Nigerian Journal of Animal Science and Technology (NJAST)

Evaluation of the Phytogenic potential of Chromolaena odorata Leaf Extract on Haematology, Serum Biochemistry, and Intestinal Bacterial Count of Broiler Chickens

Safiyu, K. K., — 2025-07-30

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract (COLE) on haematology, serum biochemistry, and intestinal bacterial load in broiler chickens. A total of 250 day-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks were brooded for two weeks then randomly assigned to five groups with varying COLE concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 ml COLE per liter of water), each with five replicates of ten birds per replicate. The study lasted for four weeks, after which, phytochemical screening of COLE, haematological analysis, serum biochemical evaluation, and intestinal bacterial counts were assessed. Results revealed COLE contained various bioactive compounds, including saponins, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, polyphenols, steroids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Although haematological parameters remained unaffected, birds receiving 1.5 ml COLE/litre water showed significant reductions in LDL levels. Additionally, 1.5 ml COLE/litre water resulted in lower counts of total viable heterotrophic bacteria, Salmonella-Shigella, and Coliform bacteria, while 1.0 ml COLE/litre water reduced Staphylococcus species bacteria. This study demonstrates the potential of COLE as a natural additive in broiler production, reducing serum LDL and inhibiting the proliferation of pathogenic intestinal bacteria at a recommended dose of 1.5 ml COLE per liter of water.

Blood Profile and Organ Weights of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Terminalia Mantaly Leaf Meal

Ewa, E. U1 — 2025-08-07

Abstract

One hundred and fifty (150) day-old Anak broiler chicks were used to evaluate the effect of feeding Terminalia mantaly leaf meal (TLM) based diets on the blood profile and organ weights of broiler chickens. The birds were randomly assigned to 5 treatment diets (replicated into 3 of 10 birds/ replicate) containing 0%, 1.5%, 3%, 4.5%, and 6% of TLM, respectively for 6 weeks after a 2-week period of stabilization. The results showed no significant (P>0.05) difference for most parameters considered for organ weights except for heart and kidney. For kidney, T₅ had the highest value (0.5867%) while T₂ had the lowest (0.4433%). For haematology, haemoglobin Concentration (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were significantly (P<0.05) affected. For haemoglobin Concentration, T₃ had the highest value (13.0000g/dl) which was closely followed by T₂(12.1333g/dl), T₁ (12.0667g/dl) and T₄ (11.4000g/dl) and T₅ (10.6667g/dl). For RBC, T₃ (3.4400) was significantly (P>0.05) higher while T₅ (2.5467) was lowest. T₅ had the highest value (41.9233pg) for MCH while T₃ recorded lowest (37.8067pg). MCHC followed the same trend as MCH. Biochemical indices showed no significant difference except for total protein and cholesterol. For total protein, T₃ had highest value (3.3633g/dl) which was significantly (P<0.05) different from that of T₁ (control) (2.3733g/dl). For cholesterol, T₃ (110.3533mg/dl), T₂ (114.4267mg/dl) and T₁ (114.7567mg/dl) had higher values that were significantly (P<0.05) different from that of T₄ (103.1833mg/dl). In conclusion, T₃ (3.0% Terminalia mantaly leaf meal) with the optimal value in organ weight and better blood profile than others is therefore recommended.

Impact of Vocational Training on Livestock Farmers' Skills and Knowledge in Wildlife Conservation and Animal Breeding in Southwest, Nigeria

A1 Sanni MA — 2025-08-07

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of vocational training programs on livestock farmers' knowledge and skills in wildlife conservation and animal breeding in Southwest Nigeria. A quasi-experimental design was used, utilizing a pre-test/post-test control group structure. A sample of 150 livestock farmers from Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo states were selected using multistage sampling techniques. The data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired t-tests and regression analysis. The results revealed significant improvements in the knowledge and skills of the farmers after the training program. In terms of wildlife conservation, the mean post-test scores (M = 71.25, SD = 10.45) were significantly higher than the pre-test scores (M = 49.80, SD = 12.30), t(149) = 16.43, p < 0.001. For animal breeding, the mean post-test scores (M = 68.70, SD = 9.85) also showed significant improvement compared to the pre-test scores (M = 47.55, SD = 11.05), t(149) = 15.87, p < 0.001. The regression analysis further demonstrated that education level (β = 0.29, p < 0.01), access to extension services (β = 0.34, p < 0.001), and farming experience (β = 0.22, p < 0.05) were significant predictors of post-training performance. The study concluded that vocational training significantly enhanced farmers' capacity for wildlife conservation and animal breeding practices. It is recommended that such training programs be expanded and tailored to address specific socio-economic characteristics of the farmers to optimize knowledge application and sustainability in agricultural practices.

Effect of Processing Method on Some Quality Parameters of Shredded Meat

Kyakma, S.S — 2025-08-12

Abstract

The experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of processing method on some quality parameters of shredded meat. The experiment was carried out at the College of Animal Science laboratory, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria. A known amount of beef (thigh muscle) was purchased from the abattoir in North bank Market, Makurdi. The meat was properly washed, cut into sizeable chunks, placed in a clean pot and allowed to cook until soft. The cooked shredded meat was divided into three treatments: Treatment 1-Stir fried shredded meat, Treatment 2- Air fried shredded meat and Treatment 3- Deep fried shredded meat, each consisting of three replicates. Data were collected on proximate composition, lipid profile, consumer acceptability and storage stability. Statistically similar values were observed in most of the parameters studied except total cholesterol which showed higher values in samples that were deep fried probably due to the much oil used, so also, from the sensory evaluation that was conducted, the panelist preferred the deep-fried meat due to its golden brown colour. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the different processing methods did not influence the proximate composition and storage stability but significantly influenced the sensory qualities and total cholesterol of the meat. Stir and air fried shredded meat were recommended due to their low cholesterol levels.

Growth Performance and Economics of Production of Growing Rabbits Fed Diets with Graded Levels of Faidherbia albida and Prosopis africana Fruit Meals

2Midau, A., — 2025-08-16

Abstract

The study was conducted at the rabbit unit of the Adamawa State University Teaching and Research farm, Mubi, to assess the effects of feeding Faidherbia albida and Prosopis africana fruit meals to growing rabbits on their growth and economic performance. The test materials were sourced from Yewa forest in Mubi, while the rabbits (mixed breed) were purchased from a rabbit farmer in Mubi metropolis. The test materials were pulverised and kept safe until they were used to compound the diets. The rabbits were allowed one week of acclimatisation before the trial began. The study examined varying levels of P. africana and F. albida fruit meal at 10 and 15%, designated as: 10PA (10% inclusion of P. africana); 15PA (15% inclusion of P. africana); 10FA (10% inclusion of F. albida); 15FA (15% inclusion of F. albida); and the control diet had neither P. africana nor F. albida. At the start of the experiment, four rabbits were randomly allocated to each of the dietary treatments, with each rabbit as a replicate in a completely randomised design. Data on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and economic efficiency were recorded. The results obtained revealed significant (P<0.05) effects on most of the parameters measured. Daily weight gain (27.55 g/rabbit/day) and FCR (1.71) were higher (P<0.05) in 10FA, while daily feed intake (52.08 g/rabbit/day) was higher (P<0.05) in 15FA compared to the control diet. Cost/kg feed (₦718.72) was lower in 15FA; total cost of feed (₦2491.42) and feed cost/kg gain (₦1291.73) were lower in 10FA, while cost saving was higher in 10FA (₦63.06) compared to the control diet. It can therefore be concluded from the study that feeding 10 g/kg of Faidherbia albida fruit meal in the diets of growing rabbits promoted better feed efficiency and more cost savings.

Effect of Different Levels of Urea Fertilizer on the Growth Parameters of Brachiaria Hybrid (Mulato II)

1Gworgwor, Z.A — 2025-08-17

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the effect of different levels of urea fertilizer on the growth parameters of Mulato II. This was conducted at the teaching and research farm of Modibbo Adama University, Yola. A completely randomized design was used, with four treatments, replicated four times and each plot size was 6m². The treatments were; T₁ (50kg/ha), T₂ (100kg/ha), T₃ (150kg/ha) and T₄ (0kg/ha). The fertilizer was applied at week eight and 10 after planting. The growth parameters were found to vary, with the 150 kg/ha at various measuring weeks exhibiting the highest mean plant height of 181.20, 187.80 and 198.40 cm (9, 11 and 13 WAP, respectively). The leaf length followed the trend of the plant height across the treatments and at all harvesting stage. The control produced Mulato II with the shortest leaves and T₃ those with the longest. The Leaf number increased with increase in the rate of urea fertilizer application. At 9 WAP, 6.80, 6.75, 6.95 and 6.40 number of leaves for T₁ to T₄ respectively were recorded. Overall, there were no significant differences (p<0.05) between the T₁ and T₂ for number of leaves. However, there were significant differences (P>0.05) in the yield of fresh Mulato II grass at different harvesting stages across the treatments. In all harvest stages, T₃ (fertilizer rate at 150 kg/ha) produced the highest fresh forage (11.65, 13.29 and 17.67 tons/ha at 9, 11 and 13 WAP respectively). The control gave the lowest forage yield in all the harvesting stages. It was concluded that application of 150 kg/ha urea fertilizer and harvest after 13 weeks of planting is recommended as this can yield up to 17.67 ton/ha of Mulato II forage.

Preliminary Investigation on Genetic Diversity of Nigerian Native Goat Populations Based on Haemoglobin Polymorphism

V. M. Ghaya,

Abstract

Genetic diversity of three native goat populations in Maiduguri was determined based on Haemoglobin polymorphism. A total of 100 goats were studied comprising Borno white (53), Sokoto red (26) and West African Dwarf goat (21). Cellulose Acetate Electrophoresis procedures were adopted to assess Haemoglobin-types. Mendelian ratio for genotype inheritance was tested using chi-square ( ) test. Genetic distance was estimated from gene frequencies and dendrogram was drawn from genetic distance. Three Haemoglobin variants (Hb AA, AB and BB) under two codominant alleles (Hb A and B) were detected. Borno white and WAD had the three Hb variants while Hb BB was absent in Sokoto red. Borno white and WAD goat populations were in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) while Sokoto red deviated significantly (P<0.05). Local inbreeding coefficients were negative (-0.587, -0.677 and -0.441) in the population. This indicates disassortative mating. Heterozygosity indices (HI, HS and HT) were high, indicative of rich genetic diversity. Heterozygote deficit within (F_IS) and across (F_IT) populations were negative suggesting high heterozygosity. Genetic differentiations were low (-6.0, 0.0, 0.00024%). Borno white had higher genetic distance (0.009165) with Sokoto red, and lower (0.000720) with WAD. Phylogenetic tree distinguished Sokoto red from other breeds. Borno white and WAD were clustered together indicating genetic relationship. From this study, it can be concluded that Hb AB was predominant and Sokoto red goat population has been badly affected by forces influencing genotype and gene frequencies.

Keywords: genetic distance, phylogenetic tree, population, diversity, Haemoglobin, goats

Abstract

Keywords: genetic distance, phylogenetic tree, population, diversity, Haemoglobin, goats

: Influence of dietary polyphenols on greenhouse gas emissions, ruminant production and welfare: a review

Matthew Tom Harrison3

Abstract

Intensification of global climate change and rising consumer demand for animal products necessitate the development of sustainable strategies to reduce livestock greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while enhancing food security. This review assesses the impact of dietary polyphenols, specifically sugarcane-derived extracts such as Polygain™, on methane emissions, rumen fermentation, and animal performance in ruminants. It was observed that dietary supplementation of ruminants with 0.25–1% Polygain™ reduced methane emissions from enteric fermentation by 33–49% in lambs and 30–35% in dairy cows, while improving growth rates and milk yield. However, milk fat content tended to decrease. In contrast, the effects of polyphenols on methane emissions in beef heifers were not significant, highlighting the context-dependent factors of intake rates and other dietary constituents before and after supplementation. Polyphenols modulated the rumen microbiota, reducing the abundance of methanogens (e.g., Methanobrevibacter) and shifting the volatile fatty acid profile toward propionate production. Productive outcomes were species-dependent: dairy cows exhibited improved milk yield (7.4%) but lower milk fat content (6.7%), while lambs showed enhanced growth rates and feed conversion ratios. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were observed, including a reduction in somatic cell counts in dairy herds. However, responses depended on dosage, basal diet, and adaptation duration, with excessive intake potentially impairing nutrient absorption. Despite promising results, key gaps remain, including long-term safety, cost-effectiveness, and practical integration into farming systems, which require further investigation. Future research should refine dosing strategies, assess the economic viability, and explore interactions with alternative feed sources. Sugarcane polyphenols represent a multifunctional solution for sustainable livestock production; however, the broader environmental impact of polyphenol production and consumption, as well as the economic viability and practicality of implementing this solution within production systems, deserves further consideration.

Effects of Genotype, Parity and Dietary Baobab Fruit Pulp Meal on Milk Physiochemical Composition of Lacatating Cows Under Tropical Environment

Nathaniel, J

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary baobab fruit pulp meal on milk physiochemical composition of lactating Bunaji, Wadara and Frisian x Bunaji cows at different parities under a tropical environment. The study was carried out at the Dairy Research and Development Centre (DRDC) of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi. A total of 24 lactating cows at early, mid and late lactation were used for the research. The experimental cows were allotted to four dietary treatment diets: 0.00, 5.3, 10.6 and 15.9 kg/100kg diet of BFPM with six animals per treatment in a Completely Randomized Design. The data generated was subjected to analysis of variance using the SPSS software. The treatments were administered once daily after milking and lasted for 186 days. For laboratory analysis of milk composition and mineral contents, 100 mls of milk per cow was collected bimonthly. The results showed that protein was higher (P<0.05) in Bunaji and Wadara breeds. Fat was higher (P<0.05) in Bunaji and Friesian x Bunaji breeds. Total solid was higher (P<0.05) in Bunaji cows. Calcium and phosphorus were higher (P<0.05) in lactating cows fed 10.60 and 15.90 kg /100 kg baobab fruit pulp meal. In conclusion, BFPM inclusion in the diet of lactating cows significantly improved milk composition and mineral contents by maintaining the values within normal range under tropical environment. It is recommended that, under tropical conditions, BFPM should be included in the diet of lactating cows as antioxidants up to the rate of 15.9 kg/100 kg diet since it does not have any deleterious effect.

Prevalence of Hydatidosis in Cattle and Goats Slaughtered in Selected Abattoirs in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Haruna James Samuel1 — 2025-09-02

Abstract

Livestock provide meat, milk and hides in all parts of the world which play an important role in improving the national economy of any nation. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of hydatidosis in cattle and goats slaughtered in selected abattoirs in Kaduna State, Nigeria from February – December, 2022. Gross examination was carried out by visual inspection and palpation of viscera of 1,260 animals, comprising of 673 cattle and 587 goats in order to determine the prevalence, age and sex specific prevalence in cattle and goats. A total of 81(6.4%) out of 1260 animals of the study population harboured one or more cysts in liver and lungs. The overall prevalence in cattle and goats was 6.4%, the difference in prevalence rate among cattle (6.2%) and goats (6.6%) were not statistically significant (P>0.05). There was association of prevalence of hydatid cysts with goats (OR=1.069, 95% CI=0.681-1.678) but it was not significant. Age-specific prevalence in cattle was recorded in 5 years and above age group (6.9%) while among the goats, the highest prevalence was recorded in 3-4 years age group, (OR=1.869) but the association was not significant. Prevalence was significantly associated with cattle and goats in 3–4 years age group (OR=1.133, 95% CI=0.677-1.896). Difference in prevalence of hydatid cysts among the age group in cattle and goats was not statistically significant (P> 0.05). Sex-specific prevalence revealed highest prevalence of hydatid cysts among female cattle (6.8%) and goats (8.7%). There was association between prevalence of cysts and female cattle (OR=1.198) and goats (OR=1.845), the association was not significant. The present study revealed that cattle and goats slaughtered in the selected abattoirs in Kaduna State, Nigeria harbor hydatid cysts that perpetuate the transmission of hydatidosis in the area thereby posing significant public health problem in livestock. Therefore, there is a need to find ways of limiting or eradicating this parasitic disease.

Response of Growing Red Sokoto Bucks to Diets Containing Treated or Untreated Rice Milling Waste on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility and Blood Indices

1Abdulazeez, H — 2025-08-07

Abstract

The experiment was conducted to evaluate growth performance of growing Red Sokoto bucks fed diets with treated and untreated rice milling waste. Five complete diets with 16% CP were prepared for the experiment containing untreated and treated rice milling waste and designated as diets 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Fifteen (15) bucks with averaged weighed of 14.33kg were used for the experiment and randomly allocated to five (5) dietary treatment groups of three (3) animals each in a completely randomized designed (CRD) and the experiment lasted for 70 days. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance. The results revealed significant (P>0.05) difference in average daily weight gain and nutrient digestibility. Bucks fed diet 5 had the highest ADG of 81.86 g/day while those fed diet 1 with the least 38.14 g/day. Better feed utilization (6.98) was recorded in animals fed diet 5 with significantly higher digestibility in all the nutrients. Red blood cells and blood urea were significant (P<0.05) across the dietary treatments. Bucks fed diet 5 had the lowest cost (N 943.57) per kg live-weight gain while animals on diet 1 had the highest (N 1801.00). Higher feed cost savings of N 857.47 was recorded in animals fed diet 5, while those on diet 1 had no savings. Conclusively, all diets had no harmful effect on growth performance and haematological parameters of bucks. It is therefore recommended to use diet 5 which contained rice milling waste treated with 5% poultry dropping in feeding bucks.

Effect of Breed, Parity and Dietary Selenomethionine Supplementation on Milk Yield Traits of Lactating Cows in the Tropical Savannah Zone

Nathaniel, J. — 2025-09-02

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of selenomethionine (SeMet) supplementation on milk yield traits of 24 clinically healthy lactating Bunaji, Wadara and Frisian x Bunaji cows in their first and second parities. The lactating cows were allotted to four treatments corresponding to four dietary levels (0.00, 30.00, 60.00 and 90.00 mg/100 kg diet) of selenomethionine. There were six animals per treatment in a 3 x 2 x 4 factorial arrangement with a Completely Randomized Design. The data generated were subjected to analyses of variance with the SPSS software and the means were separated using Tukey’s HSD. Friesian x Bunaji and second parity cows had higher (P < 0.05) initial milk yield, peak milk yield, drying milk yield, total milk yield and average daily milk yield. At 90.00 mg/100 kg diet of selenomethionine, total milk yield was higher. In conclusion, selenomethionine supplementation in the diet of Bunaji, Wadara and Friesian x Bunaji cows at 90.00 mg/100 kg significantly improved total milk yield (2,685.84 liters) compared to control diet (1,692.60 liters), respectively. It is recommended that, under tropical conditions, selenomethionine as organic antioxidants and constituent of glutathione peroxidase could be added at 90.00 mg/100 kg in the diet of lactating cows for improved milk yield without any adverse effect on their performance.

Enhancing the Nutritive Value of Maize Cob Using Different Feed Additives

2Abdulhamid I.L., — 2025-09-02

Abstract

Application of additives in silage making is one of the management practices crucial at ensiling time, storage and feed-out phase to reduce nutrient loss and improve its nutritive value. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of additives on physical properties and proximate composition of maize cob silage. The experiment was laid in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) in three additives (urea, molasses, and yeast) and untreated maize cob using three replications. At the end of the experiment data generated were subjected to analysis of variance. The results revealed that physical properties (colour, aroma and pH) of maize cobs were improved in urea and yeast-based additives. The crude protein (CP) content increased significantly (P<0.05) with urea treatment (9.21%) while the fibre fractions (CF, ADF and NDF) decreased significantly (P<0.05) with urea treatment after 21 days ensiling period. Therefore, it can be concluded that addition of urea improved the physical, nutritional properties and preservation capacity of maize cob after 3 weeks ensiling period.

Haematology and Serum Biochemistry of Pullet Chicks Fed Diets with Low Energy and Crude Protein Contents with Enzyme as Additive

Adiele, C. J., — 2025-09-03

This study was carried out to investigate the haematological and serum biochemical response of pullet chicks (Isa Brown) fed low energy and crude protein diets with enzyme as additive. The study was conducted from day old to 8 weeks of age with combined dietary levels of 2800, 2600 and, 2400 kcal/kg of energy and 20, 17and, 15% of crude protein (CP). The pullet chicks were assigned to 9 treatments of 60 birds per group, in four replications of 15 birds per replicate, in a 3×3 factorial in a completely randomized design (CRD). Results showed that haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, total white blood cell count, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, lymphocytes, and heterophils were significantly (p<0.05) affected by dietary interaction (energy×protein) levels. Urea, creatinine, Na⁺, Cl^-, HCO₃^-, and K⁺, parameters for pullet chick kidney function test were found to increase significantly (p<0.05) across interaction levels from 2800kcal/kg×20% CP to 2400kcal/kg×15% CP. Values for total protein, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transferase, alanine phosphatase, bilirubin and glucose were found to decrease significantly (p<0.05) across treatments from 2800kcal/kg×20% CP to 2400kcal/kg×15% CP. Lipid profile tests were found to be significantly (p<0.05) different among dietary treatments. The results of haematological and serum biochemical parameters for pullet chicks showed no detrimental health challenge across dietary treatments for birds fed low-energy and low-crude protein diets.

Effect of Marination with Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Extracts on the Organoleptic Parameters of Spent Layer Chicken Carcasses

Ani M — 2025-09-03

This study was conducted to determine the effect of marination on the organoleptic parameters of spent hen carcasses (Breast and Thigh) using ginger (Zingiber officinale) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) extracts. The experiment employed a completely randomized design (CRD) with a 2x4 factorial arrangement to evaluate the effects of ginger and turmeric extracts on the organoleptic parameters of spent layers’ carcass (breast and thigh). The experiment consisted of four treatment groups: control (T1), Ginger marinade (T2), Turmeric marinade (T3), and Ginger and Turmeric marinade (T4), derived from two factors: marinade type and chicken part. The results showed that T4 (ginger and turmeric combination) significantly improved key sensory qualities such as taste, texture, juiciness, and overall acceptability compared to the other treatments. T4 achieved the highest scores across parameters, with taste (4.13), texture (4.15), and juiciness (4.03), while the control (T1) had the lowest scores (taste: 3.25, texture: 3.45, juiciness: 3.38). T2 and T3 showed moderate improvements, with turmeric (T3) slightly outperforming ginger (T2) in texture and appearance. Although there were some improvements in appearance, color, and aroma, these changes were not statistically significant, with T4 scoring the highest in aroma (4.10) and color (4.05). The results indicated that marination with ginger and turmeric extracts significantly enhanced the quality of spent hens’ poultry meat, with the combination of both extracts being the most effective. These findings suggest that ginger-turmeric marination can be utilized for improving the sensory qualities of poultry products, providing a natural alternative to enhance