Nigerian Journal of Animal Production

Auto-sexing potential and growth performance in Rhode Island, Nigerian local chickens and their reciprocal crosses

A.E. Jubril, T.R. Fayeye, A.A. Ademola, H.H. Gunn — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to determine auto-sexing potential in Rhode Island, Nigerian local chicken and their reciprocal crosses. A total of 241 eggs were set in the incubator to deter ine the fertility, hatchability, % Hatch, % dead in shell, % dead in cell and % deformed chicks in the four genotypes (Rhode Island Red (RIR) x Rhode Island White (RIW), Rhode Island Red (RIR) x Rhode Island White (RIW), Nigerian Local Red (NLR) x Rhode Island White (RIW) and Nigerian Local Red (NLR) x Nigerian Local White (NLW). Only 94 eggs were hatched. RIRXRIW crossbred chicks had the highest percentage fertility of 88.89% followed by RIRxRIW (86.27%), NLRXRIW (77.36%) and NLRxNLW (72.31%), respectively. RIRxNLW had the highest percentage hatchability of 65.19%, followed by RIRxRIW (51.56%), NLRxNLW (51.06%) and NLRxRIW (24.39%). It was observed in the
hatch-out analysis that the cross between NLRxRIW had the highest percentage of dead in shell (29.27%) followed by RIRxRIW (17.19%), NLRxNLW (17.02%) and RIRxNLW (11.36%), respectively. The highest percentage of dead in cell was recorded in NLRxRIW crossbred (43.33%), followed by NLRxNLW (31.92%), RIRxRIW (28.13%) and RIRxNLW (15.91%). The observed deformed chicks were highest in NLRxNLW (20.85%) followed by RIRxNLW (10.34%), RIRxRIW (6.06%) and NLRxNLW (0%), respectively. Also observed was the occurrence of bangers with NLRxRIW, having the highest occurrence of bangers (9.08%) and with NLRxNLW having no occurrence of bangers. The records of weekly body weight were taken on the 94 chicks and chi square analysis was used to test colour inheritance of chicks. Significant (P<0.05) difference was observed among genotypes in body weight of chicks at hatch and from weeks 1 to 8 weeks of age. The observed changes on body weight from 0 to 8th week of age of chicks showed significant difference across the four different genetic crossed groups (P<0.05) and weight at the 8th week showed that the cross between RIRxRIW (216.93g) had better in growth as compared to the cross between NLRxRIW (202.75g) and NLRxNLW (193.17g) which were statistically similar (P>0.05) and RIRxNLW (179.75g) crossbred chicks which had the lowest bodyweight at 8 weeks of age. The chi square (X2) analysis revealed that both RIRxRIW and NLRxRIW crossbred chicks were autosexed. The study concluded that selection for plumage colour showed great potential in determining the probability of chicks being autosexed. Also, pure bred of RIRXRIW and reciprocal cross of NLRXRIW showed great potential of producing autosexed chicks, while results on the direct crosses of NLRXNLW and RIRXNLW suggest that the pattern of inheritance of plumage colour is not simple. The study recommends further investigation to further ascertain the mode of plumage colour inheritance in the Nigerian
Local Chickens.

Keywords: Auto-sexing, plumage, growth performance

Assessment of spline functions for estimating growth curve parameters of FUNAABAlpha chickens

H.A. Bashiru, S.O. Oseni, L.A. Omadime — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The objective of this study was to fit four spline linear regression models to describe the growth of FUNAAB-Alpha Chickens (FAC). Body weight records of 300 FAC raised from day old till the 20th week were used to fit spline models of 3 (SP3), 4 (SP4), 5 (SP5) and 6 knots (SP6) using the REG procedure of SAS®. The data were first plotted to determine the most appropriate location of knots and they were placed at 4^th, 10^th and 16^th week of age for SP3; 4^th, 8^th, 12^th and 16^th week for SP4; 4^th, 7^th, 10^th, 14^th and 18^th week for SP5 and 3^rd, 6^th, 9^th, 12^th, 15^th and 18^th week for SP6, respectively. The hatch weight predicted by SP3 was observed to be highest while SP6 predicted the lowest hatch weight for male and female FAC. Regression coefficients ranged from -38.47 to 47.46 and -39.40 to 40.47 for the male and female, respectively. For all the models, the highest magnitude of these coefficients were estimated at early ages after hatching (at 3 to 10 weeks of age). Based on Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) as the goodness-of-fit selection criteria, SP3 had the lowest value for AIC and BIC for male FAC while SP4 had the lowest value of AIC and BIC for the female FAC. It was concluded that spline models of lower knots (SP3 and SP4) were the best fit to describe the growth of male and female FAC respectively, and that growth rate at early stages of life of FAC may be good predictors of later growth performance.

Keywords: Spline models, FAC, Knots, hatch weight, Akaike Information criterion.

Phenotypic correlation among morphometric traits in new zealand white rabbits reared under tropical condition

O.S. Abe, S.A. Amusan, M. O. Ozoje — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

A total of 48 New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit was used for the phenotypic estimation study. After two weeks of birth, the kittens were introduced to commercial grower mash (CGM) and were fed solely on the commercial grower mash diets with the following characteristics; 17.5% crude protein, 16% crude fibre and 2500 kcal/kg diet digestible energy ad libitum. Morphometric traits such as Fore Limb (FL), Hind Limb (HL), Body Length (BL), Thigh Girth (TG), Abdominal Circumference (AC) and Leg Length (LL) in NZW rabbit were measured on the rabbit with the aid of measuring tape in centimetre (cm) at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. The first measurement was taken on the day of weaning (4 weeks). The data obtained was analysed using the simple linear correlation procedure of SAS analytical package to obtain the correlation between the various morphometric traits studied. The study lasted for 12 weeks. From the study the phenotypic correlations obtained were all positive and ranged between moderate (0.47, the lowest value) and high (0.89, the highest value) correlated value for all ages considered for the NZW rabbit. The result further showed that BL was highly correlated (<70) with other morphometric trait at 4 and 12 weeks of age. Moderate correlation was recorded more at the 8 weeks of age of the rabbit when compared to 4 and 12 weeks of age. The TG and HL recorded the highest correlation value among the other morphometric traits at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. This shows that as the animal grows, there is a positive relationship between the various morphometric traits and further implies growth is more inclined in other part of the body than FL and LL immediately after weaning while it evened out after 4 weeks of age.

Keywords: New Zealand rabbit, morphometric traits, correlations, hind limb, fore limb

Estimation of heritability and repeatability for pre-weaning body weights of domestic rabbits raised in the humid tropics

A.I. Adeolu, J.T. Ogunnupebi — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Heritability and repeatability estimates are needed for the genetic evaluation of livestock populations and consequently for the purpose of upgrading or improvement. Pooled data on 302 progenies from three consecutive parities of purebred rabbit breeds (Chinchilla, Dutch and New Zealand white) raised in Derived Savanna Zone of Nigeria were used to estimate heritability and repeatability for pre-weaning body weights between 1st and 8th week of age. The experiment was carried out at the Rabbitry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki. Traits studied include: Kit Weight at birth (KWB), 2nd week (K2W), 4th week (K4W), 6th week (K6W) and 8th week (K8W). Nested random effects analysis of (Co) variance as described by Statistical Analysis system (SAS) were employed in the estimations. Respective heritability estimates from the sire component (h2 ) and s repeatability (R) as intra-class correlations of repeated measurements from the three parities for KWB, K2W, K4W and K8W were 0.59±0.24, 0.55±0.24, 0.93±0.31, 0.28±0.17, 0.64±0.26 and 0.12±0.14, 0.05±0.14, 0.58±0.02, 0.60±0.11, 0.20±0.14. Heritability and repeatability (except R for KWB and K2W) estimates are moderate to high. In conclusion, since preweaning body weights in the present study tended to be moderately to highly heritable and repeatable, hence, improvement of rabbits raised in derived savanna zone can be realized through genetic selection criterions.

Keywords: Heritability, Nested design, Parity, Pooled data, Repeatability

Sexual differentiation and phenotypic correlations among biometric traits of Nigerian local turkey (Meleagris gallopavo))

A.A. Adeoye, J.E. Udoh, A.D. Oladepo — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

One- hundred and twenty-four (124) Nigerian local turkeys at six months of age were used for this study. The turkeys were raised from day old in a commercial farm located at Ibadan and data were collected on growth traits to determine the effect of sex and phenotypic correlations among growth traits. Highest coefficient of variation was observed in body weight in both male (9.95 %) and female (15.74 %) while the least (5.71%) was observed for wing span in female and 4.95% for body length in male. Sex had significant effect (p<0.05) on all the variables in favour of male. The body weight, shank length, thigh length, body length, wing length, wing span and breast girth for males were 3.80 kg, 9.01 cm, 21.68 cm, 63.00 cm, 32.44 cm, 72.86 cm and 40.17 cm, respectively, while the corresponding values for female were 2.93 kg, 7.27 cm, 17.96 cm, 55.37 cm, 28.18 cm, 63.92 cm and 36.14 cm. The correlation coefficients between body weight and the linear measurements in the two sexes were positive and mostly significant in male. It ranged between 0.291 and 0.561 in male and 0.233 and 0.721 in female. Sexual dimorphism was obvious in all the traits considered in favour of male. The positive correlations between body weight and the linear body measurements in the two sexes means improvement in any of the traits will lead to improvement in the body weight.

Keywords: Nigerian local turkey, sex, wing length, body length and breast girth

Prediction of Japanese quail egg weight using egg components as regressors

I.O. Dudusola, E.A. Adeyemi, S.I. Ayodele — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted on one hundred freshly laid eggs from Japanese quails with the purpose of predicting quail egg weight (EW) from some internal and external egg components, and also to have accurate and reliable models, for the prediction of egg weight without the use of sensitive scale. The following external (egg weight, egg width, egg length, shell thickness) and internal (yolk width, yolk length, albumen height and haugh unit) components were measured and the level of relationships between them were determined. Descriptive statistics for egg weight, egg length, egg width, albumen height, yolk height, yolk width, shell thickness and haugh unit were 9.13g, 2.97cm, 2.33cm, 0.57cm, 1.14cm, 2.18cm, 0.13mm and 57.58, respectively. Intercept and slope of regression between variables were determined. Generated values were used in multiple, double and simple linear regression equations, respectively. A total of ten prediction equations comprising three multiple, six double and nine simple linear resulted from the data generated. All the equations developed can be used in egg type quail operations. Each prediction equation with egg weight as the dependent variable will assist poultry breeders and farmers in particular in determining the precise egg weight of eggs laid by birds on the farm.

Keywords: prediction, dependent variable, egg components, models, Japanese quail

Gross pathological conditions in eviscerated organs of cattle in Nsukka Slaughter Slab, Enugu State: The economic and public health implications

I. O. Nwankwo, J.I. Onunkwo, A. J. Ogugua, R.N. Ezugwu — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Gross lesions in cattle viscera result in loss of meat quality and condemnation during inspection. However, data on gross pathological conditions in cattle viscera are scarce in Nigeria. This study therefore was undertaken to determine the occurrence of gross lesions in cattle viscera during post mortem inspection at Ikpa Slaughter slab Nsukka and its economic and public health implications. Gross pathological lesions were found in all of the 545 cattle carcasses examined from May to August 2017. Lesions of fasciolosis, liver tuberculosis, Liver cirrhosis, lung tuberculosis, pneumonic lung, congested lung, blood retention in the heart, pimply gut and paramphistomosis were observed in 1 (0.18%), 33 (6.06%), 11 (2.02%), 216 (39.63%), 38 (6.97%), 501 (91.93%), 200 (39.69%), 545 (100%) and 545 (100%) of the slaughtered cattle, respectively. The rejection and condemnation of affected visceral organs loss estimate was N1,532,300.00. This unavoidable loss reduces profit and the absence of compensation policy encourages unwholesome practices by butchers and further exposes consumers to zoonotic disease infections. In the study, the eviscerated organs of cattle were unwholesome and unsafe due to some pathological and zoonotic conditions observed. There is need for government to make and implement zoonotic and economic disease control policies in livestock Nigeria.

Keywords: Cattle, Cost, Gross lesions, Occurrence, Public health

Honey administration in laying pullets during hot-dry season does not alter lipids and vitamin A content of eggs

M.O. Abioja, J.A. Abiona, M.O. Adekunle, O.G. Sodipe — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of honey on lipid profile and vitamin A content of eggs from laying pullets during hot-dry season. One hundred and twenty laying pullets (aged 28 weeks) used were randomly assigned to 3 doses of honey: 0 (0H), 10 (10H) and 20ml honey (20H) per litre water for 16 weeks. Each treatment group consists of 4 replicates with 10 birds per replicate. During a 16-week experimental period, data on egg cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and vitamin A were determined and subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Egg cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and vitamin A concentrations were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by dosage of honey in drinking water. Birds on 0H, 10H and 20H recorded 1163.8, 1154.7 and 1160.0 mg/dL respectively for egg cholesterol and 129.8, 151.0 and 123.3 IU vitamin A, respectively. In conclusion, administration of honey in drinking water of laying pullets to combat heat stress during hot-dry season may not affect egg lipids and vitamin A content.

Keywords: anti-oxidants, fat, cholesterol, climate change, heat stress

Effect of dosage of vitamin E on physiological and blood parameters in growing Arbor acre pullets under humid tropical conditions

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

One hundred and forty-four growing Arbor acre broiler breeder pullets were used to determine the effect of vitamin E (dL-á-tocopheryl acetate; VE) on physiological and blood responses. The birds aged 21 days were randomly assigned to 4 treatments comprising 0, 50, 100, 150mgVE/kg of diet, with 3 replicates per treatment till day 84. Data obtained for rectal temperature (RT), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), skin temperature under wing (STW) and on the breast (STB), haematology and plasma biochemistry were subjected to analysis of variance. In female chickens, VE significantly (p<0.05) affected HR, STW, WBC, heterophil, lymphocyte and H/L ratio but did not affect RT, RR, STB, PCV, RBC, Hb concentration, eosinophil, monocyte, basophil, MCV, MCH, MCHC and biochemical parameters. Only pullets on 100mg/kg VE had lower HR than the control group. For STW, 50mg/kg VE had lower value than the control. VE, irrespective of dosage, increased (p<0.05) WBC and lymphocyte in pullets compared to control group. Except in 100mg/kg feed group, heterophil and H/L ratio in pullets on 50 and 150mg/kg feed recorded lower values than the control. VE administration of at least 50mg/kg in the diet of growing broiler breeder chickens might help in decreasing skin temperature, improving immunity and reducing stress under hot conditions.

Keywords: tocopherol; heat stress; broiler breeder; blood; haematology; plasma biochemistry

Comparative study on the semen quality characteristics of parthenotes and parent toms reared in Nsukka

F.U. Udeh, I.J. Ohagenyi, N.E. Ikeh, M.O. Onodugo, V.C. Udeh, J. E. Ezea — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The study was conducted to evaluate the semen quality characteristics of turkey parthenotes and parent toms. A total of twenty-four turkeys were used for the study. These comprised of twelve parthenotes toms and twelve parent toms. Parthenotes are male turkeys produced through parthenogenesis. The toms were subjected to abdominal massage techniques for semen collection. Semen collection was done twice per week and analyzed for volume, motility, sperm concentration, like sperm, abnormal sperm, normal sperm, dead sperm, total sperm/ejaculates and total motile sperm cells. The results showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in semen volume, sperm concentration, normal sperm cell, abnormal sperm and total motile sperm with mean values being 0.35mL, 1.74x109/mL, 97.80%, 2.20%, 1.68x1012 and 0.41ml, 1.50x109/mL, 94.00%, 6.00% and 1.42x1012, respectively for both parthenotes and parent toms. However, semen parameters such as motility, live sperm cell, dead sperm cell and total sperm/ejaculate showed no significant difference (p>0.05) with values of 96.7%, 97.7%, 2.30% and 6.07x109 for parthenotes toms and 93.20%, 98.50%, 1.50% and 6.23x109 for parent toms. It was observed from the results that turkey parthenotes possess good quality semen characteristic and therefore, recommended for use in poultry industry for turkey production.

Keywords: Turkeys, semen quality, parthenotes and parent toms

The Nigerian local chicken hormonal functional status as influenced by age and sex factors

H.H. Gunn, V.U. Oleforuh-Okoleh, A.E. Jubril — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of age and sex on the hormonal status of the Nigerian Local Chicken raised in the Teaching and Research Farm of the Rivers State University Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt. A total of forty (40) heterogeneous population of the Nigerian Local Chickens were used in a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Blood samples were collected from 10 males and 10 females from two different age groups (21 and 72 weeks). Hormonal assay was conducted to ascertain the values of some growth and reproductive hormones. These includes; thyroxin (T4), Triiodothyroxine (T3), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Prolactin (PRL), testosterone (TET), estrogen (E), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and progesterone (PROG). PRL, FSH, PROG and TET were significantly (p<0.05) affected by age while others were not significant (p<0.05). Prolactin had higher value for birds under the ages of 21 weeks than 72 weeks of age with a corresponding value of 28.35ng/mL and 8.64ng/mL respectively. Sex effect on hormones showed that, all hormones studied were significant except Tri-iodothyronine (T3). Testosterone as observed in this study was also influenced by age. Male birds unlike their female counterparts at 72 weeks of age recorded higher means value of 4.14 ± 0.52 than those of 21 weeks of age (1.11 ± 0.07). Therefore, the study was able to demonstrate the influence of age and sex on the status of hormones in the Nigerian Local Chicken.

Keywords: Local chicken, age, sex, growth hormones, reproductive hormones

Prospects in the utilization of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) towards improved cattle production in Nigeria

C.F. Oguejiofor — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Cattle production and the beef and dairy industry are important sources of financial revenue for the government and the individual farmers and employees involved in livestock husbandry. Nigeria has a huge potential for cattle production but sadly this has been poorly developed. The estimated national cattle population of 19 million is grossly inadequate in meeting the national human demand for meat, milk and other cattle products or in contributing to the gross domestic product. The low cattle productivity is partly attributable to the poor utilization of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in dairy and beef cattle breeding and production. These technologies generally include oestrus synchronization, artificial insemination (AI), multiple-ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET), in vitro fertilization (IVF), sex determination, cloning and genetic engineering. ART have been applied extensively in the yearly production of millions of cattle in many developed and developing countries worldwide. This review highlights the applications and potentials of ART in cattle production and suggests how stakeholders in the Nigerian cattle industry can exploit these potentials. It is clear that the utilization of ART will enhance national livestock productivity so that Nigeria can feed her growing population and possibly increase her foreign exchange earnings by becoming a livestock-exporting country.

Keywords: assisted reproductive technologies, cattle production

In-silico amplification of randomly selected male - specific region – Y (MSY) genes as candidate genes for the selection of fertile indigenous bulls for artificial insemination

A.B. Sikiru, S.S.A. Egena, O.M. Akinsola, I.C. Alemede, J.O. Makinde, S.O. Lawal — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Molecular markers-based selection is a novel tool for unbundling complexities associated with the selection of animals for breeding improvement programmes because these markers could contribute to full exploitation of animal potential prior to enrollment for improvement programmes. This study examined in-silico polymerase chain reaction amplification of some selected Male Specific region Y (MSY) genes in genome assemblies including Bos_taurus_UMD_3.1.1/bosTau8 and ARS-UCD 1.2/bosTau9; BaylorBtau_4.6.1/bosTau7, Bos_taurus_UMD_3.1/bosTau6, and Baylor4.0/bosTau4. The results of the amplification showed that 12 out of the selected 30 genes were expressed at an average primer melting temperature of 61.78 ^oC; while salt and annealing oligo concentrations were 50 mM and 50 nM per reaction, respectively. Out of expressed genes; 6, 5 and 1 genes were expressed in genome assemblies Bos_taurus_UMD_3.1.1/bosTau8, ARS-UCD1.2/bosTau9, and BaylorBtau_4.6. 1/bosTau7, respectively. The study concluded that the expressed genes are potential markers for selection of fertile bulls and the primers used are suitable for in-vivo annotation of the genes in the prospective bull selection process for breeding programmes.

Keywords: Male-specific region-Y genes (MSY); molecular markers; bulls and in-silico

Feeding value of raw and boiled pigeon pea seed meal on the growth performance of local pullet chicks

K.U. Amaefule, C.O. Okereke — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

A total of 324 local pullet chicks (1- 8 weeks) were used for the research project to evaluate the feeding value of raw and boiled pigeon pea seed meal (PSM) on their growth performance. Nine iso-caloric and isonitrogenous diets were formulated, with raw and boiled pigeon pea seed meal at inclusion levels of 0%, 15%, 20%, 25% and 30%, respectively. There were 36 chicks per treatment replicated into 3 at 12 chicks per replicate. There were significant interactions between form and PSM levels on the final live weight, daily feed intake and daily protein intake. Final live weight of pullets fed both raw and boiled PSM followed the same trend, pullets fed control (0%) and 15% raw PSM 128.10 and 132.33g respectively performed better than the rest of the treatment levels but statistically similar at all levels. Daily feed intake and daily protein intake showed significant interaction among the treatments. Pullets fed control (8.95g) and raw diets (8.79g) consumed more feed than pullets fed boiled PSM II (105.05g), III (117.77g) IV (91.27g) and V (112.80g) diets. Daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio had no significant (P>0.05) interaction between form and treatment groups for the pullets. 30% PSM raw or boiled can be fed to local pullet chicks without any deleterious effect on the growth performance.

Keywords: Raw PSM, Boiled PSM, Feeding value, Growing local pullet.

Carcass characteristics of rabbits fed different forages as supplement

H. Ibrahim — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The experiment was carried out to determine the carcass characteristics of weaned rabbits fed selected forages as feed supplement. A total number of thirty-six (36) weaned mixed breed of rabbits were allotted randomly to four (4) treatments with nine (9) rabbits per treatment and further replicated three (3) times with three rabbit per replicate and designated as Control (T1) concentrate plus (+) Amaranthus, (T2) concentrate plus (+) tridax, (T3) concentrate plus (+) fig leaves, (T4) concentrate plus (+) water melon waste. The experiment lasted for eight (8) weeks. Data were generated on carcass characteristics, internal organs, by-products. Results obtained revealed that the value of carcass traits, internal organs and by-products were not significantly (P>0.05) different for all the parameters obtained except for liver and lungs (internal organs), pelts (skin) and hind legs (by-products). Based on the findings, it can be concluded that T1 (concentrate plus Amaranthus), was better than other treatment groups and therefore can be used as supplement to concentrate feed.

Keywords: Rabbits, supplements, carcass, characteristics, forages

Effect of body weight at first mating on reproductive performance of rabbit does

O.Y. Ayo-Ajasa, L.T. Egbeyale, F.A. Adewole, D.A. Ekunseitan, O.A. Babalola — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Eighteen mature nulliparous rabbit does with initial body weight between 1600g-2500g were used to evaluate the effect of body weight at first mating on reproductive performance of rabbit does. These rabbits were assigned into three treatments, with T1, T2 and T3 weighing (1600-1900), (1901-2200) and (2201-2500) respectively. The study lasted for 5weeks. The does were mated with buck at ratio 1:3. The reproductive parameters evaluated were number of does that kindled, litter size at birth, breeding efficiency, litter size at weaning, preweaning loss. All data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical representation. The highest number of kindled does was 5 in T2 and T3; T1 had the lowest number (3). Breeding efficiency of 83.33% was recorded in T1 and T2 while T3 had 50.00%. T3 had highest average birth weight (49.51g) and T2 had the least (41.51g); litter size at birth and weaning range from 18 -28kits and 15-24kits, respectively. T2 does recorded highest value in both parameters, T3 does recorded same value (28kits) for litter size at birth. Highest preweaning loss of 7kits was recorded from does in T3 while T1 and T2 recorded 4kits. It was therefore concluded that does with weight range 1901g – 2200g had better reproductive performance with highest breeding efficiency and lower pre-weaning loss.

Keywords: Rabbit does, body weight, reproductive performance

Performance of broiler chickens administered graded levels of bitter kola (Garcinia kola, Heckel) as feed additive

O. J. Owen, B.P. Briggs, H.H. Gunn — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

A study of 28 days (4 weeks) was carried out at the Poultry Section of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port-Harcourt Rivers State- Nigeria, to determine the effect of bitter kola (Garcinia kola, Heckel) powder as a growth promoter in broiler chicken diets. One hundred and forty-four (144) unsexed one day-old Anak strain broiler chicks were subjected to various concentrated levels of bitter kola at T₁ (control), T₂ (5g/kg feed), T₃ (10g/kg feed), T₄ (15g/kg feed), respectively using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with 36 4 birds/treatment and 12 birds/replicate. The parameters evaluated were weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cost production. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results obtained indicated significant effect (P<0.05) in all the growth parameters evaluated. The mean total feed intake was 12.00kg, 11.85kg, 12.50kg and 11.55kg respectively for T₁ , T₂ , T₃ and T₄ . Mean total weight gain was highest in T₄ (2.91kg) 1 2 3 4 4 and least in T ₁(2.57kg). On feed conversion ratio, T recorded the best with 3.97. It was 1 4 therefore advocated that bitter kola should be included in broiler diets as a feed additive to improve broiler chicken performance.

Keywords: Bitter kola, Broiler chicken, feed intake, Weight gain, Production cost

Carcass traits and relative organ weights of growing rabbits fed graded levels of processed kola nut (Cola nitida) pod husks

S.A. Adeyeye, J.O. Agbede — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Carcass traits and relative organ weights of growing rabbits fed graded levels of processed (ash treated and rumen liquor fermented) kola nut (Cola nitida) pod husks (PKPH) were investigated. One hundred and twenty (120) weaner rabbits of mixed breeds (New-Zealandwhite × Chinchilla) of equal sexes and average body weight 525.46g were randomly allotted to four (4) dietary treatments at 0 (0.00 % PKPH), 10 (10 % PKPH), 20 (20 % PKPH), and 30 % (30 % PKPH) inclusion levels and designated as diets 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Each treatment group was replicated ten (10) times with three (3) rabbits per replicate and was fed ad-libitum for 56 days. The highest slaughter weight (1813.80 g/r), dressing weight (1068.70 g/r) and dressing percentage (58.54 %) recorded in rabbits fed diet 3 (20% PKPH) were similar to those fed the control diet (0 % PKPH) and diet 2 (10% PKPH) but was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those fed diet 4 (30 % PKPH). The lungs, liver, kidney, heart, and spleen of the rabbits fed dietary treatments were not significantly influenced. It was concluded that processed kolanut pod husk had no deleterious effect on carcass and relative organs weight of weaner rabbits.

Keywords: Kolanut pod husk, Carcass traits, rabbits, rumen liquor, ash

Performance of finisher broiler chickens fed diets containing unpeeled sweet potato meal as partial substitute for maize

O.J. OdutayO, O.M. Sogunle, K.K. Safiyu, O.O. Olasupo, R.O. Olaifa — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated effects of unpeeled sweet potato meal (USPM) on performance of finisher broiler chickens. A total of 180 one day-old broiler chicks were used for the experiment. Brooding operation was carried out for 2 weeks. Thereafter, the broiler chickens were managed for additional 2 weeks with provision of starter diet and water ad-libitum. At four weeks old, they were equalized for weight and distributed into three dietary treatments (control, 10% and 15% unpeeled sweet potato meal as partial replacement for maize) each replicated four times with 15 birds per replicate; laid out in a completely randomized design. The birds were managed intensively throughout the experimental period until they attained 7 weeks of age. Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Results revealed that the inclusion of unpeeled sweet potato meal up to 15% in diets of finisher broiler chickens did not significantly affect the growth performance indices, haematological parameters, carcass traits and most of the serum metabolites except albumin which showed significant variation and ranged from 1.35 g/dl (15% USPM) to 1.90 g/dl (control). Least significant cost (N129.73) per kg feed was recorded in birds fed diet containing 15% USPM relative to highest cost (N136. 63) per kg feed observed in birds fed control diet. Conclusively, incorporation of unpeeled sweet potato meal up to 15% in diet of finisher broiler chickens reduced cost per kg of broiler finisher diet and had no detrimental implications on growth performance, haematological parameters, serum metabolites and carcass traits in chickens.

Keywords: Broilers, sweet potato meal and performance

Growth and nutrient utilization of broiler chickens fed steam treated cattle rumen epithelia scrapping meal in place of fish meal

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the growth performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens fed varied levels of steam-treated Cattle Rumen Epithelia Scrapings (CRESM) in replacement for fish meal at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% level. Two hundred and four (240), one-day old Abor Acre strain of broiler chickens used for the study were randomly divided into 5 treatments of four (4) replicates each. There were 12 birds per replicate to make a total of 48 birds per treatment in a completely randomized design. Data were collected on the feed intake, weight gain, feed to gain ratio, feed cost per kilogram weight gain at the starter and finisher phases while digestibility trial was conducted at the finisher phase. The results indicated that feed intake (44.15, 48.20, 48.87, 47.18 and 49.30g) and weight gain (20.73, 24.13, 24.63, 23.69 and 23.34g) for 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% CRESM, respectively were higher (P<0.05) and feed: gain ratio lower in birds that received diets containing CRESM at starter phase. Feed cost and feed cost per kg weight gain decreased with increased level of CRESM at this phase. At the finisher phase, feed cost per kilogram weight gain(? 260:01) of treatment five (100% inclusion of CRESM) was the lowest (p<0.05) compared with other inclusion while the control was the highest. It was concluded that 100% fishmeal could be replaced with steam-treated CRESM in broiler diets, thus ultimately reducing the production cost and increasing the profit accruable to farmers.

Keywords: Growth performance, Nutrient digestibility, CRESM, fish meal

Carcass traits and internal organs of broiler chickens as influenced by coffee weed (Senna occidentalis) leaf ethanolic extract

S.O. Omoikhoje, M.O. Okooza, R.O. Okeje, F.E. Peter-Paul — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Carcass traits and internal organs of one hundred and twenty, one day-old broiler chicks maintained on different dosages of coffee weed leaf ethanolic extract for eight weeks were studied. Five dosages (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100mL) of coffee weed leaf ethanolic extract (CWLEE) per litre of drinking water (T₁ T₂ , T₃ , T₄ and T₅ ) were used. The birds were allocated to the various treatment groups in a completely randomized design (CRD) with each treatment replicated three times (8 birds per replicate). Data on carcass traits revealed that live weight (2.50kg/bird), defeathered (2.30kg/bird) and eviscerated (2.00kg/bird) weights as well as dressing percentage (81.69%) were significantly (P<0.5) higher among birds on 50mL of CWLEE compared to those on other treatment groups. Similarly, the relative weights of drumstick (16.60%) and thigh (22.28%) were also significantly (P<0.05) better in broiler chickens administered 50mL CWLEE. Relative organ weights of broiler showed that weight of heart, lungs, gizzard, bursa, spleen and kidney were significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by the treatments. It is therefore inferred that birds administered 50mL CWLEE gave better carcass quality and functioning of the vital organs and therefore can be recommended for broiler chickens.

Keywords: Broilers, carcass, coffee weed, extract, organs

Growth performance and haematological profile of broiler chickens served dietary inclusion of probiotics (Saccharomyces cereviasae) and enzyme (bio-enzyme)

F.U. Udeh, S.U. Ilo, V.C. Udeh, C. Ugwu — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to evaluate the growth performance and haematological profiles of broiler chickens served dietary inclusion of probiotics (Saccharomyces cereviasae) and enzyme (Bio-enzyme). One hundred and twenty, one day-old broiler chicks of Agrited strain were used for the study. The birds were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments. Each treatment contained 30 birds replicated three times to contain 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design experiment. The four dietary treatments were T₁ Control (no probiotics and enzyme), T₂ (had both probiotics and enzyme), T₃ (probiotics only) and T₄ (Enzyme only). The birds were given feed and water ad-libitum and the quantity of feed consumed each day was determined through weigh back techniques while the birds were weighed weekly throughout the experimental period. The experiment lasted eight weeks. The results showed significant (p<0.05) differences in the final body weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain, total feed intake, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Chickens on treatment 2 had the highest final body weight of 3011.57g and performed better than chickens in other dietary treatments. Similar trend was observed in the haematological profile as treatment two were highest in value across the treatments and parameters measured except in packed cell volume where the highest value (36.33 %) was recorded in treatment 4. It was concluded from the study that treatment two which contained both probiotics and enzyme performed better and thus, recommended to farmers for broiler production.

Keywords: Broilers, growth performance, haematology, probiotics and enzyme.

Apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler starter fed varying levels of processed taro cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) meal based diet

A.W. Ajetunmobi, S.A. Eguaoje, C.A. Adeniji, M.T. Omesa, A. Iwegbu — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

A ten-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the apparent nutrient digestibility of 120, one-day old broiler starter chicks fed varying levels of Parboiled sundried taro cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) meal (PSCM). Four treatments were formulated with diet one containing 100% maize as control, while in diet two, three and four parboiled sundried cocoyam meal (PSCM) replaced the percentage proportion of maize in diet one at 50, 75 and 100 inclusion levels respectively. Thirty (30) birds were randomly assigned to the four treatment diets in a complete randomized designed (CRD) and each treatment group contained three replicates with ten (10) birds each. Ground fed feed and voided faecal samples collected after a 4-day feeding in a metabolic cage were analyzed for their respective proximate constituent. Apparent nutrient digestibility revealed that crude fibre was significantly (P<0.05) higher in diet 4 while crude ash was significantly (P<0.05) higher in control. Digestible ether extract and NFE were significantly (P<0.05) higher among birds placed on 50% PSCM. It is therefore concluded that parboiled sundried taro cocoyam meal (PSCM) could replace 50% of maize in broiler starter diet without any deleterious effect. However, substituting maize with parboiled sundried taro cocoyam meal at 50% replacement level improved nutrient digestibility and is hereby recommended for poultry farmers.

Keywords: Broiler Starter, Taro Cocoyam, Nutrient digestibility, Parboiled-Sundried

Assessment of ensiled Pearl millet stover with or without legumes stover for quality and acceptability by West African dwarf goat

A.J. Amuda, O.O. Falola, D.M. Tukura — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to evaluate ensiled millet stover with or without legumes stover for quality and acceptability by West African dwarf goats. The materials (millet stover and legumes stover) were ensiled for 90 days in bag silo. There were five silage treatments: A (100% Pearl Millet stover only), B (80% Pearl Millet stover + 20% Groundnut stover), C (80% Pearl Millet stover + 20% Bambaranut stover), D (80% Pearl Millet stover + 20% Soybean stover), E (80% Pearl Millet stover + 20% Cajan cajanus stover) with four replicates each. Acceptability studies was done using eight (8) female West African dwarf goats of average weight of 8-12kg. Results of physical characteristics of ensiled pearl millet stover with or without legumes produced good quality silages with greenish yellow colour, firm texture and good aroma (fruity and pleasant). Coefficient of preference (CoP) indicates that 100% ensiled pearl millet stover was highly preferred, followed by ensiled pearl millet stover with bambaranut stover by WAD goats with CoP values of 1.08 and 1.02, respectively. However, daily mean consumption (g/day) suggested that with time the goats would get use to other silage types. The CP contents of the silage types ranged significantly (P<0.05) from A silage (11.50%) to D silage (14.08%). The pH, temperature, moisture and DM values were similar (P>0.05) across the treatments. The silage pH and temperature (0C) values however, ranged from 3.70 to 3.83 and 25.75 to 26.75oC, respectively. Moisture content ranged from A silage (63.90%) to E silage (67.28%) and dry matter (DM) from E silage (32.71%) to A silage (36.60%). It was observed that all the silage types preserved well and legumes stover improved CP content of ensiled millet stover significantly. Therefore, the various silage from this study could be used for feeding ruminants, since CP contents were above 7% threshold recommended for ruminants.

Keywords: Pearl Millet stover, legumes stover, acceptability, dwarf goat, crude protein.

Performance and digestibility by Uda rams fed concentrate diets containing graded levels of camel's foot pod meal (CFPM)

M.A Muftau, B.S. Malami, S.A. Maigandi, H.A Gwandu — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The study was conducted to investigate the performance of Uda rams fed concentrate diets containing graded levels of Camel's foot pod meal (CFPM). Sixteen (16) entire male Uda rams with an average initial weight of 30+0.0kg were allotted into four (4) dietary treatments in a Complete Randomized Design. Four (4) experimental concentrate diets were compounded with CFPM replacing soya bean meal at 0, 20, 40 and 60% levels of inclusion representing diets 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. The concentrate diets were offered to the animals at 1.50% of their body weight and concentrate feeding was adjusted on weekly body weight basis while rice straws were served ad libitum as basal diet. At the end of the 12 weeks feeding trial, a digestibility trial was conducted which lasted 21 days using three animals from each treatment. Parameters measured were dry matter intake, live weight changes, feed to gain ratio and nutrients digestibility. Results showed that the organic matter content of the diet containing 40% CFPM was highest compared to other diets. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in dry matter intake and live weight changes among the treatments. The dry matter intake was higher in treatment 2 (993.02g) than in treatment 1 (932.32g) likewise the live weight changes was higher in treatment 4 (36.25kg) than treatment 1 (34.00kg). The feed to gain ratio ranged from 17.62 in treatment 4 to 25.42 in treatment 2. Nutrients digestibility increased with increasing level of CFPM in the diets. The DM, CP and ash digestibility were higher (p>0.05) in treatment 4 compared to the control treatment while the ADL was also higher (p<0.05) in treatment 4 than the control treatment. The optimum weight gain (36.25kg) and efficient utilization (17.92) was achieved at 60% inclusion level of CFMP. Therefore, Piliostigma reticulatum pods can serve as a potential fodder feed resource for ruminant fattening programme.

Keywords: Performance, Uda rams, Camel's foot pods, concentrate diets

Chemical constituents and in-vitro rumen fermentation for dietary inclusion of Delonix regia seed meal for sustainable ruminant production

A.A. Lamidi, J.I. Wilson, O.O. Joseph — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to assess the chemical composition and in-vitro digestibility for dietary inclusion of Delonix regia seeds meal (DSM) for sustainable ruminant production. Four experimental treatments were formulated and DSM was included and varied as T1 (35/0%), T2 (20/15%), T3 (15/20%) and T4 (0/35%), respectively, each treatment were replicated and analyzed for the proximate composition and in-vitro analysis. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the nutrients and fiber fractions (CP, EE, ash, OM, NFE, NDF, ADF and hemicellulose) across the experimental treatments as CP ranged between 10.50 – 13.60% and decreased with inclusion of DSM. The NFE, NDF and hemicellulose were similar (P>0.05) in T1 and T4. In-vitro analysis indicated that the methane gas volume was significantly (P<0.05) influenced with the dietary inclusion of DSM across the experimental treatments as T2 had the highest volume of CH (0.61mL) while the least was 4 recorded for T1 (0.47 mL). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) for 24hrs gas production, CH percentage, CH reduction percentage, in-vitro dry matter digestibility 4 4 (IDMD), in-vitro organic matter digestibility (IOMD), metabolizable energy and fermentation efficiency across the treatments. Conclusively, the nutrients profile of the experimental treatments justifies the utilization of DSM for sustainable ruminant production. Similarity in post in-vitro parameters across treatments is an indication that inclusion of DSM will go a long way to resolve the challenges of feed and feeding for ruminant production.

Keywords: Chemical constituents, Delonix-regia-seed-meal, in-vitro, production, ruminant and sustainable