African Journal of Applied Zoology and Environmental Biology

Prevalence of Tinea capitis among primary school pupils In uli, anambra state, nigeria

N E Enendu — 2008-02-06

A survey of tinea capitis, ringworm of the scalp was carried out on 1,020 pupils in four primary schools in Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria, between May and July 2005. Tinea capitis was provisionally diagnosed in 142 pupils using clinical assessment, giving a prevalence rate of 13.92%, with a male to female ratio of 2:1. Most of the infected pupils (71.13%) had dry non-inflammatory lesions compared to 28.87% with inflammatory lesions and the majority, (64.08%) were between ages 6 to 10 years. Attempt to isolate and identify the etiologic agents from scalp scrapings, gave positive results in 22 samples with the occurrence of the following dermatophytes: Trichophyton tonsurans (27.3%); Microsporum audouini (18.2%); Trichophyton soudanense (18.2%); Microsporum gypseum (13.6%); Microsporum canis (9.1%); Trichophyton yaoundei (9.1%) and Trichophyton mentagropyhtes (4.5%). This study recommends parental and community education on ways of preventing the spread of tinea capitis.

Keywords: Tinea capitis, Pupils, Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 1-4

Species composition and distribution of zooplankton in the lower cross river estuary

S O Ekwu — 2008-02-06

Species composition, spatial distribution, abundance and diversity of zooplankton in the Cross River estuary were investigated over a period of 24 months. A total of 66 taxa belonging to eleven phyla were identified. Copepoda was the most abundant, with 17 taxa followed by the Cladocera with 11 taxa. Overall contribution of crustaceans to the total zooplankton population was 74.16%, while Chaetognaths and Cnidarians contributed 6.3% and 6.1% respectively. Densities ranged from 40 organisms/l to 1,660 organisms/l. Copepod presence was high in all the sampling zones but more in the lower reaches of the estuary. Cladocerans, Ciliates and Rotifers were more important in the upper reaches of the estuary, whereas the Cnidarians and Chaetognaths were absent upstream but highly abundant in the downstream reaches. Zooplankton composition showed significant spatial variation (p < 0.05) in taxa occurrence and density across the sampling zones. Copepods had the highest dominance value of 0.73, followed by Cladocera with 0.51. Jaccard's coefficient of similarity of species revealed dissimilarity between the upper reach stations and the lower reaches. Taxa richness was highest in the lower reach station 6 with a value of 6.79. A general trend of increase in species diversity and richness from upstream to downstream was observed. Inter-and intra-specific relationship revealed highly significant positive correlation (p < 0.01) between Cnidarians and Copepods (r = 0.896), Cladocerans (r – 0.841) and between chaetognaths and Copepods (r = 0.725, P < 0.05) and Cladocerans (r = 0.451, P < 0.05). Paucity of zooplankton in terms of occurrence and abundance at certain sampling locations of higher proximity to household and industrial effluents sources is indicative of anthropogenic perturbations.

Keywords: Zooplankton, abundance, distribution, diversity, estuary

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 5-10

A study of cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in obese and non-obese subjects resident in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Z M Ofuya — 2008-02-06

The cardiovascular and respiratory parameters of obese and non-obese residents in Port Harcourt were studied using the University of Port Harcourt as a case study. The aim was to investigate the effect of obesity on the above -mentioned parameters. A total forty subjects (twenty males and twenty females) were used for the study. Twenty of the subjects were obese while the other twenty were non-obese and served as the control. Their ages ranged between eighteen and forty years. The parameters studied were body mass index, heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). The results of the investigation revealed a significantly higher heart rate, higher blood pressure, higher respiratory rate and peak expiratory flow rate among the obese subjects when compared to those of the non-obese subjects. This shows that obesity has effects on the cardio respiratory fitness of obese people.

Keywords: cardiovascular parameters, respiratory parameters, obesity.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 11-13

Seasonal variations in human onchocerciasis transmission by black flies (Simulium damnosum s. l.) in a forest area of Cross River State, Nigeria

I A Atting — 2008-02-06

Observations on seasonal variations in onchocerciasis transmission by Simulium damnosum sensu lato were made in a study carried out in Kwa Falls, Aningeje in Akamkpa LGA (a typical forest area) of Cross River State, Nigeria. The study was carried out for three months of the rainy season (August, September and October, 1999) and three months in the dry season (November, December, 1999 and January, 2000). Black flies were caught on five consecutive days of each month by two flycatchers working alternate hours for a total of eleven hours in a day (07 hr. – 1800 hr.). The black flies caught were dissected fresh in the field to determine the physiological age (parity). Parous flies were stained with Mayer\'s Haemalum and dissected to determine the infection\\infectivity rates (percentages) due to Onchocerca volvulus. During 30 days of black flies catching, a total of 7,403 S. damnosum s. l. vectors were attracted to man. Out of this figure, 230 (3.1%) black flies were parous. More black flies were caught in the rainy season than in the dry season. This was also true of the parous black flies identified. The infection\\infectivity rates (percentages) averaged 9.4\\5.7. The problem of onchocerciasis in the study area is more of a biting nuisance by the vector.

Keywords: Simulium damnosum, Black flies, Human onchocerciasis, Dry Season, Rainy Season, Forest

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 14-18

The effect of fluorescent light and packaging materials on the shelf life of plantain and banana chips during storage

T A Adeniji — 2008-02-06

The effect of light on the shelf life of two African plantain landraces and one cooking banana hybrid were investigated. Thin pulp slices of green unripe fruit were deep-fried in vegetable oil until crisp. The chips were packed in transparent and polythene bags and stored in a wooden cupboard specially designed for this study while some samples were kept outside the box. The cupboard is made up of two compartments, and the upper one is lighted with fluorescent tube, while the lower compartment is dark. The temperature in the lighted, unlighted compartment, and outside were 30-33oC, 24-27oC, and 24-26oC, respectively. Colour changes were determined every 24 hours by visual comparative of chips colour with a colour chart designed by the International Network for the Improvement of Banana and Plantain (INIBAP). It was observed that chips stored in the upper compartment of the cupboard where fluorescent tube was used developed objectionable flavour after a week of storage. Chips from Agbagba, Obino l'Ewai and BITA 3 packed in black polythene and stored inside the dark box versus lighted and outside had a shelf life of 147 days, 136 days and 45 days respectively. In contrast, chips from Agbagba and Obino l'Ewai packed in transparent bags and stored in lighted box maintained its yellow colour for 3 days each and 5 days for BITA 3. Generally, chips in black bags stored better than those in transparent bags irrespective of storage conditions. Similarly, chips packed in transparent polythene and stored in unlighted box had a better storage life compared to samples packed in transparent bag and exposed to light.

Keywords:fluorescent light, packaging materials, shelf life, cooking banana hybrid, yellow colour.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 19-22

Assessment of ornamental fish species and fishing methods in Ibiajegbende, Lagos State, Nigeria

B C Mbawuike — 2008-02-06

A study was conducted to identify ornamental fish species and fishing methods employed for the purpose of developing the fishery for international markets. Catches were sampled from 102 landings in Ibiajegbende village in Epe Local Government area of Lagos State during the fishing season that spanned from January to August 2002. Twenty-four fish species, mostly fresh water and brackish water constitute the ornamental fish species assemblage in the area. Some of these fish had seasonal appearance or dominance. Three local fishing gears and methods are employed namely Aso-oro, Iyanmo and Igu. Management strategies to upgrade the status of ornamental fishing from cottage to international level in Nigeria are discussed.

Keywords: Ornamental Fish, Ibiajegbende, and Gear

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 23-27

The effect of nifedipine induced calcium antagonism on in vitro toxicity of lindane

E B Dede — 2008-02-06

The study of the effect of calcium antagonist (nifedipine) on isolated rabbit ileum poisoned with lindane was conducted. Rabbits of 1.2kg average body weight which was obtained from the Department of Pharmacology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria animal house were used for the current study. Each rat was sacrificed by a blow on the head, dislocation of the neck and exsanguinations. The abdomen was opened up and 4cm in length segment of the ileum obtained and mounted in an isolated organ bath containing Tyrodes solution. The preparation was maintained at 37oC aerated with air. (Kitchen, 1984; Dede, et al, 1991). 2 m g/ml lindane attenuated acetylcholine (1m g/ml) response, significantly different from acetylcholine response alone. P<0.05, P<0.01 in normal Tyrode's solution and Ca2+ free Tyrode's solutions respectively. 5m g/ml nifedipine attenuated acetylcholine response significantly different from acetylcholine response alone (P<0.05 in normal Tyrode's solution and Ca2+ free Tyrode's solution respectively. 5m g/ml nifedipine augmented reduction of acetylcholine response with 2m g/ml lindane significantly different from acetylcholine response alone P<0.01, and P<0.001 in normal Tyrode's solution and Ca2+ free Tyrode's solution respectively. It was concluded that nifedipine (calcium channel blocker) augmented inhibitory action of lindane on acetylcholine response.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 28-31

Design characteristics and the specifications for the construction of turtle excluder device in shrimp trawl nets in Nigeria

B B Solarin — 2008-02-06

The design characteristics, specifications and procedures for the construction and the installation of the Turtle Excluder Devices (TED) in shrimp trawl nets in Nigeria are presented. The super shooter or bent rod grid with a maximum of 10.0cm deflector bar spacing is installed in the polyethylene codend extension (R1500 text and 45mm stretched mesh size) at 45o for good performance. Details of the floatation, the reinforcement of the deflector bars, the exit opening and other modification of the locally fabricated TED are highlighted.

Keywords: Turtle excluder device, Shrimp trawl net, grid, deflector bars

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 32-37

Effect of cosubstrates on primary biodegradation of triphenylmethane dyes by Pseudomonas sp.

N A Oranusi — 2008-02-06

The effect of substrates (glucose, starch, lactose and sucrose) on primary biodegradation (decolourisation) of recalcitrant triphenylmethane dyes Brilliant green and Crystal violet) by Pseudomonas sp was investigated. Biodegradation was enhanced in cultures with substrate supplementation. Glucose and starch were the best among the substrates tested. The percentage decolourisation increased with increasing concentration up to maximum of 0.2mgL-1 for glucose and 0.3mgL-1 for starch. The percentage with glucose was 93.30 ± 1.40% for Brilliant green and 90.20± 0.75% for Crystal violet. With 0.30 mgL-1 of starch the percentage decolourisation was 85.30± 0.180% for Brilliant green and 88.50± 0.90% for Crystal violet. Enhanced biodegradation was attributed to generation of redox equivalent (electron donors) as a result of metabolism of glucose and starch as cosubstrates. Decrease in percentage decolorisation at concentration above the maximum for glucose and starch was attributed to saturation of the binding; sites for redox equivalents to the chromophoric group (of quinone) of the dyes and/or metabolite repression of the peroxidase enzyme that catalyses the reductive cleavage of the chromophoric group. Cassava peeling (an agricultural waste) gave values of percentage decolourisation of 63± 0.8% for Brilliant green and 67.70± 0.60% for Crystal violet. The potential of agricultural wastes to enhance primary biodegradation of recalcitrant synthetic dyes is also revealed in this work.

Keywords: Pseudomonas sp., Triphenylmethane dyes, primary biodegradation, cosubstrates

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 38-44

The effect of dietary fibre on transit time in rats

Z M Ofuya — 2008-02-06

A study was carried out on the effect of dietary fibre of some high fibre containing Nigerian foods on transit time in rats. Rats were used as human model. Dietary fibre from coconut (Cocus nucifera), Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), pumpkin leaf (Telfaria occidentalis) and ‘Afang' (Gnetum africanus), were extracted and fed to albino Wistar strain rats. The result showed pumpkin leaf fibre (Telfaria occidentalis) having the greatest transit time of 91 ± 1.4% followed by coconut fibre (cocus nucifera) with a transit time of 86 ± 5.6% and cowpea fibre (Vigna unguiculata), 81 ± 3.5%. The transit time of ‘Afang'(Gnetum africanus) was least (74 ± 5.6%).

Keywords: Dietary fibre, Transit time.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 45-47

Edible orthopteran and lepidopteran as protein substitutes in the feeding of experimental albino rats

R F Ogunleye — 2008-02-06

Experiments was conducted on the use of Zonocerus variegatus (Orthopteran) and Cirina forda (Lepidopteran) as possible protein subtitutes in the feeding of experimental albino rats in the laboratory. The result of the proximate composition of C forda and Z variegatus showed a high crude protein values of 49.70%, 48.6%; moisture content of 10.92% and 11.11% and Fat of 22.21% and 7.14% respectively. These compares favourably well with the result recorded for fish. The two insects have a considerably high amounts of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, magnessiun and Iron. There was an increase in the weights and lengths of rats fed with diets containing C forda and Z variaegatus. There were no significant differences in growth recorded for the experimental diets and the control at 5% level of probability using fishers' least significant difference (LSD).

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 48-51

Sanitary quality of Ulasi River, Okija, Anambra State, Nigeria

I J Anazoo — 2008-02-06

The sanitary and physical quality of four areas of activity in the Ulasi River, Okija, Anambra State, were studied in December 2004, using three samples collected at weekly intervals. The average temperature and pH values of samples ranged from 27.9oC to 29.0oC and 6.94 to 7.07 respectively. Total aerobic bacterial load, total coliform count and faecal coliform count were lowest or relatively low at the site for obtaining drinking water with mean values of 3.4x105 cfu ml-1, 2.8 x 102 cfu ml-1 and 5 MPN per100ml respectively. The processing site for Manihot esculenta and the laundry site had the highest bacteriological counts. Heterotrophic bacteria isolated included Pseudomonas sp., Klebsiella sp., Proteus sp., Escherichia coli, Citrobacter sp., Staphylococcus sp., Micrococcus sp., and Yersinia sp. The observations show that the Ulasi River is not safe for drinking without treatment, according to the WHO International Standard for Drinking Water.

Keywords: Faecal coliforms, physical parameters, Ulasi River, Anambra State, Nigeria

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 52-55

The prevalence of gastro-intestinal tract parasites in the inhabitants of Bori Military Cantonment in Port Harcourt Local Government area of Rivers State, Nigeria

G D Awi-Waadu — 2008-02-06

A study on the prevalence of gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) parasites was conducted on pupils of Bori Military Primary School and adults residing in the cantonment of Port-Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. 290 stool samples from pupils aged 6-14 and adults aged 21-60 were examined. Parasites recovered included Ascaris lumbricoides, Necator americanus (hookworm), Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercoralis Teania saginata and Enterobius vermicularis. Overall prevalence rates of 84.6% in pupils and 99.0% in adults were recorded; A, lumbricoides formed the bulk of the infections and E. vermicularis the least. Multiple infections of two-three parasite combinations were encouyragee, A lumbricoides- hookworm combination being the most common. Higher prevalence rates of infection occurred in pupils of age groups 9-11 and 12-14. Infection was greater among pupils drinking water from river/stream and those using pit/bush for toilets. Although increasing number of adults used pipe-borne water/as source of drinking water and water cistern toilet system yet overall infection rate was high, with females having greater prevalence than the males particularly with A. lumbricoides infection.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 56-60

Inhibitory effect of azo dyes on ammoni-n oxidation by nitrtosomonas

C J Ogugbue — 2008-02-06

The potential inhibitory effect of five azo dyes on ammonia-N oxidation was investigated. Ammonia-N oxidation was inhibited by the dyes: Mordant Black 17, Direct Red 2, Reactive Red 4, Reactive Yellow 2 and Direct Blue 14 at the concentrations (0.01mgL-1 to 100mgL-1) tested. Inhibition of ammonia-N oxidation increased with increasing concentration of the toxicants. The EC50 values obtained were; 0.208 (Mordant Black 17), 1.813 (Direct Red 2), 7.926 (Reactive Yellow 2), 50.174 (Direct Blue 14) and 332.208 (Reactive Red 4). The results obtained were attributed to any/or all of the following factors: molecular size, impurities in the toxicants and metallic ions. The potential adverse ecological impact of the azo dyes on the productivity of ecosystems is discussed.

Keywords: inhibitory effect, azo dyes, Nitrosomonas, ammonia oxidation.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 61-67

Chemical composition and nutritive significance of the land crab, Cardisoma armatum (Decapoda)

O T Omotoso — 2008-02-06

The proximate, nutritionally valuable minerals and anti-nutrient compositions were determined in land crab, Cardisoma armatum. Results showed that ash was the highest with a value of 42.23±0.02% while protein, moisture, fat, fibre and carbohydrate levels were 33.30±1.20%, 9.60±0.06%, 5.35±0.01%, 8.31±0.01% and 1.23±0.02% respectively. Protein solubility was lowest at pH 4 and highest at pH 7 and 12. The isoelectric points were pH 4, and 10 indicating that C. armatum may be useful in food formulations involving beverages and meat products. Calcium recorded the highest value of 2157.86±1.01mg/100g while manganese recorded the lowest value of 0.39±0.01mg/100g. Phosphorus recorded 360.23±0.25mg/100g, cobalt recorded 0.01±0.00mg/100g, nickel recorded 4.53±0.10mg/100g while copper recorded 57.83±0.10mg/100g. Lead (Pb) and Cr were not detected. Water absorption capacity was 125.00±0.10%, oil absorption capacity, 535.33±0.21% while foaming stability was 3±0.02%. The results of the anti-nutritional analysis revealed that oxalate recorded 4.10±0.15mg/100g while phytic acid recorded 1.10±0.10mg/100g respectively. Tannin was not detected in the sample. The values observed for oxalate and phytic acid fall within the nutritionally accepted values. C. armatum is a rich source of animal nutrients and it could therefore be used in human diets and animal feeds formulations.

Keywords: Proximate composition, Cardisoma armatum, antinutrients, solubility and isoelectric points

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 68-72

An assessment of the physico–chemical properties of Moro lake

M K Mustapha — 2008-02-06

Sampling of the physico-chemical factors from two stations on the surface water of Moro Lake was carried out biweekly over a period of 8 months spanning both wet and dry seasons. The aims were to determine the water quality, productivity, assess nature or man's impact on the physico-chemistry of the lake water with a view to effective utilization, better management, conservation and sustainable exploitation of the lake resources. Temperature was measured using mercury in glass thermometer & ranged between 220C and 280C. Transparency was determined by a standard secchi disc and varied between 17cm and 55cm, while current was determined by flotation method and ranged between 14cm/s and 60cm/s. Dissolved oxygen was measured by modified Winkler – azide method and ranged between 3.2 mg/I and 6.2 mg/I while carbondioxide was determined by phenophtalein titration method. Calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate, silica, & sulphate were measured using a Hach multichemical analysis spectrophotometer model DREL 5. All these ions showed variation in their concentrations with time. Conductivity and pH were measured with meters. Nitrate & phosphate were high showing a case of cultural eutrophication occurring from washing of nitrophophate fertilizer from nearby farmlands into the lake. In general, the surface water quality of the lake is good and the lake is productive and eutrophic.

Keywords: Physico-chemical factors, Moro lake, Eutrophication, Water quality, Productivity

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 73-77

Quality evaluation of yogurts produced commercially In Lagos, Nigeria

M Dublin-Green — 2008-02-06

Yogurt of the natural-stirred and pineapple-stirred varieties manufactured commercially in Lagos, Nigeria were analyzed to evaluate the nutritional quality of the fresh and stored product. The carbohydrate and protein contents were higher in the pineapple than in natural yogurt with an average percent content of 12.7 and 1.2 compared to 7.0 and 0.9 respectively. The fat content was the same, about 1.0 percent of each type. These values decreased with time during storage and the decrease was more rapid at 30oC than at 10oC. Natural yogurt was more acidic with an average pH of 3.8 and 3.0% lactic acid content compared to values of 4.2 and 2.4% respectively for pineapple yogurt. Titratable acidity and moisture content increased with storage time without any marked change in pH. Yogurt spoilage was evident from the yeast odour when yeast counts had reached 106 -108 cfu ml-1. A product shelf life of 6 days at 10oC and 48h at 30oC is recommended and the concentration of milk solids should be increased in order to produce a more nutritious yogurt.

Keywords: Yogurts, quality evaluation, Lagos, Nigeria

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 78-82

Fetal survival and neonatal growth with intramuscular injections of folate during gestation in the rat

S C Ikpo — 2008-02-06

Folic acid (2.0 mg/ml) was injected subcutaneously to rat dams beginning on day 2 after mating (day 0 = day of sperm in vaginal smear). At parturition litter size per dam and the weight of fetuses were determined. Pups were thereafter equalized among the two groups (n=16 each) and assigned to four dams in each group (n=4 pups per dam). They were weighed every 5 days until day 20. On day 20 pups were killed, dried, and the crude protein levels of carcasses assessed using the Kjeldhal's method. Litter size (7) and weight (6.21) of pups from treated dams were not significantly different from those of control (6.4 and 5.9 respectively, P<0.05). Regression analysis and t-test indicated a faster growth rate and significantly higher crude protein level among pups from treated dams than those of controls. It was concluded that folic acid treatment of dams during gestation and subsequent lactational performance of treated dams may have ameliorated the protein-synthesizing function of cells of neonates from treated dams but further experiments are needed to confirm this conclusion.

Keywords: Folic acid, rat, pregnant, fetus.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 83-86

Utilisation of azo and triphenylmethane dyes as sole source of carbon, energy and nitrogen by Bacillus sp.

N A Oranusi — 2008-02-06

Bacillus sp isolated from soil contaminated with untreated textile mill effluent utilized an azo dye (methyl orange) and a triphenylmethane dye (malachite green) as sole source of carbon, energy and nitrogen. Highest percentage decolourisation (primary biodegradation) of 61.44% for malachite green and 75.85% for methyl orange was obtained in cultures without nitrate (sodium nitrate). In cultures with added nitrate (sodium nitrate) degradation decreased with increasing nitrate concentration. Data obtained at nitrate concentration of 0.20gL-1 were 57.20% for malachite green and 52.46% for methyl orange. At nitrate concentration of 1.0gL-1percentage decolourisation was 20.50% (malachite green) and 30.45% (methyl orange). The azo-nitrogen and phenyl-nitrogen of the dye substrates provided the nitrogen requirement of the organism in cultures without nitrogen. Decolourisation of dyes is a reduction process which requires redox equivalents (electron donors) that transfer electrons to the chromophoric group dyes. Nitrate (NO 3 -) has higher oxidation character compared to the chromophoric group dyes. The result obtained was attributed to competition between (NO3-) and the chromophoric group for the redox equivalents, which results in preferential reduction of (NO3-) relative to the chromphoric group. Decolourisation was accompanied by increase in total viable count. Ring opening of the aromatic moiety of the dyes and demethylation of malachite green produced the carbon and energy source for the organism. The results show the potential of a bioprocess under nitrate-starvation condition for the treatment of dye wastewater.

Keywords: Bacillus sp, primary biodegradation, methyl orange, malachite green

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 87-94

Insecticidal and insect productivity reduction capacities of aloe vera and bryophyllumpinnatum on tribolium castaneum (herbst)

O T Omotoso — 2008-02-06

Two important medicinal plants, Aloe vera and Bryophyllum pinnatum were admixed with maize grains (Popcorn) at dosages of 1g, 2g and 5g treatments per 50g of maize. Results showed that both lower and higher dosages had toxic effects on Tribolium castaneum but the best results were obtained in the grains treated with 5g dosages. Mortality (within 7 days) and percentage weight loss (within 30 day periods) in Aloe vera root ash 80.00±0.11% and 0.22±0.01%, A. vera leaf ash 50.01±0.01% and 0.23±0.01, B. pinnatum leaf ash 50.01±0.01% and 0.32±0.15%, A. vera root powder 30.02±0.01% and 0.46±0.04%, B. pinnatum leaf powder 60.01±0.01% and 0.52±0.01 while A. vera leaf powder gave 10.05±0.02% and 0.67±0.03% respectively. Within a period of 2 weeks all the beetles introduced into treated grains died without laying eggs. The insect production rate recorded for control was 23.33±0.23 while no value was observed in treated grains because the insects died before they could lay eggs.

Keywords: Tribolium castaneum, Bryophyllum pinnatum, popcorn, Insect productivity, protectants.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 95-100

The effects of various doses of ovaprim on reproductive performance of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell) and Heterobranchus longifilis (Valenciennes)

O A Olubiyi — 2008-02-06

Artificial spawning of two African Catfish species viz: C. gariepinus and H. longifilis of 0.18 – 0.64kg and 0.53 – 1.63 kg respectively were carried out using various doses of Ovaprim with carp pituitary extract (C.P.E.) as the control. Oocyte maturation and ovulation were successfully effected with Ovaprim doses of 0.2, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40 and 0.50ml/kg for C. gariepinus and 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50ml/kg for H. longifilis. Latency period was between 8 – 11.5hrs at 26.3ºC – 28.0ºC but was indirectly influenced by temperature, species and type of hormone. Hatching was between 22 – 30 hrs at a temperature range of 25.45 – 26.1ºC and was independent of hormone dosage. Percentage deformed try was relatively low and ranged from 0.16 ± 0.28 – 1.08 ± 0.36 in C. gariepinus and 0.52 ± 0.59 . 1.50 ± 0.73 in H. longifilis. Fry survival rate was high and ranged from 89.44 ± 0.27 to 93.47 ± 2.18 in C. gariepinus and 78.57 ± 11.12 to 90.7 ± 3.90 in H. longifilis. Physico-chemical parameters were within the desired range for catfish larval rearing in all the treatments.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 101-105

Comparative studies of the susceptibility of the pods of selected varieties of cowpea to Riptortus dentipes f and Anoplocnemis curvipes f(Heteroptera)

O T Omotoso — 2008-02-06

The bugs, Riptortus dentipes and Anoplocnemis curvipes were reared on two cowpea varieties namely Sokoto white and TVx 3236. The bugs were observed for their growth, oviposition, progeny (neanide) development, and damage on the pods on the field. These bugs showed high levels of oviposition and neanide development on Sokoto white variety than on TVx 3236 variety. Five R. dentipes female bugs reared on Sokoto white pods laid 386±2.10 eggs within 4 weeks while 290±1.01 eggs were laid within the same period on TVx 3236 pods. Five A. curvipes female bugs reared on Sokoto white and TVx 3236 pods laid 491±2.25 eggs and 394±2.00 eggs respectively within the same period of 4 weeks. Faster growth of neanide and adults were observed on Sokoto white pods than on TVx 3236 pods for both bugs. It took R. dentipes bugs reared on Sokoto white pods shorter days (25±0.3 days) than on TVx 3236 (29±1.1) to develop from egg stage to adult stage. A. curvipes took 31.5±0.5 days and 36±1.5 days to reach adult stage on Sokoto white pods and TVx 3236 pods respectively. Both adult and neanides preferred younger pods which they sucked thereby causing the pods to abort and dry prematurely.

Keywords: Riptortus dentipes, Anoplocnemis curvipes, oviposition, neanide and Sokoto white variety

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 106-115

Bacteriological analysis of borehole water in Uli, Nigeria

S N Ibe — 2008-02-06

Water samples from four different boreholes within Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria, were collected for five consecutive weeks for bacteriological analysis to assess the potability.The range of the means was from 1.5x102 to 5.9x104 cfu ml-1 for total aerobic bacterial load, 9 to 136 MPN per 100ml for total coliforms and 4 to 74 MPN per 100ml for faecal coliforms. The highest counts were consistently found in the sample from Cagramento Lodge, where the borehole was located in an unsanitary environment, near a pit laterine. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp., Proteus sp., Enterobacter sp., Pseudomonas sp., and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from the samples. The findings show that the water from all the boreholes did not meet the World Health Organization Standards for Drinking Water and should be treated or boiled and filtered before drinking.

Keywords: Faecal coliforms, borehole water, Uli, Nigeria

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 116-119

Fetal contamination with cadmium following chronic exposure of rat dams during gestation

R S Ekine — 2008-02-06

Pregnant albino rats (n = 5) were exposed to cadmium in the form of cadmium acetate (0.14 gm/l) in both drinking water and feed ad libitum from day 1 to day 18 of gestation to investigate the level of maternal-fetal transfer of cadmium. Control pregnant rats (n = 5) received non-treated water and feed. Cadmium levels in maternal blood and fetal tissue in both treated and control groups were analyzed using absorption spectrophotometry and compared using the Student's t test. Mean cadmium level in the blood of treated dams (17.8 ± 0.8 µg/ml) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of control rats (3.6 ± 0.5, P < 0.05). Mean cadmium levels in fetuses from treated dam (11.0 ± 3.5) was 60% of that in maternal blood and was significantly higher (P< 0.05) than that of control fetuses (0.9 ± 0.2). It was concluded that cadmium, contrary to previous reports, can pass through the placenta in appreciable quantity to contaminate the fetus to possibly cause fetal abnormalities in the rat.

Keywords: rat, fetus, pregnant, cadmium

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 120-124

Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus on armpits of secondary school and university students in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

S N Ibe — 2008-02-06

A study of carriage of Staphylococcus aureus on armpits and factors affecting it was carried out on 50 students from Community Secondary School, Oroworokwu, Port Harcourt and 50 University of Port Harcourt students. Samples were inoculated onto mannitol salt agar plates and coagulate positive S. aureus isolates were identified. Questionnaires on gender and health related factors were given to students before collection of samples. Epi-info version 6 software was used for data analysis. Most students regardless of age or sex, used toilet soap (63%), had their bath twice daily (84%), used sponge (78.6%), shaved regularly (89.9%) and 80% did not use powders on armpits. More females used powders (P=0.00170). Only 12.2% of teenagers used deodorants compared to 80.4% adults. Teenagers had significantly more profuse growth (P = 0.038), pure cultures (P = 0.036) on primary isolation, and S. aureus carriage of 61.2% compared to 25.5% for adults (P = 0.0003) and use of deodorants (P = 0.0003) influenced S. aureus Carriage.

Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, carriage, Armpit, students.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 125-130

Food and feeding performance of Pellonula leonensis (Reajon, 1917) (Clupeidae) from Cross River estuary, Nigeria

B E Akpan

The diet of Pellonula leonensis was studied in Cross River estuary, Nigeria, from January to December. The major food component were fish larvae, fine particulate organic matter, coarse particulate organic matter (detritus), crustaceans, ants, scales sand and plant matter. Scales and sand were secondary items while macrophyte matters were incidental items. Females had greater feeding activity than males an consumed all the items while males consumed only seven items. The wet season diet comprised 10 items and dry season diet comprised seven items. There was no significant difference in feeding activity in dry and wet seasons. Adult fed more on ants and fish larvae while juveniles fed more on detritus, crustaceans and sand. The observed ontogenetic diet shift enhances co-existence of the size groups. Pellonula was considered piscivorous and cannibalistic its feeding habit. Since it feeds or the same item throughout the years, the food resources were considered important factor in the elimination of the fish population.

Keywords: Pellonula leonensis, stomach contents, Nigeria, piscivorous, cannibalistic.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 131-136

Lipase activity in the liver and digestive tract of some cichlids (Pisces: Cichlidea)

C G Achionye-Nzeh

Lipase activity in the liver and digestive tract of Hemichromis fasciatus, Oreochmis niloticus Sarotherodon galilaeus and Tilapia zillii from a small lake in Ilorin was studied. The digestive tract was divided into anterior, middle and posterior sections and the crude extracts of these sections and the liver of these fishes were assayed for lipase activity . Results indicated that there were lipase activity in the whole digestive tract and liver of H. fasciatus, O. niloticus, S. galilaeus and T. zillii. The presence of lipase in the anterior section implies that lipid digestion takes place in this portion of the digestive tract of these fishes. This result shows that lipid digestion in these cichlids does not follow the same pattern as in higher vertebrates

Keywords: Cichlids, enzyme, lipase, liver and digestive tract

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 136-139

Roasted maggots (Dipteran larvae) as a dietary protein source for laboratory animals

R F Ogunleye

The possibility of using the dipteran larvae (maggots) as protein substitute in the feeding of Albino rats was investigated. Two sets of rats were used. One set were fed with the convectional feed (set G,) with Clarias fish as its protein portion while the other set (M) were fed with same diet with maggots from poultry wastes as its protein portion. The feeding was done for five weeks before the experiment was terminated. Weekly assessment of weights (in g) and lengths (in cm) was done. The result of the proximate analysis shows a well comparable level of protein in the experimental diet (29.3%) and the control (27.4%). All the minerals contained in the experimental diet are higher in quantity than that of the control. Weight gain in rats fed with experimental diet rises more sharply than that of the control. There was however no significant difference between the lengths of the two sets of rats within the five weeks of the experiment.

Keywords: Albino rats, growth rate, maggots.

AJAZEB Vol. 7 2005: pp. 140-143