Nigerian Journal of Animal Science and Technology (NJAST)

Influence of Agroecology, Genotype, and Sex on Carcass Traits of Local Chickens in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Shuaibu, A., — 2025-12-31

The study was conducted to investigate factors affecting carcass traits of local chickens in Bauchi State. A total of 414 matured birds (160 normal feathered, 114 frizzled, and 140 naked neck) of mixed sexes selected from different agroecologies of Bauchi State (Northern Guinea, Sudan, and Sahel Savannahs) were used to obtain the carcass traits of local chickens. The carcass parameters measured were carcass (CW), breast (BW), thigh and drumstick (TDW), back (BckW), wing (WW), giblet (GW), and head and shank weights (HSW). Data generated for the research were subjected to descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS software. The results of the study showed that in all the three strains, giblet weight (GW) had the highest CV, while the least values were recorded on head and shank weight (HSW), wing weight (WW) and thigh and drumstick weight (TDW) in normal feathered (nana), frizzled (Ff) and naked neck (Nana), respectively (33.82 %; 26.36 %, 28.59 %; 15.11 % and 23.64 %; 11.68 % for nana, Ff and Nana, respectively). The agroecological zone had significant effect (p<0.05) on carcass traits. Local chickens found in Northern Guinea Savannah (NGS) had the highest values, while the lowest were recorded in Sahel Savannah (ShS) of the State. In each of the agroecologies, naked neck (Nana) chickens had the highest (p<0.05) value for all the significantly affected traits compared to frizzled (Ff) and normal (nana) feathered birds. Sex-wise, cocks had higher values for all the significantly affected traits (p<0.05) than hens in each strain. Significant interaction effects (p<0.05) of agro-ecology by strain and agro-ecology by sex on CW, BW, TDW, BckW, WW, and GW were observed. Nana chickens found in the NGS zone of the State had the highest, while the lowest values were recorded in nana feathered hens found in the ShS. Cocks found in the NGS had the highest values for the same traits (CW, BW, TDW, BckW, WW, and GW), whereas hens found in ShS recorded the least. Non-significant variations of CW, BW, TDW, BckW, WW, GW, and HSW according to strain by sex interaction were, however observed. Conclusively, the findings of this study showed that carcass traits of local strains reared in different agro-ecological zones of Bauchi State varied widely, and Nana cocks found in NGS had higher values on all the variables recorded

In-Vitro Gas Production, Rumen Fermentation and Blood Characteristics of West African Dwarf Goats Fed Diets Fortified with Garlic (Allium sativum)

Ofugocho Edoh — 2025-12-31

This study aims to evaluate the effects of garlic-based diet on in-vitro gas production, rumen fermentation and blood characteristics of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Twenty four (24) healthy growing goats were fed four (4) experimental diets formulated, in which garlic was incorporated as a dietary additive per kg of feed, including a control diet without garlic: T1= 0g, T2 = 0.25g, T3=0.5g, T4= 0.75g of garlic inclusion. Proximate analyses, In-vitro gas production, methane production, haematological and serum biochemical parameters were determined. Data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and means were separated using Duncan multiple range test. The in vitro gas production indicated that initial gas production was significantly (P<0.05) affected by garlic inclusion, with the highest gas production observed in T1 (0.33 mL) and the lowest in T4 (-0.67 mL). Total gas volume increased with garlic supplementation, reaching a maximum of 24.33 mL in T2 and T4. Notably, methane production decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing garlic levels, with values of 9.33% for T1 and 7.35% for T4. The VFA concentrations, particularly propionic and butyric acids, were enhanced by garlic fortification, reflecting improved fermentation efficiency. White blood cell decreased from 12.73 (T1) to 8.07×10³/μL (T4). Lymphocyte counts also varied significantly, ranging from 69.00% (T1) to 60.33% (T4), showing a decreasing trend with garlic inclusion. The T4 group showed the highest levels of total protein (7.76 g/dL) and glucose (102.46 mg/dL), with a concurrent reduction in cholesterol (99.73 mg/dl). Similarly, AST levels were elevated in T4 (194.67 μ/L). Hence, garlic supplementation in ruminant diets significantly improved gas production, enhanced VFA concentrations, and reduced methane emissions. Garlic supplementation also appears beneficial in improving the haematological and biochemical health markers in West African Dwarf Goats.

A Survey on Endo-parasites in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus linnaeus, 1758) in Zobe Reservoir, Katsina State

Abdullahi, B.A. — 2025-12-31

This survey investigated the prevalence and diversity of endo-parasites in Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758), commonly known as Nile Tilapia, within Zobe Reservoir, Katsina State. A total of 108 live Nile Tilapia fish were collected from artisanal fishermen from the three major landing sites on the reservoir. The fish were identified and separated based on their sex before being transferred live to the Fish Biology laboratory, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State for further evaluation. The study employed a comprehensive approach to assess the parasitic load in the fish population, focusing on identifying various endo-parasitic species and evaluating their distribution patterns. Sampling techniques and laboratory analyses were employed to generate the data on the occurrence, intensity, and diversity of endo-parasites. The fish were dissected and the guts were removed for examination of the gastrointestinal helminths. A total of 63 helminths were collected from the 52 infected fish. The helminths belong to nematode, digeans and trematodes groups with trematodes dominating with 46.03 % abundance. The findings contribute valuable insights into the health status of the Nile Tilapia population in Zobe Reservoir, providing important information for fisheries management, aquaculture practices, and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Growth Response of Broiler Chickens to Dietary Inclusion of Garlic as a Natural Feed Additive

Abdullahi, I. — 2026-01-02

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the nutritional and growth response of broiler chickens fed diets containing graded levels of garlic (Allium sativum) powder as a natural feed additive. A total of 120-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, replicated thrice with ten birds each in a completely randomized design. The treatments (T₁-T₄) contained garlic powder at 0.0, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% inclusion levels, respectively. Growth indices (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed cost per kilogram gain, and mortality) were recorded for both the starter and finisher phases. Results from the starter phase showed no significant (p>0.05) differences in weight gain, feed intake, or FCR among treatments, although birds fed garlic-supplemented diets exhibited numerically better performance and reduced mortality. However, at the finisher phase, garlic inclusion significantly (p<0.05) improved final body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and FCR, with the best performance observed at the 2.0% garlic level. Final body weight increased from 2334.28 g/bird in the control to 2883.59 g/bird in birds fed 2.0% garlic, while FCR improved from 2.42 to 1.92, indicating enhanced nutrient utilization. Feed cost per kilogram gain and mortality +were lowest in birds fed 2.0% garlic, suggesting better economic efficiency and survivability. It was concluded that dietary inclusion of garlic powder up to 2.0% in broiler diets improved growth performance, feed efficiency, and livability, particularly during the finisher phase. Garlic can therefore serve as a cost-effective, natural alternative to synthetic growth promoters in broiler production systems.

Effect of Phytase Supplementation on Dried Cabbage Residue-Based Diets on Gut Morphology, Blood Profile and Microbial Activity in Ross 308 Broiler Chickens

Olaleye, C. — 2026-01-02

Given the increasing disposal of cabbage waste and its potential as animal feed, this study was designed to examine the effect of phytase supplementation in dried cabbage residue (DCR)-based diets on the gut morphology, hematology, serum biochemistry, and microbial activity of Ross 308 broiler chickens. A total of 144 day-old broiler chicks were assigned to six experimental diets with varying DCR inclusion levels (100, 200, 300 g/kg), with or without phytase supplementation (1000 FTU/kg). After eight days, the chickens were assessed for gut morphology, blood biochemistry, hematological parameters, and microbial populations in the ileum and cecum. Orthogonal polynomial contrast was used to determine the effects of phytase and its interaction with DCR. Results showed that phytase supplementation and DCR levels had no significant impact (P > 0.05) on ileal and cecal microbial counts, hematological parameters, serum biochemical indices, cholesterol levels and intestinal morphology. These findings suggest that up to 300 g/kg of phytase-supplemented dried cabbage residue can be safely included in broiler diets without impacting the health or microbial composition of Ross 308 broiler chickens.

Effect of dietary Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder on Haematology and Serum Biochemistry of West African Dwarf Goats Experimentally Infected with Haemonchus contortus

H. L. Mohammed — 2026-01-22

This study investigated the influence of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf powder on haematological and biochemical responses of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats experimentally challenged with Haemonchus contortus. Thirty-two goats were allotted to four treatments: control (basal diet only), and basal diet supplemented with 100g, 200g, and 300g/day of M. oleifera leaf powder. Complete randomize design was used for experiment. Full blood count results showed no significant (P>0.05) variations among treatments, although goats fed 300g M. oleifera recorded numerically higher packed cell volume (PCV) and haemoglobin concentration (Hb). Differential white blood cell values were also not significantly influenced, though lymphocytes were numerically elevated in the 300g group. Serum biochemical parameters showed significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, and bilirubin. Electrolytes also varied significantly (P<0.05), with goats receiving 100g and 200g/day showing higher sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate values. Overall, M. oleifera supplementation supported metabolic recovery and physiological stability in H. contortus infected goats. The results confirmed the nutraceutical potential of M. oleifera as a supportive dietary intervention during haemonchosis.

Effects of Storage Method and Period on Egg Quality Traits of Brown Egg Type Chickens in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Achi, N.P — 2026-01-22

A study was conducted to examine the effects of storage method and period on egg qualities of brown egg type chickens s in Zaria local government area of Kaduna state. A total of 50 eggs were used. 10 were used initially to test for the parameters of fresh egg (not subjected to any form of storage) while the remaining 40 eggs were divided into four groups with each group having 10 eggs. The ten (10) eggs were randomly assigned to one the four storage methods. Of the 10 eggs in each of the storage methods, 8 were picked at random after the following storage periods (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 weeks) for the determination of egg quality traits. The first storage method (T1) was room temperature, the second (T2) was sawdust, the third (T3) was oiling while the fourth (T4) was refrigeration. Egg samples were randomly selected for each storage media and tested at weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. At sampling, the eggs were weighed and broken onto a flat surface with a table knife to cautiously crack the shell without breaking the vitelline membrane. The external egg quality parameters measured include egg weight, egg length, egg width, the shape index, shell weight, and shell thickness while the internal parameters measured were yolk width, yolk height, albumen height, albumen width, albumen weight, yolk index, albumen index, Haugh unit, and the potential hydrogen ion concentration (pH). Data collected on egg qualities were analyzed using General linear model of SPSS with storage time and method as fixed factors, and means with significant differences were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. The results obtained indicated that storage method was found to have significant (P>0.05) effect on egg weight and shell weight. The mean weight of fresh eggs before storage was 64.79 g while the weights after storage were 56.15, 56.48, 63.86, and 59.45g for room temperature, sawdust, oiling, and refrigeration, respectively. Oiling had the least weight loss followed by refrigeration while sawdust and room temperature had the greatest weight loss. The effect of storage time was statistically significant (P<0.05) for all parameters except egg width, shape index and shell thickness. There was a general decline in egg weight from 64.79 g in fresh egg to 54.60 g at the 6^th week of storage. Egg height for fresh eggs was not significantly (P>0.05) different from weeks 1, 2, 3, 4 but 5 differed (P<0.05) from that of week 6. The effect of storage time was statistically significant (P<0.05) for most parameters except yolk weight, albumen and yolk pH. The highest albumen width was observed at week 4. At weeks 5 and 6, the albumen had no dimension as the thick albumen turned watery. Dramatic deterioration was observed in albumen height (0.70 to 0.26), yolk height (1.64 to 0.59), albumen index (9.06 to 3.54), yolk index (40.13 to 12.06), and Haugh unit (80.21 to 38.52) and an increase in albumen. In conclusion, to achieve optimal external egg qualities, such as egg weight and shell weight, it is best to use fresh and oiling storage methods and for storage period, eggs should not be stored for more than five weeks. For maintaining quality albumen width, storing eggs at room temperature or using sawdust is recommended. For other internal egg qualities like albumen height, yolk height, Haugh unit, yolk index, and albumen index, fresh and refrigeration methods are most effective.

Performance of West African Dwarf Goats fed diets with Graded Levels of Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder under Experimental Haemonchus contortus Infection

H. L. Mohammed — 2026-01-22

This study evaluated the performance response of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats to graded levels of Moringa oleifera leaf powder under experimental Haemonchus contortus infection. Thirty-two apparently healthy WAD goats aged 6-8 months and averaging 7.2±3.6-9.6±0.40kg body weight were randomly divided into four treatment groups of eight goats each. The control group (T1) received a basal diet without Moringa inclusion, while T2, T3, and T4 received basal diet mixed with 100g, 200g, and 300g of Moringa oleifera leaf powder per goat per day, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for eight (8) weeks and the goats were infected with Haemonchus contortus larvae (L3). Parameters assessed included feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, and mortality. Results revealed that goats supplemented with 100-200g MOLP exhibited significantly (p<0.05) higher feed intake, body weight gain, and improved feed conversion ratio compared to the control. Digestibility coefficients for crude protein, fibre, and nitrogen-free extract were also higher in the Moringa fed groups. Mortality rate was lowest in the treated goats (0-12.5%) compared to 37.5% in the control. These findings suggest that M. oleifera leaf powder enhances performance and resilience against helminth infection in WAD goats and the study recommends dietary inclusion levels of 100-200g per goat per day for optimal productivity and health under tropical management systems.

Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed with Four Commercial Starter Diets

Anthony C. E — 2026-01-22

Broiler chickens are an important source of protein and require high quality feed to reach optimal growth. This research was conducted to evaluate the performance of chickens fed with four different brands of commercial starter diets. The four different brands of commercial diets (Diets A, B, C, and D assigned to treatments T1, T2, T3, and T4) and 120 Ross 308 day-old broiler chicks were used for the study for a period of four weeks. The birds were randomly divided into four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4), with each treatment divided into 3 replicates of 10 birds, and assigned an experimental diet in a completely randomized design (CRD). The parameters measured were initial and final body weights, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, mortality, feed cost, cost of feed consumed, and feed cost per Kg weight gain. The results indicated that T1 and T2 differed significantly (p<0.05) from T3 and T4 in average and final body weight. Feed conversion ratio (feed/gain) was 1.55, 1.58, 2.15, and 2.72 for T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. T2 was the cheapest in terms of feed cost/kg of meat produced, amounting to ₦657.06. T1 was the most expensive but had birds with the highest body weight gain. This study demonstrates the importance of high-quality feed and highlights the importance of nutrient variability on growth performance and economic returns when using commercial feeds.

Rumen Microbial Profile of Yankasa Rams Fed a Basal Diet of Guinea Grass (Panicum maximum) Supplemented with Purslane (Portulaca olerecea) Leaves and Stems

*Zubairu. M. M.1, — 2026-01-28

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the microbial population, rumen pH and Methane (CH₄) gas production in Yankasa rams fed a basal diet of Guinea Grass (Panicum maximum) supplemented with Purslane (Portulaca olerecea). Twelve (12) Yankasa Rams with an average live weight of 15.7 kg were used for this study which lasted for 62 days. The animals were assigned to four (4) dietary treatment groups in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three rams per treatment as replicates. The animals were fed with: T₁= Guinea grass only (control) 100 gMO + 100 WP, T₂= Guinea grass + 100 gWP+200 gMO, T₃= Guinea grass + 200 gWP+200 gMO and T₄= 300 gWP+ 200 gMO. The results showed that animals fed with T₂ diet had the highest (P<0.05) bacterial population (4.96X10⁵/ml) whereas those on T₃recorded significantly (P<0.05) higher (25.17) fungal population in comparison with rams placed on T₁(1.67), T₂(15.50) and T₄ (16.60) diets, respectively. The rumen PH and Protozoan counts were significantly (P<0.05) higher in rams fed T₂ diet. However, the methane (CH₄) gas production differed significantly (P<0.05) between treatment means. It is recommended that rams should be fed with T₂diets as it increased the rumen bacteria and protozoan counts with a reduced methane gas production. It was concluded that feeding Guinea grass supplemented with up to 100 g/day of Wild Purslane increased rumen bacteria and protozoan counts with a reduced methane gas production. Based on the results of the study, it's recommended that Yankasa rams be fed with Guinea grass supplemented with Wild Purslane as it increases favourable rumen microbiota. Further research should evaluate the long-term health effects of wild Purslane supplementation and its impact on meat quality in Yankasa rams.

Feeding Value of Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) Fruit Peels Fermented with Bovine Rumen Liquor in Broiler Chicken Diets

*Philip, C.G — 2026-01-28

Abstract

A 56-day feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of sweet orange peels fermented bovine rumen liquor peel on the performance of broiler chickens. Fresh rumen content was collected from slaughtered cattle at abattoir, mixed with water in the ratio of 1L: 1 kg. The mixture was stirred, sieved to collect rumen liquor and was added to fresh sweet orange peels (SOP) collected from orange sellers within Makurdi metropolis. The mixture was put in polythene bags, tied and left to ferment for 72 hours and then sun-dried. The dried mixture was milled and used to replace dietary maize at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% in diets T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5, respectively. A total of 150, day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments in a Completely Randomized Design and replicated thrice. The values of Packed Cell Volume, White Blood Cell and Mean Corpuscular Volume were significantly (P < 0.05) affected positively by the dietary treatments. Glucose and Albumin were adversely affected. Glucose levels decreased as the inclusion level of fermented SOP in the diet increased. The result of carcass characteristics showed significant (p<0.05) difference in drumstick, back and heart. Other carcass traits showed no significant (p>0.05) effect. The utilization of SOP fermented with bovine rumen liquor up to 5 % maize replacement had improved performance on the birds and it is recommended that SOP fermented for 72 hours with rumen liquor can be used to replace up to 5% of the maize in broiler diets.

Haemoglobin Polymorphism of Indigenous Pig Populations of Nigeria

I. Ubu1

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the haemoglobin polymorphism of indigenous pig populations of Nigeria. A total of 216 pigs, 72from each of humid forest, guinea savannah and Sudan savannah agro-ecological zones were sampled for blood haemoglobin polymorphism analysis. Separation of plasma and red blood cell proteins were determined in cellulose acetate paper electrophoresis. The degree of heterozygosity (H) and deviation from Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) values were estimated. Genetic variations in the studied populations were expressed as heterozygosity (H), effective number of alleles (ne) and percentage polymorphism (%P) in the male and female. All three populations analysed for haemoglobin locus were polymorphic. Two co-dominant alleles (HbA and HbB) which control two genotypes (Hb^AA and Hb^AB) of Hb polymorphic locus were observed. Deviation from Hardy Weinberg equilibrium and deficiency of heterozygosities were observed in all the populations. The estimated average heterozygosities ranged between 0.231 to 0.500, heterozygote deficit F_IT was estimated at 0.108 while within breed deficit as evaluated by F_IS ranged from 0.052 to 0.564. The mean fixation index F_ST (0.018) revealed that genetic diversity within the studied population was moderately differentiated. Genetic distance among the populations quantified through calculation of Nei genetic distance ranged from 0.015 - 0.986. The result obtained may be used as an initial guide in defining objectives for future investigations of genetic integrity and developing conservation strategies for Nigeria indigenous pigs.

Blood Profile of Broiler Chickens Administered with Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Leaf

1Onwujiariri, E.B., — 2026-01-28

The study was undertaken to determine the blood profile of broilers fed aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaf. A total of 150, broiler chickens were randomly assigned to five treatment groups of thirty birds with 3 replicates of 10 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD). Chickens were fed commercial broiler starter and finisher diets and aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera Leaf (AEMOL) was offered such that treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 ml AEMOL/litre of water respectively. At 5^th and 9^th week of age, blood samples were collected for haematological and serum biochemical analysis respectively. Results showed significant (P<0.05) variations for haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells (WBC). AEMOL supplement significantly (P<0.05) enhanced total protein and serum albumin, and reduced glucose level of the broiler chickens. Serum cholesterol of finisher broiler was significantly (P<0.05) reduced at supplemental levels of 60 ml and 80 ml AEMOL/litre of water. Thus, the inclusion of AEMOL up to 80 ml improved blood characteristics and produced healthy birds with improved immunity.

Analysis of food and feeding habits of Auchenoglanis biscutatus and Protopterus annectens from Lower River Benue at Wadata, Makurdi, Nigeria.

1Gbaaondo, T.,

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the food and feeding habits of Auchenoglanis biscutatus and Protopterus annectens from the Lower River Benue, Makurdi, between April 2019 and March 2020. Fish samples were collected monthly at Wadata landing site and analyzed for stomach fullness, gut length, and diet composition using frequency of occurrence and numerical methods. Stomach fullness analysis revealed that A. biscutatus had the majority of stomachs quarter full (50.6%), followed by half full (30.75%), while P. annectens had more quarter-empty (40.4%) and half-full stomachs (40.1%). Diet analysis showed that both species were majorly detritivorous, with detritus contributing 82.8% of the diet in A. biscutatus and 87% in P. annectens. However, insects formed the highest numerical component for both species (45.99% in A. biscutatus and 36.56% in P. annectens), indicating an omnivorous tendency with opportunistic feeding behavior. A small number of algae, plant material, worms, and mollusks were also recorded, while fish remains were not seen in A. biscutatus. These findings highlight the ecological role of detritus as a key energy source in the Lower River Benue and show that both species occupy flexible feeding niches that combine detritivory with opportunistic predation. These findings provide essential information for understanding the trophic dynamics of these species and for guiding fisheries management in the River Benue ecosystem and the possible domestication of these species.

Performance and Blood Characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed Graded Levels of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Meal Diets

1*Aremu, J.O., — 2026-01-28

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) on the growth performance and blood characteristics of broiler chickens. 180 day-old Arbor acre chickens used in this experiment were subjected to five dietary treatments as follows; Diet 1-the control devoid of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (0%MOLM), diets 2, 3, 4, and 5 with –MOLM at graded inclusion levels of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0% level respectively in a Completely Randomized Design. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 12 birds per replicate. The experiment lasted 56 days. The results indicated that daily weight gain, daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were significantly (p <0.05) affected by the inclusion levels of MOLM. Birds fed a diet containing 2.5% MOLM showed the highest values for these parameters: Daily weight gain (66.05 g), daily feed intake (118.45 g), and feed conversion ratio (1.73). There was better performance up to 2.5% MOLM but the performance declined significantly at a higher inclusion level. There was an improvement in the haematological ((PCV, RBC, HB) parameters up to 10% MOLM inclusion. The AST and ALP increased significantly with the increased level of MOLM while the total protein, albumin, and glucose decreased. Nevertheless, there were no influence (P > 0.05) on the protein and albumin values. It can be concluded from the findings of this research that MOLM can replace soya bean meal in broiler chick diets up to 10% without deleterious effect on the growth performance and blood profile.

Forage Yield and Chemical Composition of Brachiaria Ruziziensis as Influenced by Fertilizer Rate

1Munza, B. M., — 2026-01-28

Abstract

The study evaluated forage yield and quality of B. ruziziensis as influenced by NPK fertilizer at different ages. The experiment was laid out in a 4 x 4 factorial split-plot design and replicated 3 times. Fertilizer levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 Kg/ha) as the main plot and harvest age (4, 8, 12, and 16 WAS) as the sub-plot. There was a significant (P<0.05) effect of NPK on plant height (PH), leaf width (LW), tiller numbers (TN), and forage yields, while there was a non-significant (P>0.05) effect of fertilizer on the number of leaves (LN) and leaf length (LL). Higher (P<0.05) PH (84.87cm), LW (4.38cm), and forage yields (8.02 and 5.99 t/ha) were obtained at 150 kg/ha NPK, while higher (P<0.05) TN (7.72) was recorded at 100 kg/ha NPK. Significant (P<0.05) harvest age effect was observed on growth and forage yields in which higher (P<0.05) PH (102.76cm) and forage yields (8.37 and 6.62 t/ha) were obtained at 16 weeks after sowing (WAS) while NL (43.18), LL (40.94cm), LW (4.35cm) and TN (8.83) were recorded at 12 WAS. There was a significant (P<0.05) effect of age of harvest on chemical composition except ether extract. Higher (P<0.05) dry matter (89.99%), crude fibre (15.60%), ash (7.98%), neutral detergent fibre (24.92%), and acid detergent fibre (15.38%) were recorded at 16 WAS, while crude protein (22.93%) was higher (P<0.05) at 8 WAS. Nitrogen free extract (48.73%) was higher (P<0.05) at 12 WAS. In conclusion, yield and quality were improved with NPK at 100 and 150 kg/ha, while forage harvested at 16 WAS gave higher growth and better forage yields. Crude protein of forage with NPK was above 7 – 12% to meet the requirements of growing ruminants. It was recommended that for better yield and quality, 100 to 150 kg/ha NPK should be applied and harvested at 16WAS.

Effect of Aqueous Mahogany (Khaya Senegalensis) Bark Extract on Haematology and Serum Biochemistry of Broiler Chickens in a Semi-Arid area of Nigeria

1Balami, S.I., — 2026-01-29

Abstract

A total of two hundred (200) day-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks (mixed-sex) were used to study the effects of mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) bark aqueous extract on the haematology and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens in a semi-arid area of Nigeria. The chicks were weighed and allotted to five (5) treatments of aqueous mahogany bark extract (AMBE) in groups of forty (40) and replicated four times in groups of ten (10) chicks per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Treatment 1 was the control having 0.00 ml/l of AMBE while treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5 were given 12.50, 25.00, 37.50 and 50.00 ml per litre of aqueous mahogany bark extract. The experiment lasted for a period of eight (8) weeks (56 days). Data on haematology and serum biochemical indices were collected and analyzed. The results on haematological indices showed significant (P<0.05) differences for packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and differential counts. However, PCV values (24.50 – 26.75 %) were slightly below the normal range (27 – 33 %) while MCV and MCH had values lower than the normal range. Significant (P<0.05) differences were also recorded for total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), alkaline phosphate (ALP), glucose, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, chloride, potassium, bicarbonate, sodium, direct bilirubin and conjugated bilirubin. Highest (P<0.05) total protein (72.75 g/L) was record in T₄ (37.50 ml/L), T₅ (50.00 ml/L) had the highest (P<0.05) values for ASAT (84.75 iu/L) and ALAT (56.25 %), while T₂ (12.50 ml/L) had the highest (P<0.05) values for cholesterol (4.65 mmol/L), urea (8.83 mmol/L), chloride (103.00 mmol/L), bicarbonate (31.50 mmol/L) and sodium (144.75 mmol/L). In conclusion, Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) bark aqueous extract could be administered at 37.50 ml/L without adverse effect on the blood profile of broiler chickens in the semi-arid zone of Nigeria.

Effect of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) Extract on Nutrient Digestibility and Caecum Micro-biota of Broiler Chickens in Borno State

*Balami, S.I.,

Abstract

An eight (8) weeks study was conducted to evaluate the effect of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) extract on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and caecum micro-biota of broiler chickens. One hundred and twenty (120) day old chicks purchased from a reputable hatchery were used for the experiment. The birds were allotted to four (4) treatment groups having 30 birds per treatment and replicated thrice with 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Feed and water were given ad-libitum and birds were vaccinated against common poultry diseases in the region. Lemongrass extract was administered to the birds in drinking water at varying levels: T₁ (control), T₂ (100 ml/l), T₃ (150 ml/l) and T₄ (200 ml/l). The results on growth performance showed significant (P<0.05) difference in daily weight gain, final weight and feed conversion ratio with T₃ (150 ml/l) having the highest final weight gain. No significant (P>0.05) difference was recorded for initial weight and daily feed intake. The results of nutrient digestibility showed significant (P<0.05) difference in dry matter among treatment groups while crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) showed no significant (P>0.05) difference. Total bacterial count showed significant (P<0.05) difference among treatment groups with T₄ (200 ml/l) having the highest. Individual bacterial count showed significant (P<0.05) difference for Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp, while the count for staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus faecalis indicated no significant (P>0.05) difference. Therefore, lemongrass extract can be used in broiler chicken production at 150 ml/l to enhance growth performance while keeping the microbial population in check.

Supplementary Feeding of Crossbred Lactating Cows with Rations Formulated with Some Non-conventional Feeds in a Semi-arid Borno State

*Modu-Kagu, H.A., — 2026-01-29

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of supplementary feeding of crossbred lactating cows with rations formulated from alternative protein and energy feed ingredients on milk yield, composition, and profitability. Eight (8) crossbred lactating cows were used in a 4×4 Latin Square Design (LSD) to evaluate four (4) dietary treatments combining energy and protein supplements at a 60:40 ratio. The results showed that effect of diet varied significantly (P<0.05) in composition, with crude protein (CP) ranging from 10.96% to 15.26% and crude fibre from 17.06% to 31.77%. Milk composition differed (P<0.05) significantly across treatments, with T2 having the highest CP (4.5%), lactose (5.12%) and solid-non fat (10.33%), while T1 has the highest fat (9.25%). Milk yield was highest in T1, but T2 achieved the best cost–benefit ratio, producing the highest net profit despite moderate yields. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between milk yield and fat, and between CP and lactose, ash, and solids-not-fat (SNF). The findings indicate that locally available alternative feed resources can enhance milk quality and mineral content, with T1 offering superior nutritional value and T2 delivering optimal economic returns for smallholder dairy systems.

Seasonal Variations in the Incidence of Coccidiosis in Chickens (Gallus domesticus) in Borno State, Nigeria

Lawal, J. R1 — 2026-01-29

Abstract

This longitudinal cross-sectional study investigated seasonal fluctuations in the incidence of coccidiosis in chickens (Gallus domesticus) across Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, from October 2023 to September 2024. A total of 1,800 fecal samples were collected from households, farms, and live bird markets, complemented with post-mortem examinations. Standard parasitological techniques, including Sheather’s flotation and McMaster counting were employed. Overall, 52.8% (950/1,800) of chickens were positive for Eimeria oocysts, with prevalence and infection intensity showing significant seasonal variation (χ² = 57.71, p < 0.0001). The rainy season recorded the highest burden (72.9%, mean OPG = 24,740 ± 5,692), followed by transitional (48.3%) and dry seasons (34.4%). Site-specific prevalence was highest in intensively managed farms (78.5%), compared with markets (56.8%) and households (23.0%) (χ² = 376.7, p < 0.0001). Age- and sexstratified analysis revealed chicks and female birds were most susceptible, particularly during the wet season. This highlights the need for season-specific control measures, especially better litter management to reduce disease impact in poultry systems.