O2 was observed on S. aureus and proteus mirabilis, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and fungi. Eggs treated with KMnO4  + formaldehyde combination had the least significant (P<0.05) incubation weight losses value (14.63), while eggs treated with H2O2 had the highest value (17.00%). The results further showed that hatchability, chick hatchinh weight and early embryonic mortality were not significantly (P<0.05) affected by the treatments unlike the late embryonic mortality which was significant (P<0.05). Although, KMnO4 + formaldehyde combination is commonly used in the hatchery, in this experiment NaOCI and H2O2 compared favourably with formaldehyde as hatching disinfectants without adversely affecting hatching potentials.
The Replacement Value of Brewers Yeast Slurry-Maize Offal Mixture for Full fat Soybeans and Maize in the Diets of Pigs
Authors: Achadu G. O. , Anugwu F. O. I. , Kaankuka F. G.
Published: February 2021

Sixteen crossbred pigs (Large Whie x Landrace x Hamoshire) were used in two feeding trials to evaluate the replacement value of brewers yeast slurry-maize offal mixture (BYS-MO) for full fat soybean (FFSB) and maize in the diets of pigs, and in addition to determine carcass characteristics in experiment 2. In experiment 1 four isocaloric (3250 Kcal/kg) and isonitrogenous (18% crude protein maize - full - fat soybean based diets containing 0, 22.75, 40 and 59.15% of a 1.5: 1 (weight/weight) mixture of BYS_MO were fed ad libitum for 30 days. Parameters concluded included daily feed intake, daily weight gain, feed to gain ratio, protein efficiency ratio, cost per kg weight gain, linear and jointed carcass parameters and weights of internal organs. Due to the high protein content (44.3% of CP) of BYS, the BYS_MO mixture gave a product whose protein content of 34.3% was close to that of FFSB (36.4% CP). There were no significant differences (P>0.05) among treatments in all the parameters measured. However, the cost of feed was lower for the diets containing BYS-MO than the control diets in both experiments, thereby reducing the cost per kg weight gain from #129.20 to #96.20, #84.00 and #43.50 respectively for diets i, ii, iii and iv in experiment 1 and from #133.37 to #116.38, #109.77 and #108.06 respectively for diets i, ii, iii and iv in experiment 2. The 1.5:1 (weight/weight) brewers yeast slurry-maize offal mixtutre can replace up to 40 to 59% of maize and full fat soybeans in diets for weaner-grower pigs and finishing pigs withoutv any adverse effects on performance and carcass quality.
Feeding value of shrimp waste meal for West African Dwarf sheep fed soybean stover basal diet
Authors: Oduguwa B. O. , Adu I. F.
Published: February 2021

A degradability and feeding trial was carried out to estimate the utilization of soybean stover (SBS), Shrimp waste meal (SWM) and their mixtures (SBS+SWM) in West African Dwarf sheep. Sole sammples of SBS< SWM and mixture of SBS+SWM were incubated in the rumen of castrated West African Dwarf rams. Degradation lasted 48 hours. Feeding trial entailed feding levels (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%) of SWM to a sole SBS diet. The growth study lasted for eight weeks. Results obtained in the degradability trial showed that there were significant (P<0.05) differnces in the dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), and acid detergentfibre (ADF) degradability parameters for the feedstuffs. The effective DM degradability 'ED' was highest in SBS (343.0g/kg) and lowest in SWM (250.0g/kg). Crude protein effective degradability 'ED' ranged between 101.0 and 301.0g/kg for SBS and SBS+SWM respectively. NDF 'ED' ranged between 398.6g/kg for SWM and 815.7g/kg for SBS. ADF degradation characteristics for the constituents were also significantly (P<0.05) different with the soluble fraction 'a' values ranging between 126.0 and 624.0g/kg. When graded levels of shrimp waste meal was used as supplement to soybean stover, there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the average daily weight gain, which ranged from 9.52 to 22.85gd-1.The mean live weight gain was highest at 10% level of inclusion. Average daily DM intake increased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing level of SWM in the diet. The sole soybean stover diet however had the least DMI. MD, OM, NDF and ADF apparent digestibility coefficients were not significantly affected by the treatment imposed. CP digestibiliy increased (P<0.05) with increasing level of SWM to peak at the 15% level of inclusion (0.767) compared to the sole SBS treatment (0.593). Nitrogen balance was significantly (P<0.05) increased as the level of inclusion of SWM increased. Results suggest that feeding soybean stover as roughage along with up to 10% SWM to sheep may be sufficient to meet the requirements for weight gain and proper nutrient utilization