Nsap 2021 Monogastric Nutrition and Management

NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR ANIMAL PRODUCTION (NSAP) 46TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE – DUTSIN-MA 2021 BOOK OF PROCEEDINGS
MONOGASTRIC NUTRITION AND MANAGEMENT
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RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKENS TO TIME LIMITED FEEDING OF

MASH OR PELLET FEED
O. A. ADEYEMI*, A. M. OYELEKE, L.T. EGBEYALE, A. O. OSO and C.P. NJOKU

Department of Animal Production and Health,
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
*corresponding author: adeyemioa@funaab.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The effect of feed form (FF) and time limited feeding on performance of broiler chickens was studied.
160 marshal strain of broiler were allocated in a 2 × 4 factorial experimental arrangement with two
FF (mash and pellet) at four Time limited feeding (TLF) (24, 6, 4, and 2 hours). Data collected were
analysed using a completely randomized design. Significant differences were obtained on feed intake
(FI), weight gained (WG), final weight (FW), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and mortality (M). FI
reduced (P<0.05) as TLF reduced. FI was influenced by FF, birds fed pellet diet having higher
(P<0.05) FI compared to mash at each corresponding level of TLF. WG was lower (P<0.05) at all
levels of TLF in broilers fed mash compared to ad libitum group. However, birds fed for 4 and 6
hours on pellet diet during feed limitation had similar (P>0.05) WG compared to their control group.
FW at 8 weeks of age was lower in birds fed mash compared to pellet. FCR was influenced by FF and
TLF with birds placed on pellet having a better FCR compared to those fed mash. Pellet fed birds
recorded higher M compared to the mash fed birds particularly during the first week of life because
the pellet size of 2mm was too big for their mouth size hence inability to feed properly, thereafter
improvements were observed from week two. The study revealed a better performance and better
benefit of feed limitation when birds are fed pellet diet compared to mash.
Keywords: Broiler Chickens, Feed Forms, Growth Performance, Time Limited Feeding.
INTRODUCTION
Generally, broiler production is known to be capital demanding due to high cost of conventional feed
ingredients especially the energy and protein sources. This is because it is one of the most efficient
converters of feed to animal protein and it is generally assumed that when birds eat more, they attain
higher body weight at market age. The high cost of feed in poultry production is threatening the
sustainability of the enterprise. There is therefore, a need to identify methods of reducing costs
(Khetani et al., 2009).
Various feed form including mash, pellet or crumble are supplied to broilers. Ration forms are the
most important factor which directly influences the cost of mixed feed and production performance of
broiler (Ghazi et al., 2012). The physical form of feed (mash and pellet) is a crucial factor in meat
yield of broiler.
With the present widening protein deficiency gap due to high population and high cost of
livestock production, there is the need to reduce production cost through feed cost savings, this will
allow the product go round the population at affordable prices. (Azarnik et al., 2010).
The benefits of feed savings, feed conversion rates, lean meat and a more uniform growth are worth
serious consideration. These benefits can be realized by finding cheap, adequate and readily available
ways of reducing feed cost in broiler chicken production. One of such method is reducing the amount
of daily feed offer for some time (Novele et al., 2009). Quantitative and qualitative feed restrictions
have been introduced; this is done by reducing the birds feed access time or by reducing the nutrient
content of the feed. Restricted feeding can be done in early life of chickens (Lee and Leeson, 2001).
Limiting feed access in boiler production has reduced excess fat deposition and therefore improving
the carcass quality of broiler as well as reducing metabolic diseases and mortality rate. (Lee and
Lesson, 2001).
Several studies on feed limitation in boilers has shown decrease in mortality, stimulation of
compensatory growth, improved carcass quality by reducing excess fat deposition, reduce production
cost and improved feed efficiency. However, in these studies birds were placed on the same form of
diet. However, there is little information on feed restriction programme where there is comparison
between different forms of feed fed to broiler chickens.
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MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animal and housing
A total of one hundred and sixty marshal strain of broiler chicks raised on deep litter were used for the
study.
Experimental procedure
The experimental birds were raised altogether for the first 7 days of age (1 week) and were fed ad
libitum on mash diet during this period. At 1 week of age birds were balanced for weight and
allocated into a 2 × 4 factorial experimental arrangement in a completely randomized design with two
feed forms (mash and pellet) and four levels of feed access time (24,6, 4, and 2 hours). There were 8
treatments which were replicated four times with five birds. Birds on all the feed limited groups were
provided with same quantity of feed each day using the guide given by Aduku (2004). Leftover feed
was withdrawn from feed limited groups at the stated time. The time limited feeding was carried out
for a period of 3 weeks from 7 - 28 days of age. After the 21days of feed restriction all birds were fed
ad libitum till eight weeks of age. A straight diet was used for the experiment. The Gross Percentage
Composition of the Mash and Pellet are similar (Maize, 45.00; Soybean meal 15.00; Fish
meal(72%CP) 1.00; Groundnut Cake 12.50; Wheat Offal 21.50; Oyster Shell 1.50; Bone meal 2.50;
Lysine 0.25; Methionine 0.25; Salt 0.25; Vit./Mineral Premix 0.25). Necessary Vaccinations and
medications were administered. Data collected were subjected to the following equations to obtain
weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and Mortality (%)
( ) ( )
( ) ( )
( )
( )
x 100
Chemical and Statistical analysis

Proximate analysis of mash and pellets (Table 1.) were carried out using the methods of AOAC
(2005). Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance, significant (P<0.05) differences among
each treatment means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (SAS, 1987).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Main and interaction effects of FF and TLF are shown in Tables 2 and 3. Average daily feed
intake/bird for the entire period of experiment reduced significantly (P<0.05) with reduction in time of
access to feed. Feed consumption for the entire period of experiment was higher in pellet fed birds
compared to mash fed birds at all corresponding level of feed access time.
The performance of pellet fed bird compared to mash fed birds (Table 2) indicates that broilers were
able to utilize pellet diet better than mash diet. Average daily weight gain/bird for the entire period of
experiment was higher in pellet diet compared to mash at all corresponding level of feed access time.
Birds placed on pellet diet responded better to the feed restriction, birds fed for 4 and 6 hours during
restriction on pellet diet were able to compensate for their initial body weight loss after
realimentation. However, all groups of feed limited bird placed on mash diet failed to compensate
fully for their initial weight loss after realimentation. Final body weight gain of birds on table
indicated that birds limited to 4 and 6 daily feed access time and fed pelleted diet were able to
compete favourably with birds fed ad libitum on mash diet. The general improved performance of
pellet fed birds compared to mash can be explained to be due the fact that birds prefer feed in pellet
form compared to mash (Behnke, 1998) which resulted in increased feed intake and subsequent higher
body weight gain. Each pellet grain gives a balanced nutrient intake thereby eradicating ingredient
segregation (Behnke, 1998). Also chicken spent less time feeding on pellets and expended less energy
than on mash (Savory, 1974; Moran, 1989). Pellet fed birds had better feed conversion ratio for the
entire period of experiment at each corresponding level of feed access time, this means that broilers
were able to utilize pellet feed better than mash. Similar results were observed from earlier findings
(Ghazi et al., 2012; Zakeri et al., 2013) who reported that pellet had a better feed efficiency of pellet
over mash.
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In this study no outbreak of disease was recorded, mortality was recorded only at the early period of
feed limitation (1st week). Higher mortality recorded among the pellet fed birds may be a result of
combination some factors (at the early period of restriction birds were not readily familiar with the
pellet diet, the beak was not developed enough to effectively pick up the 2mm pellet, and feed was
restricted giving them less time to feed) which might have contributed to a very low energy intake
which was not sufficient to fuel necessary body processes, though birds that survived were able to
adapt favourably at the second week of feed limitation. The study concluded that broiler chickens on
pellet feed had better performance in terms of feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and final
weight gain over those fed mash. Broilers subjected to 4 and 6 hours daily TLF competes favourably
with groups of birds fed ad-libitum following realimentation.
REFERENCES
A.O.A.C 2005. Official Methods of Analysis, 18th Edition, Association of Official Analytical
Chemists, Washington, DC. USA.
Aduku, A.O. 2004. Feed composition and nutrition.Composition alimentaire. Dept of Animal
Science.Ahmadu Bello University. Zaria. Nigeria. 8 pp.
Azarnik A., Bojarpour, M., Eslami M., Ghorbani, M. R, and Mirzadeh, K. 2010. The Effect
of Different Levels of Diet Protein on Broilers Performance in Ad libitum and Feed
Restriction Methods. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advance. 9 ( 3 ) , 6 3 1 - 6 3 4 .
Behnke, K. C., 1998. Why pellet? In Proceedings of Kansas State University, America Feed Industry
Association Pellet Conference, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.
Ghazi, A. M. Z., Gameel, A. A. and Mohamed M. A. 2012. A Comparative Effect of Mash and Pellet
Feed on Broiler Performance and Ascites at High Altitude. Global Veterinaria 9 (2):154-159.
Khetani, T. L., Nkukwana, T. T., Chimonyo, M. and Muchenje, V. 2009. Effect of feed restriction on
broiler performance. Trop. Anim. Health Prod., 41: 379-384.
Lee, K.H. and Lesson, S. 2001. Performance of broilers fed limited quantities of feed or nutrients
during seven to fourteen days of age. Poultry Science. 80: 446-454.
Moran, E. T. Jr. 1989. Effect of pellet quality on the performance of meat birds. In: Recent advances
in animal nutrition. Butterworths. London. p. 87- 108.
Novele, D. J., Ng‘Ambi, J. W., Norris, D. and Mbajiorgu, C. A. 2009. Effect of different feed
restriction regimes during the starter stage on productivity and carcass characteristics of male
and female Ross 308 broiler chickens. International Journal of Poultry Science. 8(1): 35-39.
SAS (Statistical Analysis System). 1987. Version 9.3, SAS Institute Inc. Carry N. C. USA.
Savory C .J. 1974. Growth and behavior of chickens fed on pellets or mash. British Poultry Science.
15:281-286.
Zakeri, A. Chehraghi, M., and Taghinejad-Roudbaneh M. 2013. Effects of different feed forms on
performance in broiler chickens. European Journal of Experimental Biology, 2013, 3(4):66-
70.
Table 1: Analysed Composition (%) of Mash and Pellet

Dry Matter Crude Protein Crude Fibre Ether Extract Ash
Mash 88.35 21.05 3.97 3.74 5.65
Pellet 89.25 20.94 4.08 3.56 5.30
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Table 2: Main effects of feed form (FF) and time limited feeding (TLF) on performance characteristics of marshal broilers
Feed form Time Limited Feeding (Hours)
Parameters Mash Pellet SEM 2 4 6 24 SEM
Initial Weight (g) 145.25 146.75 1.76 143.00 149.50 146.50 145.00 2.35
Final Weight (g) 1799.38b 1980.00a 28.78 1786.25c 1878.75b 1875.00 b 2018.75 a 42.86
FI (during restriction)/bird (g)/day 29.40 b 30.52 a 3.89 17.36d 21.78c 25.18 b 55.52a 0.52
FI (during realimentation)/bird (g)/day 115.72 b 118.62a 0.74 116.88ab 117.17ab 115.34 b 119.29a 1.04
b a c b b
FI (Entire Period)/bird (g)/day 78.72 80.87 1.87 74.23 76.29 76.70 91.96a 0.66
WG (during restriction)/bird (g)/d 11.37 b 12.96a 1.07 9.25c 9.42c 10.92b 19.07a 0.51
b a b a ab
WG (during realimentation)/bird (g)/d 50.70 55.96 0.72 51.68 54.96 54.00 52.66ab 1.35
WG (Entire Period)/bird (g)/d 33.84 b 37.53a 0.61 33.50c 35.44 b 35.54b 38.27a 0.90
a b c b b
Feed conversion ratio during restriction 2.56 2.23 0.125 1.91 2.40 2.37 2.92 b 0.13
Feed conversion ratio after restriction 2.28a 2.13 b 0.03 2.27a 2.14 b 2.15 b 2.27a 0.05
a b b b b
Total Feed conversion ratio 2.33 2.16 0.03 2.23 2.16 2.17 2.41a 0.05
b a a b b
Mortality during Restriction 1.25 12.5 2.42 17.50 7.50 2.50 0.00 b 3.04
Mortality after restriction 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
b a a b b
Total mortality 1.25 12.5 2.42 17.50 7.50 2.50 0.00 b 3.04
a,b,c: means in the same row not sharing common superscript are significantly different (p<0.05)
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Table 3:Effects of interaction between feed form (FF) and time limited feeding (TLF) on performance characteristics of Marshal Broilers
Feed form Mash Pellet
time limited feeding (TLF) (Hours) 2 4 6 24 2 4 6 24 SEM
Initial Weight (g) 143.00 148.00 146.00 144.00 143.00 151.00 147.00 146.00 3.52
Final Weight (g) 1707.50c 1760.00cb 1745.00c 1985.00a 1865.00b 1997.50a 2005.00a 2052.50a 33.99
FI (during restriction)/bird (g)/day 17.73e 21.81d 24.49c 53.56b 16.99e 21.74d 25.88c 57.49a 0.57
FI (during realimentation)/bird (g)/day 115.05bc 114.98bc 112.90c 119.95a 118.72ab 119.37ab 117.79ab 118.63ab 1.13
FI (Entire Period)/bird (g)/day 73.34d 75.05cd 75.00cd 91.50a 75.12cd 77.53bc 78.40b 92.42a 0.77
WG (during restriction)/bird (g)/day 8.43de 8.35e 9.41cde 19.29a 10.07cd 10.49c 12.43b 18.86a 0.52
WG (during realimentation)/bird (g)/day 49.70b 51.66b 50.06b 51.38b 53.67b 58.27a 57.95a 53.95b 1.21
WG (Entire Period)/bird (g)/day 32.01c 33.10cb 32.63cb 37.63a 34.99b 37.79a 38.44a 38.91a 0.75
Feed conversion ratio during restriction 2.12b 2.72a 2.64a 2.79a 1.70b 2.08b 2.10b 3.05a 0.13
Feed conversion ratio after restriction 2.32a 2.22a 2.23a 2.34a 2.21b 2.05bc 2.04c 2.20b 0.05
Total Feed conversion ratio 2.30abc 2.27bc 2.30abc 2.44a 2.15cd 2.06d 2.05d 2.38ab 0.05
Mortality during Restriction 5cb 0c 0c 0c 30a 15b 5cb 0c 2.60
Mortality after restriction 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
cb
Total Mortality 5 0c 0c 0c 30a 15b 5 cb
0c 2.60
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SOIL NUTRIENTS POTENTIALITY OF PIG DEEP LITTER INOCULATED WITH

EFFECTIVE MICROORGANISM (EM) IN FERMENTED BED TECHNOLOGY PIG
PRODUCTION
Adewale I. Adeolu, †Adanne P. Agbafor, †Nancy C. Umezuruike, §Ukaegbu G. Nneji

*
*
Department of Agriculture (Animal Science Programme), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-
Alike, Ikwo. P.M. B. 1010, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
†
Department of Biology/Microbiology/ Biotechnology (Biotechnology Programme) Alex Ekwueme
Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo. P.M. B. 1010, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
§
Department of Biotechnology, Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, P.M.B 21023, Ikeja,
Lagos State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
A total number of thirty six (36) weaner pigs were randomly allotted to two (2) treatments of eighteen
(18) weaner each, with each treatment having three (3) replicates of six (6) weaners. The study was
designed for the assessment of soil nutrients potentials of pig deep litter inoculated with Effective
Microorganism (EM) obtained from pig production using Fermented Bed Technology (FBT).
Bedding materials were inoculated with the solution of EM-Bacillus subtilis (STL002), Lactobacillus
plantarum (MKL430), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (RSU512) and Actinomycetes (OLT231). Samples
were collected from each replicates of bedding without EM (T1, control) and with EM (T2) and
individuals sample from each replicate for T1 and T2 were mixed thoroughly in order to obtain
homogeneous samples for nutrients analysis. Kjeldhal apparatus, flame photometer, molybdovanadate
method and model 55B Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) were used for the analysis.
Data obtained from triplicate determination for individuals sample were subjected to t-test analysis
and results indicated significant different (p<0.05) between T1 and T2. Pig deep litter macronutrients
analysis revealed that Mg=8.42ppm, K=7.25ppm, N=1.62%, P=52.01mg/l, S=9.55% while
micronutrients depicted Fe=9.45ppm, Mn=6.60ppm, Zn=5.34ppm, Cu=8.11ppm, Cl=4.81ppm. This
study therefore, showed that Fermented Bed Technology which make use of EM actively breakdown
pig waste thus, significantly decreased offensive odour and flies populations. Pig deep litter nutrients
content obtained further suggest future use of this biotechnology in a farming system that are
economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable.
Keywords: Effective microorganisms, Soil nutrients, Pig deep litter, Inoculation, Pig.
INTRODUCTION
The issue of insufficient protein intake and malnutrition generally in developing countries can be
attributed to the high cost of conventional sources of meat such as cattle, goat, sheep, pigs, poultry
etc. and the demand-supply gaps which has not yet been bridged. FAO (2014) reported high per caput
(more than 10 kg) consumption of meat in some industrialized countries while less than10 kg per
caput consumption for developing countries was considered insufficient and often leads to under-
nourishment and malnutrition. Deficiencies occur when people have limited access to micronutrient-
rich foods such as meat, fish, fruit and vegetables. Therefore, bridging this gap can only be achieved
by the increasing and consistent encouragement of production of short-cycled and highly prolific
animals such as pigs.
Pigs have been described as one of the most prolific and fast growing livestock that can convert food
waste to valuable products and being pure white meat, can excel above other red meat animals.
Despite all these attributes, farmers are been discouraged to go into pig production because of
challenges associated with pig production. These include offensive odour and large population of flies
usually seen around pig farms.
Enforcing Federal Environmental Protection Agency Act No 59 of 1992, which regulates pig farms to
be located not less than 500 meters away from residential areas has made many farmers to lose their
land to residential owners and this has also continued to discourage farmers from investing in
production of such animals. The Act argued that waste (feacal and urine) from pig farms have the
potential of carrying pathogens, bacteria (often antibiotic resistant), and heavy metals that can be toxic
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when ingested (Nicole, 2017). These waste products causes mucosal irritation, respiratory ailments,
decreased quality of life, pollution of water bodies, release of greenhouse gases (ammonia, nitrogen
oxide and methane). The foul odours, flies and mosquitoes breed in manure pit are grassed continually
to the neighboring communities and these are capable of transmitting diseases such as cholera,
dysentery, typhoid, and malaria. Annette et al. (2006) reported that pig farms are capable of spreading
diseases like- Salmonella, Toxoplasma, and Campylobacter.
Studies by AfrII (2016) and Laishram et al. (2018), showed that Fermented Bed Technology (FBT)
might be an effective technology in reducing occurrences of diseases and also increasing the
immunity of the pigs. FBT with the help of EM‘s offers many benefits but the core benefit is the
efficient way of turning both manure and urine into finished compost/litter. There is dearth of
information about soil nutrient contents of pig deep litter in available literature. This study was
therefore undertaken to assess soil nutrients potentiality of pig deep litter inoculated with EM‘s in
FBT pig production.

Study Location and Sources of Experimental Materials
This experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Ikwo Local Government,
Ndufu Echara, Ikwo Ebonyi State. This location lies in latitudes 6004ʹN and Longitude 08065ʹE in the
Derived Savanna Zone of Southern Nigeria (AE-FUNAI, 2012).Thirty six (36) weaner pigs, selected
from existing population in the farm were used as experimental animals. They were randomly allotted
to two (2) treatments of eighteen (18) weaners each, with each treatment having three (3) replicates of
six (6) weaners each. Required quantity of rice straw was gathered as a left over waste after rice
paddy harvest from selected farms within Ikwo Local Government Area (LGA). Rice husk and dried
palm fronds used as bedding material were freely obtained from Nwakpu rice mill cluster and Obuegu
Ndufu Echara palm tree plantation, respectively. Maize bran, used as substrate for culturing the
Effective Microorganisms (EM‘s) was also obtained free from milling clusters within Abakaliki,
metropolis. Pure cultures of EM‘s: Bacillus subtilis (STL002), Lactobacillus plantarum (MKL430),
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (RSU512) and Actinomycetes (OLT231) were procured from Federal
Institute for Industrial Research, Oshodi Lagos State. Other materials (loam soil, distilled water, table
salt and glucose) were sourced locally. .
Experimental Procedures
The inoculum development was carried out at biotechnology laboratory, Alex Ekwueme Federal
University Ndufu-Alike in line with the method of Balogun et al. (2016) with little modification.The
solution (containing EM‘s) obtained were used to inoculate and ferment the bedding materials.
Rice straws and dried palm fronds were laid firmly on non-cemented floor to a height of 30cm in a
12m x 12m size pen. Immediately after this, bedding materials was added to the height of 40cm. The
bedding materials consists of rice husk (30 bags), 100kg or 3 wheelbarrows of loam soil, ash (10kg)
and table salt (10kg). Solution of EM‘s were continually sprinkled on the bedding materials as they
were mixed thoroughly using combination of shovel and garden forks. Turning of the bed was carried
out daily and allowed to ferment for eight days before stocking. In order to maintain a healthy bed and
also to encourage rooting, turning and mixing of the bed with sprinkle of EM‘s solution was carried
out weekly within the period of the experiment. All animals were kept under the same management
and climatic conditions.
Samples Collection and Nutrients Analysis
At the end of the experiment (6 months), samples were collected from each replicates of deep litter
without EM‘s (T1, control) and with EM‘s (T2) for nutrients analysis. These were carried out at Home-
water Research Laboratory. Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. Nitrogen content was determined using Kjeldhal
apparatus in a processes described by Pearson (1976) while Potassium and Magnesium were
determined by the use of flame photometer. The molybdovanadate method (AOAC, 2010) was used
to determine the total Phosphorous. Sulphur and micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and Cl) content of
the samples were obtained through variant 55B Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS).
Data Analysis
Data obtained were subjected to pair t-test analysis using the procedure of Ogbeibu (2005).
Significant difference (p<0.05) was observed between T1 and T2.
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Macronutrients and micronutrients content of pig litter from T 2 shows significant (p<0.05) better
results than control, T1. This may be attributed to the ability of the EM to ferment organic matter,
decompose and convert fiber and lignin components of bed materials to release nutrients and nutrient-
rich organic acids (Higa, 2012).
Table1: Macronutrient composition of Fermented Bed Product (FBP) for T1 and T2.
Macronutrient T1 (bedding without EM) T2 (bedding with EM)
Mg (ppm) 2.25 8.42
K (ppm) 1.21 7.25
N (%) 0.90 1.62
P (mg/l) 28.62 52.01
S (%) 7.15 9.55
Mg= Magnesium; K=Potassium; N=Nitrogen; Phosphorous=P; S=Sulphur
There are inadequate information on soil nutrient contents of FBP in available literature. However,
Ncube et al. (2011) and Javaid (2010) noted the efficacy of organic manure formulated with EM‘s in
seed germination and vigour in carrot, cucumber, pea, beet, tomatoe and cowpea plants. Kim et al.
(2012) reported that treatments with EM and EM-fermented compost in a greenhouse increased the
yields of Spinach and Costmary by 10.4 to 24.8% and by 19.4 – 32.9%, respectively.
Table 2: Micronutrient composition of Fermented Bed Product (FBP) for T1 and T2.
Micronutrient (ppm) T1 (bedding without EM) T2 (bedding with EM)
Fe 2.23 9.45
Mn 1.33 6.60
Zn 1.55 5.34
Cu 1.20 8.11
Cl 1.42 4.81
Fe= Iron; Mn=Manganese; Zn= Zinc; Cu=Copper; Cl=Chlorine
9.45
60 52.013 10 8.11
8 6.604
50 5.336 4.814
6
40 2.231
28.618 4 1.548
1.325 1.204 1.42
30 2
20 9.548 0
8.42 7.25 7.151
10 2.25 1.213 0.896
1.62
0
INNOCULATED BED FERMENTED BED Bed without EM Bed with EM
Macronutrients Micronutrients
Figure 1: Graphical representation of soil nutrients composition of Fermented Bed Product (FBP)
A cursory look at the Figure 3 reveals a great trends similarity between bedding with EM and bedding
without EM. However, the proportionality trend of soil nutrients in bedding with EM confirmed the
superiority of such technology over the control (bedding without EM).
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Mg= Magnesium; K=Potassium; N=Nitrogen; Fe= Iron; Mn=Manganese; Zn= Zinc; Cu=Copper;
Phosphorous=P; S=Sulphur Cl=Chlorine
%Macronutrient data using 1%=10000ppm, % Micronutrients data using 1ppm=0.000001
1mg/l=1ppm, 1ppm=0.000001
Figure 2: Nutrients proportionality trend of bedding without and with EM’s
CONCLUSION
The present study presented the efficacy of FBT in breaking down pigs‘ effluent and urine into a
compost/litter. It was also observed that this biotechnology allows pig natural behavior of rooting and
minimizes frequent cleaning and the need for disinfection. Therefore, effective microorganisms
(EM‘s) based technology as a part of Fermented Bed Technology (FBT) is one such great technology
that has the potential of minerals extraction, enhancement of agriculture and waste management for
environmental protection and food security as it allows rearing of pigs in a clean environment without
flies and offensive odour.
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AE-FUNAI 2012. Official Metrological report of Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike.
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Fermented Bed Technology (FBT). Africa Innovations Institute, Kampala, 54pp.
Annette, N. J., Anders, D., Anders, S., Eva, M. N. and Dorte, L. B. 2006. Survival and transmission
of salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium in an outdoor organic pig farming environment
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AOAC 2010. Official Method of Analysis. Association of Official Analytical Chemists. 18th edition,
Revision 4. Washington D. C.
Balogun, R. B., Ogbu, J. U., Umeokechukwu, E. C. and Kalejaiye-Matti, R. B. 2016. Effective micro-
organisms (EM) as sustainable components in organic farming, principles, applications and
validity. In: Nandwani D(ed) Organic farming for sustainable agriculture. Springer
International Publishing, Switzerland, 259–291pp
FAO 2014. Meat Consumption. In: World Food Outlook 2014. Downloaded from
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Higa, T. 2012. Kyusei Nature Farming and Environmental Management Through Effective
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Javaid, A. 2010. Beneficial microorganisms for sustainable agriculture. Sustainable Agriculture
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Kim, S. G., Lim, Y. D. and Ryang, H. G. 2012. Yield and Quality of Vegetables as Affected by
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Laishram, M., Prasanta, S., Parimal, R. C., Girin, K., Rameswar, P., Lalnuntluangi, H. and Pragati H.
2018. Effect of deep litter system and effective microbial technology on the occurrence of
diseases and immunity in pigs. Journal of Animal Health and Production, 6 (3) :7
Ncube, L., Minkeni, P. N. S. and Brutsch, O. 2011. Agronomic suitability of effective
microorganisms for tomato production. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 6, 650–
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Nicole, W. 2017. "CAFOs and environmental justice: the case of north carolina". Environmental
health perspectives. Environmental Health Perspectives, 121 (6): a182–a189
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Pearson, D. 1976. The chemical Analysis of foods (7th ed.). London: Church-hill Livingston.
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PERFORMANCE AND COST IMPLICATION OF BROILER CHICKENS FED

GRADED LEVELS OF PUMPKIN SEED MEAL
*
Sudik, S. D., Amaza, I. B., Maidala, A., Lawan, A. and Makinde, O. J.
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University, Gashua, Nigeria
*
Corresponding author‘s email: davidsudik@yahoo.com Mobile phone: +2348065633451
ABSTRACT
The high cost of conventional feedstuff has necessitated the search for alternative feedstuff. This
study was conducted to determine the performance and cost implication of broiler chickens fed graded
levels of pumpkin seed meal. Pumpkin seed sourced locally was toasted, milled and tagged as
pumpkin seed meal (PSM). Four treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4) were formulated in which soybean
meal (SBM) was replaced with PSM by 0%, 2.5%, 5% and 7.5%, respectively. Treatment 1 served as
control. One hundred and sixty (160) day-old Hubbard broilers chicks were used. They were
randomly distributed into the four treatments. Each treatment had 40 chicks divided into four
replicates of 10 each. The design used was a completely randomized design. The experimental
treatments and drinking water were supplied ad libitum. The experiment lasted for 42 days. Total feed
intake and daily feed intake were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by treatments. Total weight gain
(TWG), daily weight gain (DWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly (p<0.05)
affected by treatments. Birds fed T3 had highest TWG and DWG comparable to T1 while T4 had
lowest. Also, birds fed T3 had best feed conversion ratio comparable to T1 while T4 had worst. Cost
of feed reduced with increased inclusion level of PSM in the diets. However, T3 had the least total
cost of feed consumed while T1 had highest. Again, T3 had least feed cost/kg body weight while T4
had highest. It may be concluded that 5% PSM is recommended for economics of broiler production.
Keywords: Broiler, Cost implication, Performance, Pumpkin seed meal, Soybean meal
INTRODUCTION
Feed is a major factor determining profitability of livestock production in general and poultry
production in particular due to the over dependence on high cost conventional feedstuff (Adegbenro et
al., 2020). Feed alone constitutes about 55-70% cost of poultry production (Umar et al., 2018).
Therefore, to achieve economic of production least cost ingredients should be searched. In FAO
(2012) report, the use of locally available raw materials with potentials as feed ingredients in poultry
diets was emphasized. Another locally available raw material that has not been given much scientific
attention is pumpkin seed. Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp) is an annual crop belonging to the family
Cucurbitaceae (Ly and Delgado, 2009). In Nigeria it is predominantly grown in the north for its
eatable fruits and leaves. The seeds are readily available and have limited food and industrial uses,
thus cheap. It main anti-nutritional factor is trypsin inhibitor (Ly and Delgado, 2009). Harnessing
pumpkin seed as feed resource would add value to pumpkin production. The objective of this study is;
to determine the performance and cost implication of broiler chickens fed graded levels of pumpkin
seed meal.

The experiment was conducted at the poultry unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Department of
Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University, Gashua, Yobe State, Nigeria. The
required quantity of pumpkin seed was sourced from Gashua Town and its environs. Thereafter, it
was toasted using fire wood to reduce the level of trypsin inhibitor. It was milled using Lister grinder
and was tagged as pumpkin seed meal (PSM). Sample of the pumpkin seed collected was analyzed to
determine the proximate composition using AOAC (2006) protocol (Table 1).
Four treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4) for starter and finisher broilers each with crude protein value of
23% and 21% respectively were formulated in which soybean meal (SBM) was replaced with PSM by
0%, 2.5%, 5% and 7.5%, respectively. Treatment 1 served as control (Tables 2 and 3).
One hundred and sixty (160) day-old Hubbard broiler chicks were purchased from ECWA Rural
Development, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. They had an average initial weight of 49.61g. The chicks
were
Page | 12
Table 1: Proximate composition (% DM) and some essential nutrients of pumpkin seed
Ash Moisture Protein Fat Crude Carbohydra *Calcium *
Phosphorus **Lysine **
Methionine
fibre te
4.31 10.04 30.56 24. 15.09 16.00 0.24% 0. 43% 5.1 2.1
00 % % protein
protein
Values are mean of 3 samples
* Source: feed composition Table (2012); **Ly and Delgado (2009).
Table 2: Dietary composition of starter diets

Ingredients T1 T2 T3 T4
Maize 50.62 50.62 50.62 50.62
Soya Bean Meal 27.00 26.32 25.65 24.97
Pumpkin Seed Meal 0.00 0.68 1.35 2.03
Wheat Offal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Groundnuts cake 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50
Fish Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Lime Stone 0.88 0.88 0.88 0.88
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Table 3: Dietary composition finisher diets

Maize 52.12 52.12 52.12 52.12
Soya Bean Meal 26.00 25.35 24.70 24.05
Pumpkin Seed Meal 0.00 0.65 1.30 1.95
Wheat Offal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Groundnuts cake 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Fish Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Lime Stone 0.88 0.88 0.88 0.88
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
randomly allotted into four treatment groups. Each treatment group was assigned forty (40) birds and
further divided into four replicates of 10 each. The design used was a completely randomized design
(CRD). The birds were reared on deep litter system using wood shaving as litter material. The chicks
were brooded for 2 weeks (because the prevailing environmental condition was warm) using charcoal
as heat source while lanterns using dry cell batteries were used to provide light in case of electricity
failure. The experimental treatments and drinking water were supplied ad libitum. Infectious bursal
disease vaccine (IBDV) was administered at week one and repeated at week three. Newcastle disease
vaccine (Lasota) was administered at week two and repeated at week four. Antibiotics, coccidiostats
and anti-stress were administered as the need arise. Waste litter was removed weekly and replaced
with clean litter. Mortality was recorded as it occurred. The experiment lasted for 42 days.
Feed intake was monitored by feeding weighed quantities of feed weekly and subtracting the left-over
from the quantity fed the previous week. The birds were weighed weekly and weight gain calculated
by difference between 2 consecutive weighing. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was derived as the ratio
of feed consumed to weight gain.
Page | 13
The cumulative cost of each ingredient in a dietary treatment as at the time of purchase gave the total
cost per treatment. Total cost of feed consumed, total feed consumed/kg body weight and feed cost/
kg body weight were all determined
The results were statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS
version 16.0 and significance of differences among treatments was determined using Duncan multiple
range test.
Results
Generally, 5% (2 birds) mortality rate from each treatment was recorded in the first week of the
experiment.
Table 4 shows the average total feed intake, daily feed intake, total weight gain, daily weight gainand
feed conversion ratio of broiler chickens up to 6 week of age. Total feed intake (TFI) and daily feed
intake (DFI) were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by treatments. Total weight gain (TWG) and
daily weight gain (DWG) were significantly (p<0.05) affected by treatments. Total weight gain,
(TWG), daily weight gain (DWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly (p<0.05)
affected by treatments. Birds fed T3 had highest TWG and DWG (2044.39±45.57 and 48.68±4.11g,
respectively) comparable to T1 (2042.67±54.52 and 48.64±2.73g, respectively) while T4 had lowest
(1790.43±58.36 and 42.63±3.19g, respectively).Birds fed T3 also had best FCR (1.60±0.05)
comparable to T1 (1.64±0.10) while T4 had worst (1.86±0.06).
Table 5 shows the cost implication of broiler chickens fed diets replacing soybean with pumpkin seed
meal up to 6 weeks of age. Cost of 100 kg feed and cost of 1 kg feed reduced with increased PSM in
the diets. However, T3 had least total cost of feed consumed (460.58) while T1 had highest (480.44).
Again, T3 had least total feed consumed / kg body weight (1.60kg) and feed cost /kg body weight
(N225.29) while T4 had highest (1.86kg and N 259.07, respectively).
Table 4: Average total feed intake, daily feed intake, total weight gain, daily weight gain (g) and
feed conversion ratio of broiler chickens up to 6 weeks of age
Treatments TFI DFI TWG DWG FCR
T1 3349.86±23.26 79.76±6.23 2042.67±54.52a 48.64±2.73a 1.64±0.10c
b b
T2 3338.1±25.54 79.48±8.28 1907.48±43.16 45.42±3.38 1.75±0.09b
a a
T3 3272.97±26.44 77.93±10.46 2044.39±45.57 48.68±4.11 1.60±0.05c
T4 3328.42±24.17 79.25±8.15 1790.43±58.36c 42.63±3.19c 1.86±0.06a
Level of NS NS * * *
significant
Values are (Mean ± SEM): n=38, TFI = total feed intake, DFI = daily feed intake, TWG = total
weight gain, DWG = daily weight gain, FCR = feed conversion ratio.
Means in the same column with different superscripts differed significantly, but similar superscripts
did not differ significantly: * significantly (P<0.05); NS= Non- Significant (P>0.05).
Discussion
The insignificant difference observed in feed intake between the control and test diets indicates that
the treatments probably had similar energy contents that reflected in similar intake. Otherwise higher
intake would have been expected if any of the treatment had lower energy content. This is in
conformity with the report of Patha et al. (2015) that birds first take feed to satisfy their energy
requirements. The superiority of weight gain for broilers on T3 which favourably compared to T1
indicates that 5% PSM is the optimum inclusion level for broiler chickens without adverse effect on
weight gain. Also, the high feed
Page | 14
Table 5: Cost implication of broiler chickens fed diets replacing soybean with pumpkin seed
meal
Treatment Cost of Cost of Total feed Total cost of Total feed feed cost /kg
100kg kg feed consumed feed consumed /kg body weight
feed (N) (N) (kg) consumed body weight (N)
(N) (kg)
T1 14342.10 143.42 3.35 480.44 1.64 235.20
T2 14206.10 142.06 3.34 474.21 1.75 248.61
T3 14072.10 140.72 3.27 460.58 1.60 225.29
T4 13936.10 139.36 3.33 463.85 1.86 259.07
conversion ratio for birds fed T3 favorably compared to T1 further confirms 5% PSM as the optimum
inclusion level. This agrees with the assertion of Zwoliński et al. (2017) that raw materials with high
nutrient quality can be used to substitute for soybean. This again explains that reducing soybean by
5% and replacing that weight with PSM would give quality broiler diet. The mortality rate across the
treatments at the early part of the experiment perhaps could be due to slow adaptability of the birds to
the environment. This agrees with the statement of Oluyemi and Roberts (2000) emphasizing
environment, genetics and nutrition as major factors play in animals‘ survival. The drastic reduction
in feed cost as PSM replaces SBM upholds the report in FAO (2012) that least cost ingredients used
in poultry diet cut down cost of feed and the resultant cost of production. The least total cost of feed
consumed per weight gain and least feed cost per kg body weight observed in T3 indicate that for
cost effective of broiler feed production, PSM may be used at 5% level.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The performance and cost implication of broiler chickens fed graded levels of pumpkin seed meal
conducted in this study showed that the optimum level to used PSM in broilers diets was at 5%
without adverse effect on weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Feed cost reduces as
PSM replaces SBM. Therefore, 5% PSM is recommended for broiler chickens.
REFERENCES
Adegbenro, M., Ayeni, O. A., Agbede, J .O.andAletor, V. A. (2020). Inclusion of fluted pumpkin
(Telfariaoccidentalis) fortified bread waste in broiler chickens‘ diets. Bulletin of the National
Research Centre, 44:97.
AOAC (2006).Official methods of analysis of AOAC International. 18th ed. Arlington, V. A:
Association of Analytical Communities.
FAO (2012). Feed Resources Information System. Food and Agricultural Organization, Rome, Italy.
Feed Composition Table (2012). Nutrition: beefmagazine.com, 70.
Ly, J. and Delgado, E. (2009).A note on in vitro (pepsin/pancreatin) digestion of pumpkin (Curcubita
maxima) products in pigs.RevistaComputadorizationde production Porcina, 16(1): 23-27
Oluyemi, J. A. and Roberts, P. A. (2000).Poultry productionin the warm wet climates. Spectrum Book
Limited Ibadan, Nigeria, 103-108.
Pathak, R., Ali, N., Shalu, K. S. and Singh H. S. (2015). Evaluation of growth performance of broiler
(Cobb400) under different composition of diets.The Bioscan, 10(4): 1465-1468
Umar, M., Nuhu, Y. A., Yakubu, Z. M., Muazu, M. S. and Kirfi, A. M. (2018). Performance and
organ characteristics of broiler chickens fed varying levels of rumen content. Bull. Anim.
Hlth. Prod. Afr., (2018), 66, 677-685
Zwoliński, C., Gugołek, A., Strychalski, J., Kowalska,D., Chwastowska-Siwiecka, I. and
Konstantynowicz, M. (2017). The effect of substitution of soybean meal with a mixture of
rapeseed meal, white lupin grain, and pea grain on performance indicators, nutrient
digestibility, and nitrogen retention in Popielno.White rabbits, Journal of Applied Animal
Research, 45(1): 570-576
Page | 15
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF GROWER RABBITS FED GRADED LEVELS OF

JATROPHA SEED MEAL AS A REPLACEMENT FOR SOYA BEAN MEAL
1
Wafar*, R.J., 2Abdullahi, U and 4Sini, T.
1
Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State
2
Department of Animal Health and Production, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Bauchi State
3
Department of Agriculture Education, Adamawa State College of Education, Hong Adamawa State
*Corresponding author Email: wafar@fuwukari.edu.ng phone number 08066320686
ABSTRACT
This study evaluated the utilization of fermented jatropha seed meal (FJSM) by grower rabbits. Thirty
(30) grower rabbits of mixed breeds and sex were purchased and used for the study. The rabbits were
assigned to five dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated three times with two rabbits per
replicate in a completely randomized design. Data collected during the experiments were growth
parameters and were subjected to analysis of variance. The results from the growth performance
showed that final body weights and total weight gain decreased progressively (P<0.001) as FJSM
increased in the diets. Final body weight of rabbits fed T1 (2561.20g) recorded significantly higher
(P<0.001) weight compared to those on jatropha seed meals. However, among Jatropha seed meal-
based diets rabbit, fed T2 recorded significant higher (P<0.05) final body weight 2021.50g. Feed
conversion ratio also differed significantly (P<0.001) across the treatments. It was observed that the
superior feed conversion was recorded T1 (2.19) followed by T2 (4.42. Rabbit fed T5 had significant
(P<0.001) higher mortality (50.00%). It was observed from the study that rabbits fed T3, T4 and T5
diets recorded lower feed intake. It was therefore, concluded that fermented Jatropha seed meal can be
incorporated in grower rabbit diet up to 25% without adverse effect on the growth performance of
rabbit.
Keywords: Fermentation, Growth, Jatropha, Rabbits, Performance
INTRODUCTION
The use of non -convention plant protein especially from tropical legumes as an alternative to
conventional sources have been advocated by animal nutritionist in recent fast (Aslani et al. (2007).
However, the utilization of these tropical seeds in livestock feeds is subject to some inherent
constraints; of particular importance are problems associated with anti-nutritional factors. Processing
methods such as cooking, toasting, fermentation and soaking have been reported to reduce the anti-
nutritional factor in seed (Antevy et al., 2017). One of the non-conventional feedstuffs focused in this
study is Jatropha curcas seed. The seed has been reported to contain 16-18% crude protein and anti-
nutrients such as lectin, trypsin inhibitor, saponin, phytate, and phorbolesters (Antevy et al, 2017). A
study conducted by Antevy et al. (2017) to evaluate the performance of broiler chickens fed
differently processed Jatropha curcas seed meal showed that broiler chickens fed fermented Jatropha
curcas seed meal recorded higher feed intake, final body weight gain and superior feed conversion
ratio. The study adopted fermentation as a method of processing. Fermentation is one of the oldest
forms of feed processing and preservation and also has the capacity to improve nutritional and
functional properties of the feed stuff (Frias et al. 2008). This study therefore examined utilization of
fermented jatropha seed meal (FJSM) by grower rabbits

The study was conducted at the Rabbit Unit of the Department of Animal Science and Range
Management, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. Jatropha curcas fruits were
purchased from Yola market. The fruits were cracked mechanically to remove the seeds. The seeds
were then cleaned of dirts by washing and packed in a jute sack cooked for 48 hours, drained and put
in an air tight container for 72 hours to allow natural fermentation. Thirty (30) grower rabbits of
mixed breeds and sex were purchased from rabbit farmers within Yola metropolis, Adamawa State,
Nigeria. The rabbits were assigned to five dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated three
times with two rabbits per replicate in a completely randomized design. Each rabbit was housed in a
fitted with aluminium feeder and drinker. The experimental animals were given prophylactic
treatment against endo and ecto-parasites. Five diets were compounded using FJSM to replace
Page | 16
soyabean meal at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% designated as treatment 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively as
shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Ingredient and Percentage Composition of Experimental Diets

Replacement levels of fermented Jatropha seed meal
Ingredients T1 (0 %) T2 (25%) T3 (50 %) T4 (75%) T5 (100 %)
Maize 52.00 52.00 52.00 52.00 52.00
Soyabean meal 18.00 13.50 9.00 4.50 0.00
FJSM 0.00 4.50 9.00 13.50 18.00
Groundnut haulms 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Maize offal 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
Fish meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Premix* 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated analysis
Crude protein 16.83 16.64 16.73 16.65 16.70
Crude fibre 8.84 8.76 8.70 8.63 8.69
ME Kcal/kg 2978.14 2998.13 2990.14 2992.88 2991.34
*Vitamin-mineral premix provider per kg the following: Vit. A 1500 IU; Vit.D3 3000 IU; Vit.E 30 IU;
Vit.K 2.5mg; Thiamine B1 3mg; Riboflavin B2¬ 6 mg; Pyrodoxine B6 4 mg; Niacin 40 mg; Vit. B12 0.0
mg; Pantothenic acid 10 mg;Folic acid 1mg; Biotin 0.08 mg; Chloride 0.125mg; Mn 0.0956 g; Antioxidant
0.125 g; Fe 0.024 g; Cu 0.006 g; Se 0.24 g; Co 0.24. SBM *= Soyabean meal
Data were collected for 12weeks. Rabbits were weighed at the beginning of the experiment and
weekly, subsequently. Weight gain was calculated as final body weight minus initial body weight.
Feed intake was obtained as the difference between the quantity offered and quantity not consumed.
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated as feed intake divided by weight gain and recorded as
they occurred. Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance means were separated
using Duncan's Multiple Range Test using SAS (2003).

The proximate compositions of the raw and fermented jatropha seed meal are presented in Table 2.
The results showed higher values of crude Protein (CP) 43.67%, ash (9.13%) and lower values of
crude fibre (2.41%), ether extracts (20.18%), nitrogen free extracts (NFE) (14.52%) and
metabolizable energy (3765.83%) for the fermented Jatropha seed meal. The higher crude protein
(CP) content observed in fermented Jatropha seed meal could possibly be due to the modification
effect of the fermentation process that leads to crude protein improvement. The CP values of both raw
and fermented Jatropha seed meal were within the range of 35-50% crude protein reported by Aslani
et al. (2007). The ash content of the fermented Jatropha seed meal in this study is higher than that of
soybean meal (6.40%). This indicates that fermented Jatropha seed meal may be comparable to
soybean meal in its usefulness in rabbit diets. The crude fibre (CF) content of the raw and fermented
Jatropha seed meal is lower than 9.10% reported by Sumaiti et al. (2012). The variation in the crude
fibre composition when compared to other studies could be attributed to the differences in agronomic
practices, laboratory analysis and edaphic factors (Taiwo et al., 2005).
Anti-nutritional composition of raw and fermented Jatropha seed meal
The result of the anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) composition (Table 3) shows that raw Jatropha seed
contained 3.32mg phorbolester, 20.45mg trysin inhibitors, 191.56mg saponnin, 278.67mg tannin,
94.67mg oxalates and 234.56mg phytates. It results showed decrease in antinutrients as a result of
fermentation. The presences of anti-nutrients in the raw jatropha seed meal confirm the earlier report
of Makkar and Becker, (1999) that jatropha seed meal contained high concentration of anti-nutritional
factors. The use of fermentation as a method of detoxification however, reduced the concentration of
Page | 17
ANFs and increased the nutrient composition of Jatropha seed meal, but did not completely remove
the ANFs in the seed.
Table 2 Proximate Composition of Raw and Fermented Jatropha Seed Meal
Parameter Raw Fermented
Dry matter 91.11 89.91
Crude Protein 30.11 43.67
Ether extracts 32.13 20.18
Crude fibre 4.06 2.41
Ash 7.13 9.13
NFE 17.68 14.52
Metabolizable Energy 4344.24 3765.83
Metabolizable Energy = ME (kcal/kg) = 37 x % CP + 81 x % EE + 35.5 x % NFE. Calculated
according to the formula of Pauzenga, (1985)
Table 3 Anti-nutritional composition of raw and fermented Jatropha seed meal (mg/100g)
Parameter Raw Fermented
Phorbolesters 3.32 2.11
Trypsin inhibitors 20.45 8.67
Saponin 191.56 78.98
Tannins 278.67 87.89
Oxalates 94.67 56.45
Phytates 234.56 58.11
Growth Performance of rabbits fed fermented Jatropha seed meal

Table 4, showed the growth performance of rabbits fed fermented Jatropha seed meal. The final body
weights and total weight gain were highly (P<0.001) influenced by the replacement levels of
fermented Jatropha seed meal. Final body weight of rabbits fed T1 (2561.20g) recorded significantly
higher (P<0.001) weight compared to those on jatropha seed meals among Jatropha seed meal based
diets rabbit fed T2 recorded significant higher (P<0.05) final body weight 2021.50g. Total body
weight gain and total feed intake varied from 203.00g/day in T5 to 1361.10g/day in T1 and
1212.40g/day in T1 to 4351.10g/day in T1 respectively. Feed conversion ratio also differed
significantly (P<0.001) across the treatments. It was observed that the superior feed conversion was
recorded T1 (2.19) followed by T2 (4.42) and the inferior value in T3 (5.25), T4 (5.06) and T5 (5.97)
respectively. Rabbit fed T5 had significant (P<0.001) higher mortality (50.00%). It was observed from
the study that rabbits fed T3, T4 and T5 diets recorded lower feed intake. This could be attributed to
the residual effect of anti-nutritional factors in the fermented Jatropha seed meal which resulted to low
palatability of diets. Ogbu et al. (2015) reported that anti-nutritional factors such as tannins and
saponins decrease feed intake due to its astringent properties. Phytate also has been reported to reduce
the bioavailability of divalent cations due to insoluble complexes formation during digestion and
absorption of minerals (Weaver and Kanna, 2002). This showed that rabbits fed T3 (50%), T4(75%)
and T5 (100%) inclusion levels of Jatropha seed meal could not efficiently absorb the dietary nutrients
in the gastro-intestinal tract as a result of high concentration of antinutritional factors. Esonu et al.
(2001) also reported that high trypsin inhibitors in the diet reduce protein digestibility resulting in
poor utilization of available nutrients. The finding from this study confirmed the result of Abdel-
Shafy et al. (2011) who reported significant reduction in feed intake and growth rate of more than
30% as a result of residual phorbol esters in jatropha seed meal. Rabbit fed T5 diets recorded high
percentage of mortality percentage this could be attributed to residual content of phorbolester.
Agboola and Adenuga, (2015) reported high percentage of mortality of birds fed 10% inclusion of
Jatropha seed meal
Page | 18
Table 5: Growth performance of rabbit fed graded levels of fermented Jatropha curcas seed
meal
Replacement levels of fermented Jatropha seed meal
Parameter T1 (0%) T2 (25%) T3 (50%) T4 (75%) T5 (100%) SEM
Initial body weight (g) 1200.10 1190.10 1180.02 12002 1198.30 27.09ns
Final body weight (g) 2561.20a 2021.50b 1681.10c 1500.10d 1401.30e 73.86***
a b c
Total weight gain (g) 1361.10 831.40 501.10 300.00d 203.00e 12.59***
a b c
Total feed intake (g) 4351.10 3676.20 2631.20 1520.20d 1212.40e 54.22***
d c b
Feed conversion ratio 3.19 4.42 5.25 5.06b 5.97a 0.07***
b
Mortality (%) 0.00 3.00 10.0 24.00 50.00 -
Means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.001), ns= not
significant (P>0.05), SEM = Standard error mean
CONCLUSION
The study showed that fermented jatropha seed meal can replace soyabean up to 25% FJSM as a
source of plant protein in formulating rabbit diets. It is therefore recommended that 25% fermented
Jatropha seed meal can be used in compounding rabbit diet.
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quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) fed heat treated jatropha seed cake substituted for soyabean
meal. Tropical Animal Production Investigation 18: 1-8
Abdel Gadir W.S, Onsa T.O, Ali W.E.M, El-Badwi S.M.A and Adam S.E.I (2003). Comparative toxicity
of Croton macrostachys, Jatropha curcas and Piper abyssinica seeds in Nubian goats. Small
Ruminant Research, 48:61–67
Abdel-Shafy, S., Nasr, S. M., Abdel-Rahman, H. H. and Habeeb, S. M. (2011) Effect of Various Levels of
Dietary Jatropha curcas seed Meal on Rabbits Infested by the Adult Ticks of Hyalomma
Marginatum Marginatun in Animal Performance, Anti-tick feeding and Haemogram. Tropical
Animal Health Production, 43 (2): 347-357.
Antyev, M.,Yakubu, B., Aliyara, Y.H., and Wafar, R.J. (2017). Effects of Processing Methods of
Jatrophacurcas Seed Meal on Growth Performance and Blood Profile of Broiler Finisher
Chickens.Asian Research Journal of Agriculture.4 (4): 1-9
Aslani, M.R., Maleki, M., Mohri, M., Sharifi, K., Najjar- Nezhad, V. and Afshari, E. (2007) Castor bean
(Ricinus communis) toxicosis in a sheep flock. Toxicology 49: 400-406
Esonu B. O., Undedibie A. B. I., Herbert U., Odey J. O. and Odu S. (2011). Comparative Evaluation of
Raw and Cooked jack been (Canavalia insiformis) on the performance of weaner rabbits. World
Rabbit Science 4:139 – 141
Frias, J., Song, Y.S., Martinez- Villaluenga, C., De Mejia, E.G and Vidal-Valverde, C. (2008).
Immunoreactivity and amino acid content of fermented soya bean products. Journal of
Agriculture and Food Chemistry, 56 (1):99 -105
Makkar, H.P.S. and Becker, K. (1999). Plant toxins and detoxification methods to improve feed quality of
Tropical Seeds Quality of Tropical Seeds. Asian-Australian Journal Animal Science. 12 (3):467-
480
Ogbu N.N., Ogbu C.C. and Okorie A.U. (2015). Growth performance of broiler chickens fed raw and
processed pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) Seed Meal. Journal Animal Science Advances, 5(7): 1350
1356
Sumiati, F., Hermana, W., Sudarman, A., Istichomah, N. and Setiyono, A. (2012). Broiler performances
fed diet contained Jatrophacurcas L. meal fermented with Rhizopus oligosporus. Journal
Animal Science Technology, 34 (2): 117-125
Taiwo, A. A., Adejuyigbe, A.D., adeowale, J.A., Osbotan, J.S and David, O.O (2005). Performance and
nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits fed forages supplemented with concentrates. Nigerian
Journal of Animal Production, 32(1):74-78
Weaver, C.M. and Kanna, S. (2002). Phytate and mineral bioavailability In: Reddy, N.R. and Sathe, S.K.,
editors Food Phytates. CRC press, Boca Raton., Florida, USA 211-224
Page | 19
PERFORMANCE AND COST BENEFIT OF REPLACING WHEAT OFFAL WITH

XYLANASE-SUPPLEMENTED RICE OFFAL IN THE DIETS OF BROILER FINISHER
CHICKENS
1
Kawu, Y. U. and 2Shuaibu, I.
1
Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 1006, Damaturu, Nigeria.
2
Ministry of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Bauchi State.
Corresponding author: kawuyahya@gmail.com Phone no: 08065631979
ABSTRACT
Increasing cost of conventional feed ingredients used in the formulation of poultry diets has continued
to be a great challenge for poultry producers in developing countries like Nigeria. Consequently,
readily available and cheaper alternatives need to be explored. An experiment was conducted to
evaluate the performance and cost benefit of finisher broilers fed Xylanase-supplemented rice offal
(XSRO) based diets as replacement for wheat offal. Three hundred finisher broiler chickens were
assigned to five diets in which XSRO replaced wheat offal at 0 (diet 1), 25 (diet 2), 50 (diet 3), 75
(diet 4), and 100% (diet 5) levels in a completely randomized design. Xylanase was suppplemented at
1g/10kg rice offal and the study lasted for 4 weeks. Daily feed intake, daily weight gain, feed
conversion ratio, mortality rate, feed cost per kg, feed cost per kg gain and cost saving, were the main
parameters studied. Results showed no significant difference in daily feed intake, daily weight gain
and feed conversion ratio. However, feed cost per kg gain (N) decreased with increased level of
XSRO in the diet. It was therefore concluded that Xylanase-supplemented rice offal can completely
replace wheat offal in the diets of finisher broilers without compromising performance. Also, the
replacement of XSRO for wheat offal at 100% level resulted in a cost saving of N162.60.
Key words: Broiler, wheat offal, rice offal, Xylanase, Performance, cost.
INTRODUCTION
Ensuring higher returns on investment at minimum expenditure on feed, is the principal target of any
poultry business. This could be achieved when costly, highly competitive conventional feed
ingredients are replaced with those that are cheaper, less competitive and readily available.
Accordingly, the use of cereal by-products as dietary fibre source to replace the conventional wheat
offal in poultry diets has been advanced by researchers (Dafwang and Shwarmen, 1996; Ajighjigh et
al., 2017; Egbunu et al., 2020). Cereal by-products arise from dry milling (to produce flour), wet
milling (starch and glucose production) and brewing. Commonly available among these products is
rice offal.
According to Wudiri, (1991), Nigeria had the potential to produce 200,000 metric tonnes of rice offal
per year. This quantity must have increased greatly in recent years due to increased level of rice
production and processing in the country. Rice offal or rice milling waste, is the by-product obtained
from small-scale rice mills. It contains husk, bran, polishing and small quantity of broken rice
(Akinusi, 1999). Its commercial value is very low and it has a proximate composition of 4.25% CP,
27.01% CF, 7.15% EE, 41.14% NFE and 0.38, 0.04% calcium and phosphorus respectively
(Ajighjigh et al., 2017). However, its profile and efficiency of utilization could be improved through
processing techniques such as chemical treatment with urea or the addition of exogenous enzymes
(Tiemako, 1994).
The use of fibrolytic exogenous enzymes in poultry diets to improve efficiency of nutrient utilization,
has been studied (Anuradha and Barun, 2015). The positive nutritional effects achieved by the
addition of these enzymes could be attributed to several mechanisms, one of which is, the reduction of
intestinal viscosity. High intestinal viscosity results in reduced feed conversion ratio, reduced weight
gain as well as wet droppings in poultry (Paloheimo et al., 2011).
Page | 20
Against this background, the aim of this study was to evaluate the performance and cost benefit of
utilizing rice offal supplemented with Xylanase as replacement for wheat offal in broiler finisher
diets.

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Abubakar
Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi. The study area is located within the GPS coordinates of 10 o 18‘
50.9724‖ N and 9o 50‘ 46.6152‖ E, with a mean annual rainfall of 1009 mm. (World Atlas, 2015). The
test materials (rice offal, Xylanase) and other feed ingredients were procured from Muda Lawal
market, Bauchi.
Five broiler finisher diets were formulated to contain 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% Xylanase-supplemented
rice offal (1g/10kg) as replacement for wheat offal. The diets were designated as 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
respectively. Composition of ingredients in the experimental diets is presented in Table 1. A total of
three hundred (300) finisher broilers weighing 852.00 - 940.31 g were randomly allotted to five diets
in replicates of three, containing twenty birds each. Feed and water were served ad libitum and the
study lasted for 4 weeks. Daily feed intake was measured as the differences between quantity of feed
offered and left-over collected the following day. Body weight gain was determined as the difference
between two consecutive weighing (1-week interval), while feed conversion ratio was calculated
using the relationship of daily feed intake and daily weight gain. Mortality was recorded as it
occurred. Financial benefit was computed using feed cost per kg, total feed intake and total weight
gain. All data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS software version 25,
and where significant differences were observed, Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955) was
used to separate them.
Table 1: Ingredients Composition (%) and Calculated Analysis of Xylanase-Supplemented Rice Offal
Fed to Finisher Broilers
Diets
Ingredient 1 2 3 4 5
Maize 51.97 51.76 51.76 51.76 51.76
Full-fat soya bean 14.72 14.72 14.72 14.72 14.72
Groundnut cake 12.02 12.02 12.02 12.02 12.02
Wheat offal 15.00 11.25 7.50 3.75 0.00
Rice offal 0.00 3.75 7.50 11.25 15.00
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* (Finisher) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis (%)
ME (Kcal/kg) 3006.45 3018.11 3029.74 3042.03 3053.18
Crude Protein (%) 20.07 19.70 19.51 19.33 19.14
Crude Fibre (%) 3.88 3.97 4.11 4.22 4.33

Results of growth performance showed no significant (P>0.05) effect of diet on daily feed intake
(81.59 - 98.43 g) daily weight gain (35.39 - 39.67 g) and feed conversion ratio (2.23 - 2.71), while
1.67% mortality was recorded on diet 1. This agrees with Egbunu et al. (2020), but contradicts
Isikwenu et al. (2000). However, due to the higher fibre content of the experimental diets, it is
expected that at least feed intake would be significantly higher, since birds usually eat to satisfy their
Page | 21
energy needs. Energy availability in diets containing relatively higher levels of fibre is usually low.
Hence birds consume more of the diet in order attain their energy requirement. The findings of this
study could further be explained by the activity of supplemental enzyme which was shown to have the
capacity to increase efficiency of digestion by helping to break down anti-nutritional factors, such as
fibre and phytate (Alsersy et al., 2015). In a recent study, Salami and Odunsi (2019) reported that
performance of broiler chickens fed dietary crude fibre up to 8% would not be compromised when
Roxazyme G® was supplemented at 200 mg/kg feed.
Total feed intake revealed that birds on diet 1 consumed more feed (2.76 kg) than those on other diets,
with those on diet 4 consuming the least (2.28 kg). Feed cost per kg (N) decreased from N118.11 on
diet 1 to N87.72 on diet 5. This was due to the comparatively lower cost of rice offal. Total feed cost
decreased steadily from N325.98 on diet 1 until N216.74 (diet 4) and later increased to N221.05 on
diet 5. Feed cost per kg gain (N) decreased from N428.93 on diet 1 to N266.33 on diet 5. This could
be informed by the concomitant decrease in feed cost per kg gain (N). The ability of supplemental
enzyme to increase nutrient bio-availability and digestion could also be implicated in the reduction of
feed cost (Felix et al., (2018).
Table 2: Performance of Broiler Finisher Chickens Fed Diets Containing Xylanase-Supplemented

Rice Offal
Diets
Parameters 1 2 3 4 5 SEM
Initial weight (g) 919.11 852.73 940.31 939.94 908.35 61.94 NS
Final weight (g) 1682.88 1596.06 1773.38 1707.56 1735.13 107.79 NS
Total feed intake (g) 2756.04 2560.04 2481.36 2284.52 2518.32 159.38 NS
Daily feed intake (g) 98.43 91.43 88.62 81.59 89.94 8.25 NS
Daily weight gain (g) 36.37 35.39 39.67 36.55 38.85 2.37 NS
Feed conversion ratio 2.71 2.57 2.24 2.23 2.37 0.24 NS
Mortality (%.) 1.67 0 0 0 0 -
NS= Not significant; SEM = Standard Error of Means
Table 3: Cost-Benefit of Finisher Broiler Chickens Fed Xylanase-Supplemented Rice Offal

Diets
Parameters 1 2 3 4 5
Total feed intake (kg) 2.76 2.56 2.48 2.28 2.52
Feed cost (N/kg) 118.11 112.04 104.38 95.06 87.72
Total feed cost (N) 325.98 286.82 258.86 216.74 221.05
Total weight gain (kg) 0.76 0.74 0.83 0.77 0.83
Feed cost per kg gain (N) 428.93 387.60 311.88 281.48 266.33
Cost saving (N) - 41.33 117.05 147.45 162.60

From the results obtained of this study, it was concluded that rice offal supplemented with Xylanase at
1g/10kg can completely replace wheat offal in broiler finisher diets without compromising
performance. Furthermore, replacement of wheat offal with xylanase-supplemented rice offal at 100%
resulted in 37.91% decrease in feed cost. The use of rice offal along with 1g/10kg Xylanase as main
fibre source in broiler finisher diets is therefore recommended.
Page | 22
REFERENCES
Ajighjigh, D. T., Doma, U. D., Egbo, M. L. Mahmood, M., Maidala, A. A. and Zagi, S. P. (2017).
Response of broiler chickens to different dietary fibre sources. International Journal of
Science, Engineering and Management. 2 (12): 2456 – 1304.
Akinusi, O. (1999). Utilization of rice milling waste (RMW) in cockerel finisher ration. Proceedings
of the 25th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production, 21 – 25 March,
1999, Ilorin. Pp 120 – 122.
Alsersy H., Salem, A. Z. M., Borhami, B. E., Olivares, J. G., Ado, H. M., Mariezcurrena, M. D. et al.
(2015). Effect of Mediterranean saltbush (Atriplex harimus) ensilaging with two developed
enzyme cocktails on feed intake, nutrient digestibility and ruminal fermentation in sheep.
Animal Science Journal, 86: 51 – 58.
Anuradha, P. nad Barun, R. (2015). Effect of supplementation of fibre degrading enzymes on
performance of broiler chickens fed diets containing de-oiled rice bran. Asian Journal of
Animal and Veterinary Advances. 10: 179 – 184
Dafwang, I. I. and Shwarmen, E. B. N. (1996). Utilization of rice offal in practical rations for broiler
chiks. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production. 23 (1): 21 -23
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple Range and Multiple F. Test. Biometrics.11, 1-42.
Felix, N., Prabu, E., Kannan, B. and Manikandan, K. (2018). An evidential review on potential
benefits of enzyme in aqua feed industry. International Journal of Current Microbiology and
Applied Science, 7(12): 2053 – 2074.
Egbunu, P. E., Tuleun, C. D., Orayaga, K. T. and Adejoh, S. K. (2020). Effects of dietary rice offal
inclusion level and enzyme (Natuzyme) supplementation on the performance and digestibility
of finisher broiler chiken. Asian Journal of Research in Animal and Veterinary Sciences 5 (2):
10 – 23.
Isikwenu, J. O., Akpodiete, O. J., Emegha, I. and Bratt, L. (2000). Effect of dietary fibre (Maize cob)
on the growth performance of broiler birds. 25th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society of
Animal production (NSAP), Umudike, Abia sate, pp 158 -160.
Paloheimo, M., Piltonen, J. and Vehmaanpera, J. (2011). Xylanases and cellulases as feed additives.
In: Enzymes in Farm Animal Nutrition, 2nd Ed. MPG Books Group, Bodmin, UK pp 12 – 53.
Salami, R. I. and Odunsi, A. A. (2019). Performance od broiler chickens fed 8% crude fibre diets at
three energy levels with or without enzyme during the starter and finisher phases. International
Journal of poultry science, 18(9); 423 – 430.
Tiemako, Y. (1994). Effects of using rice polishing in broilers. Poultry Abstract, 2615:78
World Atlas (2015): Where is Bauchi. Retrieved September 14, 2018 from
https://www.worldatlas.com/af/ng/ba/where-is-bauchi.
Wudiri, B. B. (1991). Production of cereal crops in Nigeria. From research to farmers‘ fields. A
seminar paper delivered to staff and students at the Plateau State College of Agriculture, Lafia.
Page | 23
PERFORMANCE AND COST BENEFIT OF REPLACING FISH MEAL WITH

BLOOD MEAL IN BROILER FINISHER DIETS
1
Muhammad, B. A., 2Kawu, U.Y., 3Adepoju, A.A., 4Doma, U. D.
1
Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, P.M.B. 0110, Gombe, Nigeria
2
3
Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin Kowa,Gombe state
4
Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University,
P. M. B. 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria,
Corresponding Author: batukulma@gmail.com Phone no. 08065520421
ABSTRACT:
Fish meal, an ingredientused in poultry feed formulation, is expensive and very often scarce in
Nigeria. Consequently, this has contributed in the rising cost of poultry diets. There is therefore a need
to identify other available and cheaper alternatives that can substitute fish meal in poultry rations. An
experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth performance and financial benefits of finisher
broilers fed diets containing blood meal as replacement for fish meal. Five diets were formulated in
which blood meal replaced fish meal at 0, 25, 50, 75and 100% levels, designated as diets 1, 2, 3, 4 and
5 respectively. Three hundred finisher broiler chickens of the cobb strain weighing between 475.00
and 481.00 g were randomly allotted to five diets in replicates of four containing 15 birds each in a
completely randomized design. Feed and water were provided ad libitum and the study lasted for
twenty-eight days. Parameters studied include daily feed intake, daily weight gain, feed conversion
ratio, mortality, feed cost per kg, feed cost per kg gain and cost saving (N). No significant (P>0.05)
difference was observed in daily feed intake (85.52 -90.55 g). However, daily weight gain (22.43 –
28.92 g) was higher (P<0.05) on diets 1 and 3. Similarly, feed conversion ratio (3.10 – 4.04) was
better (P<0.05) on diets 1 and 3 and poorer on diet 4. Feed cost per kg was lower on diets containing
blood meal (N122.12 – 142.55) compared to diet 1 (N152.52). Feed cost per kg gain was least on diet
4 (N423.23) and highest on diet 2. (N495.90). It was concluded that blood meal can replace fish meal
in broiler diets up to 50% level without compromising performance and with a cost saving of N28.35.
Keywords: Finisher, Broiler, Blood meal, Performance, Cost
INTRODUCTION:
Poultry production is an enterprise that can be used to fight poverty and malnutrition. However, feed
cost has been on the increase which constituted a major challenge for growth of the industry.
Consequently, effective management of costs and benefits must be put in place in order to make profit
and remain in business. Factors that affect profitability in poultry production include costs of inputs,
rate of growth(weight gain), flock size, disease risks, general management, judicious use of inputs and
disease control, among others (Jadhav and Siddiqui, 2010). Feed constitutes 60-70% of the total cost
of poultry production (Adebambo et al., 2010). In most tropical countries, fish meal, is very expensive
and often scarce. Its scarcity has contributed in the rising costs of poultry feeds (Oluyemi and Roberts,
2013). Blood meal is a dark chocolate-coloured powder with characteristic smell. It contains about 65
– 85% protein. This variation could be due differences in processing methods (McDonald, 1992). It is
one of the richest sources of lysine (NRC, 1994). Research findings have shown that the incorporation
of blood meal at 1 – 45 level in poultry diets resulted in better growth (Ikram et al., 1989). In a recent
study, Ebuo et al. (2017), reported no significant difference when fish meal was replaced for blood
meal at 3% level in broiler chicken diets. This study was therefore designed to determine the optimum
replacement level of blood meal (BLM) in broiler finisher diets.

The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unitof the Teaching and Research Farm, Abubakar
Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria. The area lies within the coordinates; 10o 18ˈ37.2‖ N and
9o 50ˈ 38.0‖ E and islocated at an altitude of about 616 metres above sea level with average annual
rainfall of 1009 mm and daily temperatures of 13 - 17o C (December – January) and 36 – 37o C
(March – April) (Geodatos, 2019). Blood meal and other feed ingredients including fish meal, were
Page | 24
procured from different markets in Bauchi Metropolis. Proximate analysis ofBLM and fish meal
(Table 1) were carried out to determine their nutrients content according to (AOAC, 2006). Five
isonitrogenous, isocaloric diets were formulated in which blood meal replaced fish meal at 0, 25, 50,
75 and 100% levels designated as diets 1 (control), 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively (Table 2). Ingredient
composition (%) of the experimental dietsis presented in Table 2. A total of three hundred (300)
broiler chickens of the cobb strain weighing between 475.00 and 481.00gwere used for the
experiment. The birds were randomly allotted to five diets in replicates of four, containing fifteen
birds each in a completely randomized design. Feed and clean drinking water were served ad libitum
and the study lasted for 4 weeks. Daily feed intake was measured as the difference between quantity
of feed offered and left-over collected the following day. Body weight gain was determined as the
difference between two consecutive weighing (1-week interval) while feed conversion ratio was
calculated using the relationship of daily feed intake and daily weight gain. Mortality was recorded as
it occurred. Cost benefit was computed using the cost of dietary ingredients (N/kg), cost of diet per
kg, total feed intake and total weight gain. All the data collected were subjected to analysis of
variance using the SPSS software, version 25, and where significant differences in means were
observed, Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955) was used to separate them.
Table 1: Proximate composition of fish meal and blood meal

Ingredient %DM %CP %EE %CF %Ash %NFE
Fish meal 89.11 62.29 7.26 0.98 14.51 4.17
Blood meal(BLM) 88.16 73.19 0.54 0.72 3.88 8.93
DM; Dry matter, CP; Crude Protein, EE; Ether extract, CF; Crude fibre, NFE; Nitrogen free extract.
Table 2: Percentage Composition of broiler finisher diets in which blood meal replaced fish meal
(5-8) weeks
Ingredients Diets
1 2 3 4 5
Maize 53.36 53.36 53.36 53.36 53.36
Fish meal 5.00 3.75 2.50 1.25 0.00
Blood meal 0.00 1.25 2.50 3.75 5.00
Wheat offal 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Limestone 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analyses
CP (%) 19.23 19.57 19.83 20.06 20.27
ME (Kca/kg) 2824.00 2803.00 2809.00 2801.00 2793.00
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

The results for proximate analysis of blood meal and fish meal used in the study showed that blood
meal has a crude protein content of 73.19%, ether extract 0.54%, ash 3.88% and NFE 8.93%. These
values are lower than 83.12%, 1.00% 5.00% and 10.88% respectively reported by (Ebuo et al., 2017).
Results of growth performance showed that daily feed intake (88.25 – 90.55 g) did not significantly
(P>0.05) differ among treatments and were slightly lower than 94.44 – 103.02g obtained by (Khawaja
et al., 2007). Daily weight gain (DWG) was however higher (P<0.05) in birds fed the control diet
(28.92g) which was comparable to 26.28g for those on diet 3. Other treatments did not differ and were
lower in DWG. This agrees with (Khawaja et al., 2007) but contradicts (Ebuo et al., 2017) who
reported no significant (P>0.05) difference when methionine fortified blood meal replaced fish meal
in broiler chicken diets. Feed conversion ratio was better (P<0.05) on diet 1 (3.10), poor and similar
Page | 25
on diets 3 (37), 4 (3.46) and 2 (3.50) and poorest on diet 5 (4.04). Total weight gain was higher
(P<0.05) on diets 1 (0.81 kg) and 3 (0.74 kg) which were similar. Other diets had lower values (1.11 –
1.19 kg) which were also similar. Feed cost per kg was lower on diets containing blood meal
(N122.12 – 142.55) compared to the control (N152.52). Feed cost per kg gain was lowest on diet 4
(N423.23), followed by N444.28 (diet 3) and highest in diet 2 (N495.90). Consequently, the highest
cost saving of N49.40 was realizedon diet 4.
Table 3: Performance of finisher broiler chickens fed diets containing blood meal as replacement
for fish meal
Parameters Diets
1 2 3 4 5 SEM
Initial weight (g) 480.0 475.00 477.80 481.00 477.00 1.67NS
Daily Feed Intake (g) 89.53 88.25 88.54 85.52 90.55 2.05 NS
a b ab b b
Daily Weight Gain (g) 28.92 25.18 26.28 24.71 22.43 1.51*
Feed Conversion Ratio 3.10a 3.50b 3.37b 3.46b 4.04c 0.10 *
Total feed intake (kg) 2.51 2.47 2.48 2.39 2.44 0.16 NS
a b a b b
Final weight (kg) 1.29 1.19 1.22 1.17 1.11 0.03 *
Total weight gain (kg) 0.81a 0.71b 0.74a 0.69b 0.63b 0.03*
Mortality (%) 1.66 0 0 1.66 1.66 -
NS = Not significant, SEM= Standard Error of the Mean.
Table 4: Cost benefits of replacing fish meal with blood meal in broiler finisher diets
Parameter Diets
1 2 3 4 5
Total feed intake(Kg) 2.51 2.47 2.48 2.39 2.44
Feed cost N/kg 152.52 142.55 132.57 122.19 122.12
Total feed cost(N)/bird 382.83 352.09 328.77 292.03 297.97
Total weight gain(Kg) 0.81 0.71 0.74 3
0.69 0.63
Feed cost N/kg gain 472.63 495.90. 444.28 423.23 472.97
Cost saving (N) - 26
-23.27 28.35 49.40 -0.34

The results of this study showed that blood meal can replace fish meal up to 50% level in broiler
finisher diets without compromising performance and with a cost saving of N28.35. The replacement
of fish meal with blood meal at 50% inclusion level is hereby recommended in diets for
finisherbroiler chickens. Further study on other classes of poultry such as layers, quails, turkeys,
guinea fowl and ducks is also recommended.
REFERENCES
Adebambo, O.A., Daisy, E., Adebambo, A.O., Adeleke, M.A., Ajibola, E.S. and Ajayi, A.O. (2010).
Poultry Breeding, Feeding and Hatchery Management, Olukoya Print House, Ibadan.Pp 41-50.
AOAC (2006). Association of Official Analytical Chemist: Official Method of Analysis20th
Edition, Washington, D. C., USA. Pp277-294.
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple Range and Multiple F. Test. Biometrics.11, 1-42.
Ebuo, C. E., Emmanuel, A. A., Essien, E. N. (2017). Methionine fortified blood meal can replace fish
meal in broiler diets. International Journal of Livestock Production 8(9), 136 -144
Geodatos (2019). Geographic coordinates of Bauchi, Nigeria
https://www.geodatos.net/en/coordinates/nigeria/bauchi.Last accessed 21.6.2020
Ikram, H., Ahmed, M. N., and Ehitisham, M. M. (1989). Effect of different levels of blood meal on
broiler performance. Pakistan Journal of Veterinary Research., 2: 51 -54
Jadhav, N.V. and Siddiqui, M.F. (2010). Handbook of Poultry Production and Management, 2nd
Edition, Jaypee Brothers Medical publishers, NewDelhi, India. Pp 125-149.
Page | 26
Khawaja, T., Khan, S. H. and Ansari, N. N. (2007). Effect of different levels of blood meal on broiler
performance during two phases of growth. International Journal of Poultry Science, 6 (12); 860
-865
McDonald, P., Edward, R. A. and Greenalgh, J. F. D. (1987). Animal Nutrition.Fourth
edition. Longman Group (FE), Limited. Hong Kong. Pp 547
NRC, (1994). National Research Council Nutrient Requirement of Poultry. 9th Edn., National
Academy Press, Washington, D. C., U.S.A., ISBN-13: 978-0-309-04892-7
Oluyemi, J. A. and Robert, F. A. (2013).Poultry Production in warm wet Climate.Macmillan
press, London 2nd Edition Pp 692
Page | 27
NUTRIENT DETERMINATION OF CASSAVA PLANT MEAL

*
Adeyemi, M. A. and Akinfala, E. O.
*
Department of Animal Production and Health, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and
Technology, Okitipupa
Department of Animal Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
Corresponding email: ade_maxwell@yahoo.com
Cell phone: +234 706 3055 036
ABSTRACT
The study assessed the nutrient profile in composite Cassava Plant Meal (CPM) with a view to
enhancing its efficiency through bio-fortification. Three CPM products were developed from Tropical
Manihot Species (TMS) 30572 harvested at 24 months. The sun-dried unpeeled cassava root meal,
cassava leaf meal and tender cassava stem meal were mixed at ratios 2:1, 2.5:1 and 3:1 while the ratio
of the leaves to tender stems was 5:1 across the three cassava plant meal products. The proximate
composition, minerals, amino acids and vitamins contents of CPM and maize were determined.
Results of proximate contents showed that CPM products had comparable crude protein and nitrogen
free extract as maize. CPM products showed superiority (P <0.05) in calcium content over maize meal
though maize meal was significantly higher (P <0.05) in phosphorus content compared to the three
CPM products. All evaluated parameters of amino acids showed differences (P<0.05) although
methionine contents were lower in all CPM products and maize. CPM products had significantly (P
<0.05) higher values than maize in all evaluated vitamin contents. Based on the findings of this study,
it can be concluded that CPM products had comparable nutrient profile as maize with CPM product 1
comparatively better in all evaluated nutrient profile.
Key words: Cassava plant meals, TMS 30572, maize, nutrients.
INTRODUCTION
Improving livestock productivity especially poultry and swine production require adequate supply of
low-cost feeding ingredients. The cost of feeding has been reported to be 65 – 80 % of the total cost of
production (Longe, 2006) with maize constituting 40 – 60 % of a balanced maize-soy based diet for
poultry and swine. However, the seasonal feed deficit, ever rising cost of feeding ingredients and
competition with human food consumption have consistently driven efforts towards the use of
alternative dietary energy feed resources for monogastrics (Morgan and Choct, 2016). One of such
alternative dietary energy feedstuff is cassava. Cassava and its components have enjoyed widespread
patronage as potential energy source for animal production in Nigeria. It is cheap, widely grown with
a yearly tuber production of 59.5 million tons and grows at an annual rate of + 4.0 %; the largest in
the world (FAOSTAT, 2018). However, after harvesting the value-giving component, substantial
proportion of the co-products (leaves and tender stems) are allowed to rot on farms and homesteads
(Akinfala and Tewe, 2004). The incorporation of these cassava fractions to form composite cassava
plant meal (unpeeled cassava tuber meal + cassava leaves and tender cassava stem meal) had been
shown by previous studies to enhance performance of pigs (Adeyemi and Akinfala, 2018; Akinfala et
al., 2013) and poultry (Akinfala et al., 2011; Akinfala et al., 2002;). Similarly, studies have reported
detailed information on the efficiency and nutrient profile of cassava flour (Ngiki et al., 2014; Nagib
and Sousa, 2007) or leaves (Iyayi and Losel, 2001) or peels (Iyayi and Losel, 2000) and its
acceptability as energy source for livestock. Nevertheless, the detailed nutrient profile of CPM has not
been widely documented. Detailed information on feed resource could support sustainable livestock
production and offer wider feed options in livestock production system (FAO, 2018). The research
was carried out to characterise the nutrients in cassava plant meal with a view to enhancing its
efficiency through bio-fortification.

Experimental location and preparation of test ingredients
The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Meat Laboratory of the Department of Animal Sciences
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and the Laboratory of Animal Science, University of Ibadan,
Page | 28
Ibadan. The cassava variety of Tropical Manihot Species (TMS) 30572 aged 24 months were
purchased from a commercial farm at Ile-Ife. The roots were lifted and soil was shaken off the roots
while the cassava leaves were harvested from the plant stem and the tender stems were harvested at 5
cm, usually 6 to 7 nodes from the top of the plant. All the cassava components were harvested
between June and November 2018. The fresh roots (unpeeled cassava root) were washed and chopped
into small pieces, sun-dried on a concrete floor for an average of 5 – 6 days depending on the intensity
of the sunlight, milled with 3 mm sieve mesh and packed into sacks. Also, the fresh cassava leaves
and tender stems were sun-dried for about 3-4 days and about 5 days respectively after harvesting,
milled and packed into separate sacks. The composite cassava plant meal products were mixed in line
with the procedure of Akinfala et al. (2002) at three different ratios of 2:1, 2.5:1 and 3:1 represented
as products 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The mixing ratio was in attempt to have comparable minimum
crude protein content of 10 % as maize.
Nutrient determination
The nutrients determined in the cassava plant meal products include amino acids (essential and non-
essential amino acids), vitamins (fat and water soluble vitamins) and minerals (calcium, phosphorus,
zinc and copper). The fat soluble vitamins were determined following the procedure outlined by
Adams and Moss (1995). The amino acid profile was carried out using the spectrophotometric
determination of Ninhydrin chemical reaction. Mineral (Ca, P, Zn and Cu) contents and proximate
composition were determined following the methods of AOAC (2005).

The three cassava plant meal (CPM) products had comparable values with maize in the crude protein,
ether and nitrogen free extracts (Table 1). Although, significant difference (P <0.05) exists in the
values obtained for the crude fibre and ash with maize having the lowest values while CPM product 1
had the highest. The ash content of the CPM products decreased with increased inclusion of unpeeled
cassava root meal in the mix.
Table 1: Proximate composition of maize and cassava plant meal products
Proximate Composition (%) Maize CPM1 CPM2 CPM3 SEM p
Dry Matter (DM) 88.05 90.18 90.17 90.06 0.36 0.15
Crude Protein (CP) 10.38 12.62 12.25 12.51 0.56 0.24
Crude Fibre (CF) 2.57d 8.05a 4.69c 6.81b 0.79 0.01
Ash 2.82c 6.69a 6.53a 6.15b 0.60 0.01
Ether Extract (EE) 4.53 5.38 3.12 3.33 0.37 0.30
Nitrogen Free Extract 67.75 57.44 63.58 61.26 0.07 0.28
a,b,c,d
means in the same row having different superscripts differ at p <0.05; SEM: Standard Error of Means
Product 1 contained sun dried unpeeled cassava tuber meal + cassava leaf meal + tender cassava stem meal mixed at a
ratio of 2:1 while the ratio of the leaves to tender cassava stems was 5:1 while Products 2 and 3 contained the same
components but mixed at ratios 2.5:1 and 3:1 respectively.
The mineral contents of maize and cassava plant meal is shown in Table 2. The CPM products have
significantly (P <0.05) higher values than maize for calcium but the values obtained for phosphorus
content of CPM were lower than maize. The calcium and phosphorus contents of CPM increased
significantly (P <0.05) across products 1 through 3. Lower calcium values (1.93 ppm and 0.28 ppm)
were reported by Akinfala et al. (2011) who determined the mineral contents of CPM product 2 and
maize. The minerals (zinc and copper) composition of CPM was comparable with maize. The
variations observed in the mineral composition of CPM and maize may be due to variations in their
ash and fibre contents.
Table 2: Mineral composition of cassava plant meal products

Minerals Maize CPM1 CPM2 CPM3 SEM P
Calcium (%) 0.055b 0.302a 0.411a 0.433a 0.08 0.021
Copper (g/Kg) 0.018 0.025 0.022 0.024 0.03 1.00
Phosphorus (%) 0. 512a 0.104b 0.120b 0.121b 0.079 0.001
Zinc (g/Kg) 0.120 0.122 0.117 0.122 0.003 0.16
means having different superscript in a row differ significantly (p <0.05)
Page | 29
Significant differences (P <0.05) exist in all evaluated amino acid contents of maize and CPM (Table
3) except tryptophan. There was a steady decrease in the amino acid contents of CPM products from
CPM 1 through 3. This may be due to the increasing levels of unpeeled cassava root meal across CPM
1 through 3. Unsurprisingly, CPM products and maize had lower tryptophan, methionine and cystine
contents, which followed a decreasing order from CPM 1 through 3. The lower contents observed for
these corroborates the findings of earlier studies (Kong et al., 2016) that plant-based diets are poor
sources of methionine, cystine and tryptophan and should be adequately supplied in diets for poultry
and pigs for feed efficiency and growth.
Table 3: Amino acid composition of cassava plant meal products

Parameters (g/100 g) Maize CPM 1 CPM2 CPM 3 SEM P
Leucine 8.23a 7.59ab 7.18b 6.59b 0.22 0.03
Lysine 4.14b 4.61a 4.35ab 4.08b 0.07 0.01
Isoleucine 3.08b 3.80a 3.54a 3.14b 0.10 0.007
Phenylalanine 4.43b 4.97a 4.61b 3.90c 0.12 0.001
Tryptophan 0.89 1.00 0.89 0.73 0.34 0.56
Valine 3.80b 4.21a 3.97ab 3.27c 0.12 0.003
Methionine 1.23a 1.28a 1.20a 0.96b 0.04 0.08
Proline 4.47a 4.87a 4.06b 3.65c 0.15 0.001
Arginine 5.68b 6.19a 5.50b 5.16b 0.14 0.02
Tyrosine 3.44ab 3.61a 3.44ab 3.10b 0.07 0.04
Histidine 2.68b 2.87a 2.49c 1.98d 0.10 0.001
Cystine 1.33a 1.45a 1.39a 0.97b 0.06 0.01
Alanine 4.32b 5.23a 4.93a 3.72c 0.18 0.001
Glutamic acid 13.32c 14.53a 14.08b 12.87d 0.20 0.001
Glycine 3.37b 3.70a 3.61a 3.04c 0.08 0.001
Threonine 3.22c 3.77a 3.55b 2.94d 0.09 0.001
Serine 3.78c 4.43a 4.05b 3.89bc 0.08 0.001
Aspartic acid 7.38c 8.56a 7.94b 7.07d 0.17 0.001
The values obtained for CPM products 1 and 3 were higher (p<0.05) in all evaluated vitamin contents
compared to CPM 2 and maize. The CPM 1 showed superiority over maize and other CPM products
in all evaluated parameters. CPM products have the most significantly higher values of vitamins A
(retinol) and niacin. The lower values of vitamin contents reported in this study could be due to the
large proportion of cassava root contained in the composite mix. Similar findings were reported by
Bayata (2019) and Salvador et al. (2014) who evaluated the contents of whole cassava root, unpeeled
cassava root meal and cassava root meal respectively and obtained lower values.
Table 4: Vitamins composition of cassava plant meal products

Vitamins Maize CPM1 CPM2 CPM3 SEM p
A (µg/100g) 11.40d 15.17a 13.28c 14.40b 0.53 <0.001
d a
D (µg/100g) 0.17 0.29 0.25c 0.26b 0.016 <0.001
d a
E (µg/100g) 0.13 0.19 0.15c 0.16b 0.007 <0.001
d a
K (µg/100g) 0.09 0.12 0.10c 0.11b 0.003 <0.001
C (mg/100g) 0.10d 0.18a 0.15c 0.17b 0.012 <0.001
d a
Thiamin (mg/100g) 0.21 0.24 0.22c 0.23b 0.003 0.01
d a
Riboflavin (mg/100g) 0.07 0.10 0.08C 0.09b 0.003 0.01
d a
Niacin (mg/100g) 2.06 2.28 2.10c 2.17b 0.03 0.011
c a
Pyridoxine (mg/100g) 0.29 0.31 0.30b 0.30b 0.003 0.002
c a
Folate (mg/100g) 0.10 0.12 0.10c 0.11b 0.002 0.038
Cobalamin (mg/100g) 0.012d 0.028a 0.017c 0.022b 0.002 0.027
Page | 30

Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that cassava plant meal products had
comparable nutrient profile as maize with CPM product 1 comparatively better in all evaluated
nutrient profile. It is therefore recommended that CPM be supplemented with ample quantity of
phosphorus and methionine to enhance desirable performance of livestock.
REFERENCES
Adams, M. R. and Moss, M. O. (1995). Food Microbiology. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 27:
1118 – 1123.
Adeyemi, M. A. and Akinfala, E. O. (2018). Growth Response of Growing Pigs to Diets Containing
Graded Levels of Cassava Plant Meal, in: proceeding of the 23rd Annual Conference on
Development of a Resilient Livestock Industry for National Economic Growth, Ilorin, Nigeria, 9
– 13 September, 426 – 428.
Akinfala, E. O and Tewe, O. O. (2004). Supplemental effects of feed additives on the utilization of
whole cassava plant by growing pigs in the tropics. Livestock Research for Rural Development.
http://www.cipav.org.co/Irrd16.2akin.htm.16 (10); 20 – 24.
Akinfala, E. O., Aderibigbe, A. O. and Matanmi, O. (2002). Evaluation of the nutritive value of
whole cassava plant meal as replacement for maize in the starter diets for broiler chickens.
Livestock Research for Rural Development 14(6) http:www.cipav.org.co/lrrd14.6akin.htm
Akinfala, E. O., Adegbaju, S. W. and Ilori, J. O. (2013).Evaluation of the nutritive value of whole
cassava plant as a replacement for maize in the diets of growing pigs in the tropics. Ife Journal of
Agriculture.26:15 – 22.
Akinfala, E. O., Matanmi, O. and Tinuala, J. A. (2011). Nutrient characterization of cassava plant
meal and its utilization by broiler chicken in the tropics. Livestock Research for Rural
Development, 23(11):1 – 9
AOAC (2005). Official methods of analysis. 18th edition. Published by the Association of Official
Analytical Chemists; Arlington, Virginia.
Bayata, A. (2019). Review of nutritional value of cassava for use as a staple food. Science Journal of
Analytical Chemistry, 7(4): 83 – 91. DOI:10.11648/j.sjac.20190704.12
FAO (2018). World Livestock: Transforming the livestock sector through the Sustainable
Development Goals. Rome. 222 pp. Licence: CC B Y-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
FAOSTAT (2018). Food and Agriculture Organization Statistics. Retrieved from
http://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/QC. Accessed December, 17, 2020.
Iyayi, E. A. and Losel, D. M. (2000). Cyanide detoxification in cassava by-products by fungal solid
state fermentation. Journal of Food Technology in Africa, 5(2): 48 – 51 .
Iyayi, E. A., and Losel, D. M. (2001). Protein enrichment of cassava by-products through solid state
fermentation by fungi. J Feed Tech Afr., 6:116 - 118.
Kong, C., C. S. Park, J. Y. Ahn, and B. G. Kim. (2016) Relative bioavailability of DL-methionine
compared with l-methionine fed to nursery pigs. Animal Feed Science and Technology; 215:181–
185. Doi:10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2016.03.011
Longe, O. G. (2006). Meeting the energy needs of non-ruminants from non-conventional feed
resources in Nigeria. In: Proceedings of National workshop on alternative formulation of
livestock feeds in Nigeria, ARMTI, Ilorin, November, 21-25, 1988. Pp: 192 – 203.
Morgan, N. K. and Choct, M. (2016). Cassava: Nutrient composition and nutritive value in poultry
diets. Animal Nutrition, 2: 253 – 261.
Nagib, M. A. and Sousa, M. V. (2007). Amino acid profile in cassava and its interspecific hybrid.
Genet Mol Res., 6:292 - 297.
Ngiki, Y. U., Igwebuike, J. U. and Moruppa, S. M. (2014). Utilisation of cassava products for poultry
feeding: a review. Int J Sci Tech., 2(6):48 - 59.
Salvador, E. M., Steenkamp, V. and Mc Crindle, C. M. E. (2014). Production, consumption and
nutritional value of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in Mozambique: An overview. Journal of
Agricultural Biotechnology and Sustainable Development, 6(3): 29 – 38.
Page | 31
CARCASS TRAITS AND HAEMATOLOGY OF BROILER FINISHER CHICKENS FED

DIETS CONTAINING MAIZE OFFAL SUPPLEMENTED WITH RAXOZYME G® AS
REPLACEMENT FOR WHEAT OFFAL
1
Shuaibu, I., 2Kawu, Y. U., 3Doma, U. D., 3Mancha, Y. P. and 3Sanusi, M.
1
Ministry of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Bauchi State.
2
3
Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, P. M. B. 0248, Bauchi,
Nigeria
Corresponding author: kawuyahya@gmail.com Phone no: 08065631979
ABSTRACT
A twenty-one days feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the carcass traits and haematology of
finisher broiler chickens fed dietary levels of enzyme-supplemented (Raxozyme G 10g/kg) maize
offal (ESMO) as replacement for wheat offal. Five diets were formulated in which ESMO replaced
wheat offal at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels, coded as diets 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. A total of
three hundred finisher broiler chickens weighing between 922.27 and 1010.16g were randomly
allotted to five treatments, replicated thrice in a completely randomized design. Each replicate
contained 20 birds. Data was collected for carcass yield, organs‘ relative weights and haematological
indices. Results showed that dressing percentage (69.31. 74.08%) was higher (P<0.05) on diets
containing enzyme-supplemented maize offal. Similarly, organ weights as percentage of live weight,
were significantly (P<0.05) affected for spleen (0.12 – 0.20%), abdominal fat (1.47 – 2.48%) and liver
(1.37 – 1.67%). Values obtained for haematological parameters however, revealed that Packed Cell
Volume (22.28 – 26.98%), haemoglobin (7.12 – 8.88g/dl) and Mean Corpuscular Volume (35.95 –
49.17 fl), were significantly (P<0.05) higher on diets 1 and 5. It was therefore concluded that
replacing wheat offal with Raxozyme G-supplemented maize offal at 75% level in finisher broiler
chickens improves dressing percentage without compromising haematological status.
Key words: Broiler, maize offal, Rozaxyme G®, Carcass, Haematology
INTRODUCTION
Broiler chicken meat constitutes a sizeable source of animal protein in the diets of many families in
Nigeria. However, successful production of these birds requires adequate feeding which is estimated
to stand at about 60 -80% of the total cost of production (Ojewola et al., 2005). In order to reduce this
cost so as improve farmers‘ profit margin and make available poultry meat at more affordable price,
cheaper, readily available and less competitive, alternative feed ingredients need to be explored. The
use of maize offal with or without enzyme supplementation to replace dietary maize or wheat offal
has been studied (Nnenna et al., 2006; Doma, 2020). Exogenous enzyme supplementation of animal
feeds has been practiced with success since the late 80‘s (Brufau et al., 2006). The inclusion of feed
ingredients containing anti-nutritional factors may adversely affect poultry performance. However,
supplementation with synthetic enzymes can enhance the nutritional value of these ingredients.
Antinutritional factors, especially non-starch polysaccharides, have the ability to bind large quantities
of water and hence increase fluid viscosity. This constitutes some challenges in nutrients digestion
(Giraldo et al., 2008). However, studies have shown that supplementation with enzymes can mitigate
this problem. Apart from improving nutrient digestibility and utilization, enzyme supplementation
also helps in lowering nutrient excretion, particularly excess nitrogen, phosphorus, zinc and copper
(Abd El-Hack et al., 2017; Alagawany et al., 2017) which pollutes the soil.

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit, Teaching and Research Farm, Abubakar Tafawa
Balewa University, Bauchi, located within the southern guinea savannah on latitude 10.31 N and
longitude 9.84 E. The area has a mean annual rainfall of 1009 mm. Maize offal, Raxozyme G and
other feed ingredients were purchased in Bauchi. Five broiler finisher diets were formulated to contain
0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% maize offal fortified with 10g/kg Raxozyme G ®. The diets were designated as
1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. ingredients percentage composition and calculated analysis of the diets
are presented in Table 1. Three hundred (300) finisher broilers weighing between 922.27 and
Page | 32
1010.16g were randomly allotted to five diets in a replicate of three, containing twenty birds each.
Feed and water were served ad libitum and the study lasted for 3 weeks. At the end of the study, thirty
birds (2 per replicated) were selected for carcass and blood analysis. Blood (5 ml per/bird) for
haematological assay was drawn from the left wing web of each bird and collected in labelled tubes
containing EDTA. Thereafter, the birds were weighed and slaughtered. Carcass measurements were
taken using a 10 kg- weighing scale, while a sensitive electronic balance was used for organ weights,
which were later expressed as percentage of live weight. Data generated was subjected to analysis of
variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS software version 25, and where significant differences were
observed, the Duncan‘s post hoc option (Duncan, 1955) was used to separate them.
Table 1: Ingredients Percentage Composition (%) and Calculated Analysis of Dietary Levels of Maize
Offal Supplemented with Raxozyme® Finisher Broilers
Diets
Maize 51.96 51.96 51.96 51.96 51.96
Wheat offal 15.00 11.25 7.50 3.75 0.00
Maize offal 0.00 3.75 7.50 11.25 15.00
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt (NaCl) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* (Finisher) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Metabolizable energy (Kcal/kg) 3012.59 3015.21 3017.83 3019.46 3021.09
Crude protein 20.01 19.86 19.71 19.56 19.41
Crude fibre 3.61 3.74 3.87 4.00 4.13

The carcass and organ characteristics of broiler chickens fed dietary levels of enzyme-supplemented
maize offal are presented in Table 2. Except for dressing percentage, no carcass parameter was
significantly (P<0.05) affected. Live weight, ranged from 1793.92 g (diet 4) to 1844.16 g (diet 1),
plucked weight, 1665.61 g (diet 4) to 1714.04 g (diet 1), eviscerated weight, from 1473.32 g (diet 2)
to 1513.34 g (diet 1) and carcass weight, from 1277.08 g (diet 1) to 1329.93 g (diet 4). However, birds
fed diet 4 (74.08%) dressed higher (P<0.05) and compared favourably with those on diets 2 (71.43%),
3 (72.55%) and 5 (71.28%) while those on diet 1 (69.31%) dressed lower. Relative weight of organs
expressed as percentage of live weight showed no significant influence (P>0.05) of diet for kidney
and gizzard weights. However, weights of spleen, abdominal fat, liver and pancreas were
significantly (P<0.05) affected. Spleen weight was higher on diet 3 (0.20%) which was similar to diets
1 (0.17%), 2 (0.14%) and 3 (0.18%) while diet 5 (0.12%) was lowest (P<0.05). Abdominal fat weight
was also higher (P<0.05) on diets 2 (2.46%), 4 (2.48%) and 5 (2.38%) but did not differ from diet 3
(2.10%) while birds on diet 1 (1.47%) had a lower (P>0.05) value which was similar to diet 3. Liver
weight was higher (P<0.05) on diet 5 (1.67%) and lower on diet 3 (1.37%). However, diets 1(1.45%),
2 (1.63%) and 4 (1.50%) did not differ from 3 and 5. The findings of this study agree with Hana et al.
(2010) using multi-enzyme feed additive in broiler chicken rations. In a recent study, Oyeagu et al.
(2019) reported a significantly (P<0.05) improved carcass yield when broiler chickens were fed diets
containing brewers‘ dried grains fortified with synthetic enzyme. The significantly (P<0.05) higher
dressing percentage obtained in this study for birds fed enzyme-supplemented maize offal based diets
Page | 33
at 75% level of substitution for wheat offal, is in agreement with a previous report by Aguihe et al.,
(2016) using Maxigrain® in cassava peel based diets.
Haematological indices of broiler chickens fed diets containing enzyme-supplemented maize offal are
presented in Table 3. Packed Cell Volume was higher (P<0.05) on diet 1 (26.98 %) which was similar
to diet 5 (25.16%) and lower (P>0.05) on other diets. White Blood Cell count was not significantly
(P>0.05) affected and varied between 6.74 to 7.10 x 103µl on diets 5 and 3 respectively. Red Blood
Cell count was also not significantly influenced (P>0.05) by dietary treatment. Values which ranged
from 5.52 to 6.40 x 106µl were obtained on diets 1 and 4 respectively. Haemoglobin concentration
(Hb), however, differed significantly (P<0.05) among diets. Birds fed diet 1 (8.88 g/dl) had higher Hb
which was comparable with those on diet 5 (7.95 g/dl), while values for those on diets 2 (7.12g/dl), 3
(7.69 g/dl) and 4 (7.53 g/dl) were the same and comparable with those on diet 5. Similarly, a
significant influence (P<0.05) of diet was found on Mean Corpuscular Volume. The trend was similar
to that of PCV and Hb. Diet 1 (49.17 fl) had a higher (P<0.05) MCV value which did not differ from
diet 5 (42.46 fl), while diets 2 (35.95 fl), 3 (38.01 fl) and 4 (36.63 fl) were lower (P<0.05) and similar
to diet 5. This result is in conflict with the report of Olowu et al. (2012) where no significant (P>0.05)
differences among treatments were observed when broiler chickens were fed roxazyme G-
supplemented maize offal based diets. The authors also reported a lower range for RBC (1.87 – 1.93 x
106/µl) than 5.22 – 6.40 x 106/µl obtained in the present study. This, according to (Nanbol et al.,
2016) could be informed by the difference in climate of the study locations.
Table 2: Carcass and Organs Characteristics of Finisher Broilers Fed Dietary Levels of Enzyme-
Supplemented Maize Offal
Diets
Live weight (g) 1844.16 1821.55 1809.72 1793.92 1820.64 18.43NS
Plucked weight (g) 1714.04 1699.38 1683.46 1665.61 1686.49 16.58 NS
Eviscerated weight (g) 1513.34 1473.32 1497.89 1496.67 1513.65 16.91 NS
Carcass weight (g) 1277.08 1301.04 1311.46 1329.93 1297.75 17.76 NS
Dressing (%) 69.31b 71.43ab 72.55ab 74.08a 71.28ab 1.40*
Organ weights expressed as percentage of live weight
Gizzard weight 3.01 3.07 2.84 3.33 3.12 0.17 NS
b a ab a a
Abdominal fat weight 1.47 2.46 2.10 2.48 2.38 0.21*
Kidney weight 0.22 0.30 0.26 0.30 0.25 0.03NS
ab ab a ab b
Spleen weight 0.17 0.14 0.20 0.18 0.12 0.02*
ab ab b ab a
Liver weight 1.45 1.63 1.37 1.50 1.67 0.09*
abc
Means bearing different superscripts within the same row differ; * = (P<0.05); NS= Not significant;
SEM = Standard Error of Means
Table 3: Haematological Indices of Finisher Broilers Fed Graded Levels of Enzyme-

Supplemented Maize Offal
Diets
a b b b ab
Packed Cell Volume (%) 26.98 22.28 23.15 23.96 25.16 0.98*
White Blood Cell (x(103/µl) 6.84 6.78 7.10 6.85 6.74 0.71NS
6
Red Blood Cell (x(10 /µl) 5.52 6.29 6.25 6.40 5.94 0.55NS
Haemoglobin (g/dl) 8.88a 7.12b 7.69b 7.53b 7.95ab 0.32*
a b b b
Mean Corpuscular Volume (fl) 49.17 35.95 38.01 36.63 42.46ab 3.26*
ab
NS= Not significant, SEM= Standard Error of the Mean, Means bearing different superscripts within
the same row differ; * = (P<0.05),
Page | 34

Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that Razoxyme-G-supplemented maize offal can
completely replace wheat offal in broiler finisher diets without reduction in carcass yield and
deleterious effect on haematological indices. The use of maize offal supplemented with Raxozyme G
at 10g/kg as replacement for wheat offal in broiler finisher diets is therefore recommended.
REFERENCES
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(2017). The efficacy of using exogenous enzymes cocktail on production, egg quality, egg
nutrients and blood metabolites of laying hens fed distiller‘s dried grains with solubles. Journal
of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition., doi: 10.1111/jpn.12825.
Aguihe, P. C., Kehinde, A. S., Ilaboya, I. I. and Ogialekhe, P. (2016). Effect of dietary enzyme
(Maxigrain®) supplementation on carcass and organ characteristics of broiler finisher chickens
fed cassava peel meal based diets. International Journal of research in agriculture and
Forestry, 3(6); 1 – 6.
Alagawany, M., Attia, A. I., Ibrahim, Z. A., Mahmoud, R. A. and El-Sayed, S. A. (2017). The
effectiveness of dietary sunflower meal and exogenous enzyme on growth, digestive enzymes,
carcass traits and blood chemistry of broilers. Environmental Science and Pollution Research.
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Doma, U. D. (2020). Growth performance, carcass characteristics and financial benefit of broiler
chickens fed dietary levels of maize milling waste as replacement for maize. Nigerian Journal
of Animal Science and Technology, 3 (2): 1 -10
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fed fibrolytic enzymes on diets digestibility and ruminal activity in sheep fed grass hay based
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enzyme feed additive on performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality traits of broiler
chickens. International Journal of poultry Science, 9: 126 – 133.
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Establishment of reference values for some biochemical and haematological parameters for
broilers and layers in Plateau State Nigeria. Vom Journal of Veterinary Science. 11, 30-35.
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domesticus) fed maize offal-based diets supplemented with Roxazyme G Enzyme.
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Page | 35
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS CONTAINING

LEVELS OF BOILED MORINGA (Moringa oleifera) SEED MEAL
1
Rabiu, M., 2Muhammad, U.R., 2Idris, D.Y., 2Alimi, H.M and 2Madu, A.
1
Department of Animal Science, Ahmad Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Federal College of Agricultural Produce
Technology, Kano State, Nigeria
Corresponding author: mdrabiu@yahoo.com; +2348033002271
ABSTRACT
A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the growth performance of broiler chickens fed boiled
Moringa oleifera seed meal (MOSM) diets. Three hundred (300) ―Ross‖ unsexed day old broiler
chicks with an average initial live weight of 38g were fed diets containing graded levels of MOSM.
Five experimental diets (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5) were formulated and the inclusion levels of MOSM in
the diets were 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10%, respectively. The treatments were replicated three times with
twenty birds per replicate and a total of sixty birds per treatment in a completely randomized design.
Parameters measured were initial weight, final weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain,
total feed intake and daily feed intake. Feed conversion ratio, feed cost of bird per kilogram and
weight gain were computed. The mortality rate was recorded as they occurred. Data generated were
subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model procedure of Statistical
Analysis Systems and separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test Procedure. The result showed
final body weight, weight gain, daily weight gain, total feed intake, average daily feed intake, feed
conversion ratio and feed cost/kg gain were significantly (P<0.05) affected across the dietary
treatments while mortality recorded were not significantly (P>0.05) different. Birds fed 7.5% MOSM
had significantly (P<0.05) higher final weight (714.83g), weight gain (676.51g) and daily weight gain
compared to other treatment groups. The finisher phase of the study revealed that MOSM in the diets
of broiler chicken significantly (P<0.05) enhanced live weight, weight gain and daily weight gain
respectively. The results from this study suggested that the inclusion of 7.5% MOSM in the diet of
broiler chickens improved growth performance at finisher phases.
Key words: Broiler, Chickens, Moringa, Seed meal, Growth.
INTRODUCTION
The poultry industry in Nigeria have been plagued by a variety of problems which includes the search
for feed ingredients for livestock which will not compete with man for utilization (Siyanbola and
Amao, 2016). The rapid growth of human and livestock populations create increasing demands for
food and nutrition security in the least developed countries, thus alternative feed resources must be
identified and evaluated (Olugbemi et al., 2010). The most logical step to take in solving the shortage
and dwindling raw material supply is to direct efforts towards utilizing plant by-products and wastes
for feeding poultry birds (Banjo, 2012). The use of unconventional feedstuff in animal feeds had been
recommended (Adeola and Olukosi, 2008).
There is need to determine the extent to which Moringa oleifera seed meal can be utilized by broiler
chickens for improved performance. This study was carried out to evaluate the growth performance of
broiler chickens fed diets containing levels of boiled Moringa oleifera seed meal.

The study was carried out in the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Department of
Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The farm is located in the Northern Guinea
Savannah zone of Nigeria, latitude 110 9‘ 14‘‘ N and longitude 70 38‘ 45‘‘ E and at an altitude of
610mm above sea level (Ovimaps, 2015).
Source and Processing of Moringa seeds
Moringa seeds used for this research were sourced at Giwa market, Zaria, Kaduna State. The dry
Moringa seeds were sorted, remove from the pods and cleaned. The quantity of seeds used were
weighed and then poured into a pot containing boiled water at 100oC. The sample was allowed to boil
Page | 36
for about 60 minutes, after which the water was drained out and the sample was spread in aluminium
metal trays to sun dry for 3 days (Edegbo, 2009).
Design and Management of Birds
A total of three Hundred (300) day old Ross strain of broiler chicks were purchased from Agrited
Farm Limited, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The chicks were randomly distributed into five treatment
groups of 60 chicks each with three replicates of 20 chicks per pen in a completely randomized design
(CRD). Five experimental diets (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5) were formulated and the inclusion levels of
Moringa seed meal in the diets were 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10%, respectively. The birds were housed in
a deep litter system and subjected to the same experimental and management conditions. Feed and
water were given ad libitum throughout the period of the experiment.
Data Collection and Analysis
The chicks were weighed on arrival and weekly thereafter with the following parameters measured.
Initial weight, final weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain, total feed intake, daily feed
intake. Feed conversion ratio, feed cost of bird per kilogram and weight gain were computed. The
mortality rate was recorded as they occurred. The data obtained from the study were analyzed using
One-way ANOVA using the General Linear Model procedure of the Statistical Analysis System
(SAS, 2003). Significant differences among the means were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range
Test Procedure (Duncan. 1955).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The result of the performance of broiler finisher chickens fed diets containing levels of Moringa seed
meal (MOSM) is shown in Table 2. The study result revealed MOSM in the diets significantly
(P<0.05) enhanced live weight, weight gain and daily weight gain of broiler chickens. Birds on 7.5%
MOSM had the highest (P<0.05) final body weight (2509.87g), weight gain (1896.53g) and average
daily weight gain (67.07g) when compared with the other treatment groups. The gain in body weight
observed in this study may be attributed to the decrease in anti-nutritional factor of the boiled MOSM
which enhanced palatability and easy digestion of the diet offered. The present result was not similar
to those observed by Du et al. (2007) and Ferreira et al. (2008) who reported no significant effect of
MOSM supplementation at 2.5%, 5% or 7.5% in the diets of broiler chickens on growth rate. The
results of total feed intake (3309.87g), daily fee intake and feed cost/kg gain (420.23/kg) showed that
birds on 10.0% MOSM diets had higher (P<0.05) values across dietary treatment groups. This agrees
with the report of Ferreira et al. (2008) who revealed that higher levels of MOSM increased feed
consumption by the broiler chickens. The numerical increase observed in the values of feed intake and
feed cost/kg gain was due to increase in MOSM inclusion across treatments and as such feed cost is
affected. The feed conversion ratio of the birds was significantly (P<0.05) improved in all the
treatments and the inclusion of 7.5% MOSM in the diet showed better a feed conversion ratio across
dietary groups.

From the results of the feeding trial conducted, it can be concluded that boiled MOSM inclusion at
7.50% in the diet of broiler chickens improved growth performance by (1896.53g) at the finisher
phase. However, it is recommended that more work should be conducted with other species of poultry
birds and other classes of monogastric and ruminant animals as well.
REFERENCES
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on the performance and carcass characteristics. International Journal of Applied Poultry
Resources, 1: 1 -14.
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feedstuffs in poultry production. Nigeria Poultry Science Journal, 5 (4), 147- 155
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cassava peels on the performance, nutrient digestibility and serum metabolites of growing
Pigs. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture.
Page | 37
Du, P.L., Lin, P. H., Yang, R.Y., Fan, Y.K. and Hsu, J.C. (2007). Effects of dietary supplementation
of Moringa oleifera on growth performance, blood characteristics and immune response in
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Duncan, D. B. (1955). Duncan Multiple Range Test, Biometrics. 11: 1-14.
Edegbo, M. (2009). Evaluation of the nutritive value of differently processed Moringa oleifera leaves
and seeds in weaner rabbit diets. Unpublished Mse. Thesis submitted to the department of
Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Ferreira, P.M.P. Farias, D.F., Oliveira, J.T.A. and Carvalho, A.F.U. (2008). Moringa oleifera:
bioactive compounds and nutritional potential. Reviews of Nutrition Campinas, 21(4): 431-437.
Kocher, A., Choct, M., Ross, G., Broz, J. and Chung. T.K. (2003). Effects of enzyme combinations on
apparent metabolizable energy of corn-soybean meal-based diets in broilers. Journal of
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characteristics of Ross 308 broiler chickens. Thesis M.Sc. Agri. (Anim. Prod.) University of
Limpopo.
Ochi, E. B., Elbushra, M. E., Fatur, M., Abubakr, O. and Ismail, H. A. (2015). Effect of Moringa
(Moringa oleifera Lam) seeds on the performance and carcass characteristics of Broiler
chickens. Journal of Natural Sciences Research, Vol.5, No.8.
Olugbemi, T.S., Mutayoba, S.K. and Lekule, F.P. (2010). Effect of Moringa oleifera inclusion in
cassava based diets fed to broiler chickens. International Journal of Poultry Science, 9
(4):363-367.
Ovimaps, (2015). Ovi location map; Ovi earth imagery date.
SAS, (2003). Statistical Analysis Systems Users Guide, version 9.0 edition SAS Institute Inc., Cary,
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Siyanbola, M. F. and Amao, E. A. (2016). Haematological and biochemical changes in cockerels fed
rations containing graded levels of wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia Hemls. Grey) leaf
meal. Sky Journal of Agricultural Research, Vol. 5(5). Pp. 091 - 096.
Page | 38
Table 1: Experimental Diets for Broiler Finisher with Moringa Seed Meal (MOSM)
Ingredients (%) T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Maize 59.35 58.35 57.35 56.05 55.05

MOSM 0.00 2.5 5.00 7.50 10.00
Groundnut cake 16.00 14.50 13.00 11.80 10.30
Soya bean meal 15.50 15.50 15.50 15.50 15.50
Maize offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
*Vitamin-mineral premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
Energy (ME Kcal/kg) 2942.00 2961.00 2980.00 2997.00 3016.00
Crude Protein (%) 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00
Crude Fiber (%) 3.74 4.01 4.28 4.55 4.82
Ether Extract (%) 5.65 5.91 6.27 6.64 6.99
Lysine (%) 1.05 1.04 1.04 1.04 1.04
Methionine (%) 0.52 0.52 0.53 0.53 0.54
Calcium (%) 1.20 1.21 1.23 1.25 1.26
Available-P (%) 0.80 0.81 0.82 0.82 0.83
Feed cost/kg (₦/kg) 141.60 163.40 185.30 207.00 228.80
*Bio-mix broiler starter premix per 2.5kg of diet: Vit A, 10,000 I.U; Vit D3, 2,000 I.U; Vit E, 23,000mg; Vit K3, 2000mg; Vit B1,(thiamine)
1,800; Vit B2(riboflavin), 5,500mg; Niacin, 27,500; Panthonenic acid, 7,500; Vit B6(pyridoxine),3000mg; Vit B 12, 15.00; Folic acid,
750.00mg; Biotin H2, 60.00mg; Cholin Chloride, 300,000mg; Cobalt, 200mg; Copper,3000mg; Iodine, 3,000mg; Iron, 1,000mg;
Manganese, 40,000.00mg; Selenium, 40,000mg; Zinc, 200mg; Antioxidant,1,250mg . MOSM: Moringa Seed Meal, ME: Metabolisable
Energy
Table 2: Growth performance of broiler chickens fed diets containing graded levels of boiled
Moringa seed meal (5-8 weeks)
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM
Initial wt. (g/bird) 614.67 616.00 616.00 613.33 620.67 6.02

Final wt. (g/bird) 2097.97c 2242.90b 2325.63b 2509.87a 2427.43ab 46.93
Total wt. gain (g/bird) 1483.30c 1626.90b 1709.63b 1896.53a 1806.77ab 48.22
Avg. daily wt. gain (g/bird 52.97c 58.10b 61.07b 67.07a 64.53ab 1.72
Total feed intake (g/bird) 2817.13c 2936.80c 3104.23b 3240.30ab 3309.87a 48.84
Daily feed intake (g/bird) 100.57c 104.90c 110.87b 115.73ab 118.20a 1.67
Feed conversion ratio 1.90b 1.81ab 1.81ab 1.71a 1.84ab 0.04
Feed cost/kg gain (₦/kg) 269.5a 295.75b 336.01c 353.28c 420.23d 6.72
Mortality (%) 6.67 6.67 0.00 10.00 0.00 3.34
abc= Means with different superscripts in the same row are significantly different P< 0.05, Ave= Average, wt=
weight, SEM= Standard Error of Mean
Page | 39
INFLUENCE OF GRADED LEVELS OF ETANDA AFRICANA SEED MEAL ON

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS
Ajibade, A. J^, *Makinde, O.J+> Adedeji, A.S^, Adetona, A^, Sulyman A^, Opoola, E#, Sikiru,
A. B< and Okunade, S. A^
^ Federal College of Wildlife Management, New Bussa, Nigeria
+ Department of Animal Science, Federal University, Gashua, Nigeria
# Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
<Department of Animal Production, Federal University of Technology, Minna.
>Universite de Kisangani, Faculte des Sciences, Department des Sciences Biotechnoloques
Laboratoire de Microbiologie et Phytopathologie B.P. 2012, R.D. Congo.
*Corresponding author: johyinmak@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of graded levels of processed Etanda africana seed
meal (EASM) on growth performance of broiler chickens. Five experimental diets were formulated to
meet nutrient requirement standards of broilers. Diet 1 (0 % EASM) served as the control while diets
2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 5, 10, 15 and 20 % EASM respectively. A total of one hundred and fifty (150)
day-old broiler chicks were randomly allotted into five treatment groups with three replicates of ten
birds each. Each group was assigned to the five experimental diets in completely randomized design
(CRD). Throughout the experimental period, feed and water were provided ad libitum for all
treatment groups. The results of growth performance revealed that average body weight gain, average
feed intake and FCR were not statistically (P>0.05) influenced by dietary treatments. It was concluded
that up to 20 % EASM could be included in the diets of broiler chickens without adverse effect on
growth performance of the birds.
Keywords: Etanda africana, processing, boiling, roasting, broilers, performance
INTRODUCTION
Entada africana belongs to the family Fabaceae which is popularly known as legumes and it is the
third largest order of seed-plants containing about 600 genera with 12,000 species (Sharma and
Kumar, 2013). It is a small tree which is mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions (Nielsen,
1992). In Nigeria, it is commonly known as ―Tawatsa‖ in Hausa Language and ―Ogurobe‖ in Yoruba
(Burkill, 1995). It can be used as food, medicine and fibre. Nutritionally, the seed of Entada africana
was reported to contain 39.81 % crude protein, 80.00 % dry matter, 15.50 % crude fibre, 17.50 %
ether extract, 4.88 kcal/kg metabolizable energy, 39.00 % acid detergent fibre and 53.00 % neutral
detergent fibre (Belewu et al., 2008). The authors further reported the mineral contents of the seeds to
be 7.66 % calcium, 0.20 % sodium, 45.42 % magnesium, 44.92 % potassium and 0.17 % iron.
Similarly, Olanrewaju and Ahmed (2014) reported that Entada africana leaves contain 4.20 %
moisture content, 13.30 % ash, 10 %crude lipid, 18.56 % crude fibre, 14.60 % crude protein and
38.44 % carbohydrate. Previous study on the potential of E. africana in livestock feed revealed that
the seed meal can replace soybean meal in the diet of growing West African Dwarf goats without
impairing performance (Belewu et al., 2007). There is however, dearth of information on its use in
poultry nutrition. This present study evaluated the influence of graded levels of processed Etanda
africana seed meal on growth performance of broiler chickens.

The experimental was conducted at the Poultry unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Federal
College of Wildlife Management, New Bussa, Niger State previously described by Okunade et al.
(2015). About 600 g of Etanda africana seeds were obtained from the College Farm. The seeds were
handpicked so as to eliminate all unwanted particles. The seeds were then air-dried for 48 hr at 25oC
and divided into 2 lots; (i) raw and (ii) boiled and roasted. About 300 g seeds were boiled at 100 oC at
a seed: water ratio of 1: 10 w/v. for 10 min in an aluminium pot on a Gallenkamp thermostat hot plate
(Makinde et al., 2019). The water was drained and the boiled seeds were air-dried at 25oC for 72 hr.
The boiled seeds were further roasted in an open pan under the controlled temperature at 65oC for 15
Page | 40
minutes. The seeds were continuously stirred until the seeds cracked and their endosperm turned
brown with toasty sweet odour. All the seed samples (raw and processed) were ground to pass through
a 2 mm sieve and taken to the laboratory for nutrient and anti-nutrient analysis.
Experimental Design and Management of Birds
One hundred and fifty day old unsexed broiler chicks were purchased from a reputable hatchery in
Ibadan, Nigeria. The birds were raised on deep litter pen with wood shaving as litter material. They
were fed on a common diet for the first (1) week of the study after which they were randomly
allocated into five experimental treatments of thirty birds per treatment, while each treatment was
replicated three times (10birds per replicate) in a completely randomized design (CRD). Feed and
water were supplied ad-libitum. Management practices and vaccination programme were followed
strictly. Data were collected on average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed
conversion ratio.
Experimental diets
Five experimental diets were formulated to meet nutrient requirement standards of broilers (NRC,
1994). Diet 1 (0 % EASM) served as the control while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 5, 10, 15 and
20 % EASM respectively. The gross composition of the experimental diets is presented on Table 1.
Data Analysis
Data generated were subjected to Analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model of
statistical analysis system, Version 9.3 (SAS, 2015). Significance was accepted at P < 0.05.
Table 1: Dietary composition of experimental starter and finisher diets

Starter Finisher
Ingredients T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Maize 56.00 53.00 51.00 50.00 48.50 59.50 58.50 54.50 51.00 48.50
Wheat offal 6.50 6.50 6.50 6.50 6.50 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00
GNC 27.00 25.00 22.00 16.00 15.00 22.00 18.00 17.00 15.50 13.00
*EASM 0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00 0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00
Fish meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Blood meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Oyster shell 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated nutrients
CP (%) 22.95 22.90 22.87 22.80 22.76 20.86 20.75 20.71 20.64 20.58
Met. Energy 2816 2811 2807 2805 2802 3024 3019 3015 3012 3005
(Kcal/kg)
CF (%) 3.56 3.62 3.74 3.75 3.77 3.95 3.99 4.05 4.09 4.11
Lysine (%) 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Methionine (%) 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.48
*Composition of vitamin premix per kg is as follows: Vitamin A, 8000 iu; Vitamin D3, 1600 iu;
Vitamin E 5 iu, Vitamin K 0.200 mg; Vitamins B, Thiamine B1 0.5mg; Riboflavin B2 4mg; Pyridoxine
B6 0.015 mg; Niacin 0.015mg; B12 0.01mg; Pantothenic acid 0.5mg; folic acid 0.5mg and Biotin 0.020
mg; Chlorine chloride 0.02 mg; Anti-oxidant 0.125g and Minerals (Mn, Zn, Fe, Cu, I, Si, Co)
0.156g.*EASM=Etanda africana seed meal. CP=Crude protein. CF=Crude fibre

The results of the effect of graded levels of Etanda africana seed meal on growth performance of
broiler chickens (1-7 weeks), is presented in figure 1. The results show that body weight gain, average
feed intake and FCR were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the dietary treatments. The
observations on feed intake, body weight gain and FCR of broiler chickens in this study showed that
inclusion of EASM up to 20% in broilers diet had no adverse effect on growth performance of birds.
Page | 41
The overall growth performance of birds fed EASM diets were similar to those fed the control diet.
The similarities observed in most of the performance evaluation traits implied that there was no intake
limitation when EASM increased in the diets from 0 to 20% and there was acceptability and
palatability as well as better utilization of the feed by the birds.
ADWG, g/b/d ADFI, g/b/d FCR
100 93.59 91.37 93.2 90.47 94.33

PARAMETERS
80
60
41.37 43.68 40.01 40.42 44.36
40
20
2.26 2.09 2.33 2.24 2.13
0
0% 5% 10% 15% 20 %
Graded levels of processed Entanda africana seed meal
Figure 1: Growth performance of broilers fed processed Entanda africana seed meal (1-7 weeks)
This observation could be attributed to the reduction of anti-nutritional factors in the processed seed
and the nutrient balance of the experimental diets at both the starter and finisher phases (Ari et al.,
2012). Our result confirms the assertion of Alagbaoso et al. (2015); Makinde et al. (2019) that heat
treatment of seed is effective in reducing anti-nutritional factors inherent in most legumes. Also,
Kanyinji and Sichangwa (2014) observed that there was no significant difference in the performance
parameters (feed intake, body weight gain and FCR) of broilers fed finishing diets with processed
cotton seed meal as partial replacement for soybean meal. Our results however differs from the report
of Wafar (2013), who observed a significant difference in feed intake, body weight gain and FCR of
broilers when toasted sorrel seed (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) meal as substitute for soybean meal increased
to 20% in broilers diets. This variation may be attributed to the differences in the initial live weights,
breed of broilers and nutrient content of seed and concentrates used for the study.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

It was concluded that up to 20 % EASM could be included in the diets of broiler chickens without
adverse effect on growth performance of the birds. Further researches should be conducted to
ascertain the optimum inclusion level of EASM in broilers diet.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The authors gratefully acknowledge Haruna KL, Kamarudeen AT, Ishola AO, Sodiq, I and Ibrahim
AA for their assistance in the collection of data pertaining to this study.
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Methods on Nutrient and Anti-Nutrient Compositions of African Star Apple
(Chrysophyllum albidum) Kernels. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and
Development, 19(4):14848-14862.
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Mus. Natl d‘Histoire Naturalle, Paris 11 (1), 1–226.
Okunade, S.A., Isah, O.A., Aderinboye, R.Y. and Olafadehan, O.A., (2015). Effect of browse
plant foliage supplementation on the performance of buckling goats fed threshed sorghum
top basal diet, Tropical Animal Health and Production, 17:529-538.
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Wafar J. R (2013). Effects of Replacing Toasted Sorrel Seed (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) Meal for
Soybean Meal in Broiler Finisher Diet. Journal of Animal Production Advances, 3(8):247-
253. DOI: 10.5455/japa.20130806060039.
Page | 43
EFFECT OF FEEDING OVEN-DRIED Canarium schweinfurthii SEED MEAL ON CARCASS

CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKEN
*
Adelowo, O.V1., Christy Agbi2, Aka-Tanimo, H.A1., Banjo, A.A2
1
Department of Animal Production, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology,
N.V.R.I., Vom, Plateau State
2
Chemistry and Biochemistry Laboratory, Federal College of Animal Health and Production
Technology, N.V.R.I., Vom, Plateau State
*
Corresponding author: olufisayo71@gmail.com (08030426283)
ABSTRACT
A feeding trial of six weeks duration was conducted to determine the performance and carcass
characteristics of broiler chickens fed with oven dried Canarium schweinfurthii seed meal (ODCSM).
Four dietary treatments containing 0% (control), 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% of oven dried Canarium seed
meal (ODCSM) respectively. One hundred and twenty (120) day old chicks were randomly allotted to
four experimental diet, at thirty (30) per treatment in a completely randomised design. The parameters
measured were live weight, bled weight, carcass weight, breast weight, thigh weight, drumstick
weight, wings weight, neck weight, back weight, spleen weight, gizzard weight, liver weight, heart
weight, lungs weight, abdominal fat weight. The results shows no significant difference in all the
parameters measured across the treatments. Therefore, Oven dried Canarium schweinfurthii seed meal
can be included in the diets of broilers chickens up up to 7.5%.
Key word: Oven dried, Canarium schweinfurthii, Carcass characteristics, Broiler chickens
INTRODUCTION
Poultry meat is a rich source of high quality protein, minerals and vitamins (Adelowo et al., 2019a).
Due to economic importance attached to chicken and their products gives rise to the need for food
safety which is imperative in food production worldwide (Chisoro, 2015). Poultry production,
especially broiler chickens remains one of the veritable ways of attaining sustainable and rapid
production of high quality protein to meet the increasing demand of the Nigeria teeming populace,
due to short generation interval of broiler chicken (Akinmutimi, 2004). One of the main challenges in
poultry enterprise is high cost of feed which is estimated to be about 70% of the total cost of
production (Ogundipe et al., 2003). This high cost has been attributed to the over-dependence on the
expensive conventional feed stuffs such as soybean and groundnut cake which is mainly used in
poultry feed formulation (Apata and Ojo, 2002). A high demand for these feed ingredients has
resulted in an increase in their prices and consequently, cost of poultry feeds and its products, this
calls for a serious attention with regard to the quality of chicken meat available (Chisoro2015). This
necessitates research into non-conventional feedstuffs (NCF) that are readily available, cheap and
nutritionally safe such as Canarium schweifurthii seed meal. Canarium schweifurthii seed contained
natural flavors, high fat content, pigments, moisture, nutritionally valuable minerals, vitamins and
naturally occurring antioxidants (Ayoade, et al., 2015). The seed also contains appreciable amount of
nutritionally valuable minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorous, iron,
zinc and copper. Glutamic and aspartic acids dominated the amino acid profile of Canarium
schweifurthii seed, it contained appreciable amount of essential amino acids which is more than fifty
percent of total amino acid contents (Ayoade et al., 2017, Adelowo et al., 2019a). One of the major
problems of legume utilization is the presence of anti-nutritional factors (Oke et al., 2004). Removal
of these anti-nutritive components is essential in order to improve the nutritional quality of the seeds
and to effectively utilize their full potential as feeds (Akinmutimi, 2004). Heat treatment such as
boiling, frying and drying are frequently used to improve the utilization of the nutrients in legumes by
animals (Shaahu et al., 2015). This study is therefore aimed at studying carcass characteristics of
broiler chickens fed with oven dried Canarium schweifurthii (ODCSM) seed meal.

The experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research farm of the National Veterinary
Research Institute (NVRI) Vom, Nigeria. Vom is located in Jos south local government area of
plateau state. It is situated on the south east of Jos, the Plateau state capital which is located at 8 045
Page | 44
Easts and 90043 North with a height of about 1,285meters above sea level. Vom has a remarkable cool
climate, in December and January; the night may be extremely cold, the wet season from late April to
middle October.
Experimental Birds and their Management
In a completely randomised design a total of 120 unsexed two weeks old broiler chicks were used for
the study. The chicks were randomly alloted into four (4) dietary treatments containing 0% (control),
2.5%, 5% and 7.5% of oven dried Canarium schweifurthii seed meal, with each treatment having
three (3) replicates of ten (10) birds each. The feed was presented in mash form and water was
provided ad libitum. The birds were raised on deep litter and were subjected to standard management
and hygiene the recommended vaccines for broilers were administered accordingly. At the end of the
six weeks feeding trials, two birds from each replicate were randomly selected, fasted for (12) hours
and slaughtered by severing the throat with the aid of sharp knife. The birds were allowed to bleed for
five minutes and defeathered manually by immersing in warm water. The parameters measured were
the live weight, bled weight, carcass weight, breast weight, thigh weight, drumstick weight, wings
weight, neck weight, back weight, spleen weight, gizzard weight, liver weight, heart weight, lungs
weight, abdominal fat weight
Determination of carcass characteristics was done according to the method described by Oluyemi and
Robert (2002). The feathers were plucked and eviscerated to determine the dressed weight and weight
of the carcass components (thighs, drumstick, breast, back, wings, and neck. The internal organs
were; heart, lung, liver, gizzard, spleen, abdominal fat) were measured. The Carcass, organs, and gut
were weighed with the aid of laboratory electronic scale (ACCULAB). The cut parts were expressed
as percentage of live weight. The dressing percentage was calculated as a ratio of dress weight to live
weight multiplied by hundred
Dressing percentage X 100
Data Analysis
Data obtained from the experiment were analysed using the statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA)
procedure of SAS (2010) and significant level of p=0.05 was used. The treatment means were
compared using the New Duncan multiple range test option of the same software.
Table 1: Composition of the experimental diet

Ingredient 0% 2.5% 5% 7.5%
Maize 59.00 57.39 57.39 55.00
Soybean cake 19.00 18.50 16.00 15.89
G. cake 19.39 19.00 19.00 19.00
ODCSM 0 2.50 5.00 7.50
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Premix 0.16 0.16 0.16 0.16
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100
Nutrient Analysis %
CP% 22.61 22.06 21.04 20.75
Energy 3023.14 2944.76 2877.04 2793.03
Calcium 0.79 0.79 0.78 0.78
Av 0.50 0.49 0.48 0.48
phosphorus
Lysine 0.09 1.07 1.00 0.99
Methionine 0.42 0.42 0.40 0.40
Fibre 3.38 3.30 3.14 3.08
G.cake-Groundnut cake, C.P-crude protein, Av-available phosphorus
Page | 45
Table 2: Carcass characteristics of broiler finisher fed graded levels of oven dried Canarium
schweinfurthii seed meal (ODCSM)
Parameters 0% 2.5% 5% 7.5%
Live weight 1.78 0.03 1.83 0.02 1.76 0.06 1.68 0.03
Carcass weight 1.68 0.03 1.70 0.10 1.65 0.05 1.55 0.05
CarcassComponent % of live weight
Dressing % 1.25 0.05 1.30±0.01 1.18±0.03 1.13±0.03
Breast 0.35 0.05 0.28±0.02 0.38±0.02 0.29±0.02
Thigh 0.18 0.03 0.16±0.01 0.16±0.01 0.18±0.03
Drumstick 0.15 0.01 0.15±0.01 0.15±0.02 0.14±0.01
Wings 0.13 0.03 0.12±0.01 0.13±0.03 1.15±0.01
Neck 0.95 0.05 0.90±0.10 1.00±0.10 1.00±0.20
Back 0.14±0.02 0.16±0.01 0.19±0.01 0.18±0.02
Internal organs giblet

Spleen 1.50±0.50 2.00±1.10 2.00±0.10 3.00±0.10
Gizzard 31.00±2.00 40.00±1.00 43.50±4.50 42.50±1.50
Liver 33.50±0.50 33.50±1.50 33.00±6.00 34.00±4.00
Heart 9.50±1.50 9.00±1.00 9.50±1.50 11.00±2.00
Lungs 13.50±1.50 9.50±1.50 10.50±1.50 8.50±0.50
Abdominal fat 18.50±12.5 12.00±5.00 11.50±3.50 12.00±6.00

The carcass characteristics of broiler finisher fed graded level of oven dried Canarium schweinfurthii
seed meal were not significantly different (P˃0.05) across the treatments, this result agrees with the
findings of Adelowo et al., (2019b) that broiler chickens can tolerate roasted Canarium schweinfurthii
seed meal up to 7.5% without affecting their performance. The live weight of the birds fed with 2.5%
has the highest value of 1.83±0.02kg although, there was no significant variation in the values
statistically across the treatments with the birds fed at 0% (1.78±0.03), 5% (1.76±0.06), and 7.5%
(1.68±0.03) at P˃0.05 respectively. The bled weight of the birds fed with 2.5% is 1.70±0.10 kg while
those fed at 0% (1.68±0.03), 5% (1.65±0.05) and 7.5% (1.55±0.05) respectively also at P˃0.05. The
carcass weights of the birds are 2.5% (1.30±0.01), 0% (1.25±0.05), 5% (S1.18±0.03), and 7.5%
(1.13±0.03) respectively. The breast weight of the birds are 5% (0.38±0.02), 0% (0.35±0.05), 2.5%
(0.28±0.02), and 7.5% (0.29±0.02) respectively at P˃0.05. Oven dried Canarium schweinfurthii seed
meal can be included in broiler diet at all stages because the seed contained appreciable amount of
nutritionally valuable minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorous, iron,
zinc and copper while glutamic and aspartic acids dominated the amino acid profile, also appreciable
amount of essential amino acids which was more than fifty percent of total amino acid contents
(Aigade et, al. (2017). The parameters measured were not statistically different at P>0.05, Although
the values obtained at 2.5% inclusion levels was higher than control and 7.5% inclusion level but
once the statistical analysis shows no difference therefore any of the inclusion level can be fed to the
birds. This result agrees with the findings of Adelowo et al., (2019b) on the inclusion of roasted
Canarium seed meal to 7.5% without affecting the performance of the broiler chickens.
CONCLUSION
Based on the result obtained, where there was no significant variation across the treatments, the seed
can therefore be added to the diets of broiler chickens at any of the inclusion level without having a
detrimental effect on the carcass of the birds.
Page | 46
REFERENCES
Adelowo, O. V., Oshibanjo, D. O. and Tangshwan, L. S. (2019a). Proximate Composition of
Raw-Dried and Heat Treated Canarium schweifurthii (Atili) Fruit as Non-Convention
Ingredient in Broiler Diet. Proceedings Nigeria Society for Animal Production 44th
Annual Conference Abuja 2019. Page 284-287. ISSN: 1596-5570
Adelowo, O.V., Oshibanjo, D.O., and Gowal, D.P (2019b). Effects of Feeding Roasted Canarium
schweifurthii Seed Meal on Performance of Broiler Chickens. Proceedings of the 8th ASAN-
NIAS Joint Annual Meeting, Umuahia. 2019 Pg: 638-641. ISSN-9783477722
Aigade, G. W1, Amoo, I. A1, Jabar, J.M1, Ojo A.M and Maduawuchi, C.O. (2017). Proximate,
Minerals and Amino Acid Profile of (CanariumSchweinfurthii) Seed Pulp. International
Journal of Science and Technology Volume 6 No. 1
Akinmutimi, A. H. (2004). Effect of cooking periods on the nutrient composition of Mucuna utilis
seeds. Nigeria Poultry Science Journal. 2 and 3: 45-51.
Ayoade, G. W1, Amoo, I. A1, Jabar, J.M1, Ojo A.M and Maduawuchi, C.O Proximate, Minerals and
Amino Acid Profile of (CanariumSchweinfurthii) Seed Pulp. (2017). International Journal of
Science and Technology Volume 6 No. 1
Ayoade, G.W., I.A. Amoo and Gbolahan-Ayoade, E.E. (2015a). Phytochemical Composition and
AntioxidativePotential of Purple Canary (Canariumschweinfurthii) Fruit.The Pharma Innovation
Journal, 4(1): 49-52
Chisoro, P. (2015). Department of Livestock and Pasture Science, Faculty of Science and Agriculture,
University of Fort Hare.
Oluyemi, J.A. and Roberts, F.A. (2002). Poultry production in the warm, wet climate. 2 nd edition.
Spectrum Books Ltd. Ibadan, Nigeria.
Ogundipe, S. O., Abeke, F. O; Sekoni, A.A., Dafwang, I.I., and Adeyinka, A. I. (2003). Effect of
duration of cooking in the utilization of lab lab purpureus by pullet chicks. In; Processing of the
28th Annual conference of the Nigerian, 233-235.
Oke, U.K., Ibe, S.N. and Ogbnnaya, E.O. (2004). Effect of genotype on growth traits of rabbits. Int. J.
Agric. Rural Dev., 5: 61-68.
SAS. 2010. SAS/STAT User‘s Guide: Version 9.2. SAS Institute Inc., Cary. NC., USA; 2010.
Shaahu, D.T., Tuleun, C.D., Gbue, F.H. and Shittu, H.A. (2015). Nutritive value and economic
benefit of boiled velvet beans (Mucunautilis) in rabbits diet. Proceedings of the 38th Nigerian
Society for Animal Production-NAPRI, Ahmadu Bello University, (eds) Adeyinka I.A., Kabir,
M. Abdu, S.B., Erakpotobor, G.I., Hassan, M.R. and Iyiola-Tunji, A.O. Zaria. March 15th-19th,
2015.
Page | 47
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF SILICON OXIDE ON CARCASS

CHARACTERISTICS AND LITTER QUALITY OF BROILER CHICKENS
*
Opoola, E., **Makinde, O. J., ***Lawal, N.A and ***Olaniyan, O
*
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Nigeria.
**
Department of Animal Science, Federal University, Gashua, Nigeria.
***
Kabba College of Agriculture. Ahmadu Bello University.
Corresponding email: emmycom123@yahoo.com
Phone number: 07032217712
ABSTRACT
This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels of silicon oxide on carcass
characteristics and litter quality of broiler chickens. In total, 120mixed sex Abor Acre broiler chicks
were distributed according to a completely randomized design. The control group was fed a diet
without silicon oxide, while treatments 2-4 were fed diets supplemented with 10, 20 and 30g/100kg
silicon oxide respectively. At the end of the starter (0-3 weeks) and finisher (4-7 weeks) phases, litter
samples were collected at random from different locations from all the replicates and scored for litter
quality test. Also at the end of the finisher phase three birds per replicate were selected on the basis of
weights for carcass characteristic study. Silicon oxide supplementation improved broiler carcass
characteristics, as shown by higher breast, back, thigh, drumstick, shank, and gizzard weights.
Chickens fed silicon oxide supplemented diets had significantly (p<0.05) better carcass characteristics
compared with those chickens fed diet without silicon oxide. Litter quality and abdominal fat were not
influenced by the treatments. It was concluded that carcass characteristics of broiler chickens were
better in birds fed 20g silicon oxide /100kg diet compared to chickens fed without silicon oxide.
Keywords: silicon oxide, carcass, broiler, litter, tropics
INTRODUCTION
One of the most important recent challenges in broiler production has been associated to skeletal
disorders, particularly those affecting the legs (Manohar et al., 2015). This can be caused by intensive
genetic selection, an increase in the nutritional quality of feed and the increased demand for poultry as
a food source, leading to a drive for faster production rates (Bradshaw et al., 2002). Unfortunately,
selection for large pectoral mass did not occur alongside selection for a stronger musculoskeletal
support system, with an investigation by Robinson et al. (2007) revealing that high breast-yielding
strains had reduced carcass frames. Silicon (Si) has been linked to the calcification of growing bone
and deficiency in poultry diets has been shown to lead to a number of health and welfare issues, such
as various skeletal weaknesses. Safaeikatouli et al. (2012) and Tauqir et al. (2001) reported that
poultry performance was improved with the use of silicate minerals in broiler diets. However, in
turkeys, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly improved with dietary Si
dioxide supplementation (Tran et al. 2015). In addition, silica increase dissolved oxygen in water and
therefore helps reduce ammonia in litter and manure (Scholey et al., 2018). There has been a gap in
the revisions made in the Nutrient requirement of poultry (NRP) since 1994, the majority have
focussed on macronutrient provision, with some updates to the provision of essential vitamins and
minerals, but no changes (or additions) have been made to reflect the growing body of work
surrounding trace and ultra trace elements like silicon oxide despite its importance in regard to bone
mineralisation. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to review the effect of silicon oxide on
carcass characteristic and litter quality of broiler chickens reared under tropical environment.
MATERIAL AND METHODS

Experimental site
The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit of livestock section Kabba College of Agriculture,
Teaching and Research farm, Ahmadu Bello University. The study area is located within the
Southern Guinea Savannah agro-ecological zone and the coordinate of the study area is Latitude
07° 51.128‘ N and Longitude 006° 04.273‘ E.
Page | 48
Experimental design, diets and management of birds

One hundred and twenty (120) one-day old Abor Acre broiler chickens of mixed sexes were assigned
to four dietary treatment groups were distributed on the basis of equal weight into three replicates per
treatment with 10 birds each in a completely randomized design. The birds were housed in deep litter
pens and all necessary routine management practices were observed. Broiler starter and finisher diets
were fed from 0 – 3 weeks and day 4-7 weeks, respectively. Water and feed were administered ad
libitum for the 7 weeks‘ experimental period. The necessary medications and vaccinations were
administered as at when due. The diets were isocaloric and isonitrogenous and formulated to meet the
nutrient requirements of the broiler chicks during starter and finisher periods (Table 1) according to
the National Research Council requirements (1994). A basal diet was formulated such that treatment 1
was without silicon oxide (control), treatment 2-4 had 10g, 20g and 30g silicon oxide/100kg diet
respectively.
Table 1: Diets composition

Ingredients Basal diet (starter) Basal diet (finisher)
Maize 52.80 60.50
Soyabean cake 28.00 22.00
GNC 13.74 12.14
Palm oil 1.20 1.30
Bone meal 2.80 2.70
Limestone 0.50 0.50
Common Salt 0.30 0.30
Methionine 0.18 0.15
Lysine 0.18 0.16
Vit-min-Premix1 0.30 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00
Calculated Nutrient
ME (Kcal/kg) 3010 2998
Crude Protein (%) 23.10 20.00
Crude Fibre (%) 3.73 3.73
Ether Extract (%) 5.84 5.84
Calcium (%) 1.27 1.27
Phosphorus (%) 0.83 0.83
Methionine (%) 0.86 0.86
Lysine (%) 1.28 1.28
1
Vitamin mineral premix provide per kg of diet. Vit. A, 13,340 i.u; Vit. D 3, 2680 i.u; Vit. E, 10 i.u; Vit. K, 2.68
mg; Calcium pantothenate, 10.68mg; Vit. B12, 0.022mg, Folic acid, 0.668mg; Choline choride, 400mg;
Chlorotetracyline, 26.68mg; manganese, 13mg; iron, 66.68mg; Zinc, 53.34mg; Copper, 3.2mg; Iodine, 1.86mg;
Cobalt, 0.268mg; Selenium, 0.108mg
Carcass characteristics
At the end of the 7th week of the feeding trial, three birds from each pen with approximate body
weights equal to the mean weight of the birds in the pen were used. They birds were fasted overnight
in order to allow for the emptying of the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) and weighed. The selected birds
were slaughtered for carcass analysis by severing the neck with a sharp knife and allowed to bleed
completely. They were then defeathered and eviscerated. The liver and gizzard, and the thigh and
breast were weighed and expressed as percentages of the live body weight and the carcass weight
respectively. The intestinal length was measured in centimeters. The dressed weights were taken and
the dressing percentages computed.
Dressing percentage = Carcass weight x 100
Live weight
Litter quality
At the end of the experimental period litter samples were visually scored on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 driest
to 5 wettest) adapted from Hooge et al. (2012) with some modifications, as follows:
1. Dry, friable material throughout the pen.
2. Predominantly dry material and mostly acceptable but with some areas of wet shavings.
3. Poor quality litter material with a large proportion of wet areas.
Page | 49
4. Unacceptable litter quality, wet but with a few areas of dry material remaining.
5. All litter wet and soggy, no dry areas left.
Data analysis
All data obtained from the two experiments were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using
the General Linear Model Procedures (GLM) of the Statistical Analysis Software package. Significant
difference between treatments means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (SAS, 2002).

The effect of varying level of silicon oxide supplemented diet on carcass characteristics of broiler
chickens were as shown in Table 2. Dietary treatments had significant (P<0.05) effects on live weight
(LW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage (DP), back, gizzard, breast, wings, thigh, drumstick
and abdominal fat. It was observed that chickens fed diet supplemented with 20g/100kg silicon oxide
had the best results in terms of LW, CW, and DP as compared to other treatments. Chickens fed 20g
silicon oxide /100kg diet had the best results in terms of back, breast, gizzard, wing, thigh and
drumstick. However, chickens fed 30g silicon oxide /100kg diet had the best result in terms of gizzard
and spleen weights. Generally, it was observed that majority of the carcass parameters measured were
higher for chickens fed silicon oxide compared to fed chickens without silicon oxide. This result
disagrees with the findings of Aksu et al., (2010b) who reported that basal diets containing lower
levels of trace minerals were similar in carcass weight than birds fed diets without trace minerals.
Also, Araújo et al. (2019) reported no significant difference in weight gain/carcass weight of birds
diets supplemented with organic trace mineral diets. However, the explanation on this is still not clear
as measurements of absorption and digestion of supplemental trace minerals are generally difficult to
make because of the complexity of endogenous mineral excretion. Numerically abdominal fat pad
was observed to be highest in birds fed diet without silicon oxide diet compared to the chickens fed
diets supplemented. All the litter score values assessed were similar. This result disagrees with the
findings of Tran et al. (2015) who reported no significant differences as the levels of silicon oxide in
the diets of broiler chickens increased. However, it was observed that all the treatment groups had a
good litter score. This may be as a result of the feed ingredient used and season of rearing which may
have reduced litter pH which decreased the conversion of NH4+ to NH3 thereby reducing nitrogen losses
from litter.
Table2: Carcass characteristics of broiler Chickens fed varying level of silicon oxide in the diets
Silicon oxide levels (%)
Parameters 0.00 10 20 30 SEM
Live weight (g) 2386.37d 2760.00b 3346.70a 2406.70c 0.12
Carcass weight (g) 1900.00c 2193.04b 3120.47a 1900.08c 2.29
b a a a
Dressing (%) 69.60 81.89 79.58 80.46 1.98
Prime cuts and organ weights expressed as % of dressed weight

Breast 18.58c 21.99b 34.27a 32.62a 2.68
c c a
Wings 2.56 2.81 4.54 3.94b 0.20
Thigh 2.43d 4.42c 6.92a 5.80b 0.36
d c a b
Drumsticks 2.10 2.75 5.20 4.03 0.30
Back 9.23b 14.66a 14.98a 13.36a 1.36
Liver 0.94 1.03 0.99 0.91 0.08
Heart 0.56 0.52 0.54 0.51 0.05
Kidney 0.15 0.14 0.12 0.16 0.05
Gizzard 0.67b 0.79ab 0.75ab 0.93a 0.10
Abdominal fat 0.70 0.68 0.56 0.69 0.11
Spleen 2.11a 1.22b 1.11b 0.80b 0.22
Shank 1.23d 2.41c 3.30b 4.40a 0.23
a, b, c, d= Means with different superscript on the same row differ significantly (P<0.05)
Page | 50
Table 3: Visual Scoring of Litter Quality at each Growth Phase

Silicon Oxide (g/kg)
Growth phase 0.00 10 20 30 SEM
Starter 2.66 2.42 2.32 2.50 1.96
Finisher 2.98 2.65 2.63 2.76 1.87
CONCLUSION and Application

Dietary supplementation with silicon oxide may improve carcass quality and reduce moisture in litter.
It was concluded that, under our study conditions, the feeding of 20g silicon dioxide /100kg diet offers
potential economic benefits in terms of carcass characteristics and reduced moisture content in the litter of
broiler chickens.
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Tauqir N. A., Sultan G.I. and Nawaz, H. (2001) Effect of different levels of bentonite with varying
energy levels on the performance of broilers. International Journal of Agriculture and
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Tran S.T., Bowman, M.E. and Smith, T.K. (2015) Effects of a silica-based feed supplement on
performance, health, and litter quality of growing turkeys. Poultry Science.94(8):1902–1908.
doi:10.3382/ps/pev15
Hooge, D. M., Mathis, G. F., Lumpkins, B., Ponebˇsek,. J. and Moran, D. (2012). Dose-responses of
broiler chicks, given live coccidian vaccine on day of hatch, to diets supplemented with various
levels of Farmatan R _ (Sweet chestnut wood tannins) or BMD R _ /Stafac R _ in a 42-day pen
trial on built-up litter. International Journal Poultry Science. 11:474–481.
National Research Council, (NRC), (1994). Nutrient Requirements of Poultry. 9th rev. ed. National
Academic Press, Washington, DC.
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supplement. Scientific Report.8,17022. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-35292-9
Page | 51
CARCASS AND GUT CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED

DIFFERENT COMMERCIAL DIETS
1
Usman, Y., 2Hafizu R., 3Magaji., I. M. and4Doma, U.D.
1
Department of Animal Health Technology, College of Agriculture Bauchi.
2Ministry of Education Science and Technology, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria.
3
Department of Animal Science, Federal University Gashua, Yobe State, Nigeria.
4
Department of Animal Production, Abubbakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi.
Corresponding Author: yakubuusman320@gmail.com; Phone no: 07039368989
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens to five different
commercial diets. Two hundred and fifty day-old chicks were randomly allotted to five diets
in replicates of three containing 16 birds each in a completely randomized design. Feed and
water were supplied ad libitum and the feeding trial lasted for 42 days. Results for Carcass
analysis revealed that diet B gave the highest (P<0.05) carcass weight of 2.06kg. Dressing
percentage was higher on diets A (70.51%) and B (68.52%). It was therefore concluded that
diet B gave better carcass yield at reduced feed cost, hence recommended for broiler chicken
producers.
Keywords: Commercial diets, Broiler chickens, Carcass and Gut Characteristic
INTRODUCTION
The development of the poultry industry has been identified as the fastest way of bridging the
animal protein deficiency gap. Although CBN (2019), has reported that the poultry industry
is the most commercialized of all the Nigeria‘s agricultural subsectors with a current worth of
about N1.6 trillion, it is yet to attain its full potentials in the country. The World Data Atlas
(2017) revealed that in 2006, Nigeria produced 232,100 mt of poultry meat. However, this
quantity decreased to 201,493 mt in 2017. A number of factors might be responsible for this
decline. Notable among them is the increasing cost of poultry feed ingredients and that of
finished commercial feeds that often contain sub-standard nutrient levels. Energy is a
property of energy-yielding nutrients. Basically, it is produced when carbohydrates, lipids
and proteins are oxidized during metabolism. According to Carre and Juin (2015) and
Emmanuel et al. (2018), energy sources form the major single constituent (40 - 50 %.) in
broiler chicken diets. Metabolizable energy (ME) which is measured in kilocalories is the
standard measure used to describe the energy requirement of poultry (NRC, 1994). Dietary
ME plays a central role in metabolic, maintenance and production processes. Poultry feeding
programmes are established based on energy requirements to allow for optimization of
production and economic targets (Sakomura et al., 2014). Metabolizable energy levels are
implicated in broiler feed intake regulation (Leeson and Summers, 2001; Emmanuel et al.,
2018). Ghaffari et al. (2007) reported that as dietary energy level increases, birds satisfy their
energy needs by decreasing feed intake. Therefore, when formulating broiler diets, nutrient
requirements have frequently been expressed per unit of dietary metabolizable energy. At the
moment, there is limited literature on the response of broiler chickens to different commercial
feeds sold in Bauchi metropolis. It is therefore the aim of this study to add to the body of
knowledge in that area.
MATERIALS AND METHOD

Experimental Site
The study was carried out at the poultry farm, college of Agriculture, Bauchi, situated on
latitude 10018‘ North, longitude 9050‘ and at an altitude of 590m above sea level. There are
Page | 52
two distinct seasons in the area. A rainy season, which starts in May and ends in October and
dry season which starts from November to April. The mean annual rainfall is 1091mm
(World Atlas, 2015).
Experimental Diets
Five different commercial diets available and commonly used by broiler chicken farmers in
Bauchi metropolis were used in the study. For convenience, the feeds were designated A, B,
C, D, and E.
Table 1: Composition (%) of different commercial starter and finisher diets.

Diets
Composition A B C D E
Starter
(ME Kcal/kg) (min) 2800 2850 2900 2900 2900
Crude Protein (min) 21.0 23.0 20.0 21.0 20.0
Crude Fibre (min) 5.0 3.0 4.5 4.8 5.0
Crude fat (min) 4.0 4.5 5.0 6.0 5.5
Finisher
ME Kcal/kg) (min) 2900 2850 3000 3000 2900
Crude Protein (min) 18.0 18.5 18.0 18.0 18.0
Crude Fibre (min) 6.0 5.0 6.0 6.0 6.5
Crude fat (min) 5.5 6.0 5.0 6.0 5.8
Experimental Birds and their Management

A total of two hundred and fifty unsexed, day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks obtained from a
reputable hatchery were used for the experiment. Two weeks prior to the birds‘ arrival, the
study pens were cleaned washed, disinfected and fumigated. Similar treatment was also made
on the feeders, drinkers and other equipment. A week after, wood shavings were spread on
the floor of the experimental pens to a depth of approximately 3 inches. Thereafter, adequate
heating/lighting facilities, feeders, and drinkers were provided.
Brooding, which was done for a period of 7 days, commenced with the arrival of chicks. Two
200W electric bulbs were used to provide the necessary warmth needed in the brooding room
while Vital super starter®, a commercial feed, wasted to the birds ad lib. Birds were also
given the first dose of IBDV (Gumboro vaccine) at 7 days. Followed by an anti-stress
Vitalyte® for two consecutive days. Another vaccine, New Castle Disease Vaccine NDCV
(LASOTA) was also administered on the 14th day.
Thereafter, the birds were randomly allotted to five commercial diets in replicates of 3
containing 16 birds each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Diets and clean
drinking water were offered ad libitum throughout the 42-day trial period. Birds were also
given the second dose of Infectious Bursal Disease vaccine (Gumboro vaccine) (Booster) on
the 21st day and another of NCDV a week after. All vaccines and drugs were orally
administered.
Experimental Design
The experiment were conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD), (Steel and Torrie,
1980).
Data Collection
Carcass analysis
At the end of the finisher phase, thirty birds, two from each replicate, were randomly selected
from the five treatments (15 replicates) and fasted for 12 hours before slaughter. Each bird
was weighed and slaughtered. Weights of carcasses and internal organs were immediately
Page | 53
measured using an electronic balance calibrated in grams. Dressing percentage (DP) was
obtained using the relationship.
Where DP= Dressing percentage, CW= carcass weight and LW= live weight.

The results for carcass and gut characteristics of broiler chickens fed different commercial
diets are presented in Table 2. All the carcass parameters considered in this study showed
significant (P<0.05) influence of diet. This agrees with Sanusi et al. (2015) but was at
variance with the report of Sogunle et al. (2009). In terms of dressing percentage, broilers in
this research dressed lower than 79.31 – 81.09% reported by Sogunle et al., (2009) but
similar to 64.45 – 70.68% (Abdel-Raheem and Abd- Allah, 2011). The significant difference
obtained in vital organs; liver, heart, and kidney disagrees with the findings of Sogunle et al.
(2009) and Sanusi et al. (2015) in similar experiments. . Most of the parameters studied
showed significant influence of diet. Live weight of birds was significantly (P<0.05) higher
on diet B (3.00 kg) and lower on diet A (2.39 kg). However, diet D (2.84 kg) did not differ
from diet B. similarly, diets C (2.84 kg and) and E (2.15 kg) were similar to diet A. Plucked
weight was highest (P<0.05) on diets B (2.63 kg) and C (2.64 kg) and lowest on diet E (1.81
kg). eviscerated weight was also higher (P<0.05) on diet B (2.26 kg) which was similar to
diet D (1.99 kg) and lower on diets A (1.79 kg), C (1.83 kg) and E (1.53 kg). in the same
way, carcass weight was higher (P<0.05) on diet B (2.06 kg) which did not differ from diet D
(1.77 kg) and lower on diets A (1.69 kg), C (1.68 kg) and E (1.41 kg). In terms of dressing
percentage, all diets with the exception of diet D (61.59%) had significantly (P<0.05) higher
mean values (65.35 – 70.51%). However, diet D was comparable to diets C and E. Head
weight expressed as percentage of live weight did not differ among treatments (1.88 –
2.05%). Birds on diet A (3.76%) had heavier (P<0.05) shanks thank those on other diets (3.27
-3.42%). Lung weights did not show any significant influence of diet (0.48 – 0.60%). The
intestines of birds fed diet A (3.97%) were heavier (P<0.05) than that of birds fed other
commercial diets (2.81 – 3.05%). However, no significant effect of diet was recorded on
intestinal length (243.33 – 273.00%). Kidney weight was higher (P<0.05) on diet E (0.67%)
which was similar to diets C (0.62%) and D (0.63%). On the other hand, liver weight was
lower on diet E (1.43%) and higher on diet D (2.34%). Birds on diets A (1.93%), B (1.83%)
and (1.96%), were similar. Relative weight of abdominal fat was higher (P<0.05) on diet E
(0.87%) which compared favourably with diets C (0.74%) and D (0.78%). Birds on diets A
(0.72%) and B (0.64%) had lower abdominal fat weights which were similar to diets C and
D. Heart weight showed a significant (P<0.05) influence on diet. Diet D (0.50%) was higher
than other diets (0.32 – 0.38%). Gizzard weight relative to live weight was significantly
(P<0.05) higher on diets C (1.70%), D (1.55%) and E (1.69%) which were similar. Broiler
chickens fed diet B (1.34%), had the lowest mean value which was lower than 1.53%
recorded on diet A. Caecal weight was higher (P<0.05) on diet A (0.48%) and lower on other
diets (0.34 – 0.37%) which did not differ. Pancreas (0.19 – 0.21%) and spleen (0.17 – 0.25%)
weights did not differ among diets.
Page | 54
Table 2: Carcass and Organs Characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed Commercial Diets
Parameter A B C D E SEM
cd a bc ab d
Live weight (kg) 2.39 3.00 2.57 2.84 2.15 0.13*
Plucked weight (kg) 2.18b 2.63a 2.22b 2.64a 1.81c 0.12*
Eviscerated weight (kg) 1.79bc 2.26a 1.83bc 1.99ab 1.53c 0.11*
b a b ab b
Carcass weight (kg) 1.69 2.06 1.68 1.77 1.41 0.11*
Dressing percentage (%) 70.51a 68.52a 65.66ab 61.59b 65.35ab 2.17*
Head, shank and visceral organs expressed as a percentage of live weight
Head 2.03 1.88 2.05 2.02 1.93 0.06NS
Shanks 3.76a 3.42b 3.32b 3.31b 3,27b 0.09*
Lungs 0.60 0.60 0.55 0.53 0.48 0.04 NS
a b b b b
Intestinal weight 3.97 3.05 2.95 2.95 2.81 0.24*
Intestinal length (cm) 273.00 258.33 250.33 264.17 243.33 10.65 NS
Kidney 0.57b 0.55b 0.62ab 0.63ab 0.67a 0.03*
Liver 1.93b 1.83b 1.96b 2.34a 1.43c 0.13*
b b ab ab a
Abdominal fat 0.72 0.64 0.74 0.78 0.87 0.05*
Heart 0.34b 0.37b 0.38b 0.50a 0.32b 0.03*
b c a ab a
Gizzard 1.53 1.34 1.70 1.55 1.69 0.05*
Caeca 0.48a 0.36b 0.37b 0.34b 0.36b 0.03*
Pancreas 0.19 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.20 0.01 NS
Spleen 0.21 0.17 0.19 0.25 0.19 0.03 NS
b a, c, d
Means bearing different super scripts within the same row differ; * = (P<0.05); NS=
Not significant; SEM = standard error of mean.

Carcass analysis revealed a significant influence (p<0.05) of diet in favour of diet B due to
Higher carcass yield that was obtained on diet B than other diets (A, C, D and E), therefore
diet B is recommended for broiler chickens feeding
REFERENCE
Abdel-Rahmeen, S. M. and Abd-Allah, M. S. (2011). The effect of single or combined
dietary supplementation of mannanoligosacharide and probiotics on performance and
slaughter characteristics of broilers. International Journal of Poultry Science, 10:854 –
862
Carre, B. &Juin, H. (2015). Partition of metabolizable energy, and prediction of growth
performance and lipid deposition in broiler chickens. Poultry Science. 94, 1287-1297
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) (2019). The Nigerian Poultry Industry retrived on 5th
February 2020 from https://nairametrics.com/2019/07/10/cbn-unveils-revival-
programme-for-poultry-farmers-offers-n36-billion
Emmanuel, U., A., Apeh, A. O, Medani, B. A. & Paul, A. I. (2018). Managing dietary
energy intake by broiler chickens to reduce production costs and improve product
quality. Retrieved April 19, 2019 from http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.76972
Ghaffari, M., Shivazad, M., Zaghari, M. &Taherkhani, R. (2007). Effects of different levels
of metabolizable energy and formulation of diet based on digestible and total amino
acid requirements on performance of male broiler. International Journal of Poultry
Science. 6, 276-279
Leeson, S. & Summers, J. D. (2001). Protein and amino acids. In: Scott’s Nutrition of the
Chicken, Lesson, S. and J.D. Summers (eds). University Books, Ontario, Canada, pp:
102-175.
Page | 55
National Research Council (1994). Nutrient requirements of Poultry. National Academic

of Science Washington D.C. U.S.A
Sakomura, N. K., Hauschild, L. and Bonato, M. A. (2014). Modelagem da utilizacao da
energia nas aves, In: Sakomura, N. K. Nuticao de nao ruminantes. Jaboticabal: Funep
pp 313 – 329
Sanusi, M., Rabi, A., Doma, U. D. and Haruna, J. (2015). Comparative effect of self-
formulated and four commercial diets on the growth performance, carcass and
haematological parameters of broiler finisher in the tropics. Sokoto Journal of Veterinary
Sciences, 13(2):14-19
Steel, R.G.D and Torrie, J. H (1980). Principles and Procedures of Statistics: A Biometric
Approach. 2nd edition. McGraw Hill books co. Inc. New York, Pp. 63.
Sogunle, O. M., Ekunseitan, D. A., Adeoti, M. T., Iyanda, A. I. and Fanimo, A. O. (2009).
Performance and carcass characteristics of two strains of broiler chickens fed three
different commercial feeds. Journal of Applied Agricultural Research, 1:53 -59.
https://www.worldatlas.com/af/ng/ba/where-is-bauchi
World Data Atlas (2017). Nigeria-Production of poultry meat. Retrieved January 14, 2020
from https://knoema.com/atlas/Nigeria/topics/Agriculture/Live-Stock-Production-
Production-Quantity/Production-of-poultry-meat.
Page | 56
UTILIZATION OF MAIZE OFFALS AS A REPLACEMENTTO WHEAT OFFALS

AS DIETARY FIBRE SOURCES BY BROILER CHICKENS AT STARTER PHASE
1
Shuibu Inuwa and 2 Usman Yakubu
1
Ministry of Agriculture, Bauchi, Bauchi state, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Health, Bauchi State College of Agriculture. Nigeria
Corresponding Author: shu‘ibu inuwa@gmail.com; Phone no: 08123729404
ABSTRACT
An experiments was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens to dietary levels of maize
offal as replacement to wheat offal. Using a completely randomized design, three hundred broiler
chicks were used in the trial. Feed and water were supplied ad lib and the trial lasted for 4 weeks. In
the experiments maize offal replaces wheat offal as diet 1,2,3,4 and 5 respectively, as 0 (diet 1), 25
(diet 2), 50 (diet 3), 75 (diet 4), and (diet 5)100% levels. The Results showed no significant influence
(P<0.05) of diet on initial weight, total weight, final weight gain and feed conversion ratio. However,
performance traits significantly (P<0.05) differ among the diets on total feed intake, daily feed intake,
daily weight gain and week 4 weight gain respectively. It was therefore concluded that maize offal
can replace wheat offal in broiler chicken diets without compromising performance.
Keywords: Commercial diets, Broiler chickens and performance.
INTRODUCTION.
Poultry‖ can be defined as domestic fowls, including chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks raised for the
production of meat or eggs and the word is also used for the flesh of these birds used as food. Poultry
also include other birds that are killed for their meat, such as the young of pigeons (known as squabs)
but does not include similar wild birds hunted for sport or food and known as game. Poultry can be
distinguished from ―game‖ defined as wild birds or mammal hunted for food or sport, a word also
used to describe the flesh of these when eaten. Nowadays poultry production has developed and
occupies a place of pride among the livestock enterprises due to its rapid monetary turnover (Kheravvi
et al., 2018). This has made the enterprise attractive and popular among small, medium as well as
large scale poultry farmers (Kheravvi et al., 2018). Fibre refer to fibre as cell walls of plant tissue that
mostly consist of lignin, cellulose as well as hemicelluloses. (Mc Donald et al.,1994) The poultry
industry has become a diverse industry with a variety of business interests such as egg production,
broiler production, hatchery and poultry equipment business (Oluyemi and Roberts, 1999). Fibre is
thought to decline chicken production and growth that is it decreases the effectiveness of feed
utilization (Vantsawa, 2001). Maize is a stable food for millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa.
Although white maize is more popular in most households, few know that yellow maize is more
nutritious than white maize. maize is an excellent and most popular source of energy used in broiler
diets ( Aduku., 1993). Therefore, sorghum, millet, maize offal, rice bran and wheat offal, millet bran,
spent sorghum grain and broken rice could be recommended as alternative sources of feed ingredients
in poultry diets.(Medugu et al.,2011). Several workers have emphasized the need for utilizing
alternative feed ingredients removed from human and industrial uses (Durunna et al., 1999; Fanimo et
al., 2007; and Nsa et al., 2007).

The experiments were carried out at the Poultry Unit, Teaching and Research Farm, Abubakar Tafawa
Balewa University, Bauchi. The town, Bauchi, is located within the southern guinea savannah on
latitude 10.31 N and longitude 9.84 E. It is 616 metres above sea level characterized a rainy season
that commences in May and terminates in October and a dry season that starts in November and ends
in April. Mean annual rainfall is 1009 mm, highest relative humidity 94% (August) and the lowest
35% (February). Temperatures are between 13-17oC (December – February) and 36 – 37oC (March –
April) (World Atlas, 2015).
Experimental Diets
Experimental starter diets containing 23% CP. Diet 1 which served as the control contained 0% maize
offal, while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels of maize offal as replacement for
Page | 57
wheat offal. The ingredients were measured out and mixed using a feed mill mixer to ensure
homogeneity. Percentage composition of graded levels of maize offal for wheat offal in broiler starter
are presented in Tables 1. A total of three hundred (300) day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks obtained
from a commercial hatchery were used for the experiment. Prior to the commencement of the
experiment, the study pens were cleaned washed, disinfected and fumigated. Similar treatment was
also made on the feeders, drinkers and other equipment. A week after, wood shavings were spread on
the floor of the experimental pens to a depth of approximately 3 inches. Adequate heating/lighting
facilities, feeders, and drinkers were also provided.
After brooding the chicks for 2 weeks, where all recommended vaccinations were also made. Feed
and clean drinking water were served ad libitum throughout the 56-day trial period. Birds were also
given the second dose of Infectious Bursal Disease vaccine (Gumboro vaccine) (Booster) on the 21st
day and another of NCDV a week after.
Table 1: Ingredients Composition (%) and Calculated Analysis of Dietary Levels of Maize Offal
as Replacement for Wheat Offal Fed to Starter Broilers (1 – 4 weeks)
Diets
Maize 46.50 46.50 46.50 46.50 46.50
Wheat offal 10.00 7.50 5.00 2.50 0.00
Maize offal 0.00 2.50 5.00 7.50 10.00
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt (NaCl) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* (Starter) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
ME (Kcal/kg) 2835.00 2847.68 2859.00 2872.14 2881.52
Crude Protein 22.85 22.75 22.65 22.55 22.45
Crude Fibre 3.70 3.78 3.87 3.96 4.05
Ether Extract 4.01 4.00 3.98 3.96 3.95
Calcium 1.80 1.79 1.79 1.79 1.79
Phosphorous 0.82 0.82 0.81 0.81 0.81
Methionine 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.66 0.66
Lysine 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
ME; Metabolizable energy.
Experimental Design
The birds were weighed to determine their initial weights and randomly allotted to five experimental
diets in 3 replicates of 20 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD).
The experiment were conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD), (Steel and Torrie, 1990).
Data Collection
Feed consumption, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and mortality were the performance parameters
monitored during the study period. Initial live weights of chickens were taken at the beginning of each
experiment, thereafter, weekly weights were determined. These were in turn used to calculate the
daily weight gain (DWG). Daily mean feed intakes were also determined by subtracting the weight of
left-over feed from the quantity offered the previous day. Feed conversion ratio on the other hand,
was calculated from the relationship;
……………………………………………………………. (3)
Page | 58
Where FCR= feed conversion ratio, FI= feed intake and WG= weight gain. Mortalities were recorded
for each treatment throughout the feeding trial.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION.

The performance of broiler chickens fed dietary levels of maize offal as replacement for wheat offal is
presented in Table 2.
Initial weights of birds used in this experiment which ranged between 207.66 (diet 3) to 226.66 g (diet
5), was not significantly different among diets. This agrees with Makinde and Sonaiya (2011). These
authors however, did not report any significant difference in initial weight and daily weight gain in
starter phase. However, body weight at 4 weeks was significantly (P<0.05) affected with birds on diet
5 (997.38 g) having higher weights while those fed diet 1 (888.43 g) had the lowest, The significant
influence of diet on body weight gain obtained at the starter phase contradicts to the findings of
Ajighjigh et al. (2017) and Ajighjigh et al. (2018) whose found no significance different on body
weight gain at starter phase (671.34) and (678.46) for birds on diet 3 and 4 respectively, but concur
with Makinde and Inuwa (2015) whose reported significance influence on body weight at starter
phase. Diet 3 (852.35g) was intermediate and did differ from diets 2 (941.20 g) and 4 (903.17 g).
Mortality of two birds was recorded on diets 2 and 3 during the starter phase.
Table 2: Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing Maize Offal as replacement for
Wheat Offal
Diets
Productive performance
c ab b ab a
Week 4 weight (g) 888.43 941.20 852.35 903.17 997.38 45.34*
Total weight gain (g) 1099.76 1161.20 1060.01 1118.17 1224.04 102.73NS
Starter phase (1 – 4 weeks)
Total feed intake (g) 1199.52b 1748.60a 1695.40a 1792.56a 1994.16a 176.45*
b a a a
Daily feed intake (g) 42.84 62.45 60.55 64.02 71.22a 5.83*
Daily weight gain (g) 15.97c 25.76ab 23.02b 24.58ab 27.52a 2.30*
Feed conversion ratio 2.69 2.43 2.65 2.61 2.59 0.24NS
Mortality (No.) 0 1 1 0 0 -
abc
Means bearing different superscripts within the same row differ; * = (P<0.05); NS= Not significant;

Based on the results obtained in this study, it was concluded and recommended that; Maize offal can
replace wheat offal in broiler starter chicken diets without compromising performance. There for
maize offal can be recommended as a potential fibre source in broiler starter chicken diets.
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Aduku, A. O. (1993). Tropical feedstuffs analysis table. Department of Animal Science, ABU, Zaria,
Nigeria
Ajighjigh, D. T., Doma, U. D., Egbo, M. L., Mahmoud, M., Maidala, A. A. and Zagi, S. P. (2017).
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Ajighjigh, D. T., Mahmud, M. and Waziri, D. (2018). Growth performance and economics of
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Durunna, C.S., Udedibie, A.B.I. and Anyanwu, G.A. (1999). Combination of maize/sorghum dried
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Fanimo, A.O., Adebayo, A.J., Oduguwa, O.O. and Biobaku, W.O. 2007. Feeding value of cashew
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Page | 59
Medugu, C.I Raji, A.O. Igwebuike, J. U. and Barwa, E. (2011). Alternative cereal grains and cereal
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Nsa, E.E., Okereke, C.O. and Okon, B. 2007. Effects of supplementary green feedstuffs on growth
performance, internal organs development and abdominal fat deposition in finisher broiler
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Production (NSAP), 18th – 21st March, 2007. University of Calabar, Cross River State,
Nigeria. Pp: 230 – 233
Kheravvi, S. K., Morgan, N.K., Swick, R. A., Choct, M. and Wu, S. B. (2018). Roles of dietary fibre
and ingredient particle size in broiler nutrition. World‘s Poultry Science Journal. 74 (2): 301 –
316.
Makinde, O. A. and Sonaiya, E. B. (2011). Utilization of sun-dried maize offal with blood meal in
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Graw-Hill Book Co Inc., New York. Pp.23
Vantsawa, P. A. (2001). Replacement value of local maize offal (dusa) for maize in broiler diets.
Nigerian Journal of Biotechnology, 12:25 – 28
World Atlas (2015): Where is Bauchi. Retrieved September 14, 2018 from https://www.worldatl
as.com/af/ng/ba/where-is-bauchi.
Page | 60
METABOLISABLE ENERGY VALUE AND ANTI-METABOLITES OF CASSAVA

PEELS PRODUCTS IN POULTRY
1,2
Oladimeji S. O., 1Ogunwole O. A., 1Adeyemi, A. A. and 1Tewe O. O.
1
Agricultural Biochemistry and Nutrition Unit, Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan.
2
Animal Nutrition Department, Amo Byng Nigeria Limited, Awe, Oyo, Oyo State
Corresponding author: Oladimeji S. O. Email: oladimejioo@gmail.com; Phone: +2348062411299
ABSTRACT
The metabolisable energy value and antinutrient composition of cassava peel products were
determined in this study. Four cassava peel products namely; coarse cassava peel mash (CCPM), fine
cassava peel mash (FCPM), whole cassava peel mash (WCPM) and sundried cassava peel meal
(SCPM) were processed from fresh cassava peels. The products were assessed for energy values and
antimetabolites. Results showed that CCPM had significantly higher (P<0.05) gross energy
(3577.20KKcal/Kg), while FCPM had the highest apparent metabolisable energy (2862.7) Kcal/Kg).
The SCPM contained the highest (P<0.05) cyanide, oxalate, tannin, saponin and alkaloids which
ranged from 14.52-20.63mg/100g (cyanide), 28.24-68.58mg/100g (Phytate), 6.15-9.13mg/100g
(oxalate), 67.79-286.97mg/100g (tannin), 1.21-3.83mg/100g (saponin) and 5.97-10.08mg/100g
(alkaloids). It was concluded that processing of cassava peels helped to reduce antinutrient
composition of cassava peel products and increased metabolisable energy of cassava peel products.
Keywords: Nutrients, Chemical composition, Anti-nutritional factors, Agro-industrial by-products
INTRODUCTION
The increasing cost of feedstuffs has resulted in amplified search and use of alternative ingredients,
particularly, as energy and protein sources. The increased search is largely caused by poor yield,
reduced annual rainfall and increase cost of raw materials. Morgan and Choct (2016) have attributed
increased drought and competitions between human and animal industry as contributors to high raw
materials cost. Recently, the price of maize and soya increased by 78 and 100% in December 2020,
from an initial price of 90 and 110 naira in January 2020, respectively.
The average usage of maize in commercial poultry feed is between 50-60% while soybean meal,
between 20-30%. Significant saving would be made if the usage of maize is reduced. Cassava tuber
and cassava peels are one of the products that could help reduce the consumption of maize (Morgan
and Choct, 2016; Etuk et al., 2017). Cassava peels are less competed for by human industry and is an
Agro-Industrial By-products (AIBs) from cassava tuber processed for human industry.
Sundried cassava peels is the most common form of cassava peel presentation of cassava peel.
However, authors have suggested that different processing methods such as fermentation, boiling and
physical methods could help to reduce the antinutrients and microbial toxins (Okike et al., 2015; Etuk
et al., 2017) level of the cassava peels. Okike et al. (2015) submitted that combination of physical
processing methods using similar machinery for garri production could help to address the challenge.
Three products named fine, whole and coarse cassava peel mash were developed from cassava peels.
The new products need to compare with the conventionally known sundried cassava peel.
The usage and preference of any cassava peel products require adequate knowledge of metabolisable
energy and anti-nutrients. There is therefore the need to determine the metabolisable energy of
cassava peel products and anti-nutrient, which is the reason for this study.

Test Materials
Four cassava peel products namely sundried cassava peel meal (SCPM), fine cassava peel mash
(FCPM), coarse cassava peel mash (CCPM) and whole cassava peel mash (WCPM) were used for this
study. Fresh cassava peels were obtained from garri processing plant. A fraction of the fresh cassava
peel was sundried for 3-5 days, plate milled and named SCPM. The remaining cassava peels were
grated, dewatered using hydraulic press overnight. The cake obtained was pulverised and sundried
Page | 61
was named WCPM. A fraction of the cake was also pulverised and sieved to obtain the coarse and
fine fraction. Both fractions were then sundried to obtain CCPM and FCPM.
Experimental Site
The study was carried out at the Poultry Unit, Teaching and Research Farm, University of Ibadan,
Ibadan. Laboratory analyses were undertaken at the Department of Animal Science Laboratories,
University of Ibadan.
Determination of Antinutrients in Cassava peel products
The anti-nutrients determined were cyanide (Bradbury et al., 1999; Egan et al., 1998), phytate
(Wheeler and Ferrel, 1991), oxalate (Oke, 1969), saponin (Harborne, 1984) and alkaloids of each
cassava peel products in quadruplicate.
Apparent Metabolisable Energy of Cassava Peel Products Determination
Apparent metabolisable energy determination of FCPM, WCPM, CCPM and SCPM were determined
using 108, 21-day old Abor Acres broiler chicks; practical diet replacement method of Hills and
Anderson (1958) as explained by Mandal et al. (2006) was employed in a completely randomized
design.
Nine groups of broiler chickens were offered nine dietary treatments. They were replicated 6 times
with 3 birds per replicate. Diet I was conventional reference grower diet, while diets II, III, IV, V, VI,
VII VIII and IX had maize in reference diets replaced with 20% and 40% CCPM, FCPM, SCPM and
WCPM.
The average feed intake was determined before feeding. The quantity consumed was used to calculate
the average feed consumption during this period and the average feed to be consumed for the next
three days of data collection.
Total excreta was collected and used. The excreta were oven-dried, the gross energy of feed, excreta
was determined with e2K model of Oxygen bomb calorimeter. The metabolisable energy and dry
matter of the seven diets were calculated.
Calculation of AMEN
The apparent metabolisable energy values of the diets were determined using the method of Hill and
Anderson (1958) adopted by Mandal et al., (2006). The apparent metabolisable energy values of the
test cassava peel products were calculated using simultaneous equations: AMEn=0.80R+0.20T and
0.60R + 0.40T (where R is the AMEn of reference diet and AMEn of the Test ingredient is
represented as T).
Statistical Analysis
The design was a completely randomized design. Data were subjected to analysis of variance using
the procedure of SAS (2002).

The anti-nutrients content and energy values of cassava peel products are presented in Tables 1 and 2.
The results showed that anti-nutrients levels in cassava peel products were influenced. The SCPM
had the highest (P<0.05) level of cyanide (20.63mg/100g), oxalate (9.13 mg/100g), tannin
(86.97mg/100g), saponin (3.83 mg/100g) and alkaloids (10.28 mg/100g). Phytate (68.58 mg/100g)
was highest (P<0.05) in WCPM. Anti-nutrients have been reported to influenced utilisation and
absorption of nutrients with cyanide considered the most toxic anti-nutrients in cassava (Montagnac et
al., 2009). The cyanide levels of the cassava peel products were lower than European countries
standard of less than 50mg/Kg of HCN (Okafor and Nwabuko, 2003).
The phytate levels obtained for all the cassava peel products were lower than value reported by Oboh
(2006). The phytate levels were observed to be higher than cyanide levels in the products. Oxalates
values reported for the cassava peel products were lower than 33mg/100g reported by Aro et al.
(2010) and the values were lower than 100,000 mg/100g considered to be deleterious to animals
(Matham and Sutherland, 1992). Higher tannin level has been reported to result in toxicity, poor
nutrient utilisation and sometimes death (Garg et al., 1992; Salinikowe et al., 2001). Varietal
differences could be responsible for the difference between anti-nutrient of the cassava peel products
obtained to cassava peels figures reported by Aro et al. (2010).
Page | 62
Table 1: Anti-nutrients content (mg/100g) of cassava peel products

Parameters Sundried cassava Coarse cassava Fine cassava Whole cassava SEM
peel meal peel mash peel mash peel mash
a d b
Cyanide 20.63 + 0.47 14.52 + 0.18 19.25 + 0.31 15.62c + 0.24 0.76
Phytate 28.24d + 1.35 43.09c + 2.38 61.37b + 0.94 68.58a + 2.46 4.78
Oxalate 9.13a + 0.17 7.53c + 0.26 6.15d + 0.21 8.05b + 0.10 0.33
Tannin 86.97a + 0.29 67.79d + 0.33 74.64c + 0.06 81.35b + 0.42 2.17
Saponin 3.83a + 0.16 1.32c + 0.02 2.09b + 0.06 1.21c + 0.03 0.31
a d c b
Alkaloid 10.08 +0.04 5.97 + 0.14 7.50 + 0.14 9.58 + 0.07 0.50
abc
Means with the same superscripts in the same row are not significantly different (P>0.05)
Table 2 Energy content (Kcal/Kg) of cassava peel products

Parameters Sundried cassava Coarse cassava Fine cassava Whole cassava SEM
peel meal peel mash peel mash peel mash
Gross energy 3511.80b 3577.20a 3400.70c 3377.30c 24.89
b b a
AME 2581.84 2593.65 2862.70 2752.23a 40.45
abc
Means with the same superscripts in the same column are not significantly different (P>0.05)
AME= Apparent metabolizable energy, SEM= Standard error of mean.
Saponin has been reported to prevent the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine (Farell,
2013). Though, values obtained were lower than those reported by Aro et al. (2010) for cassava peel.
Alkaloid contents were within the safety margin for consumption. McDonald et al. (2010) had
reported that alkaloid content below 0.6g/kg was safe for consumption.
Energy indices are important tools in the measurement of available energy in feedstuffs. The cassava
peel products studied has lower energy content compared to maize. The cassava peel products had
lower gross energy compared to 3714Kcal/kg reported by Hoai et al. (2011) for cassava meal. The
apparent metabolisable energy was highest in FCPM and was an indication that higher gross energy
does not translate to higher metabolisable energy. This study also disagrees with Ravindran (2013)
submission that 30% of ingested energy was lost as feaces. The lower apparent metabolisable energy
obtained for SCPM could be due to the influence of higher anti-nutritional factors in it.

Sundried cassava peel meal had the highest cyanide, oxalate, tannin, saponin and alkaloid content but
phytate. The processing methods also improved the apparent metabolisable energy of the new
products; FCPM recorded the highest apparent metabolisable energy.
Acknowledgement
Authors appreciate the contributions of the Management of International Livestock Research Institute,
Ibadan for assisting with the machinery that was used in the production of the products.
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EFFECT OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) SUPPLEMENT ON PERFORMANCE AND

CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS
Ibrahim *, H1., Egbewande, O.O., Aliyu, Z., Oluwawuni, T.B. and Awolola, G
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Ibrahim BadamasiBabangida University,
Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria.
*Corresponding Author : ihadiza080@gmail.com GSM No- 08036101761
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to investigate the effect of garlic supplement on the growth performance and
carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. One hundred and twenty day old chicks of mixed sexes
were randomly allotted into four treatment groups, thirty birds per treatment and were replicated
three times with ten birds per replicate in a complete randomized design. Four test diets were
formulated and designated as Diet 1 for control, while Diet 2, 3, and 4 with inclusion levels of garlic
powder at 0g/kg,10g/kg, 15g/kg and 20g/kg respectively. The study lasted for eight . The parameters
investigated were performance Cut-up parts and Visceral organs. Data generated were subjected to
analysis of variance and significant differences separated using Least Significant Difference. The
results on performance showed that there were no significant (P>0.05) difference in the
parameters measured except percentage dressed weight that showed significant difference with T1
having a higher value of 64.33% closely followed by T4 with 62.60% , T2 with 61.10 % and the least
value was T3 with 54.53% , highest percentage of mortality were recorded on birds fed with T 1
(10.00%), followed by diet 2 (6.67%),T 3 (6.67%) and T4 recorded the least of percentage of
mortality with the value (3.3%) results obtained for cuts off parts also showed non significant
difference except wings and backs that were significantly different across the treatment groups. The
same trend of non significant difference were observed in Visceral organs of broiler chickens fed
garlic supplement except abdominal fat and intestine that were significantly different across the
treatment groups. From the result obtained , Birds fed with inclusion rate of garlic at T4 had the
lowest mortality rate, this may have great impact on production of the broilers chicken and can be
recommended as the best diet to be fed to broiler chickens
Keywords: Supplements, Chickens, Carcass, Characteristics, Garlic
INTRODUCTION
Poultry that can efficiently solve the problem of animal protein shortage in most of the developing
countries like Nigeria (Olabanji et al. 2009). Poultry industry in Nigeria occupies a prominent
position as a important source of animal protein supply to the citizen. Over the years, the growth of
poultry industry has followed a pattern closely dictated by the economic fortunes of the countries. The
sector contributed about 25% of the agricultural domestic products of the Nigerian economy (FAO,
2009) Nigeria. Currently rated as the leading country in Africa with respect to egg production and
fourth in broiler production, Garlic (Allium sativum L) is bulbous vegetable, well known spice and
medicinal plant, which belongs to the family Liliaceae and genus Allium (Simon and Jenderek, 2003).
The importance of garlic in recent years, has to a wide range of useful properties, it has been
increasingly used as an additive in nutrition and health of farm animals (pigs, poultry, cattle, sheep).
The objectives of the present study, therefore was to determine the effects of garlic supplement on
growth performance and carcass parameters of broiler chickens.

Location of experimental site: The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching
and Research Farm, Department of Animal Production, Faulty of Agriculture, Ibrahim Badamasi
Babangida University Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria.
Processing of Test ingredient (garlic)
Fresh garlic gloves were peeled and washed to remove adhering debris and cut/ sliced into small sizes
after which they were dried for three days, and then ground into powdery form and finally in
cooperated in to the starter and finisher diets for the birds.
Page | 65
Experimental birds and their management

One hundred and twenty (120) mixed sex day-old broiler chicks were bought from Karmadex Nigeria
Plc, Ibadan and used for this experiment. They were allotted into four treatments of three replicate
each containing ten birds. The birds were placed on the experimental diet on their arrival. The chicks
were brooded on deep liter and heat was supplied using charcoal pot and kerosene lanterns as sources
of heat and light. The birds were vaccinated against endemic diseases in the area via drinking water.
Feed and water were supplied ad-libitum.
Experimental design
Experimental diets were formulated and fed at graded levels of inclusion of 0g/kg , 10g/kg, 15g/kg
and 20g/kg of garlic powder respectively and designated as T1==0g/kg , T2== 10g/kg, T3==15g/kg
and T4==20g/kg of garlic powder respectively (Table 1 and 2).
Table 1: Composition of experimental broiler starter diets
Ingredients (%) T1 T2 T3 T4
0kg 10kg 15kg 20g/kg
Maize 54.40 54.40 54.40 54.40
Groundnut 32.00 32.00 32.00 32.00
Wheat Offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Fish Meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone Meal 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Premix 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Limestone 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Salt 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Garlic g/kg 0.00 2.00 1.50 1.00
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Values
Crude Protein 23.10 23.10 23.10 23.10
ME Kcal/kg 2877.37 2877.37 2877.37 2877.37
Fibre 3.25 3.25 3.25 3.25
Key:ME =Metabolizable Energy, T1 = contained only feed ingredient without garlic powder
(Control), T2 = contained feed ingredient with 20g/kg of garlic powder, T3 = contained feed
ingredient with 15g/kg of garlic powder, T4 = contained feed ingredient with 10g/kg of garlic powder
Data Collection
Data were collected on growth performance as seen below ,
• Mean weight gain = Mean final weight(g) – mean initial weight(g)
• Mean daily feed intake = mean total feed intake
Number of days
Feed conversion ratio = mean of feed intake
Mean of weight gain by birds
The carcass characteristic was carried out at the end of the experiment. Three birds per treatment were
randomly selected, slaughtered and dressed with hot water (scalding). After dressing, the visceral
organs and the cut-up parts were weighed in grams. Statistical analysis: All data obtained from the
experiment were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) according to the procedure of Gen Stat,
(2014)
Page | 66
Table 2: Composition of experimental broiler finisher diets

Ingredients (%) T1 0 T210 T3 15 T4 20
0g/kg 10kg 15kg 20kg
Maize 54.40 54.40 54.40 54.40

Groundnut 28.40 28.40 28.40 28.40
Wheat Offal 10.50 10.50 10.50 10.50
Fish Meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Garlic powder g/kg 0.00 2.00 1.50 1.00
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Values
Crude protein 20.26 20.26 20.26 20.26
ME Kcal/kg 2917.04 2917.04 2917.04 2917.04
Fibre 3.65 3.64 3.64 3.64
Key:ME =Metabolizable Energy, T1 = contained only feed ingredient without garlic powder
(Control), T2 = contained feed ingredient with 20g/kg of garlic powder, T3 = contained feed
ingredient with 15g/kg of garlic powder, T4 = contained feed ingredient with 10g/kg of garlic powder

The result on the effect of garlic supplementation on performance parameters of broilers chicken is
presented in Table 3 . The results showed that broiler chickens fed diet supplemented with garlic
powder were not significantly (P>0.05) different in all the parameters across the treatments groups
except Dressing percentage that was significantly (P>0.05) different from T4 20g/kg (62.60) but
having similar value with T1 0g/kg (64.33). This could be attributed to the high amount of garlic
powder inclusion in the treatment diet and is not in accordance with the finding of Raeesi et al
(2010), who reported that it is better to use garlic as growth stimulator periodically than continuously
Table 3: Performance characteristics of broiler chickens fed garlic supplement

Parameter T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM
LSD
0kg 10kg 15kg 20kg
Initial weight 0.037 0.036 0.034 0.038 0.002 NS
Final Body weight 1.03 1.10 1.06 1.06 0.12 NS

Weekly body weight gain (kg) 0.12 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.01 NS
Dressed weight (kg) 0.83 0.66 0.67 0.73 0.93 NS
Percent Dressed weight 64.33a 61.10a 54.53b 62.60a 3.31 *
Feed Intake (kg) 0.53 0.45 0.45 0.49 0.04 NS
FCR 0.24 0.30 0.29 0.27 0.04 NS
Mortality (%) 10.00 6.67 6.67 3.33
Means in the same row with different letters in superscript are significantly different (P < 0 05)
Mean ± Standard deviation, FCR = Feed Conversion Ratio, SEM =Standard Error Mean, LSD
= Level of Significant Difference
Result of Internal organ weights of broiler chickens expressed as percent of live weight is presented
in (Table 4) . The parameters considered here were not significant (P<0.05) affected in birds fed diets
containing garlic powder as supplement except abdominal fat and intestine with T3 recorded
highest value 4.25 and that could result from higher proportion of test ingredient in the inclusion
Page | 67
level in the diet and effect of garlic on increase of mass of internal organs as explained by Otunola et
al (2010) which is not in agreement with the studies by Raeesi et al (2010), who reported that the
consequences of adverse effect of garlic derive from its chemical composition, and intestine recorded
similar values across the treatment groups
Table 4: Visceral organs or internal organs of broiler chickens fed garlic supplement
Visceral organ (g) T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM LSD
0kg 10kg 15kg 20kg
Liver 31.67 24.83 24.33 31.67 5.88 NS
Kidney 9.50 8.10 5.83 8.10 1.55 NS
Heart 7.33 6.67 6.17 7.17 1.01 NS
Spleen 1.25 0.82 0.42 0.42 0.57 NS
Pancreas 3.00 3.50 3.17 2.50 0.57 NS
Gizzard 40.50a 35.67c 40.83a 39.17b 4.49 NS
Abdominal fat 2.83 4.25 2.50 2.25 0.94 *
Proventriculus 7.83 7.50 8.10 9.00 1.38 NS
a b b b
Intestine 111.17 104.33 106.00 108.67 14.18 *
Means in the same row with different letters in superscript are significantly different (P < 0
05)Mean ± Standard deviation, SEM =Standard Error Mean, LSD = Level of Significant
Difference
Result of the Cut-up parts of broiler chickens fed garlic powder supplement is presented in Table 5
Cut up difference among the treatment groups except on the neck and back that were significantly
(P<0.05) were not affected by the test ingredient. Stanacev et al (2010) and Raeesi et al (2010) also
obtained similar result in their studies that revealed no significant different effect of garlic on cut up
parts. Control treatment (zero inclusion) had a significantly higher proportion of back and wing
compared with other treatment groups , which was in agreement with of results of these authors
Stanacev et al. (2010).
Table 5 : Cut-up parts of broiler chickens fed garlic supplement

Cut-up Parts (g) T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM LSD
0kg 10kg 15kg 20kg
Head 43.17 37.00 36.67 38.33 3.00 NS
Neck 51.67 40.33 42.33 47.83 4.60 NS
a c a b
Wings 98.00 81.81 91.00 86.33 6.38 *
Drumsticks 123.00 100.67 101.83 110.67 22.33 NS
Thigh 141.50 114.83 117.33 117.00 14.91 NS
Chest 193.16 161.00 170.83 175.33 22.70 NS
Back 170.67a 133.83b 126.83c 147.67b 13.88 *
Shank 55.17 49.50 51.59 52.50 5.46 NS
Means in the same row with different letters in superscript are significantly different (P < 0 05)Mean
± Standard deviation, SEM =Standard Error Mean, LSD = Level of Significant Difference Error
Mean, LSD = Level of Significant Difference
CONCLUSION
Based on results obtained in this trial, garlic Supplementation on performance and carcass
characteristics of broiler chickens can be improved specially at T4 20g/kg of garlic. Carcass
characteristics were not significantly (P > 0 05) influenced by the garlic dietary inclusion levels
RECOMMENDATION
From the above, it could be concluded that Birds fed with inclusion level of garlic at T4 20g/kg of
garlic can be recommended as the best diet to be fed to broiler chickens
Page | 68
REFERENCES
FAO, (2009): Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nation. Statistic Division.Garlic
production crop/world region/production Quantity.© FAO Statistics Divi sion
Olabanji, R. O., Farinu, G.O., Akinlade, J.A., Olabiyi O.O.,Odinsi A.A., Akingbade, A.A. (2009).
Studies on haematological and serum biochemical characteristics of broilers fed different
levels of wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) leave blood meal mixture. International
Journal of Agriculture apiculture Res.
Otunola, G.A., O.B. Oloyede, A.T. Oladiji, A.J. Afolayan, (2010): Comparative analysis of the
chemical composition of three spices – Allium sativum L. ZingiberofficinaleRosc. And
Capsicum frutescens L. commonly consumed in Nigeria. African Journal of Biotechnology
9, 6927-6931.
Raeesi, M., S.A. Hoseini-Alibad, A.A. Roofchaee, Z. Shahneh, S. Pirali, (2010): Effect of
Periodically Use of Garlic ( Alliumsativum ) Powder on Performance and Carcass
Characteristics in Broiler Chickens. World Academy of Science, Engineering and
Technology 68, 1213-1219.
Simon, P.W., M.M. Jenderek. (2003).Flowering, Seed Production, and the Genesis of Garlic
Breeding. Plant Breeding Reviews 23, 211-244
Stanaćev, V., N. Milošević, S. Kovčun, N. Plavša, S. Bjedov, V. Stanaćev, (2010) Effect of different
garlic levels in broiler chicken food on production parameters. Contemporary Agriculture
59, 86-91.
Page | 69
UTILIZATION OF RICE OFFAL AS A RELPACEMENT FOR WHEAT OFFAL AS

DIETARY FIBRE SOURCE BY BROILER CHICKENS
1
Shuibu Inuwa and 2Yakubu Usman
1
Ministry of Agriculture, Bauchi, Bauchi State Nigeria
2
. Department of Animal Health, Bauchi State College of Agriculture. Nigeria
Corresponding Author: shu‘ibu inuwa@gmail.com; Phone no: 08123729404
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens to dietary levels of
Rice offal as replacement to Wheat offal, using a completely randomized design, A total of
three hundred (300) day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks obtained from a commercial hatchery were used
for the experiment. Feed and water were supplied ad lib and the trial lasted for 4 weeks. In the
experiments. Rice offal replace Wheat offal as diet 1,2,3,4 and 5 respectively, as 0 (diet 1), 25
(diet 2), 50 (diet 3), 75 (diet 4), and (diet 5)100% levels. However, a synthetic enzyme,
Roxazyme G, at 100g/kg feed was supplemented along with the offal. The Results showed
no significant influence (P<0.05) of diet on initial weight, total weight, final weight gain and
feed conversion ratio. However, performance traits significantly (P<0.05) differ among the
diets on total feed intake, daily feed intake, daily weight gain and week 4 weight gain
respectively. It was therefore concluded that Rice offal can replace Wheat offal with synthetic
enzyme supplementation up to 100% level in broiler chicken diets without compromising
performance.
Keywords: Commercial diets, Broiler chickens and performance.
INTRODUCTION
Poultry production is the management of some or other species of birds (as earlier
enumerated) mainly for economic and nutritional purposes. These are domesticated birds
reared for their flesh or meat. The production of table birds (broilers) has grown into a major
industry in many advanced countries. However, it is more specialized than egg production
(Oluyemi and Roberts, 2011). Hence, commercial table birds‘ industry is now largely based
on broilers. These are fast growing birds which reach market weight of 1.8 to 2.0kg in eight
or twelve weeks at most. They are referred to as meat chicken. Members of this group grow
rapidly and attain market weight within two (2) to three (3) months of age. Depending on the
size and age, a meat chicken can be further classified as fryer or a roaster. However, whether
a fryer or a roaster, all meat chickens are generally called broilers. They are sold and eaten
before they attain egg laying age. Alltech, (2018), also referred to castrated male chickens as
capons.
Sorghum, millet, maize offal, rice bran and wheat offal, millet bran, spent sorghum grain and
broken rice could be recommended as alternative sources of feed ingredients in poultry
diets.(Medugu et al.,2011). Several workers have emphasized the need for utilizing
alternative feed ingredients removed from human and industrial uses (Durunna et al., 1999;
Fanimo et al., 2007; and Nsa et al., 2007).

Experimental Site
The experiments were carried out at the Poultry Unit, Teaching and Research Farm,
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi. The town, Bauchi, is located within the
southern guinea savannah on latitude 10.31 N and longitude 9.84 E. It is 616 metres above
sea level characterized a rainy season that commences in May and terminates in October and
a dry season that starts in November and ends in April. Mean annual rainfall is 1009 mm,
Page | 70
highest relative humidity 94% (August) and the lowest 35% (February). Temperatures are
between 13-17oC (December – February) and 36 – 37oC (March – April) (World Atlas,
2015).
Experimental diets
Five experimental starter diets containing 23% CP were formulated. Diet 1 which served as
the control contained 0% rice offal, while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 25, 50, 75 and 100%
levels of rice offal as replacement for wheat offal. The ingredients were measured out and
mixed using a feed mill mixer to ensure homogeneity. Percentage composition of graded
levels of rice offal for wheat offal in broiler starter diets are presented in Tables 1.
Table 1: Ingredients Composition (%) and Calculated Analysis of Dietary Levels of Rice
Offal Supplemented with Raxozyme® Fed to Starter Broilers (1- 4 weeks)
Diets
Maize 47.90 47.90 47.90 47.90 47.90
Groundnut cake 14.37 14.37 14.37 14.37 14.37
Wheat offal 10.00 7.50 5.00 2.50 0.00
Rice offal 0.00 2.50 5.00 7.50 10.00
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt (NaCl) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* (Starter) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
ME (Kcal/kg) 2840.00 2851.00 2862.00 2873.00 2884.00
Crude Protein 22.98 22.83 22.72 22.61 22.50
Crude Fibre 3.62 3.72 3.82 3.92 4.02
Ether Extract 6.76 6.99 7.22 7.45 7.67
Calcium 1.61 1.60 1.59 1.58 1.57
Phosphorous 0.73 0.74 0.75 0.76 0.77
Methionine 0.64 0.65 0.66 0.67 0.68
Lysine 1.28 1.28 1.29 1.29 1.30
ME; Metabolizable energy
Experimental Design
The birds were weighed to determine their initial weights and randomly allotted to five
experimental diets in 3 replicates of 20 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD).
(Steel and Torrie, 1990).
Experimental birds and their management
A total of three hundred (300) day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks obtained from a commercial
hatchery were used for the experiment. Prior to the commencement of the experiment, the
study pens were cleaned washed, disinfected and fumigated. Similar treatment was also made
on the feeders, drinkers and other equipment. A week after, wood shavings were spread on
the floor of the experimental pens to a depth of approximately 3 inches. Adequate
heating/lighting facilities, feeders, and drinkers were also provided.
After brooding the chicks for 2 weeks, where all recommended vaccinations were also made,
the birds were weighed to determine their initial weights. Feed and clean drinking water were
Page | 71
served ad libitum throughout the 56-day trial period. Birds were also given the second dose of
Infectious Bursal Disease vaccine (Gumboro vaccine) (Booster) on the 21st day and another
of NCDV a week after. All vaccines and drugs were orally administered.
Data Collection
Performance parameters
Feed consumption, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, daily weight gain, initial weight and
final weight were the performance parameters monitored during the study period. Initial live
weights of chickens were taken at the beginning of experiment, thereafter, weekly weights
were determined. These were in turn used to calculate the daily weight gain (DWG). Daily
mean feed intakes were also determined by subtracting the weight of left-over feed from the
quantity offered the previous day. Feed conversion ratio on the other hand, was calculated
from the relationship;
Where FCR= feed conversion ratio, FI= feed intake and WG= weight gain.
Mortalities were recorded for each treatment throughout the feeding trial

The performance of broiler chickens fed dietary levels of rice offal as replacement for wheat
offal were presented in Table 2. Results for productive performance did not reveal any
significant influence of diet, except for body weight at 4 weeks. Initial weight of birds ranged
between 233.33 g on diets 2 and 4 to 246.67 g on diet 5. Body weight of broiler chickens at
the end of starter phase (4 weeks) was significantly (P<0.05) lower on diet 1 (645.13 g) than
on all other diets (711.85 – 737.15 g) which were the same
During the starter phase, daily feed intake and daily weight gain were significantly (P<0.05)
affected. Daily feed intake was higher on diets 3 (52. 45 g) and 4 (51.57 g) and lower on diet
1 (45.45 g). However, diets 2 (49.23 g) and 5 (49.91 g) did not differ from 1, 2 and 3. Daily
weight gain was lower (P<0.05) on diet 1 (14.50g) and higher on other diets (17.08 – 17.52
g). Feed conversion ratio, 2.82 to 3.15 on diets 2 and 1 respectively, did not differ among
diets, while mortalities of 2 (diet), 2 (diet 2), 1 (diet 3) and 1 (diet 5) birds were recorded
during this growth segment. The significant (P<0.05) effect of diet on total feed intake, daily
feed intake and daily weight gain obtained in this experiment, supports the findings of
Supriyati et al. (2015) using fermented rice bran in broiler chicken diets. The decreased feed
intake in the rice bran based diets could be attributed to the higher crude fibre content of the
diet. According to Gonzalez-Alvarado et al. (2007), increased crude fibre content of the diet
decreases feed consumption of broiler chickens.
Table 2: Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing Rice Offal as
Replacement for Wheat Offal (g/bird)
Diets
Productive performance
Initial weight (g) 239.17 233.33 235.83 233.33 246.67 9.53 NS
b a a a a
Week 4 weight (g) 645.13 722.22 714.58 711.85 737.15 14.53*
Total weight gain (g) 884.30 955.56 950.41 945.18 983.82 98.03 NS
Starter phase (1 – 4 weeks)
Total feed intake (g) 1272.60b 1378.44ab 1468.60a 1443.96a 1397.48b 57.31*
Daily feed intake (g) 45.45b 49.23ab 52.45a 51.57a 49.91ab 2.81*
Daily weight gain (g) 14.50b 17.46a 17.09a 17.08a 17.52a 1.00*
Feed conversion ratio 3.15 2.82 3.08 3.03 2.85 0.27NS
Mortality (No.) 2 2 1 0 1 -
abc
Means bearing different superscripts within the same row differ; * = (P<0.05); NS= Not
significant; SEM = Standard Error of Means
Page | 72

Based on the results obtained in this study, it was concluded and recommended that; Rice
offal can replace dietary wheat offal in broiler chicken rations without any deleterious effect
on performance parameters. Rice offal supplemented with enzyme can replace wheat offal in
broiler chicken diets up to 100% without adverse effect on performance, therefore Rice offal
can be used in place of wheat offal in broiler starter ratios. Raxozyme G® enzyme is
recommended at inclusion level of 100g/kg feed in broiler chicken diets at starter phase.
REFERENCE
Alltech, (2018). How do you measure performance in poultry industry? Retrieved April 27,
2019 from https://www.alltech.com/blog/how-do-you-measure-performance-
poultryindustry.
Durunna, C.S., Udedibie, A.B.I. and Anyanwu, G.A. (1999). Combination of maize/sorghum
dried brewers‘ grain, cocoyam cob and cassava tuber meal as substitute for maize in
the diets of laying hens. Journal of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Environment, 2:1
– 7.
Fanimo, A.O., Adebayo, A.J., Oduguwa, O.O. and Biobaku, W.O. 2007. Feeding value of
cashew testa for broiler chickens. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 34(1): 83 –
93
Gonzalez-Alvarado, J. M., Jiminez-Moreno, E., Lazaro, R. and Mateos, G. G. (2007). Effect
of type and cereal, heat processing of the cereal, and inclusion of fibre in the diet on
productive performance and digestive traits of broilers. Poultry Science, 86:1705 –
1715.
Medugu, C.I Raji, A.O. Igwebuike, J. U. and Barwa, E. (2011). Alternative cereal grains
and cereal by-products as sources of energy in poultry diets- A review. Research
Opinions In animal and veterinary sciences Print ISSN 2221-1896, Online ISSN
2223-0343www.roavs.com
Nsa, E.E., Okereke, C.O. and Okon, B. 2007. Effects of supplementary green feedstuffs on
growth performance, internal organs development and abdominal fat deposition in
finisher broiler chickens. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of Nigerian
Society for Animal Production (NSAP), 18th – 21st March, 2007. University of
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Pp: 230 – 233
Oluyemi J. A. and F.A Roberts (2011). Poultry Production in Warm Wet Climates.
Macmillan press, London. Pp. 31.
Suprayati, T. H., Susanti T. and Susana, I. W. R. (2015). Nutritional value of rice bran
fermented by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Humic substances and its utilization as a
feed ingredient in broiler chickens, Asian-Australian Journal of animal science,
28(2):231 – 238.
Steel, R.G.D. and Torrie, J.H. (1990). Principles and Procedures of Statistics. 2nd Edition,
McGraw-Hill Book Co Inc., New York. Pp.23
https://www.worldatlas.com/af/ng/ba/where-is-bauchi.
Page | 73
EFFECT OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM), GINGER (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE),

AND THEIR COMBINATION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER BIRDS
Egbewande, O.O., Ibrahim, H.G., Idris, Y. and Kabiru, S.

Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University,
Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: femi2015.ooe@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This experiment was carried out to determine the effect of garlic (Allium sativum), ginger (Zingiber
officinale), and their combination as immune booster on performance of broiler chickens. In a
completely randomized design a total of one hundred and fifty (150) day old broiler chicks of
Marshall Strain were randomly allotted into three replicates of 10 chicks/replicate (n = 30) used for
the experiment. Four experimental diets were formulated in such a way that control diet (T1)
contained neither ginger nor garlic. Birds in T2 were fed diet containing 2% garlic, while those in T3
were fed 2% ginger. Birds in T4 were fed combination of 1% of garlic and 1% ginger. Birds in T1
were administered vaccines (Lasota and Gumboro), while the rest treatments were not vaccinated. The
experiment lasted eight weeks. Results showed that there were no significant differences in all the
performance parameters measured except in feed conversion ratio (FCR). Birds fed in T4 had the best
(1.82) feed conversion ratio, while the least (2.00) was recorded in birds fed garlic (T2). Birds fed
combination of the test ingredients had the best (2003.21g) final body weight, followed by those fed
control diet (T1) (1907.83g), while the least (1885.47g) was recorded in those fed garlic (T3). No
mortality was recorded in birds fed combination of garlic and ginger while, those fed control diet had
the highest. It can be concluded that the test ingredients improved the immune system of the birds.
Key words: Performance, garlic, ginger, immune, broiler
INTRODUCTION
Antibiotic growth promoters (ABGPs) have been intensely used in broilers diets to improve their
productivity. However, many countries have currently banned the use of these growth promoters
(drugs and antibiotics) due to the side effects on animals and humans (Khachatourian, 1998). Search
for alternatives to the growth promoters has arisen in animal production practices, especially in the
use of additives of plant origin which are natural and safe to consumers (Soliman, 2003). Garlic and
ginger can be used as natural growth promoters for their antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-
protozoal, immuno-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and cardiovascular protecting
effects (Zhang et al., 2009). It was on the above that the study investigated the effect of garlic, ginger
and their combination on the performance of broiler chickens.

Experimental site
The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Ibrahim
Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai Niger State. The area is located in the Guinea Savannah,
Middle Belt of Nigeria. It lies on longitude 9.02oN and latitude 6.3oE of the equator with an average
temperature range of 21oC – 36.5oC and a rainfall range of 1100-1600mm (Usman, 2013).
Source and processing of test ingredients
Garlic and ginger were purchased at Kure Modern Market in Minna, Niger State. Garlic bulbs were
peeled manually and both (ginger and garlic) were cut into smaller pieces after the removal of fibrous
material (ginger) and dry scales (garlic). They were crushed using pestle and mortar, and later air
dried. After drying, they were ground, passed through 1mm sieve and later mixed with other
ingredients.
Experimental diets
Four diets containing approximately 23 and 21% crude protein in starter and finisher diets
respectively were formulated for the experiment (Table 1). The Metabolizable energy for both starter
and finisher diets was 2877.37 and 2917.04kcal/kg respectively. The diets were formulated in such a
way that control diet (T1) contained neither ginger nor garlic. Birds in T2 were fed diet containing 2%
Page | 74
garlic, while those in T3 were fed 2% ginger. Birds in T4 were fed combination of 1% of garlic and
1% ginger.
Table 1: Gross composition of broiler starter and finisher diets

Ingredient (%) Starter Finisher
Control Garlic Ginger Combination Control Garlic Ginger Combination
Maize 54.40 52.40 52.40 52.40 56.40 54.40 54.40 54.40
Groundnut cake 31.90 31.90 31.90 31.90 26.40 26.40 26.40 26.40
Wheat offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 10.50 10.50 10.50 10.50
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Limestone 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Premix 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Common salt 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Garlic 0.00 2.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 2.00 0.00 1.00
Ginger 0.00 0.00 2.00 1.00 0.00 0.00 2.00 1.00
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated:
Crudeprotein(%) 23.60 23.90 23.90 23.67 20.69 20.93 20.93 20.94
Metabolizable
energy (kcal/kg) 2903.06 2893.94 2893.94 2878.07 2869.71 2859.91 2859.93 2860.34
T1 = control diet, T2 = diet + garlic, T3 = diet + ginger, T4 = diet + garlic + ginger
Experimental birds and management

One hundred and twenty day old broiler chicks were used for the study. In a completely randomized
design (CRD), the birds were divided into four treatments of 30 birds each and 10 chicks per replicate.
Prior to the arrival of the chicks, the pens were washed and disinfected using Izal® solution and the
floor of the pen was covered with wood shavings. The experiment lasted eight (8) weeks. On arrival,
the chicks were served experimental diets and clean water containing anti-stress (Vitalyte®). The
chicks were allocated into four treatments (T1, T2, T3 and T4). On the 10th day, chicks fed control
(T1) were administered Infectious Bursal Diseases (IBD) (Gumboro) vaccine via drinking water, and
on the 21st day, they were administered Newcastle Disease Vaccine (Lasota) via drinking water. On
the 35th day, the infectious bursal disease vaccine was repeated. At the fourth week, Coccidiostat
(Amprollium®) was administered for 3-5 days. The above vaccines were administered only to the
chicks in T1.
Data collection
Feed intake was recorded on weekly basis. It was the total amount of feed consumed by the birds
within the week minus the left over at the end of the week. The birds were weighed on weekly basis.
Initial weight was subtracted from the final weight to get the body weight gain.
Feed conversion ratio was calculated at the end of each week as:
( )
( )
The number of birds that were alive at the expiration of the experiment was recorded and expressed as
percentage (%) of the total number of stocked birds.
( )
Statistical analysis
Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) according to the procedure
of Steel and Torrie (1980). The significant means were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range Test
(Duncan, 1955) at 5% probability level.
Page | 75

Table 2 showed the results of the performance characteristics of broiler chickens fed garlic, ginger
and their combination. Birds in T4 recorded no mortality while the highest mortality was recorded in
T1. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences among the treatments in all the parameters studied
in this trial except the feed conversion ratio (FCR). Birds in T4 had the best (1.82) feed conversion
ratio, followed by those in T1 (1.95), T3 (1.96), and lastly by those in T2 (2.00) as far as this study is
concerned. Birds in T4 had the highest (2003.21g) final weight gain and mean daily body weight gain
of 35.77g, followed by birds in T1 (1907.83g) with mean daily body weight gain of 34.07g. Birds in
T3 had the lowest mean final weight of 1885.47g with mean daily body weight gain of 33.82g. Birds
in T2 had the highest (3778.91g) feed intake while, those in T4 had the lowest (3653.90g). The mean
daily feed intake followed the same pattern as in feed intake.
Table 2: Performance characteristics of broilers fed test ingredients as immune booster

Parameter (g) Control Garlic Ginger Combination p value
Initial body weight 37.00 36.00 35.00 34.00 0.69
Final weight 1907.83 1894.06 1885.47 2003.21 0.35
Mean daily body weight gain 34.07 33.82 33.67 35.77 0.44
Mean Feed intake 3721.79 3778.91 3686.56 3653.90 0.77
Mean daily feed intake 66.46 67.48 65.83 63.46 0.55
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) 1.95b 2.00c 1.96b 1.82a 0.04
Survival (%) 86.67 93.33 93.33 100.00 -
abc
: Means with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different. T1 = control diet, T2 = diet +
garlic, T3 = diet + ginger, T4 = diet + garlic + ginger
The supplementation of garlic and ginger diets fed alone in the birds does not exert any significant
effect on FCR as compared to control. Results obtained in this study for the final weight showed that
combination of garlic and ginger (T4) improved the growth of the birds at the inclusion rate better
than treatments where ginger and garlic were used singly. These results contradicted the findings of
Aji et al., (2011) who has reported non-significant effect of garlic on FCR. These results did not
corroborate with the reports of Ademola et al. (2009) and Thayalini et al. (2011), who did not observe
any significant improvement in the feed conversion ratio of broilers fed on a diet containing ginger
powder as compared to the control group. The mean feed intake of the experimental birds showed no
significant (p>0.05) differences. It showed that there was no effect of smell or taste of garlic and
ginger on the palatability of feed in the broiler diets. Total body weight gain (g) of experimental birds
fed with combination of garlic and ginger T4 showed higher value as compared to other treatments.
Similar and slightly different results were reported by Zhang et al. (2009). Improvement in final
weight and mean daily body weight gain of broiler chicks fed combination of garlic and ginger might
be due to the active components in the test ingredient which stimulate digestive enzymes and improve
overall digestion and thus led to increase of both parameters. Survival percent showed that the
antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-protozoal and antifungal properties of both ginger and
garlic were in action. These agreed with the reports of Rahman (2001) and Ogbuewu et al. (2019) that
both ingredients lowered mortality and increase livability.

It was concluded that the use of garlic, ginger and the combination of garlic and ginger can be used to
improve growth performance of broiler birds at 20g/kg of feed, and reduced mortality rate. Though
there were no statistically significant differences observed among the birds fed the different diets, but
T4 (combination of garlic and ginger) recorded no mortality, and higher final weight compared to T1,
T2 and T3, it is therefore, recommended that combination of garlic and ginger be used to improve
broiler growth. However, further research work is recommended.
Page | 76
REFERENCES
Ademola, S.G., Farinu, G.O. and Babatunde, G.M. (2009). Serum lipid, growth and haematological
parameters of broilers fed garlic, ginger and their mixtures. World J. Agric. Sci., 5: 99-104.
Aji, S.B., Ignatius, K., Ado, Y.A., Nuhu, J.B., Abdulkarim, A., Aliyu, U., Gambo, M.B., Ibrahim,
M.A., Abubakar, H., Bukar, M.M., Imam, H.M. and Numan, P.T. (2011). Effects of feeding
onion (Allium cepa) and garlic (Allium sativum) on some performance characteristics of
broiler chickens. Res. J. Poult. Sci., 4(2): 22–27.
Duncan, D. B. (1955). Multiple Range and Multiple F-tests Biometrics 11: 1-42.
Khachatourian, G.G. (1998). Agricultural use of antibiotics and the evolution and transfer of antibiotic
resistant bacteria. Can. Med. Assoc. J. 159: 1129-1136.
Ogbuewu, I.P., Okoro, V.M., Mbajiorgu, E.F. and Mbajiorgu, C.A. (2019). Beneficial effects of garlic
in livestock and poultry nutrition – A review. Agricultural Research, 8: 411- 426.
Rahman, K. (2001). Historical perspective on garlic and cardiovascular disease. J. Nutr., 131: 977-
979.
Soliman, A.Z.M. (2003). Effect of Marjoran bacitracin active yeast as feed additive on the
performance and microbial content of the broiler intestinal tract. Egypt Poult. Sci. J., 23(11):
445-467.
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principles and Procedures of Statistics. A Biometrical
Approach.
(2nd ed.), McGraw-Hill Publications. New York.
Thayalini, K., Shanmugavelu, S., Saminathan, P.M., SitiMasidayu, M.S., Nor Idayusni, Y.,
Zainuddin, H., Nurul Akmal, C.A. and Wong, H.K. (2011). Effects of Cymbopogon
citratus leaf and Zingiber officinale rhizome supplementation on growth performance, ileal
morphology and lactic acid concentration in broilers. Malay. J. Anim. Sci. 14: 43–49.
Usman, B.A. (2013). Vulnerability and adaptation capability of the rural poor to climate change.
Effect in Kwara State, Nigeria. Lapai Sociological Review, 4(1): 142-162
Zhang, G.F., Yang, Z.B., Wang, Y., Yang, W.R., Jiang, S.Z. and Gai, G.S. (2009). Effects of ginger
root (Zingiber officinale) processed to different particle sizes on growth performance,
antioxidant status and serum metabolites of broiler chickens. Poult. Sci., 88: 2159-2166.
Page | 77
PERFORMANCE OF GROWER CROSS BRED RABBITS OF FED FONIO (DIGITARIA

EXILIS) OFFAL AS FIBRE SOURCE
1
Sudik, S. D. and 2Ajiji, I.
1
Department of Animal Science, Federal University, Gashua, Yobe State, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Health and Production, College of Agriculture, Garkawa
Corresponding author‘s email: davidsudik@yahoo.com Mobile phone: +2348065633451
ABSTRACT
The over relying on wheat offal and in lesser cases maize or rice offal as fibre source in feed
formulation particularly for mongastrics livestock threatens some locally available offals which
perhaps could have provide alternatives. Therefore, to search for alternative, this study was conducted
to determine the performance of grower rabbits of cross breed fed fonio (Digitaria exilis) offal as
fibre source. Five diets (designated as T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5) were formulated. The content of wheat
offal (WO) was replaced with fonio offal (FO) by 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, respectively. The
0% (T1) served as control. Twenty five (25) grower rabbits of cross breed at 5 weeks old were used.
They were distributed randomly into the five diets. Each diet had 5 rabbits and each rabbit represents
a replicate. Rabbits fed on T5 had highest (p<0.05) total weight gain (TWG), daily weight gain
(DWG) and best feed conversion ratio (FCR) than those fed on T4, T3, T2 and T1. Similarly, those
fed on T4 and T3 had higher (p<0.05) weight gains and FCR than those fed on T2 and T1 while those
fed on T2 had similar (p>0.05) with those fed on T1. Total feed intake and daily feed intake were
similar (p>0.05) among treatments. There was no mortality. It may be concluded that FO can totally
replace WO in grower rabbits‘ diet without negative effect performance. Therefore, FO is
recommended as alternative for WO.
Keywords: fonio offal, Fibre source, Performance, Grower rabbits, Wheat offal.
INTRODUCTION
Rabbits consume many kinds of feeds satisfactorily including green feeds, dry roughages, and
concentrate feeds (NAS, 2019; Owoleke et al., 2016). Rabbits have preference to the green feeds
because of the high succulent and palatability but most green feeds (grasses and legume) are usually
seasonal (NAS, 2019). A high carbohydrate concentrate added to roughages increases energy density
while high protein supplement helps in meeting the recommended protein requirements (NAS, 2019).
Like ruminants, the presence of fermentation vat in rabbits though distal the digestive tract make it
possible to utilize high dietary fibre (Zsolt et al., 2011). Zsolt et al. (2011) reported that dietary fibre
constitutes 40-50% of total diet of rabbits. The high proportion of dietary fibres in the diet and the
lesser cost of fibre resources make cost of feed of rabbit lower in comparison to poultry and swine‘s
feeds. Studying the potentials of locally available resources would provide more alternatives and
sustain growing interest particularly in rabbit production. One of such locally ingredients is fonio
offal. Fonio offal is a by-product of fonio (also known as hungry rice) grains (Digitaria exilis)
obtained when producing fonio flour or preparing other fonio foods. Two varieties of fonio are found
in Nigeria and are natively called ―acha‖ (Digitaria exils) and ―iburu‖ (Dgitaria iburua) (Gyang and
Wuyep, 2005). Folio affal contains 11.02% crude fibre (Sudik and Gofwan, 2017) similar to 11% of
wheat offal (USDA, 2012). An FAO e-conference on ‗food waste to animal feed‘ stressed the need to
convert food wastes to animal feed (Thieme and Makkar, 2016). The aim of this study is; to determine
the performance of grower rabbits of cross breed fed fonio (Digitaria exils) offal as dietary fibre
source.

The experiment was conducted at the Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa. Garkawa is
located in the Southern Zone of Plateau State, coordinated within latitude 8.8955oN and longitude
9.4537oE. It is characterized of Guinea Savanna climatic condition and vegetation patterns
(Wikipedia, 2019).
The test ingredient was collected from fonio (acha) milling house in Bogoro town of Bogoro Local
Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria. Five diets (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5) were formulated. The
Page | 78
content of wheat offal (WO) in the diets was replaced with fonio offal (FO) by 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%
and 100%, respectively. The 0% diet served as control. The diets were formulated to meet the nutrient
requirements of grower rabbits described by Zsolt et al. (2011). Twenty five (25) grower rabbits of
cross breed at 5 weeks old were purchased from a reputable Rabbit Farm in Jos, Plateau State. They
were randomly divided into 5 treatments. Each treatment had 5 rabbits and each rabbit represent a
replicate because each hutch could not accommodate more than one rabbit. The rabbits were
individual housed in a 60 cm by 45 cm hutch equipped with feeder and drinker. They were served
with their respective dietary treatments and drinking water ad libitum. They were dewormed with
ivermetin in the first week of the experiment and coccidiostat was occasional administered as
prophylactic against coccidiosis. The experiment lasted for 42 days.
At the beginning of the study the rabbits‘ weights were taken using a sensitive scale graduated in
0.001 to determine the initial weights and thereafter, at weekly interval to determine weekly live
weight. The difference in weight between two conservative weeks gave the weekly weight gain. Daily
weight gain was determined by dividing the cumulative weekly weights by 42. Feed intake was
monitored daily using the same sensitive scale by subtracting the left-over from the quantity of feed
supplied the previous day. Daily feed intake was determined by dividing the cumulative daily feed
consumed by 42. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was derived as the ratio of feed consumed to weight
gain.
Data generated was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the SPSS version 25.0
and significance of differences among treatments was determined using Duncan multiple range test of
the same software.
Table 1: Composition and calculated nutrients (%) of experimental diets

Ingredients T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Maize 32.50 32.50 32.50 32.50 32.50
Wheat offal 45.00 33.75 22.50 11.25 0.00
Fonio offal 0.00 11.25 22.50 33.75 45.00
Soybean 15.50 15.50 15.50 15.50 15.50
Groundnut cake 5.30 5.30 5.30 5.30 5.30
Limestone 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.70
Salt 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Protein % 16.00 16.11 16.25 16.33 16.42
ME(kcal/) 2500.79 2510.47 2522.67 2536.36 2544.14
Crude fibre 10.00 10.08 10.10 10.12 10.13
Lysine 0.65 0.67 0.69 0.70 0.73
Methionine 0.45 0.45 0.47 0.48 0.50
Calcium 0.40 0.40 0.41 0.41 0.42
Phosphorus 0.22 0.23 0.24 0.25 0.25
ME = metabolizable energy.
RESULTS
Table 2 shows the performance of grower rabbits of cross breed fed fonio (Digitaria exilis) offal as
fibre source. Rabbits fed on T5 and T4 (p<0.05) had highest final weights while those fed on T1 and
T2 had lowest. Rabbits fed on T5 had highest (p<0.05) total weight gain (TWG) and daily weight gain
(DWG) than those fed on T4, T3, T2 and T1. Similarly, rabbits fed on T4 and T3 had better (p<0.05)
weight gains than those fed on T2 and T1 while those fed on T2 had similar (p>0.05) with those fed
on T1. Total feed intake and daily feed intake were similar (p>0.05) among treatments. Also, rabbits
fed on T5 had best (p<0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) than those fed on T4, T3, T2 andT1; those
fed on T4 and T3 had better (P<0.0) than those fed T2 and T1 while those fed T2 had similar (p>0.05)
with those fed on T1. There was no record of mortality.
DISCUSSION
The significant (p<0.05) superior performance of the grower rabbits fed on 100% FO in regard to
weight gain and FCR is an indication that FO would completely replace WO without compromising
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performance. This further indicates that FO may perhaps contain some nutrients that support growth
and feed conversion ratio which are lacking in WO. This corroborated with the report of Sudik and
Gofwan (2017) that FO contains higher level of sulfur amino acids (methionine and cysteine) than
most cereal offals. Methionine helps liver to process fat and is a methyl donor capable of giving off its
molecules needed for a wide variety of chemical and metabolic reactions inside the body, including
the manufacture of the amino acid taurine (EFRT, 2000). Cysteine is a major constituent of the
proteins, that make up hair, nails, and skin and is involved in major processes in the body (EFRT,
2000). The non-record of mortality buttressed that AO may be converted into feed without negative
effect. This support the report of Thieme and Makkar (2016) and FAO (2015) that food wastes make
excellent animals‘ feed resources.
Table 2: Performance of grower rabbits of cross breed fed acha offal as fibre source
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 Level of
significant
Initial weight 1.80±0.07 1.83±0.03 1.81±0.03 1.84±0.06 1.81±0.07 NS
(kg)
Final weight (kg) 2.85±9.14c 2.90±7.55c 2.94±6.99b 3.03±3.67a 3.09±4.28a *
c c b ab a
Total weight 1.05±0.31 1.07±0.51 1.13±0.34 1.19±0.26 1.28±0.18 *
gain(kg)
Daily weight 25.00±3.53c 25.36±3.16c 26.79±4.12b 28.33±3.72ab 30.36±3.81a *
gain (g)
Total feed intake 6.30±0.15 6.33±0.21 6.31±0.22 5.96±0.41 5.92±0.55 NS
(kg)
Daily feed intake 150.10±10.12 150.04±11.32 146.45±8.34 142.61±7.44 141.43±8.16 NS
(g)
Feed conversion 6.00±0.10a 5.76±0.13a 5.64±0.21b 5.01±0.13b 4.64±0.17c *
ratio
Means in the same column with different superscripts differed significantly, but similar superscripts
did not differ significantly: * significantly (P<0.05); NS= Non- Significant (P>0.05).
CONCLUSION
In this study no problems were encountered by a total replacement of WO with FO in regards to the
growth and feed conversion ratio of rabbits. Therefore, FO is recommended as alternative dietary
fibre source in grower rabbit‘s diets.
REFERENCES
EFRT (2000). Expert Consultation. European Food Research and Technology. Publisher Springer,
Berlin/Herdiberg, 211: 2
FAO (2015). Food outlook. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Rome, Italy.
http://www.fao.org/3/a-i4581e.pdf (accessed 21 March 2016).
Gyang, J. D. and Wuyep, E. O. (2005). Acha: The grain of life. A Bi-annual publication of the Raw
Materials Research and Development Council, 6 (1): 39-41.
NAS (2019). Nutrient requirements of rabbits. Second Revise Edition. National Academy of Sciences.
55 Fifth St., MW/Washington DC, 20001.
Owoleke, O. E., Tanimomo, B. K., Adama , T. Z., Akanya, H. O., Alemede, I. C.Adeiza , M. A., and
Kolawole, V. O. (2016). Feed evaluation and growth performance of rabbits fed diets
containing different forages. Vom Journal of Veterinary Science, 11: 101-111.
Shiru, M. S. (2018). Trend analysis of droughts during crop growing seasons of Nigeria.
Sustainability, 10(3): 871.
Sudik, S. D. (2016). Nutrient distributions and biochemical studies of acha (Digitaria spp) in infant
weaning foods and poultry diets. PhD Thesis, Federal University of Technology, Akure,
Nigeria.
Sudik, S. D. and Gofwan, P. G. (2017). Fractional nutrient composition of acha (Digitaria exilis).
International Journal of Science and Applied Research, 2(2):96-102.
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Thieme, O. and Makkar, H. P. S. (2016). Summary document of the FAO e-mail conference.
Utilization of food loss and waste as well as non-food parts as livestock feed, 00153Rome,
Italy: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Animal Production and
Health Division. http://www.fao.org/3/a-bc344e.pdf
USDA (2012). Feed Composition Table. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release
22. United States Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service, 70.
Zsolt, S., Zsolt, M. and Zsolt, G. (2011). Effect of housing conditions on production and behavior of
growing meat rabbits: A Review. Livestock Science, 137: 296-303.
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GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF

GROWING PULLETS FED VARYING INCLUSION LEVELS OF PALM
KERNEL CAKE
*1Dim C.E., 1Ogwuegbu M.C., 2Ekere S.O., 1Ezekwesili U.C., 1Chukwudi P. and 1Onyimonyi A.E.
1
Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
2
Department of Veterinary Obstetrics & Reproductive Diseases, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
*Corresponding author: Email: chinonso.dim@unn.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The effect of feeding varying inclusion levels of palm kernel cake (PKC) on the growth performance and cost-
benefit analysis of growing pullets was determined in a nine week study. Ninety six 11-weeks old pullets
(Golden nestlink strain) averaging 710.00±10.86 g bodyweight (BW) were randomly assigned to 4 treatment
groups (T1-T4), replicated twice with 12 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each
group was allotted to four diets having graded levels of PKC thus: T1=0 % PKC 100 kg-1 diet, T2=5 % PKC
100 kg-1 diet, T3= 10 % PKC 100 kg-1 diet and T4=15 % PKC 100 kg-1 diet. Feed and water were supplied ad
libitum. Results showed that the effect of diets on final BW, BW gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and
feed cost per kg gain were significant (p<0.05). Average daily weight gain of 12.38±0.07 g observed in birds of
T4 was significantly different (p<0.05) from values of 8.41±0.04 g, 9.20±0.02 g and 11.26±0.05 g recorded for
birds in T1, T2 and T3 respectively. Birds on treatment T4 (15 % PKC) had superior feed cost per kg gain of ₦
348.19±9.86 which differed significantly (p<0.05) from ₦ 389.06±11.02, ₦ 489.22±8.72 and ₦ 456.10±10.11
observed in T3, T2 and T1 respectively. It was also observed that feed intake, weight gain alongside cost
differential values of treatment diets increased as dietary PKC levels increased from 0-15 % 100 kg-1. It was
thus concluded that growing pullets can cost-effectively tolerate up to 15 % PKC in their diets without
compromising performance.
Keywords: Animal protein, cost-effective feedstuff, nutrition, PKC, pullet chickens
INTRODUCTION
Egg production enterprise plays a key role in improving animal protein intake in developing nations
of the world, where the average populace earns about $ 1 per day (FAO, 2010). Hence, raising good
laying flock to supply the ample eggs needed to meet the recommended consumption of essential
amino acids per caput is necessary (Oluyemi and Roberts, 2000). Several feedstuffs have been used to
improve the performance of laying birds in a farm production cycle but with extra cost. Since feeding
amounts to approximately 70% of production cost in a farm enterprise, a feedstuff that cost-
effectively guarantees quality performance of animals should be well-preferred by local farmers. Palm
kernel cake (PKC) is a by-product of hydraulic press oil extraction of the endosperm of oil palm fruit
(Elaeis guineensis) (Afolabi et al., 2008), which have been used in poultry nutrition as feedstuff to
optimize their growth and general performance (Ugwu et al., 2008; Ezieshi and Olomu, 2004). It has
been reported by Sundu et al. (2006) to be cheap, readily available and aflatoxin free with appreciable
potential as carbohydrate and protein sources (Mustafa et al., 2004). The tolerance of PKC by the
gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of poultry has been disputed due to the inability of the birds‘ body to
manage and utilize the amount of fibre characteristic of PKC (Sharmila et al., 2014). Hence, the study
evaluated the performance of growing pullets fed varying dietary inclusion levels of PKC, paying
close attention to their growth and the cost-benefit analysis of the feeding.

Location, duration and ethical clearance of the study
The study was conducted at the poultry unit of the Department of Animal Science Teaching and
Research Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Nsukka is bound geographically within latitude 6o 51‘
28.2‘‘ N and longitude 7o 23‘ 44.8‘‘ E and on the altitude 447 m above sea level (Obioha, 1992). The
climate of the study area is typically tropical, with relative humidity ranging from 65-80 % and mean
daily temperature of 26.8 oC (Agbagha et al., 2000). The study lasted for nine (9) weeks during which
the provisions of the Ethical Committee on the Use of Animals and Humans for Biomedical Research,
University of Nigeria Nsukka were ardently adhered to.
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Experimental material and diets

PKC was considered as the test ingredient and used alongside other feed ingredients to formulate the
experimental diets. PKC was included at different inclusion levels of 0, 5, 10 and 15 % 100 kg -1 diet
and assigned to the four treatment groups labeled T1-T4 respectively. The percentage composition of
the experimental diets was presented in Table 1.
Table 1: Percentage composition of experimental diets

Maize 34.00 32.00 30.00 30.00
Soy bean meal 6.00 7.00 6.00 5.00
Wheat offal 56.00 52.00 50.00 46.00
Palm kernel cake - 5.00 10.00 15.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vitamin premix* 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated composition
Crude protein (%) 15.62 16.09 16.00 15.77
Crude fibre (%) 5.83 6.12 6.44 6.64
Energy (Mcal kg-1 ME) 2.38 2.37 2.34 2.35
Cost/tonne (₦) 59705 58385 55825 53905
*Each 2.5kg of Starter premix contains: vit. A, 10000000 IU; vit. D3, 2000000 IU; vit. E, 23000 mg; vit. K3, 2000mg; vit.
B1, 1800mg; vit. B2, 5500mg; Niacin, 27500mg; pantothenic acid, 7500mg; vit. B6, 3000mg; vit. B12, 15mg; folic acid,
750mg; biotin H2, 60mg; choline chloride, 300000mg; cobalt, 200mg; copper, 3000mg; iodine, 1000mg; iron, 20000mg;
manganese, 40000mg; selenium, 200mg; zinc, 30000mg; antioxidant, 1250mg. T1=0 % palm kernel cake 100 kg -1 diet;
T2=5 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet; T3=10 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet; T4=15 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet
Management of experimental birds

Ninety six 11-weeks old pullets (Golden nest-link strain) averaging 0.71±0.01 kg body weight were
randomly divided into 4 treatment groups (T1-T4), replicated twice with 12 birds per replicate in a
completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were placed in a double sided flat deck laying cages
with an area of 2 m x 2 m. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. The birds were fed for 7 days
prior to data collection to get them stabilized on the test diet. Routine vaccination and prophylactic
treatments were administered to the flock during the study. Records on feed intake and body weight
gain were properly documented. All measurements were taken between 8.00 am and 12.00 pm.
Statistical analyses
Data collected were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for a CRD using a
Statistical Analysis System (SAS, 2006). Significantly different means were separated using Duncan‘s
New Multiple Range Test as outlined by Obi (2002).

Growth performance of growing pullets fed varying inclusion levels of palm kernel cake
Table 2 shows the growth performance of growing pullets fed varying inclusion levels of palm kernel
cake. The result showed that the effect of the test diets on the final bodyweight, average daily gain,
average daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed cost/kg gain were statistically significant
(p<0.05). There was a significant increase in final body weight of the birds as the level of PKC in the
diet increased. Birds on the highest level of PKC inclusion (T4) had significantly (p<0.05) higher
body weight of 1490.00±20.06 g which differed from the 1240.00±22.10, 1300.00±18.92 and
1410.00±26.15 g recorded for birds on T1 (0 %), T2 (5 %), and T3 (10 %) respectively. The same
trend of result was observed for average daily gain of the birds. Birds on T4 (15 %) had significantly
(p<0.05) higher daily gain value of 12.38±0.07 g which differed from 8.41±0.04, 9.20±0.02 and
11.26±0.05 g recorded for birds on T1 (0 %), T2 (5%) and T3 (10%) respectively. This increase in
body weight might be due to the crude fibre content of the PKC which optimized feed intake to meet
the nutritional requirements of the birds. This intake of nutrients ultimately resulted in higher weight
gains in the birds across the treatment groups. The result of this present study disagrees with the
Page | 83
findings of Ezieshi and Olomu (2004) who observed decreased weight gain when PKC was used to
replace up to 30 or 43.75% of the maize fraction of the control diet. The observed difference may be
attributed to the higher levels of PKC in their experimental diet. There was also significant increase in
average daily feed intake. It was observed that as the level of PKC inclusion increased from 0 %-15
%, feed intake also increased. Thus, birds on the highest inclusion level (T4) had a feed intake value
of 80.00±6.90 g which differed significantly (p<0.05) from 64.29±5.91, 77.14±4.88 and 78.51±7.28 g
recorded for birds on T1, T2 and T3 respectively. This noted increase in the birds‘ feed intake may be
due to the nature of their diet. Soltan (2009) and Ugwu et al. (2008) had earlier reported that increased
dietary fibre increases feed intake. There is literature evidence that dietary fibre causes a dilution of
the energy content of the ration, causing birds to consume more feed in an attempt to satisfy their
energy requirement (Sundu et al., 2006; Onifade, 1993). This may have been the reason for the
increased feed intake with increasing PKC levels observed in this study. However, Zanu et al. (2012)
recorded conflicting results as they documented a decrease in feed consumption of laying birds as
levels of PKC increased to 15 kg 100 kg-1 diet. The authors linked the reduced feed intake to the high
fibre content of the PKC diets used in their study. Nevertheless, a marked decrease was observed in
the cost of diet kg-1 as the inclusion level of PKC increased. Birds on T4 had superior feed cost per kg
gain of ₦ 348.19±9.86 which differed significantly (p<0.05) from ₦ 456.10±10.11, ₦ 489.22±22 and
₦ 389.06±11.02 observed for birds on T1, T2 and T3 respectively. The reduction in cost could be
attributed to the increasing levels of PKC used. This result is in tandem with the reports of Ugwu et
al. (2008) and Amata (2014) who asserted that non-conventional feedstuff resulted in lower
composition cost thereby resulting in higher economic returns.
Table 2: Growth performance of growing pullets fed graded levels of palm kernel cake
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM
IBW (g bird-1) 710.00±12.00 720.00±9.76 700.00±11.32 710.00±10.34 0.00
FBW (g bird-1) 1240.00d±22.10 1300.00c±18.92 1410.00b±26.15 1490.00a±20.06 40.00
ADWG (g bird-1) 8.41d±0.04 9.20c±0.02 11.26b±0.05 12.38a±0.07 0.04
ADFI (g bird-1) 64.29d±5.91 77.14c±4.88 78.51b±7.28 80.00a±6.90 0.17
Feed conversion ratio 7.64c±0.08 8.38d±0.01 6.97b±0.04 6.46a±0.00 0.31
Feed cost/kg gain (₦) 456.10b±10.11 489.22a±8.72 389.06c±11.02 348.19d±9.86 23.94
abc
=Means on the same row with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different; SEM=standard error of mean;
IBW=initial bodyweight; FBW=final bodyweight; ADWG=average daily weight gain; ADFI=average daily feed intake;
T1=0 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet; T2=5 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet; T3=10 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet;
T4=15 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet
Cost-benefit of feeding graded levels of palm kernel cake to growing pullets

Table 3 shows the cost-benefit of feeding varying dietary inclusion levels of PKC to growing pullets.
T4 had the least cost/kg diet of ₦ 53.90 which differed from ₦ 59.70, ₦ 58.38 and ₦55.82 values
obtained from T1, T2 and T3 respectively. The cost difference indicates that the diet of T4 was the
most cost effective having a differential of ₦ 5800 tonne-1, better than T3 and T2 having ₦ 3880 ton-1
and ₦ 1320 tonne-1 respectively.
Table 3: Cost benefit of feeding varying dietary inclusion levels of palm kernel cake to growing
pullets
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4
Cost kg-1 diet (₦) 59.70 58.38 55.82 53.90
Cost 100 kg-1 diet (₦) 5970.50 5838.50 5582.50 5390.50
Cost tonne-1 (₦) 59705.00 58385.00 55825.00 53905.00
_
Cost differential (₦) 1320.00 3880.00 5800.00
T1=0 % palm kernel cake 100 kg diet; T2=5 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet; T3=10 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet;
-1
T4=15 % palm kernel cake 100 kg-1 diet
CONCLUSION
From the present study, PKC in the diets of pullets (5, 10 and 15 % 100 kg-1) positively affected the
performance of the birds by guaranteeing superior final body weights (1300.00 c±18.92,
1410.00b±26.15 and 1490.00a±20.06 g bird-1 for T2, T3 and T4, respectively) and cost of feeding
Page | 84
(recording cost differentials of ₦ 1320.00, ₦ 3880.00 and ₦ 5800.00 tonne-1 for T2, T3 and T4,
respectively). Hence, PKC should be encouraged in pullet nutrition within the inclusion levels used in
the present study.
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performance and health. World Poultry Science Journal, 62 (2): 316-325
Ugwu, S.O.C., Onyimonyi, A.E. and Ozonoh, C.I. (2008). Comparative performance and
haematological indices of finishing broilers fed palm kernel cake, bambara offal and rice husk
as partial replacement for maize. International Journal of Poultry Science, 7 (3): 299-303
Page | 85
EGG PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE OF THREE DIFFERENT LAYER STRAINS

IN MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA.
Bello, Y.M, Aliyu, J. and Allamin, H.

Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State.
ABSTRACT
Data on egg production were analyzed to investigate the performance of three strains of layer
chickens (Rhode Island Red, Isa Brown and Bovin Brown) from 2006-2011 at the University of
Maiduguri Poultry Unit of the Livestock Teaching and Research Farm, Maiduguri, Nigeria. The birds
were reared in open-sided building with a 2-tier battery cages, clean water and feed were provided ad
libitum. Eggs were picked twice a day. Laying hens were observed daily and records on egg
production, feed intake and mortality were kept adequately. Strict health management was observed.
The means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. It was observed that strain, age,
season and year vary significantly (P<0.001) in egg production and feed intake, where birds within the
age group of 40-44 weeks had the highest egg production (58.76 ± 4.13%) and feed intake (134.86 ±
1.33g), respectively. The lowest production was recorded at 20-24 weeks (35.39 ± 1.99%). Rhode
Island Red recorded the highest egg production (58.83 ± 0.29%) and feed intake (144.78 ± 1.30g),
while lowest production and feed intake (41.81 ± 0.89%), (101.22 ± 0.86g) were recorded for Isa
Brown. Dry-cold season favoured egg production (57.47 ± 0.39%) and feed intake (130.68 ± 1.19g),
while the lowest production was recorded in the wet season (46.36 ± 0.87%). However, lowest feed
intake was observed in the Dry-hot season (115.55 ± 1.18g). Highest egg production (60.67 ± 2.02%)
was recorded in 2009, which was not significantly different from 2007 (58.83 ± 0.29%).
Keywords: Layers, egg production, feed intake, strains, season.
INTRODUCTION
Layers are primarily developed for egg production and are lighter than broilers and therefore need less
feed to maintain their body while laying (Awobajo et al., 2009). In a quest to develop a breed that
could survive and perform well under severe climatic condition of most areas, various strains of
poultry have been developed to obtain maximum egg production (Akhtar et al., 2007). Majority of
poultry are raised under intensive system of farming, which according to the World Watch Institute in
2014, 68% of the world‘s poultry egg are produced using this technique. Many factors and their
interactions influence flock performance, be it economic in relation to animal welfare or other criteria.
Almost each farm has a unique combination of location, climate, and management during rearing,
breed, feed and management in laying period (Leenstra et al., 2014). Ultimately, interactions among
the aforementioned factors tend to impart an effect on layer performance. Therefore, assessing the
productive ability of layers becomes significant for evaluating the performance of different strains
under same management system, as influenced by factors such as season, year of production and age
of birds. This study was undertaken to assess egg production and feed intake parameters among
Rhode Island Red, Isa Brown and Bovin Brown as influenced by strain, age, season and year at the
poultry unit of the University of Maiduguri Livestock Teaching and Research Farm.

Records on egg production and feed intake of three commercial layers reared between 2006 and 2011
were obtained from the University of Maiduguri poultry unit of the Livestock Teaching and Research
farm, Maiduguri, Borno state. Maiduguri the capital of Borno state, is on an altitude of 345 m above
sea level and is situated on latitude 11.830N and longitude 13.140E (Encarta, 2009). Maiduguri falls
within the Sahelian region of West Africa and it is characterized by fluctuating climatic and seasonal
variations. Furthermore, the area has a very short period (3-4 months) of rainfall, between July -
September recording 645.9 mm/annum with a long dry season of about 8-9 months‘ (Aliyu, 2013).
The ambient temperature is about 31oC during the wet seasons and above 40oC by April - May, while
relative humidity is about 90% in August and as low as 5% in December - January (Encarta, 2009).
Based on the climatic changes, the years are divided into 3 seasons, namely; wet (June-September),
Page | 86
dry cold (October -January) and dry hot (February-May). The flock consists of Rhode Island Red, Isa
and Bovin Brown, reared in open-sided building with a 2-tier battery cages fitted with feeders and
drinkers. Clean fresh water and feed were provided ad libitum. Eggs were picked twice a day in the
morning and evening. Laying hens were observed daily and records on egg production, feed intake
and mortality were kept adequately. Strict
health management, routine vaccination and deworming were observed. All data collected were
subjected to analysis of variance using the SPSS package (2006) and means were separated using
Duncan‘s multiple range tests.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONs

Egg Production
Egg production records by strain, age, season and year are presented in Table 1. Rhode Island Red
recorded significantly highest (P<0.01) egg production followed by Bovin brown (53.08 ± 10.16) and
lastly Isa brown (41.81 ± 0.89). Ashraf et al. (2003) also reported significant strain difference with
Rhode Island Red recording highest egg production (69.44%) than Lyallpur Silver Black (49.24%)
and concluded that higher production of this strain may be due to its superior genetic constitution.
Age of layer birds in this study significantly (P<0.001) affected egg production. The highest
production was recorded at 40-45 weeks (58.76 ± 4.13) while the lowest was at 20-24 weeks (35.39 ±
1.99) of age. Yasmeen et al (2008) stated that egg production in the pullets (12.80 ± 1.114) was
higher than spent layers (10.06 ± 0.966) %. The probable explanation for more egg production in first
production cycle may be the ability of birds to utilize their feed more efficiently than those of second
production cycle. The effect of season on egg production was significant (P<0.01). The highest egg
produced was recorded in the dry cold season of (57.47 ± 0.39) while the lowest was in the wet season
(46.36 ± 0.87). The thermo neutral zone of laying hen is between 18 - 28oC. High temperatures of
above 40oC recorded in the dry season affect the overall performance of layer bird; high mortality,
low feed intake and poor performance are recorded throughout this period. Oarad et al. (1981) stated
that higher temperature reduces the productive performance of layers. A clear explanation of the low
production in the wet and dry hot seasons is reflected by the amount of feed taken which is relatively
low due to incoordination of birds because of unfavorable environmental conditions. Temperature
fluctuation is more pronounced during the rainy seasons as it may rise to certain degree prior to the
commencement of rain, this short duration changes can cause less feed intake by the birds and
consequently results in poor egg production. Higher relative humidity (above 70%) recorded around
July- August may also cause a decrease in egg production. Talukder et al. (2010) spelt out that a
marked decrease in egg production was recorded when relative humidity is above 70%. Year of study
had high significant effect (P<0.001) on egg production. Egg production was highest in the years
2009 (60.67) and 2007 (58.83), respectively. Lowest production was recorded in 2006, 2010 and
2011. Clear explanations on variation in egg production within years may be linked to feeding and
other management practices, environmental changes in terms of temperature and relative humidity.
Malau Aduli et al. (2003) also reported significant effect of year on egg production.
Feed Intake
The effects of strain, age, season and year on feed intake of the layer birds are presented in Table 1.
Feed intake/bird/day in Rhode Island Red was significantly higher (P<0.001) compared to Bovin and
Isa brown. Normally, feed consumption is considered a heritable character; however, a plausible
explanation for the high feed intake in Rhode Island Red might be linked to their size because they are
larger than the other two breeds. Hossain (1992) recorded no significant effect in daily feed intake
among Rhode Island Red, Barred Plymouth Rock and indigenous DESI hens. A genetically superior
breed with high performance will need greater amount of feed for maintenance and production. Age
of birds on feed intake was significant (P<0.001). The highest intake was recorded at 40-44 and 45-49
weeks. However, there was no significant difference among birds of 20-39, 50-54 and those of greater
than 75 weeks of age. Reduced feed intake due to age of birds might be attributed to prevalence of
disease or frequent molting in the flock.
Page | 87
Table 1: Least square means ± S.E of feed intake (g) and egg production by strains, year, season and
age
Factors Subclass N Egg production Feed intake
Overall Overall 11272 51.63 ± 0.69 121.87 ± 0.73
Strain *** ***

Bovin brown 6176 53.08 ± 10.16b 122.13 ± 0.97b
Rhodes Island Red 2410 58.83 ± 0.29a 144.78 ± 1.30a
Isa brown 2685 41.81 ± 0.89c 101.22 ± 0.86c
Age (weeks) *** ***

20-24 1232 35.39 ± 1.99f 125.56 ± 3.01bcd
25-29 1356 52.71 ± 0.59abcd 120.74 ± 1.99d
30-34 1347 57.46 ± 0.72ab 128.63 ± 1.88abc
35-39 877 55.05 ± 2.29abc 124.43 ± 2.62bcd
40-44 1541 58.76 ± 4.13a 134.86 ± 1.33a
45-49 1108 55.35 ± 0.83abc 131.11 ± 2.08ab
50-54 771 48.33 ± 1.50cde 120.64 ± 3.03d
55-59 674 44.74 ± 1.60e 96.56 ± 1.21f
60-64 434 45.32 ± 1.90de 98.06 ± 1.78f
65-69 700 54.67 ± 0.95abc 110.88 ± 2.43e
70-74 407 56.77 ± 0.56ab 123.22 ± 2.60cd
≥ 75 824 49.48 ± 0.35bcde
Seasons
*** ***
Dry cold 3624 57.47 ± 0.39a 130.68 ± 1.19a
Dry hot 3775 51.71 ± 1.79b 115.55 ± 1.18c
Wet 3436 46.36 ± 0.87c 119.78 ± 1.29b
Year
*** ***
2006 1763 42.53 ± 1.08c 106.64 ± 1.25d
2007 2410 58.83 ± 0.29a 144.18 ± 1.25b
2008 1365 49.79 ± 1.85b 148.42 ± 0.84a
2009 3048 60.67 ± 2.02a 119.32 ± 1.19c
2010 806 41.61 ± 2.24c 98.61 ± 1.57e
2011 1879 41.89 ± 0.85c 102.34 ± 1.02e
a,b,c,d,e,f= means in the same row within a subset with different superscript differs significantly
(P<0.001) *** = P<0.001
Mehta et al. (1986) observed that old layers consumed more feed than pullets because they are
considerably heavier than pullets and therefore may require more energy for maintenance, while
Applegate et al. (1999) and Schafer et al. (2005) observed no difference in feed intake with increase
age of birds. Disparity in findings among different authors might be linked to the difference in the
distinguishable genetic makeup as suggested by Yasmeen et al. (2008). Season of the year also had a
significant effect (P<0.001) on feed intake. The highest feed intake was observed during the dry cold
season (130.68 ± 1.19) while the lowest was in the dry hot season (115.55 ± 1.18). Temperature
during the dry hot period in the study area usually rise above 42oC which greatly affects feed intake
and general performance. It has been reported by Talukder et al. (2010) that at temperature of above
27oC, feed consumption gradually declines and at temperature of 35oC there was remarkable decrease
of feed intake. Technically, high temperature reduces feed intake and permits constant water intake so
as to minimize the animal‘s metabolic rates. At dry cold season, the temperature may decrease to
about 26oC that could create a conducive environment for the layers. Similarly, Talukder et al. (2010)
stated that the highest feed intake of 122 ± 0.14 was obtained at temperatures of 16oC as compared to
90 ± 0.35 at temperature of 35oC. Years of study had been found to have high significant effect
(P<0.001) on the amount of feed consumed by the birds. Feed intake during the year 2008 was found
to be highest (148.42 ± 0.84) followed by the years 2007, 2009, 2006 and 2011, respectively. The
lowest feed intake was recorded in the year 2010 (98.61 ± 1.57). Differences in the amount of feed
Page | 88
consumed with reference to years may be ascribed to climatic changes, which occur spontaneously,
climate and weather changes like temperature, rainfall pattern, other factors may include change
feeding practices, management and disease outbreaks.
CONCLUSION
It was concluded from this study that Rhode Island Red consumed more feed and was the most
superior in egg production. Difference in feed intake and egg production with respect to year were
also observed. Highest feed intake and egg production was recorded during the dry cold seasons.
Layers at 40-44 weeks of age were highest in egg production.
REFERENCES
Akhtar, N., Mahmood, S., Hassan, M., and Yasmeeen, F. (2007). Comparative study of production
potential and egg characteristics of Lyallpur Silver Black, Fayoumi and Rhode Island Red
breeds of poultry. Pakistan Veterinary Journal.24(4): 184-188
Aliyu, J. (2013). Productivity Assessment of Four Strains of Indigenous Chicken in a Semi-Arid
Region of North-Eastern Nigeria. Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Animal Science, University
of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria.
Applegate, T., Ladwig, J.E., Weissert, L., and Lilburn, M.S. (1999) Effect of hen age on intestinal
development and glucose tolerance of the pekin duckling. Poultry science. 78: 1485-1492.
Ashraf, M., Mahmood, S., Khan, M.S and Ahmad, F. (2003). Productive Behaviour of Lyallpur silver
black and Rhode Island Red breed of poultry. International Journal of Agriculture and
Biology.5(3):384.
Awobajo, O, K., Salau, K.A., Igbasanu, A.O., Mako, A.A., and Ettu, R.O. (2009). Comparative study
of the performance of breeds of layers in sub-Saharan region of Africa. International
Journal of Poultry science.8 (12): 1165-1169
Encarta (2009). Encarta Microsoft at student 2009 (DVD) Redmond, W.A. Micrososft cooperation.
Hossain, M.S. (1992) comparative study on egg production and feed efficiency of different Breeds of
poultry under intensive and rural conditions in Bangladash. Livestock Research for Rural
Development Bulletin. 4
Leenstra, F., Maurer, V., Galea, F., Bestman, M., Amsler-Kepalaite, Z., Visscher, J., Verneij, I. and
Van krimpen, M. (2014). Laying hen performance in different production systems; why do
they differ and how to close the gap? Results of discussions with groups of farmers in The
Netherlands, Switzerland and France, benchmarking and model calculations. European
Poultry Science. 78.
Malau-Aduli, A.E.O., Bawa, G.S. and Jeel, K. (2003) Factors affecting egg production and layer bird
mortality in private poultry farms in the sub-humid zone of Nigeria.
eprints.utas.edu.au/597/2/ASJ-2-pdf AccessedMarch 13, 2012
Mehta, V.S., Lakhotia, R.L. and Singh, B. (1986) A study on forced resting and recycling of white
layers. Indian journal of production and management, 2:138-140.
Oarad, Z., Marder, J. and Soller, M. (1981) Effect of gradual acclimatization to temperature up to
440C on productive performance of the desert Bedouin fowl, the commercial white leghorn
and the two crossbreeds. Br. Poultry Science.22:511-520.
Schafer, C.M., Corsiglia, C.M., Mireles, A. Jr. and Koutsos, E. A (2005) Turkey breeder hen age
effects on growth and systemic and intestinal inflammatory response in female poults
examined at different ages post-hatch. Journal of applied poultry researches. 14:258-264
Talukder, S., Islam, T., Sarker, S., and Islam, M.M. (2010) Effect of environment on layer
performance Journal Bangladesh Agril. Umir., 8(2): 253-258.
Yasmeen, F., Mahmood, S., Hassan, M., Akhtar, N., and Yaseen, M. (2008). Comparative productive
performance and egg characteristics of pullets and spent layers. Pakistan veterinary journal.
(28)1: 5-8.
Page | 89
INTERNAL ORGANS WEIGHT OF BROILER CHICKEN FED GRADED LEVELS OF

SUNDRIED CASSAVA PEELS MEALSAS A REPLACEMENT OF WHEAT BRAN
Raji, M.O*,**, Oloko A.B,**, Fasasi, M.O**,. Bamgbose, A.M**, ans Oso A.O**
*
Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and
Technology, P.M.B 10, Igboora.
**
College of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal
University of Agriculture, PM.B.2240, Alabata Road, Abeokuta, Ogun State
Corresponding author: papat4u@gmail.com 07087089847 and 08052433781
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted to evaluate internal organs of broiler chicken fed graded levels of
cassava peels meal as a replacement for wheat bran. A total of 144 day old broiler chicks of
Abore acre breeds were assigned to 4 experimental diets in a completely randomized design.
The birds were fed graded levels (0, 10, 20, and 30% at the finisher phase and were tagged as
T1, T2 T3, and T4 respectively). On day 56 of the experiment, three birds per treatment were
randomly selected from each of the replicates; starved overnight, slaughtered, eviscerated and
internal organs were weighed with sensitive scale. There were no significant (p>0.05)
differences among internal organs weight (heart, liver, kidney, spleen, whole gizzard etc). It
can be concluded that farmers can replace wheat bran with sundried cassava peels on meal
the broiler chicken diets without detrimental to the internal organs weight of the broiler
chicken
Keywords: Broiler, cassava peels, organs, sundried, and farmers
INTRODUCTION
The high cost of fibre caused by high demand by livestock and industries has necessitated the need to
source for other viable alternative fibre sources for the animals. One of such alternative is cassava
peels. Cassava peel is one of the agro-industrial by-products that are readily available in countries
where cassava is cultivated and processed into food for man. The peel accounts for between 10 to
13% of tuber by weight. It contains about 5 % crude protein and reasonable amount of minerals
(Tewe and Kasali, 1986). However, the use of cassava peel as feed for non- ruminant animals is
limited by its high fibre content and hydro-cyanic acid which is deleterious to their growth and
development (Tewe, 2004). Many processing methods that have been used to enhance the feeding
value of cassava include sun-drying (Akinfala et al., 2007), Parboiling (Salami, 1999), Soaking in
water. (Salami and Odunsi, 2003) among others. These have however achieved different level of
success. Treatment of cassava peels with alkaline solution of lye (Oladunjoye et al., 2010), enzyme
supplementation of cassava peels (Midau et al., 2011) are some of the available technical information
for enhancing the nutritive value of cassava peels. Sun drying would reduce a considerable amount of
hydro-cyanide (HCN) content of cassava roots. It also has the advantage of saving cost of energy and
equipment both of which may be limiting in small scale farming systems. Therefore, this study was
directed toward investigated internal organs weight of broiler chicken fed graded levels of sundried
cassava peels meals as a replacement for wheat bran.

Location of the study
The experiment was carried out at the poultry unit, Teaching and Research Farm, Oyo State College
of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Oyo State Nigeria, latitude 7o15`N and longitude 3o30È
with average annual rainfall of 1278mm and average temperature of 27oC (Sanusi, 2011).
Milling of experimental ingredients

Sun-dried cassava peels and other ingredients were milled separately at the feed mill unit of Training
and Research Farm, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igbo-ora. Thereafter, they
were mixed together as designed.
Page | 90
Experimental diets
Four experimental diets were formulated having percentage crude protein ranged between 21.75% -
21.51% with energy ranged between 2934.54ME kcal/kg – 2968.57ME kcal/kg at starting phase.
Wheat bran was main fibre source for the control diet while the other four diets
(2, 3 and 4 were partially replaced with varying levels of sundried cassava peels meal 10%, 20% and
30% SDCPM in nutrient to nutrient inclusion rates respectively as shown on table 1.
Table 1: Experimental diets for broiler finisher (5-8 weeks)

Ingredients (kg) T1 (0%) T2 (10%) T3 (20%) T4 (30%)
Maize 64.00 64.00 64.00 64.00
S.B.M 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00
Wheat bran 6.00 5.50 5.00 4.50
C.P.M 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50
Limestone 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
ME ( kcal/kg) 2984.96 2985.79 2986.62 2987.45
Crude Protein (%) 18.67 18.61 18.55 18.49
Ether Extract (%) 3.65 3.66 3.67 3.68
Crude Fibre (%) 1.70 1.87 1.87 1.87
Calcium (%) 1.47 1.47 1.48 1.47
Phosphorus (%) 0.53 0.52 0.52 0.52
Ash (%) 0.83 0.81 0.90 0.94
Lysine (%) 1.16 1.15 1.15 1.14
Methionine (%) 0.55 0.55 0.54 0.54
(C.P.M –Cassava Peels Meal S.B.M – Soya Bean Meal)
M.E – Metabolizable Energy
All data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using special statistical package
(SPSS). Where significant difference between means was observed, New Duncan Multiple Range
Test (DNMRT) was used to separate the means.

Effect of varying levels of sundried cassava peels meal on internal organs weight of broiler finisher
was shown on table 2. Organs are body parts, composed of several types of tissues, capable of
carrying out specialized function. There were no significant (P>0.05) different on parameters
examined. Heart weight was highest on T1 (15.00g) while least was observed on T4 (12.00g). Liver
had best weight on T2 (52.67g) whileT4 had least (42.33g). Kidney recorded highest value of 12.33g
while least value of 5.00g was observed on T1.Proventriculous had best weight on T3 (18.33g) while
T2 had least value (13.67g). Spleen had best value of 3.67g on T1 while least value was recorded on
T4 (2.33g). Whole gizzard was recorded highest value on T2 (68.00g) while least value was observed
on T3 (60.67g). Empty gizzard recorded best value on T1 (52.33g) while least value was observed on
T4 (49.00g). Whole intestine was recorded best value on T2 (143.67g) While least value was
observed on T3 (135.33g). Intestine length recorded best value on T2 (100.33g) while least value was
observed on T4 (89.67g).Lungs recorded best value on T2 (18.33g) while least value of 12.67g was
observed on T1. The gizzard weight was more than 33.5 to 36.5g reported by Idahor, (2012). The non
significant differences (p>0.05) on the weights of internal organs across dietary treatments showed
Page | 91
that sundried had positive effect to detoxify HCN that present in the cassava peels meal (SCPM) that
broiler chicken were tolerated as a result of non toxic effect observed on the liver and other internal
organs. Hence, sundried method adopted was able to reduced hydrogen cyanide content in the cassava
peel to safe levels that internal organs could tolerate and is the simplest and avoidable way of detoxify
anti-nutritional factors.
Table 2: Internal organs weight of broiler finisher (5-8 weeks)

Parameters (g) T1 (0%) T2 (5%) T3 (10%) T4 (15%) SEM
Heart 15.00 14.00 14.33 12.00 0.93NS
Liver 51.67 52.67 46.67 42.33 1.88NS
Kidney 5.00 5.67 12.33 7.33 1.30NS
Proventriculous 14.00 13.67 18.33 15.33 0.88NS
Spleen 3.67 3.33 2.67 2.33 0.41NS
Whole gizzard 67.33 68.00 60.67 65.00 2.25NS
Empty gizzard 52.33 51.33 49.33 49.00 1.75NS
Whole intestine 137.00 143.67 135.33 140.67 3.25NS
Length intestine 94.00 100.00 91.67 89.67 1.98NS
Lungs 12.67 18.33 14.67 15.33 0.99NS
abc = Means within the same row with the same superscripts were not significantly (P>0.05)
different. SEM = Standard Error of the Mean, NS = Not Significant
CONCLUSION
Sundried cassava peels meal could be used to replace what offal up to 30% levels of inclusion in the
diet of broiler finisher without any detrimental effect to the internal organs weight.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on the outcome of this study, further study is recommended to investigate whether sundried
cassava peels meal could be detrimental or not to internal organ weights of broiler finisher.
REFERENCES
Akinfala, E.O., Matanmi, O. and Fatufe, A.A. (2007). Effect of residual cyanogenic glucosides in
cassava based diets on serum metabolites of Cockerels chicks. Proceedings of the 32nd
Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production (NSAP), March 18–21.
University of Calabar, Nigeria, Pp. 105–107.
Idahor K.O. 2012. Potentials of cassava (Manihot spp) peels meal replacing maize (Zea mays) in
broilers ration. Nigeria Poultry Science Journal, 9:139-144.
Oladunjoye I.O., Ojebiyi O. and Amao O.A. (2010). Effect of Feeding Processed Cassava (Manihot
esculenta Crantz) peel meal based Diet on the Performance Characteristics, egg Quality and
blood profile of laying chicken. Agricultura Tropica Et Subtropica 43 (2)
Salami R.I. (1999). The Use of Two Empirical Methods of Substitution of Feedstuffs: Parboiled
Cassava peel meal versus Maize in the Diets of Growing Cockerels. Nigeria. Journal of
Animal Production, 26: 78–83.
Salami, R.I. and Odunsi, A.A. (2003). Evaluations of processed cassava peel meal as substitutes for
maize in the diets of layers. International Journal of Poultry Science, 2: 112-116
Tewe O.O. (2004). Cassava for Livestock Feed in Sub-Saharan African. Plant Production and
Protection Division, Food and Agricultural Organization, Rome, Italy.
Tewe O.O. and Kasali O. B. N. (1986). Effect of Cassava peel Processing on the Nutrient Utilization
and Physiopathology of the African Giant Rat (Cricetomus gambianus. Water house).
Tropical Agriculture (Trinidad), 63 (2): 125–128
Midau, A., Augustine, C., Yakubu, B., Yahaya, S.M., Kibon, A. and Udoyong, A.O. (2011).
Performance of broiler chicken fed enzyme supplemented cassava peel meal based diets.
International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability, 3: 1-4.
SPSS Statistical Package for Social Scientists, SPSS, (2012) 21Version.
Page | 92
EFFECT OF WILD SUNFLOWER (Tithonia diversifolia) AND GOAT WEED

(Agerantum conyzoides) LEAF MEALS ON HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF
BROILER CHICKENS
Adeyeye S.A*, Agbede J.Oϯ, Aletor V.Aϯ, Oloruntola O.D¶ Ayodele, S.O€ Fadiyimu, A.A* and
Ogunsipe, M.H.†
*
Department of Animal Health and Production, Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Nigeria
ϯ
Department of Animal Production and Health, The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
¶
Department of Animal Science, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko. Nigeria
€
Department of Agricultural Technology, The Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti. Nigeria
†Department of Agricultural Science, Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Nigeria
*Corresponding author: Adeyeye S.A, samwaleadeyeye@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to determine the influence of wild sunflower, and goat weed leaf meal
composite leaf mix (CLM)) on the haematological indices of broiler chickens. A total of three
hundred (300) healthy day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five (5) dietary
treatments containing six replicates (10 birds/replicate) in a complete randomised design. The five
experimental diets were formulated and designated as Diet 1 (Control), Diet 2 (0.11% Oxytetracycline
supplemented), Diet 3 (0.40% CLM), Diet 4 (0.80% CLM) and Diet 5 (1.20% CLM). The birds were
fed ad-libitum and given cool, clean water for 42 days. Haematological parameters evaluated were red
blood cells (RBC), heamoglobin concentration (Hbc), packed cell volume (PCV), cell volume
(MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), white blood
cells (WBC), granulocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes. At six weeks of age, birds were randomly
selected (two birds from each replicate), and blood samples were obtained from the birds and
analysed for haematological indices. The result obtained from all the parameters measured were not
significantly (p<0.05) influenced by the treatment fed to the birds. The PCV varied from 39.00-
44.50%, WBC varied from 3.20 – 6.96 x109/1 and RBC varied from 1.66 – 1.90 x1012/1. In
conclusion, the composite leaf mix (CLM) meals have no detrimental effects on broiler chickens'
blood formation process.
Keywords: Sunflower, Goat weed, Haematological indices, Broiler chickens
INTRODUCTION
Broiler production is one of the most important sources of animal protein all over the world today.
This could be attributed to the high rate of feed utilisation efficiency and fast growth rate of the birds.
Poultry production has been challenged by unavailability of good quality feed on a sustainable basis at
stable prices. The escalating cost of conventional feedstuff has stimulated research into alternative
feedstuffs with the aim of reducing the cost of poultry production, maintaining the feed quality,
increasing the production rate and improving the health status of the birds (Jiwuba et al. 2016).
Several alternative feedstuffs have been successively used as possible replacement either partially or
wholly of conventional feedstuff (Bolu et al., 2009). The wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) and
goat weed (Agerantum conyzoides) is a potential phytogenic feed supplement for broiler chickens'
production because they are abundantly available and are good sources of protein and other nutrients
(Buragohain, 2013). The determination of blood component values provide reliable results and may
also give inputs research studies on nutrition, physiology status of the farm animal (Fasuyi, 2005).
Blood parameters are an excellent diagnostic tool used in examining the influence of feedstuffs or
anti-nutrients on the physiological well-being of livestock (Bonsu et al., 2013). Therefore, this study
was carried out to determine the influence of wild sunflower, and goat weed leaf meals composite-
mix supplementation on the haematological indices of broiler chickens.

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal
College of Agriculture (FECA), Akure, Nigeria. The goat weed and sunflower leaves were plucked
and washed in running tap water, suspended on under shade for 60 minutes, chopped into small pieces
Page | 93
and thereafter spread lightly on tarpaulin under the shed and then after milled (100µm size) to produce
goat weed and sunflower leaf meals. After that, equal portions of goat weed meal (GWM) and
sunflower meal (SFM) were mixed to form a goat weed and sunflower leaf meals composite mix
(CLM) meal. Two basal diets were formulated for the starter and finisher phase (Table 1) according to
NRC, (1994) recommendations. At each phase, the basal diets were divided into five (5) equal portion
and labelled diets 1 to 5. Diet 1 (control), Diet 2 was supplemented with 0.11% Oxytetracycline while
Diets 3, 4 and 5 were supplemented with 0.40, 0.80 and 1.20% of g/kg CLM respectively. The five
diets were analysed for proximate composition (AOAC, 1995). Three hundred day-old Cobb 500
broiler chicks were distributed to five (5) dietary treatments (60 birds/treatment; 10 birds per replicate)
in a complete randomised design. The birds were feed and water ad libitum throughout. At six weeks
of age, 2 birds per replicate were randomly selected and bled into ethylene diamine tetra-acetate
sample bottles and analysed.

All the haematological indices measured for the broiler chickens fed graded levels of composite leaf
mix (CLM) meal, as shown in Table 2 were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the dietary
treatments. Haematological parameters are important indicators of health status in animals and have
been an indispensable tool in diagnosing, treatment and prognosis of many diseases (Nwokolo, 1987).
In this study, all the parameters measured falls within the normal range reported by Flecknell, (2000)
and Oloruntola et al., (2016). Besides, the stability of some of these haematological indices across the
experimental diets implies nutritional competence and support of the composition of the diets for the
normal haematological indices in the birds as in agreement with Ogunsipe et al., (2017) in broiler
chickens.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the CLM dietary supplementation has no deleterious effects on the haematological
indices of the experimental birds.
REFERENCES
AOAC, 1995. Official methods of analysis, 16th Ed. Association of Official Analytical Chemistry,
Washington DC.
Bolu, S.A., Ojo, V., Oyeleke, B.A., Ajiboye, A.O., Baa Sambo, A. and Oluyemi, O. 2009. Effects of
Alphamune G on the performance, blood chemistry and histology of broilers. International
Journal of Poultry Science, 8: 32-34.
Bonsu, F.R.K., Kagya-Agyemang, J.K., Kwenin, W.K.J., Hope, K.N. and Sekyere, F.O. 2013. Growth
Performance, haematological indices and carcass characteristics of broilers fed diet containing
different levels of Agerantum conyzoides leaf meal. Egerton. Journal of Science and
Technology, 13:115-125.
Buragohain, R. 2013. Rations for pigs with unconventional feedstuffs under rural production System
in Mizoram. Indian Veterinary Journal, 90(4): 59-63.
Fasuyi A.O. 2005. Varietal composition and functional properties of cassava (Manihot esculenta),
Grants leaf meal and leaf protein concentrates. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 4(2):43-49.
Flecknell, P. 2000. Manual of rabbit medicine and surgery. Gloucester: British Small Animal
Veterinary Association. 5(4): 30-35.
Ihediola, J.T., Okafor, C. and Ihediola, T.E. 2004. The haematological profile of the Sprague dawley
outbred albino rat in Nsukka. Animal Research International. 1:125-132
Iheukwumere, R.C. and Odinamuo, T.O. 2009. Physiological response of pregnant rabbit
fed varying level of Bambam groundnut waste (Vigna subterraneam, L): Haematological and
serum biochemistry. Journal of Food and Fibre Production. 2(1): 232- 239
Jiwuba P.C, Ikwunze K, Dauda E, and Ugwu D.O. 2016. Haematological and serum biochemical
indices of growing rabbits fed diets containing varying levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal.
British Biotechnology Journal, 15:1-7.
NRC, 1994. Nutrient Requirement for Poultry. 9th Revised Ed. National Academy Press, Washington
DC.
Page | 94
Nwokolo, E. 1987. Leaf meals of cassava (Manihot esculenta) and Siam weed (Eupatorium
odoratum) as nutrient sources in poultry diets. Nutri. Report Int. 36:819-826.
Ogunsipe, M. H, Balogun, K. B, Oladepo, A. D, Ayoola, M.A. and Arikewuyo, M.T. 2017. Nutritive
value of cocoa bean shell meal and its effect on growth and haematology of weaning rabbits
Nigerian J. Agric. Food Environ. 13:23-28
Oloruntola, O.D, Ayodele, S.O., Agbede, J.O., Oloruntola, D.A., Ogunsipe, .M.H. and Omoniyi I.S
2016. Effect of Alchornea cordifolia leaf meal and enzyme
supplementation on growth, haematological, immunostimulatory and serum biochemical
response of rabbits. Asian Journal of Biological Life Sciences, 5 (2): 190-195.
Simaraks, S., Chinrasri, O. and Aengwanich, W. 1991. Hematological, electrolyte and serum
biochemical values of the Thailandigenous chickens (Gallus domesticus) in northeastern,
iThailand. Songklanakarin Journal of Science and Technology, 26:426- 430.
Table 1: Nutrient Composition of experimental basal diets

Starter Grower
Ingredients (g/kg) (1 to 21 days) (22 to 42 days)
Maize 426.60 485.60
Wheat offal 121.00 101.00
Soybean meal 386.90 347.90
Vegetable oil 22.00 23.00
Di-calcium phosphate 18.00 17.00
Limestone 14.00 14.00
Premix 3.00 3.00
Lysine 2.50 2.50
Salt 3.00 3.00
Chemical analysis (g/kg DM)
Crude protein 220.00 205.60
Calculated analysis (g/kg DM)
Metabolizable Energy (kcal/kg) 2955.88 3 000.24
Calcium 10.20 9.30
Available Phosphorus 6.00 5.50
Lysine 11.50 10.30
Table 2: Effects of wild sunflower and goat weed leaf meals on haematological indices of broiler
chickens
Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 4 Diet 5
Parameters Control Oxyt 0.4% CLM 0.8% CLM 1.2% CLM SEM P-value
Red blood cells (x1012/l) 1.70 1.90 1.66 1.76 1.67 0.07 0.87
Haemoglobin conc. (g/dl) 13.00 14.16 14.86 13.66 13.33 0.24 0.10
Packed cell volume (%) 39.00 42.50 44.50 41.00 40.00 0.72 0.10
Mean cell volume (fl) 231.90 233.46 276.46 249.26 247.13 10.84 0.76
Mean cell haemoglobin (pg) 77.26 77.76 92.20 82.96 82.46 3.61 0.75
Mean cell haemoglobin 33.26 33.30 33.30 33.30 33.31 0.01 0.45
conc. (g/dl)
White blood cells (x109/l) 4.00 3.40 4.80 3.20 6.96 0.49 0.08
9
Granulocytes (x10 /l) 1.30 0.90 1.36 0.90 2.30 0.19 0.10
Lymphocytes (x109/l) 2.56 1.96 3.46 2.26 4.30 0.30 0.06
Monocytes (x109/l) 0.09 0.11 0.08 0.07 0.12 0.01 0.60
Oxyt : Oxytetracycline; CLM: Composite leaf meals; SEM: Standard error of the mean
Page | 95
PROXIMATE AND ANTI-NUTRIENT COMPOSITION OF RAW AND BOILED

MORINGA (Moringa oleifera) SEEDS: A POTENTIAL BENEFIT FOR INCREASING
ANIMAL PROTEIN SUPPLY
1
Rabiu, M., 2Muhammad, U.R., 2Idris, D.Y., 2Alimi, H.M., 2Madu, A. and 2Abubakar, M.B.
1
Department of Animal Science, Ahmad Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria State, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Federal College of Agricultural Produce
Technology, Kano State, Nigeria
Corresponding author: mdrabiu@yahoo.com; +2348033002271
ABSTRACT
The present study was conducted to evaluate the nutritive value of raw and boiled Moringa (Moringa
oleifera) seeds for their possible usage as livestock feed ingredients. Fresh samples of Moringa seeds
were collected from Giwa market, Zaria, Kaduna State for chemical analysis. Chemical analyses were
carried out on the samples to determine their nutrient and anti-nutrient compositions. Results in the
proximate compositions of raw and boiled Moringa seeds showed that the dry matter content of raw
Moringa seeds was found to be 93.76, crude protein 26.83, ether extract 39.25, crude fibre 9.90, ash
4.84 and Nitrogen free extract 12.94%. While the boiled sample has a dry matter content of 97.68,
crude protein 32.10, ether extract 35.29, crude fibre 10.25, ash 6.45 and Nitrogen free extract 13.59%.
The anti-nutritional factors analysed were flavonoid, trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA), phytate, oxalate,
tannin, saponnin and alkaloid and the percentage reductions obtained were 25.58, 79.88, 69.57, 88.44,
70.81, 63.71 and 32.86% respectively. The oxalate content had the highest percentage reduction of
88.44% and flavonoid having the least the least value of 25.58%. The data obtained for proximate
analysis showed that both raw and boiled Moringa seeds were rich in nutrients and could serve as
potential alternative livestock feed ingredients. From the result of this study, it could be concluded
that the boiling of Moringa seeds for 60 minutes improved crude protein level and as well reduced the
anti-nutrients components of the seeds.
Key words: Moringa seed, nutrient, anti-nutrient, crude protein, oxalate
INTRODUCTION
The use of unconventional feedstuff in animal feeds had been recommended (Adeola and Olukosi,
2008). One such class of comparable alternative is Moringa oleifera, a highly valued plant, distributed
in many countries of the tropics and subtropics (Mbikay, 2012). Moringa is a fast growing,
aesthetically pleasing tree. It is known by several names in different countries, but popularly called
drumstick tree for it pod that is used by drummers (Rajangam et al., 2001). In different parts of the
world, M. oleifera is known by divers name: among the Igbos, it is known as ―Okwe Oyibo‖, among
the Hausas, it is called ―Zogale‖, among the Yorubas, it is called ―Ewe ile‖, among the Fulani, it is
called ―Gawara‖, ―Nuggekai‖ in Canada, ―Murungai‖ in Tamil, ―Mashinga Sanga‖ in Malayalan,
―Muringa‖ in Konkani (Peter and Philip, 2014).
Feeding Moringa oleifera based diets to monogastric animals is limited by the presence of anti-
nutritional factors, such as protease inhibitors, haemaglutinins, tannins and cyanogenic glycosides
(Ahaota et al., 2013). Heat treatment and other processing methods are able to eliminate portions of
anti-nutritional factors, such as trypsin inhibitor and lectins, although these components are not
completely purged (Kocher et al., 2003). However, there is a scarcity of information on the nutritive
value of Moringa seeds cultivated in Nigeria and for its inclusion in livestock feeds. Therefore, this
study was conducted to analyse the proximate composition and anti-nutritional factor profile of raw
and boiled Moringa oleifera seeds with an objective of addressing the shortage of conventional feed
source in Nigeria.

The study was carried out in the Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria,
Kaduna State, Nigeria. The town is located in the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria, latitude
110 9‘ 14‘‘ N and longitude 70 38‘ 45‘‘ E and at an altitude of 610mm above sea level (Ovimaps,
2015). Moringa seeds used for this research were sourced at Giwa market, Zaria, Kaduna State. The
Page | 96
dry Moringa seeds were sorted, remove from the pods and cleaned. The quantity of seeds used were
weighed and then poured into a pot containing boiled water at 100oC. The sample was allowed to boil
for about 60 minutes, after which the water was drained out and the sample was spread in aluminium
metal trays to sun dry for 3 days (Edegbo, 2009). The boiling was done to minimize the anti-nutritive
factors that inhibit the digestion of plant proteins.
Proximate and Anti-Nutritional Factor Analysis
Samples of Moringa seeds were taken to Department of Animal Science Biochemical Laboratory for
proximate and anti-nutrients analyses. Proximate analysis was carried out using the standard method
described by A.O.A.C. (2005) and the analyses were done to obtain the nutrient composition (Dry
matter, Crude Protein, Ether Extract, Crude Fibre, Ash and Nitrogen Free Extract). While for the anti-
nutritional factors, phytic acids were determined using the procedure described by Sutardi and Buckle
(1985). Trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA) was determined according to the method of Kakade et al.
(1974) with the modification described by Liu and Markakis (1989). The tannin was determined using
the method of Earp et al. (1981). Oxalate was determined using the titration method while Saponin
was determined using the gravimetric method of A.O.A.C (2005).
RESULTS AND DICUSSION

Proximate composition of the raw and boiled Moringa seeds
The results of the proximate compositions of raw and boiled Moringa seeds are presented in Table 1.
The dry matter content of raw Moringa seeds was found to be 93.76, crude protein 26.83, ether extract
39.25, crude fibre 9.90, ash 4.84 and Nitrogen free extract 12.94%. While the boiled sample has a dry
matter content of 97.68, crude protein 32.10, ether extract 35.29, crude fibre 10.25, ash 6.45 and
Nitrogen free extract 13.59%. Higher nutrient values were observed for dry matter, crude protein,
crude fiber, ash and nitrogen free extract in the boiled Moringa sample when compared with the raw
sample except ether extract that was higher in the raw sample. The dry matter values of 93.76 and
97.68% observed for raw and boiled Moringa seeds respectively in this report were lower than the
findings of Edegbo (2009) who reported the dry matter of raw and boiled Moringa seed meal of 95.28
and 99.14% respectively. The variations observed might be due to the effect of the season in which
the studies were conducted. The observed dry matter content was an indication that the activity of the
microorganisms would be reduced and thereby increased the shelf life of the Moringa samples as
reported by these authors Adeyeye and Adejuyo (1994). The crude protein content of 26.83 and
32.10% obtained were similar to the report of Edegbo (2009) who reported 27.81 and 32.28% crude
protein for raw and boiled Moringa seeds respectively. However, the values in this work were lower
than the range of 33.30 to 40.31% reported for Moringa seeds (Foidl et al. 2001; Anhwange et al.
2004). The variations observed in this report and those of other reports on Moringa seeds could be due
to seed variety, environmental condition and laboratory methods of analyses. The ether extract values
of 39.25 and 35.29% in this finding were lower than the range of 41.58 to 43.69% reported by Edegbo
(2009), Foidl et al. (2001) and Anhwange et al. (2004). A decrease in fat content of the boiled
Moringa seeds might have been due to various physio-chemical changes in the seeds. Edegbo, (2009)
suggested that some oils were leached into the hot water used in the seeds treatment. The observed
crude fiber values of 9.90% and 10.25% were higher than those of 8.05 and 3.05% reported by
Edegbo (2009) and Anhwange et al. (2004) respectively. The ash content of 4.84 and 6.45% were
obtained from raw and boiled Moringa seeds respectively. The result suggested a high deposit of
mineral elements in the seeds. The Nitrogen free extract (NFE) content represents the carbohydrate
portion of the tested ingredient. It was observed that the NFE of the boiled seed was higher to what
was obtained for the raw seeds sample. The NFE values of 12.94 and 13.59% obtained from raw and
boiled Moringa seeds respectively, were lower when compared with the report of Council for
Scientific and Industrial Research (1962) and Edegbo (2009) who reported 16.63 and 16.40%
respectively. The observed variations in nitrogen free extra in the present study may be attributed to
differences in Agro climatic conditions or seed variety.
Anti-nutrient content of the raw and boiled Moringa seeds
The anti-nutrient factors and percentage reduction in raw and boiled Moringa seeds are presented in
Table 2. The anti-nutritional factors analysed were flavonoid, trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA), phytate,
oxalate, tannin, saponnin and alkaloid and the percentage reductions obtained were 25.58, 79.88,
69.57, 88.44, 70.81, 63.71 and 32.86% respectively. The oxalate content had the highest percentage
Page | 97
reduction of 88.44% and flavonoid having the least the least value of 25.58%. These observations
showed that boiling significantly reduced the anti-nutrients components of Moringa seeds. The value
of 69.57, 70.81 and 79.88% reduction in phytase, tannin and trypsin inhibitor activity, respectively
obtained from the boiled Moringa seeds were comparable with the reduction of 68.33, 71.00 and
86.47% in phytase, tannin and trypsin inhibitor activity respectively as reported by Edegbo (2009) for
Moringa seeds boiled for 60 minutes at 100oC. The significant reduction in tannin, phytase and trypsin
inhibitor activity levels could be attributed to their solubility in the boiling water.
CONCLUSION
This study showed that both raw and boiled Moringa seeds were rich in nutrients and could serve as a
potential alternative livestock feed ingredient. From the result of this study, it could be concluded that
the boiling of Moringa seeds for 60 minutes improved crude protein level from 26.83 to 32.10% and
as well reduced the anti-nutrients components of the seeds. Thus, boiling enhanced the nutritional
quality of the seed and make it to be useful in formulations and fortifications of animal feeds.
REFERENCES
Adeola, O. and Olukosi, O. A. (2008). Opportunities and challenges in the use of alternative
feedstuffs in poultry production. Nigeria Poultry Science Journal, 5 (4), 147- 155
Adeyeye, E. I. and Ayejuyo, O. O. (1994). Chemical composition of Cola accuminata and Garcina
kola seeds grown in Nigeria. Int. J. Food Sci. Nutr., 45: 223-230.
Ahaotu, E.O., Omeje, S.I. and Ayo – Enwerem, C.M. (2013). Evaluation of low-and-high cyanide
cassava peels on the performance, nutrient digestibility and serum metabolites of growing pigs.
International Journal of Tropical Agriculture.
Anhwange, B. A., Ajibola, V. O. and Oniye, S. J. (2004). Chemical studies of the seeds of Moringa
oleifera (Lam) and Detarium microcarpum (Guill and Sperr). Journal of Biological Science, 4:
711-715.
A.O.A.C. (2005). Official Methods of Analysis Association of Analytical Chemists. 15 th Edition
Arlington, Virginia, USA. Pp. 200-210.
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. (1962). The Wealth of India – A dictionary of Indian
raw materials and industrial products. New Delhi. Vol. Vi. pp 425 – 429.
Earp, C.F., Akinghala, J.O., Ring, S.H. and Rooney, L.W. (1981). Evaluation of several methods to
determine tannin in sorghum with varying kernel characteristics. Cereal Chemistry 58: 234-
238.
Edegbo, M. (2009). Evaluation of the nutritive value of differently processed Moringa oleiferaleaves
and seeds in weaner rabbit diets. Unpublished Msc. Thesis submitted to the department of
Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Foidl, N., Makkar, H. P. S., and Becker, K. (2001). The potential of Moringa oleifera for agricultural
and industrial Uses. In J. Lowell and C. T. A. Fuglie (Eds.), The miracle tree: Pp. 45– 76).
Wageningen: The Netherlands.
Kakade, M.L., Simons, N.R. and Liener, I.E. (1974). An Evaluation of Natural Vs Synthetic
Substrates for measuring the Antitryptic Activity of Soybeans Samples. Cereal Chemistry. (46):
518.
Kocher, A., Choct, M., Ross, G., Broz, J. and Chung. T.K. (2003). Effects of enzyme combinations on
apparent metabolizable energy of corn-soybean meal-based diets in broilers. Journal of Applied
Poultry Resources, 12:275-283.
Liu, k. and Markakis, P. (1989). An improved colorimetric method for determining antitryptic activity
in soyabean products. Cereals chemistry, 66: 500-507.
Mbikay, M. (2012). Therapeutic potential of Moringa oleifera leaves in chronic hyperglycemia and
dyslipidemia: A Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 3, 1–12.
Ovimaps, (2015). Ovi location map; Ovi earth imagery date.
Peter, T.O. and Philip, C.N.A. (2014). Proximate analysis and chemical composition of raw and
Defatted. Moringa oleifera kernel. Journal of Advances in Life Science and Technology,
Vol.24, 2014.
Page | 98
Rajangam, J., Azahakia, M.R.S., Thangaraj, T. and Vijayakumar, A. (2001). Status of Production and
Utilization of Moringa in Southern India. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Pp 38 –
46.
Sutardi, I. and Buckle, K.A. (1985). Reduction in phytic acid levels in soya bean during temperature,
production, storage and frying. Journal of Food Science, 50: 260-263.
Table 1: Proximate Composition of raw and boiled Moringa seeds
Parameters % Composition %
Raw Boiled (60 mins)
Ether Extract 39.25 35.29
Ash 4.84 6.45
Nitrogen free extract 12.94 13.59
Table 2: Anti-nutritional factors of raw and boiled Moringa seeds

Composition %
Anti-nutritional factors Raw Boiled (60 mins) % Reduction
Phytase (mg/100g) 18.67 5.69 69.57
Tannin (mg/100) 24.84 7.25 70.81
Trypsin (mg/100) 11.93 2.40 79.88
Oxalate (mg/100) 17.21 1.99 88.44
Saponin (%) 8.15 2.96 63.68
Alkaloid (%) 3.50 2.35 32.86
Flavonoid (%) 6.02 4.48 25.58
Page | 99
EFFECTS OF SUNDRIED SWEET ORANGE PEELS MEALS SUPPLEMENTED

WITH QUANTUM BLUE® ENZYME ON APPARENT NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY
OF BROILERS
*Egberuare1, T.A., Alu2, S. E., Adua2, M.M

1
Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, P.M.B. 5026, Wuse-Abuja, Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Science Nasarawa State University, Keffi, P.M.B.135, Shabu-Lafia campus,
Nasarawa. State, Nigeria.
*Corresponding Author: Tel. +2348068792486 & +2349068958240, email
timothy.abraham40@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A 3x3 factorial experiment was used to evaluate the apparent nutrient digestibility of broilers chicks
of 270 (Cobb 500) and were randomly allotted to 9 experimental diets which was replicated 3 times
having 10 birds per replicate. Nine experimental diets were formulated to be isocaloric (3020.31 -
3075.35 Kcal/kg ME) and isonitrogenous (20.22 – 20.23 % crude protein) using Sundried Orange
Peel (SDOP) meal at an inclusion levels of 0, 25 and 50% and three levels of enzyme, 0 100 and
200ppm. The birds were reared in a deep litter system for 8 weeks and fed with weighed amount of
diets and watered at all time. Light and other standard routine management practices were strictly
observed throughout the experimental period. At end of the feeding trail 2 birds from each replicates
were selected and transferred to digestibility cages for faecal sample collection daily over a period of
one week. The result showed no significant (P>0.05) different in all the apparent nutrients
digestibility for SDOP and enzymes supplementation but significant (P<0.05) reduction for DM, EE
and ash were observed due to interaction of SDOP and enzymes supplementation. It is concluded that
sundried sweet orange peels and enzymes supplementation had no negative effect on the nutrient
digestibility of broiler finisher birds.
Keywords: Broiler chicken, Digestibility, Orange peel meal, Quantum blue®
INTRODUCTION
Protein intake from animal origin in developing countries like Nigeria is facing a great challenge in-
terms of meat, egg and milk, resulting to malnutrition and lower productivity in humans (FAO, 2009).
This is as a result of increasing population and demand by food industries. This has led to increasing
competition between man and animals for energy and protein feedstuff as well contributing to higher
cost of animal feed and finished product. This challenge has been exacerbated by the impact of
climate change on animal production system due to lowered cereal and legume green farm outputs
(Oluwafemi, 2009). Agro-industrial by-products from fruits and tubers are commonly used as
replacement for maize as energy source. Most of these by-products are associated with anti-nutritional
factors that were harmful to the performance of animals and high fibre content which reduces the feed
value of these by-products, thereby making their processing before use in animal feed (Oluremi et al.,
2017). This necessitated this research on the use of sundried sweet orange peels and enzymes
supplementation in the diets of broilers chicken to evaluate the effects on apparent nutrient
digestibility of broilers.

Experimental site: The experiment was conducted at Ibas Farms Nigeria Ltd, Keffi Nasarawa State.
Source of Test ingredient: The Sweet orange peels were sourced from Orange Market, Mararaba in
Nasarawa State Nigeria. The SOP was sun dried cleaned and milled while enzyme was purchased
from a registered dealer of animal feed products.
Experimental birds, diets and management: Following the approval of the Research ethics
committee of the university, two hundred and seventy (270) day old chicks were purchased from
Olam Farm Kaduna, and reared in a deep later system. They were randomly assigned to the dietary
treatments (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, and T9 Table 1) for the broiler finisher birds with three
levels inclusion sundried sweet orange peels meal (0, 25 and 50%) and three levels inclusion of
exogenous enzymes (0, 100, 200 ppm Enzymes) and replicated in three treatment groups of 10 birds
Page | 100
each. Each unit pen was equipped with feeders, drinkers and light was provided at night using electric
bulb throughout the period of the experiment. Broilers were fed with weighed amount of the
experimental diets and drinking water ad-libitum and broad antibiotics, and anti-stress was
administered according to the prescription of the manufacturer in their drinking water. Other routine
management practices were observed daily such as washing of drinkers, weekly cleaning of pen, daily
inspection.
Table 1: Gross composition of experimental diets for finisher broilers

Feed T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7(50%O T8(50% T9(50%O
Ingredients (0%O (0%OP (0%OP (25%O (25%OP (25%OPM PM+0pp OPM+1 PM+200p
PM+0 M+100p M+200 O0PM+0ppm) M+100p +200ppm) m) 00ppm) pm)
ppm) pm) ppm) pm) s
Blood meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Salt 0.30 0.3.00 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.3.00 0.30 0.30 0.30
Maize bran 9.00 9.00 9.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
GNC 12.00 12.00 12.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 17.00 17.00 17.00
FFSB 18.00 18.00 18.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 18.75 18.75 18.75
Premix 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45
Maize 35.00 35.00 35.00 13.25 13.25 13.25 6.00 6.00 6.00
Rice bran 17.25 17.25 17.25 10.00 10.00 10.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Palm oil 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
SDOP 0.00 0.00 0.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Lysine 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Methionine 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Enzyme(PP 0.00 100 200 0.00 100 200 0.00 100 200
M)
100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated nutrient composition
Energy 3075.35 3075.35 3075.35 3020.31 3020.31 3020.31 3011.74 3011.74 3011.74
Protein 20.22 20.22 20.22 20.23 20.23 20.23 20.33 20.33 20.33
Crude fibre 5.35 5.35 5.35 8.05 8.05 8.05 9.89 9.89 9.89
Ether Extract 12.94 12.94 12.94 14.10 14.10 14.10 13.16 13.16 13.16
Ash 3.83 3.83 3.83 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.21 4.21 4.21
Calcium 0.54 0.54 0.54 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.45 0.45 0.45
Phosphorus 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.58 0.58 0.58 0.48 0.48 0.48
Lysine 1.42 1.42 1.42 2.71 2.71 2.71 4.12 4.12 4.12
Methionine 0.7849 0.7849 0.7849 1.3024 1.3024 1.3024 1.8611 1.8611 1.8611
*Supplied the following per kg of diet as specified by the manufacturer: Vitamin A, 12500 IU;
Vitamin D3, 2500 IU; Vitamin E, 50,00 Mg; Vitamin K3, 2.50mg; Vitamin B1, 3.00mg; Vitamin
B2, 6.00mg; Vitamin B12, 0.25mg; Pantothenic acid, 5.00mg; Nicotinic Acid, 20,00mg; Folic acid,
1.00mg; Choline Chloride, 300mg; Manganese, 100mg; Iron, 50mg; Zinc, 45mg; Copper, 2.00mg;
Iodine, 1.55mg; Cobalt, 0.25mg; Selenium, 0.1mg
Nutrient Digestibility trial

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the nutrient utilization of diets containing different levels
of treatments. Fecal samples were collected daily over a period of one week from trays placed below
the cages to collect daily fecal droppings. Some of the feces collected were sun dried, bulked by
replicates weighed and thoroughly mixed. Sub samples were taken for analysis of proximate
constituents. The apparent nutrient digestibility was calculated using the formula:
Nutrient digestibility (%) = Nutrient intake – Nutrient in feces x 100.
Nutrient in feed 1
All data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for factorial experiment using
(SPSS, 2007) Model. Significantly different means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range
Test (Duncan, 1955).
Page | 101

The effects of sundried sweet orange peels meal on apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher
birds is presented in Table 2. The result indicated that crude protein 85.63, 88.37% and 87.96, ether
extract 86.02, 86.18 and 85.73, crude fibre 37.80, 33.18 and 34.08, ash 44.92, 46.31 and 46.51, dry
matter 66.92, 69.22 and 46.51 and nitrogen free extract 62.84, 61.76 and 64.77 were not significantly
(P>0.05) affected by the inclusion of SDOP. Higher (P>0.05) values for crude protein, ether extract,
ash dry matter and NFE were observed at 25 and 50% SDOP birds than 0%. Crude fibre was observed
to be decreasing (P>0.05) from 0 to 25 and 50% SDOP. This observation is in consonance with report
of Sunmola et al. (2018) who investigated the Performance Characteristics of Starter Broiler Chicks
Fed Dietary Sun-Dried Sweet Orange Peel Meal (SOPM) with and Without Polyzyme® and reported
that the experimental diets did not show significant effect on dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre and
nitrogen free extract digestibility of broiler chicks.
The effects of enzyme supplementations on apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher birds is
shown in Table 2. The result showed that crude protein 86.49, 87.25 and 88.25%, ether extract 86.95,
84.82 and 86.16, crude fibre 38.38, 33.43 and 33.31, ash 50.18, 40.89 and 46.66, dry matter
71.27,64.35 and 67.57 and nitrogen free extract 64.05, 61.31 and 64.01 were not significant (P>0.05).
decreased (P>0.05) values for all the nutrient were observed at birds fed 100 and 200ppm
supplementation except for crude protein that showed increased (P>0.05) value at 100 and 200ppm
supplementation. This observation is in consonance with the report of Omole et al. (2011) who
investigated the performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler chicks fed diets containing
exogenous Hamecozyme and observed significant improvement in crude protein and crude fibre
digestibility when level of Hamecozyme increased in the diets and reported a decreased ether extract,
crude fibre, ash, dry matter and nitrogen free extract observed at birds fed 100 and 200ppm
supplementation disagree with Adeola and Olukosi (2008) who observed that high dietary fibre can
only be properly digested and utilized in monogastric animals if exogenous enzymes are added to the
diets.
The effects of feeding sundried sweet orange peels and enzyme supplementations interaction on
apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher birds is shown in Table 2. The result showed
significant (P<0.05) decreased in digestibility of dry matter, ether extract, ash. The higher (P<0.05)
values for DM, EE and ash were observed at birds fed on T1 88.86, 58.16 and 73.89% than T2 birds
but did not differ from T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 and T9. This observation is in contrary with the report
of Sunmola et al. (2018) who investigated the Performance Characteristics of Starter Broiler Chicks
Fed Dietary Sun-Dried Sweet Orange Peel Meal (SOPM) with and Without Polyzyme® and reported
that the interaction between polyzyme® and sweet orange peel meal on nitrogen free extract at 15 %
and 25 % which was influenced by polyzyme.

It is concluded that sundried sweet orange peels up 50% and enzymes supplementation at 200 ppm
had no negative effect on the nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher birds.
Page | 102
Table 2. Main and interactive effects of feeding sundried sweet orange peels and enzyme
supplementations on apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher birds
Factors Parameters
Dry matter Crude Crude Ether extract Ash (%) Nitrogen free
(%) protein (%) fibre (%) (%) extract (%)
*SDOP 0 85.63 86.02 37.80 44.92 66.36 62.84
25 88.37 86.18 33.24 46.31 69.22 61.76
50 87.96 85.73 34.08 46.51 67.62 64.77
SEM 1.23 0.87 2.43 3.45 2.42 2.98
LOS NS NS NS NS NS NS
Enzyme 0ppm 86.49 86.95 38.38 50.18 71.27 64.05

100ppm 87.25 84.82 33.43 40.89 64.35 61.31
200ppm 88.22 86.16 33.31 46.66 67.57 64.01
SEM 1.23 0.87 2.43 3.45 2.42 2.98
LOS NS NS NS NS NS NS
Interactions T1 88.86a 83.03 45.71 58.16a 73.75a 70.89

T2 82.82b 85.39 33.85 30.75b 57.73b 53.36
T3 86.38 ab 88.47 33.85 45.86 ab 67.60ab 64.26
T4 86.25 ab 88.56 34.95 45.54 ab 72.40 ab 56.95
T5 86.07 ab 88.34 33.03 45.38 ab 67.66 ab 64.34
T6 86.23 ab 88.22 31.75 48.01 ab 67.59 ab 63.98
T7 85.75ab 87.87 34.49 46.84 ab 67.68 ab 64.29
T8 85.56 ab 88.02 33.41 46.56 ab 67.67 ab 66.23
T9 85.87 ab 87.99 34.33 46.13 ab 67.51 ab 63.80
SEM 4.19 2.13 4.20 1.50 5.97 5.15
LOS ** NS NS ** ** NS
a,b, means on the same column having different superscript differ significantly (P<0.05); NS = not
significantly different (P>0.05); SEM = standard error of mean; LOS = level of significant. SDOP=
sundried sweet orange peels.
REFERENCES
Adeola, O. and Olukosi, O.A. (2008.) Opportunities and challenges in the use of alternative.
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple Ranges and Multiple F-Test Biometrics, 11:1-42.
FAO, (2009). Food security and agricultural mitigation in developing countries: Options for
Capturing Synergies. Rome, Italy.www.fao.org/dopcrep/012/i1318e/i131e00.pdf.
Oluremi, O.I.A., Ahile, A.A., Jande, T.F. (2017). Effect of Feeding Graded Levels of Fermented
Sweet Orange (Citrus Sinensis) Fruit Peel Meal on the Growth and Nutrient Digestibility of
Broiler Chicken. International Journal of Environment, Agriculture and Biotechnology
(IJEAB), Vol -2, Issue-6, ISSN: 2456-1878.
Oluwafemi, R.A (2009). Palm Kernel Cake Utilization in Monogastric Animal Feeding – Implications
for sustainable livestock development. International Journal of Veterinary Medicine 6(2): 68
Omole, A.J., Obi, O.O., Ogunleke, O.O., Odejide, J.O., Awe, O.A. and Y.A. Popoola, 2011.
Performance and nutrient digestibility of broiler finishers fed diets containing exogenous
Hamecozyme. Proceeding of 16th Annual Conference, Animal Science Association of
Nigeria. (ASAN). Sept. 12th 15th 2011 Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria. Pp 399-401.
SPSS (2007). Statistical package for social science 160 Brief guide: Spssinc 233south wacker drive,
11th floor Chicago IL 60606-6412 16.
Sunmola, T.A., Tuleun, C. D. and Oluremi, O.I.A. (2018). Performance Characteristics of Starter
Broiler Chicks Fed Dietary Sun-Dried Sweet Orange Peel Meal (SOPM) with and Without
Polyzyme®. Who reported that there significant increase in the final weight, weight gain and
feed intake broiler chicks fed 15 % dietary SOPM with and without polyzyme®. Scientific
Research Journal (SCIRJ), Volume VI, Issue VIII, August 2018. ISSN 2201-2796.
Page | 103
PERFORMANCE, CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS CONTAINING ENZYME (FULLZYME)
Marte, U. M.2, Lawan, I.1, Idris, K. K.2, Ahamed A.2, Dantani, M1., and Tukur, M. A.3
Lawan020@gmail.com Tel: +234 8065291101
1
Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri. Borno State, Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Health and Production, Mohamet Lawan College of Agric,
Maiduguri.
3National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Service, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to assess the effect of exogenous dietary enzyme supplementation on the
performance of broiler finisher chickens under a hot dry environment. A total of two hundred and
twenty five (225) unsexed Anak Giant strains of broiler chickens were randomly allotted to five dietary
treatments, with 0, 125, 250, 375, and 500 mg/kg enzyme supplementation. Each treatment was
replicated three times, with fifteen (15) birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. The
experiment lasted for thirty (30) days. Feed and water were given ad-libitum. No significant (P>0.05)
difference was observed with regards to feed intake, live weight gain and feed conversion ratio among
all the treatment groups. Carcass characteristics and organs weights were not significantly (P>0.05)
different for all the components. However, the neck, thighs, shanks and back were significantly higher
among the treatments. The liver, lungs, and kidneys weights significantly (P<0.05) higher in all the
treatment groups. Nutrient digestibility, CP and CF were significantly higher in T 3 than T5 while CF was
digested significantly (P<0.05) higher rate in control than any of the treatment groups. The cost benefit
analysis showed that 375mg/kg enzyme supplemented diet had the heaviest final weight (1777.4) gain at
the cost of ₦72.66k in the finisher phase, while the least weight gain (1347.7) at the cost of ₦72.03/kg
was obtained in T2 (125mg/kg) enzyme supplementation. This implies that, enzyme (Fulzyme)
supplementation at 125 to 500mg/kg did not improve broiler performance.
INTRODUCTION
The poultry industry during the past decades has been one of the most dynamic and ever-expanding
sectors in the world (Alkhalf et al., 2010). Livestock especially poultry production seem to be
recognized as the fastest industry which can overcome the animal protein deficiency especially in third
world countries due to the short generation interval, high turnover rate and economic efficiency (Inuwa
et al., 2020). A number of feed additives such as antibiotics, vitamins, minerals and probiotics other
growth promoters are being used to improve animal performance especially broiler chickens
(Ndelekwute et al., 2015). Enzymes have been approved for use in poultry feed because they are natural
products and pose no threat to the animal or consumer (Vukic-vrangez and Wenk, 1993). Their use in
poultry feeds has predominantly been related to the hydrolysis of fibre or non-starch polysaccharide
(NSP) fraction of cereal grains. Exogenous enzymes have been used extensively in the diets of poultry
to improve productive performance and nutrient utilization (Oladipo et al., 2015). Various supplements
of exogenous enzymes have been used in Poultry diets to improve feed efficiency and utilization.
However, exogenous enzymes are capable of degrading non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) in broiler
diets based on viscous grains, including wheat and barley. Fullzyme® is a multi-enzyme compound of
α-glucanase, xylanase and phytase produced by a unique batch fermentation process which originated
from the bacteria Bacillus subtilis. The objective of this study was to evaluate effect of dietary enzyme
(Fullzyme) supplementation on the performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens.

The experiment was conducted at the poultry unit of the Teaching and Research farm, Mohamet Lawan
College of Agriculture Maiduguri, Borno State. Maiduguri is located between latitude 11 0 5 and 120
North and longitude 13005 and 140 East at an altitude of 353 M above sea level (Adamu et al., 2001).
Maiduguri is a typical Semi arid environment. Diurnal temperature of >350C is not uncommon for most
part of the year.
Page | 104
A total of two hundred and twenty five 225 Anak giant strain of broiler chicks were used for this
experiment. Five finisher experimental diets were formulated containing graded levels of the dietary
enzyme (Fullzyme). The experimental diets contained 0, 125, 250, 375 and 500 mg/kg of the enzyme in
Table1: Ingredient Composition and calculated analysis of the experimental broiler finisher diets
Various levels of enzyme inclusion**
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Ingredients (%) 0mg 125mg/kg 250 mg/kg 375 mg/kg 500 mg/kg
Maize 53.63 53.63 53.63 53.63 53.63
Wheat offal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Groundnut cake 16.37 16.37 16.37 16.37 16.37
Soya bean meal 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00
Fish meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Blood meal 1.00 01.00 01.00 01.00 01.00
Bone meal 3.00 03.00 03.00 03.00 03.00
Mineral/Vitamin 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 00.30
NaCl 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analyses
Crude protein (%) 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00
Crude fibre (%) 3.40 3.40 3.40 3.40 3.40
Calcium 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9
Phosphorus 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89
ME (Kcal/kg) 2811.6 2811.6 2811.6 2811.6 2811.6
EPR 122.2 122.2 122.2 122.2 122.2
ME= Metabolizable energy
EPR= Energy protein ratio
* Bio mix Broiler Starter supplying the following per kg feed. Vitamin A = 3,400,000IU Vitamin D 3 = 6,00,000IU, Vitamin E
= 4000mgVitamin K3 = 600mg, Vitamin B = 640mg,Vitamin B2 = 1600mg, Niacin= 8,000mg,pantothenic = 2000mg,
Vitamin B6 = 600mg, Vitamin B12 = 4mg, Folic acid = 200mg, BiotinH2 = 300mg, Choline = 70,000mg, Cobalt = 80mg,
Copper = 1200mg,Iodine = 400mg, Iron=8,000mg, Manganese = 16,000mg,Selenium = 80mg, zinc = 12,00mg, and Anti-
oxidant= 600mg,
T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively, which corresponds to 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% presented in Table 1. Each
treatment (T) was replicated three times, with fifteen (15) birds per replicate in a completely randomized
design. The experiment lasted for 30 days for the finisher phase. Data were generated for feed intake,
live weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristic. Feed and water
were given ad-libitum. Three (3) representative birds from each treatment, were selected (based on
average weight) of the group for carcass analysis.
Statistical Analysis: Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using Completely
Randomized Design (CRD) (Steel and Torrie, 1980). Significant differences among treatment means
were compared using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (1955).
The productive performance of the broiler chickens supplemented with enzyme is presented in Table
2. The values recorded for final live weight showed no significant (P>0.05) differences among all the
treatment groups, with T4 recording the highest value (1777.4 g) while T2 lower value (1347.7 g).
Feed intake values observed were 114.85, 107.01, 109.03, 112.30, and 108.21g for T 1 to T5,
respectively, however revealed no significant (P>0.05) differences among the treatment groups. These
values were lower than mean values of 183.18 to 188.52 g/bird, reported by Ndelekwute et al. (2015)
who fed maize-soya bean diet containing acetic acid and enzyme on growth performance of broilers.
The mean daily weight gain ranged from 29.67 to 32.71g/bird/day. Birds on T4 recorded superior
weight gain value (32.71g) over other treatments, while birds on T 3 had the least weight gain
(29.67g/bird). The FCR values were similar for all the treatment groups and were higher than the
values (1.83 to 2.21) reported by Ndelekwute et al. (2015) which indicate lower efficiency and
utilization of feed.
Page | 105
Table 2. Productive performance of broiler finisher chickens supplemented with enzyme

Treatments/Diets
Parameters ** T1(0mg/kg) T2(125mg/kg) T3(250mg/kg) T4(375mg/kg) T5(500mg/kg) SEM
Initial weight (g/bird) 456.47 394.77 419.43 469.20 452.40 ---
Final live weight (g/bird) 1574.8 1347.7 1576.7 1777.4 1582.0 142.0NS
Mean feed intake (g/bird) 114.85 107.01 109.03 112.30 108.21 13.00NS
Daily weight Gain (g/bird) 30.23 31.76 29.67 32.71 29.72 8.76NS
Feed conversion ratio 3.79 3.45 3.67 3.43 3.64 NTS
Mortality (number) 07 06 06 05 07 NTS
NS = Not significant , SEM = Standard error of means, NTS = Not tested statistically
Carcass Characteristics and Organ Weights

The results of carcass characteristics and organ weight measurements are presented in Table 4.5. The
values obtained were significantly higher (P<0.05) for the shanks, neck, thigh, back liver, lungs
kidneys respectively. The liver value (2.47g) recorded was significantly (P<0.05) higher in T 5 while
T4 has the least value (1.99g), however, these values are similar to the values reported by Sogunle et
al. (2010). The lungs value was significantly higher (P<0.05) with a value of 0.85 in T5 while the least
value (0.41) was recorded in T1. The kidneys were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T4 with a value of
0.65 while T1 has the least value of (0.17) respectively and higher than the values reported by Iyayi et
al. (2006) who fed three different sources of fibre to broiler chickens. This implied that nutritional
intervention of exogenous enzyme up to 500mg/100kg in the diets of broiler chickens has no positive
effect on carcass composition which led to poor performance of birds.
Table 3. Carcass characteristics and organ weights of broiler chickens supplemented with enzyme
Treatments/Diets
Parameters T1(0mg/kg) T2(125mg/kg) T3(250mg/kg) T4(375mg/kg) T5(500mg/kg) SEM
Live weight (g) 1574.80 1347.70 1576.70 1777.70 1582.00 189.3 NS

Dressed weight (g) 1020 1008 1214 1400 1095 121.7NS
Dressing percentage 64.8 74.8 76.9 78.7 69.2 1.826NS
Cut-up parts expressed as % of slaughter weight (%)
Head 1.80 2.30 2.10 2.17 2.30 0.182NS
Shanks 3.80b 4.30ab 3.80b 4.47a 4.53a 0.201*
bc a c
Neck 4.93 6.07 4.60 6.13a 5.90ab 0.314*
Wings 8.13 8.20 7.87 7.47 7.60 0.247NS
Thighs 9.63c 11.93a 10.93b 12.40a 11.57ab 0.309*
Drumsticks 9.70 10.17 9.90 10.23 10.07 0.377NS
Breast 18.70 18.00 18.63 17.97 18.47 0.836NS
Thorax 6.60 5.77 6.57 5.97 5.90 0.365NS
Back 9.96a 9.60ab 9.56ab 7.41ab 8.39b 0.783*
Organ and other visceral components as % of slaughter weight
Heart 0.52 0.49 0.39 0.41 0.29 0.075NS
Empty Gizzard 2.03 2.36 1.97 2.13 2.18 0.142NS
Liver 2.01b 2.06ab 2.41ab 1.99b 2.47a 0.135*
b a a
Lungs 0.41 0.77 0.79 0.81a 0.83a 0.063*
Complete intestine 6.33 6.45 6.03 5.65 5.99 0.482NS
Kidney 0.17c 0.43b 0.14c 0.65a 0.23c 0.052*
Proventriculus 6.40 5.63 5.37 5.47 5.70 0.493NS
Abdominal fats 1.68 1.44 1.50 1.24 1.57 0.239NS
abc = means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (P>0.05)
NS = Not significant (P>0.05) SEM = Standard error means * = Significant (P<0.05)
Nutrient Digestibility of Broiler Chickens

The results of nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens supplemented with different levels of
exogenous enzyme are presented in Table 4. The results recorded for (DM) and ash showed no
significant (P>0.05) difference among all the treatment groups with ranges of 63 to 72% and 51 to
88% for DM and Ash, respectively while CP, CF, EE and NFE revealed significant (P>0.05)
difference among all treatment groups. These significant values obtained were lower than values
Page | 106
reported by Alabi et al. (2014) who fed rice husk supplemented with commercial enzyme on the
performance of broiler chickens but were similar to the values reported by Iyayi et al. (2005).
Table 4. Nutrient digestibility of broiler finisher chickens supplemented with enzyme

Treatment/Diets
Nutrients (%) T1(0mg) T2(125mg) T3(250mg) T4(375mg) T5(500mg) SEM
Dry matter 72 66 63 67 69 5.12NS
Crude Protein 76a 68ab 58b 68ab 76 a
7.72*
b b b
Crude Fibre 49 58a 62a 53b 66 a
4.75*
b a ab
Ether Extract 44 88 81 87a 84 ab
3.75*
Ash 51 70 88 67 69 8.5NS
NFE 54.45ab 53.41ab 51.83ab 66.91a 43.87 b
3.75*
a,b = Means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05), NS = Not Significant
(P>0.05) SEM = Standard Error of Means, *= Significant (P<0.05), NFE = Nitrogen free extract
However, the highest CP digestibility was recorded in T 1 and T5 (76%), while the least value was
recorded in T3. Crude fibre digestibility was highest (66%) in T5 and lowest in (49%) in T1. Nitrogen
free extract digestibility was highest in T4 (66.91%) while the least value (43.87%) was observed in
T5. This observation is in line with the report of Hanson (2014) who reported that NSP,
oligosaccharides and phytates were the major targets of enzyme. Therefore, supplementation of
enzyme (fullzyme) to broiler chickens produced from Bacillus subtilis at a rate of 375 mg/100kg on
nutrient utilization revealed positive effect thus, increasing energy availability which manifested on
growth performance and digestibility.
Table 5. Cost benefit analysis of broiler finisher chickens supplemented with fullzyme
Diets/Treatments
Parameters T1(0mg/kg) T2(125mg/kg) T3(250mg/kg) T4(375mg/kg) T5(500mg/kg)
Initial live wt (g) 456.47 394.77 419.43 469.20 452.40
Final weight (g) 1574.80 1347.70 1576.70 1777.40 1582.00
Total weight gain (kg/bird) 1118.33 952.93 1157.27 1308.20 1129.60
Daily wt gain (g) 30.23 31.76 29.67 32.71 29.72
Total feed intake (kg/bird) 114.85 107.01 109.03 112.30 108.21
Feed cost/kg (₦) 71.72 72.03 72.35 72.66 72.97
Total feed Cost (₦) 7172.00 7203.00 7235.00 7265.98 7297.23
Cost/kg gain (₦) 547.60 593.40 547.60 415.20 578.70
Cost per kilogram of the various ingredients used in compounding the experimental diets;
Maize N70.00, wheat offal (N)50.00, fish meal N130.00, soya bean meal N120.00, groundnut cake N100.00, bone meal
N50.00, blood meal ₦30.00 vitamins and minerals premix N600.00, methionine N1000.00, and sodium chloride N45.00.
NB; based on the prevailing price in Maiduguri at the time when the experiment was conducted (December-February
2015/2016).
Cost Benefit Analysis of Broiler Chickens

The cost benefit analysis is presented in Table 5. Diet 1 served as control containing zero enzyme
while diets 2, 3, 4, and 5 contained enzymes at a cost of ₦31.25, ₦62.50, ₦93.75 and ₦125,
respectively per 100kg, cost of production increases with enzyme supplementation level in diets,
which implies that cost of formulation increases across treatments as enzyme inclusion increased and
is in line with the report of Inuwa et al., (2020). T4 recorded the heaviest weight (1777.4g) followed
by T5 (1582), T3 (1576.7g), T1 (1574.8g) and T2 (1347.7g), respectively. These results observed in this
study revealed that the enzyme (fullzyme) used was unable to unveil bound nutrients to chickens with
better performance at least cost.
CONCLUSION
This study concluded that supplementation of enzyme (Fullzyme) at the rate of 500mg/kg in broiler
finisher diet has no positive effect on the productive performance and carcass characteristics. This is
an indication that inclusion of fullzyme in maize-soya bean based diet is not necessary.
Page | 107
REFERENCES
Adamu, S.B., Yaya, N. and Alade, N. K. (2001). Effects of different energy sources on finishing and
carcass characteristics of broiler chickens under a semi arid condition. Journal of Sustainable
Agriculture and the Environment. 3(2): 232- 238.
Alabi, O.O., Atteh, J.O and Ogunniyi, P.T. (2014). Effect of Dietary Inclusion of Rice Husk
Supplemented with Commercial Enzymes on Performance, Nutrient Retention and Gastro
intestinal Tract Characteristics of Arbor Acres Broilers. American Journal of Experimental
Agriculture, 4 (5:) 575-583.
Alkhalf, A., Aljaj, M. and Al-homidan, I (2010). Influence of probiotic supplementation on blood
parameters and growth performance in broiler chickens. Saudi Journal of Biology Science.
17:219-225.
Duncan, D. B., (1955). Multiple range and multiple F-tests. Biometrics, 11: 1-42.
Hanson, M. N. (2014). Effects of exogenous enzyme and direct fed microbial on broiler performance
and nutrient digestibility when fed variable inclusion of soya products. Graduate thesis and
Dissertations. https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/etd/13938
Inuwa, L., Adamu, S. B., Marte, U. M., Yusuf A. M. G., Tukur, M. A., and Danbaki, A. A. (2020).
Replacement Value of Soya Bean Residue for Soya Bean Meal in the Diet of Broiler Finisher
Chickens. Nigerian Journal of Animal Science and Technology 3(1):106-112
Iyayi, E.A., H. Kluth and M. Rodehutscord, (2006). Chemical composition, antinutritional
constituents, precaecal crude protein and amino acid digestibility in three unconventional
tropical legumes in broilers. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.
Kehinde, H. W. (2012). Effect of processing and Maxigrain enzyme supplementation on the
utilization of rice offal by broiler chickens. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of master
in animal science, department of animal science, faculty of agriculture, Ahmadu Bello
University, Zaria, Kaduna state. Pg 68-72.
Ndelekwute, E. K, Assam, E.D, Assam, E. M, Udorok, U. E, Akpan, S. U, Bassey, G. E and Utang, B.
B. (2015). Comparing the use of fish meal, enzyme and acetic acid on growth of broilers fed
maize–soya bean diet. Proc. of the 20th Annual Conference Animal Science Association of
Nigeria. (ASAN) Sept. 6th – 10th, 2015. Ibadan. Pp. 467 – 469.
Oladipo, F. M., Onimisi, P. A., and Bawa, G. S. (2015). Response of broiler chickens fed kaura
variety of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) based diets supplemented with enzymes. Nigerian
Journal of Animal Science. 17,10:79-81.
Sogunle, O. M., Egbeyale, L. T., Idowu, O. M. O., Bamidele, O. M., Sodeke, S. A, Sonaike, G. O and
Fanimo, A. O (2010). Dietary influence on body temperature, performance, blood parameters
and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Agriculture and Biology Journal of North
America. 1:778 – 784
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principles and procedures of statistics. A biometrical
approach, 2ndEdition. McGraw Hill Books Co. New York. U.S.A.
Vukic-Vrangez, M. and Wenk, C. (1993). Influence of dietary enzymes complex on broiler
performance in diets with and without antibiotics supplementation. (In Wenk, C., Boessinger,
M., ed., enzymes in animal nutrition.) Kartuaseittengen, Thurgau, Switzerland. Pp 152 – 155.
Page | 108
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF CROSSBRED

WEANED PIGS ON CONCRETE, SLATTED AND STRAW FLOORS
Ogunbode, A.A., Abegunde, P.T and Popoola, N. B.

Department of Animal Production Technology, Faculty of Animal and Fisheries Technology
Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria
aaogunbode@gmail.com +2348062455318
ABSTRACT
In order to ensure sustainable pig production in most tropical countries, alternative flooring systems
need to be investigated and adopted. Thus, this research aimed to investigate the effect of three type of
floors (concrete, straw and slatted) on the performance characteristics of crossbred weaned pigs.
Eighteen crossbred weaned pigs were obtained from the piggery unit of Teaching and Research farm
of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora. The concrete floors were constructed
using cement, gravel, sand and water. The straw floor were made of maize stalk, and slatted floor
were made of wooden plank. The crossbred weaned pigs were allotted into three treatments of six (6)
animals per replicate. The experiment lasted for eight weeks. Data obtained were arranged in a
Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and analyzed by Analysis of Variance. Data obtained showed
significant (P<0.05) difference in the final live weight of pig across the treatments with the highest
live weight 21.08±3.64a recorded for pig in treatment 3 (slatted floor), while the least final live
weight 14.17±0.58b was observed for pig in treatment 2 (straw floor). The final live weight of pig
raised on concrete floor 16.03±0.14ab was similar (P>0.05) to the final live weight 21.08±3.64a of pig
raised on slatted floor. The feed conversion ratio showed significant (P<0.05) difference across the
treatment with the best result 1.89a obtained in pig raised on slatted floor. The feed conversion ratio
showed significant (P<0.05) difference across the treatment. It could be concluded that the weaned
pig raised on slatted floor recorded the best result.
Keywords: Beddings, concrete, slatted, straw, floor, weaned pig
INTRODUCTION
Experts on pig welfare assign considerable importance to the availability of a substrate such as straw
in their welfare assessments of housing system (Spoolder et al., 2003). Enrichment and flooring are
important factors affecting the incidence of injuries and stomach ulcers in pigs. In pig farming,
welfare conditions should be observed at critical stages such as weaning, when piglet performance
may be affected by behavioural, physiological, immunological and microbiological changes (Molino
and Balbino, 2010). Environmental enrichment by provision of objects or substrates capable of
satisfying the behavioural needs of pigs is a major approach to combat animal welfare problems. The
effects of enrichment can be examined in different approaches such as behavior and performance of
pigs in enriched environments compared to those in barren environments. The use of deep beddings in
pig production has been increasing as it facilitates and reduces the cost of waste management, it
improves the physical comfort of the floor and it as crucial motivation and outlet for exploration
behaviours (Tuyttens, 2005). Several bedding materials and their depth used in piggeries have been
studied such as rice husk, wood shavings, barley and wheat straw (Morrison et al., 2003). Maize being
an important and staple food in Nigeria, its availability all the year round and ease access as crop
residues necessitate the choice of maize straw for this study. The selection of the deep bedding
material is clearly a decision–making multi-criteria task as it involved different aspects related to
animal benefit, farmer‘s financial advantage and availability and price of the material. The
performance of pig is crucial as it reflects their response particularly to feed given and their living
environment. Hence, this study was conducted to compare the growth performance of crossbred
weaned pigs reared on concrete, slatted and straw floors.

The experiment was carried out at the piggery unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Oyo
State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, Nigeria. The experimental area lies in
Savannah forest zone at latitude 71430N and longitude 31 280E in an elevation of 140m above sea
Page | 109
level. The average minimum temperature is above 21.50c and maximum average temperature is about
32.50c. Eighteen (18) crossbred (Largewhite x Landrace) weaned pigs at eight weeks of age were
purchased from the piggery unit of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora.
The pigs were dewormed and fed 4% of their body weight as daily feed at the beginning of the
experiment and this increased in relation to their weight as they grew while water was supplied ad
libitum. The pigs were allowed one week acclimatization and the animals were fed twice daily at
7.00am and 4.00pm. The experiment lasted for eight weeks. The experimental diet was formulated to
meet the nutritional requirements of the animals. Three pens was constructed using wooden plank and
the roofing was made of iron sheet. The floors were made of concrete, straw and slatted. The concrete
floors were constructed using cement, gravel, sand and water while the straw floor was made of maize
stalk. Slatted floor with a slatted gutter at the lower end were constructed. The pigs fed and rested on
the slatted floor and the slatted floor over the gutter was utilized as the dunging area. The pens were
cleared daily by washing down the floor with broom, water and manure were collected in the gutter
and flushed into a pit. The pigs were housed in the pens equipped with individuals drinking and
feeding facilities, the pen used were constructed with wooden planks in an open sided gabble roof
building. One kilogram straw was placed in each pen before the arrival of the pigs. Additional supply
1 kg straw was offered every two days. Waste straw and manure were removed daily. Data was
recorded on daily and weekly basis on the performance of pigs for feed intake and body weight
respectively. The data on feed intake and body weight were evaluated such that feeding was offered at
4% body weight for each replicates. The leftover feed after each day‘s meal, was collected, weighed
and recorded for each replicates on daily basis. Feed consumption for each day was obtained from the
differences, between feed given per day and left over,
Total feed intake (kg) = total feed given (kg) – total feed leftover (kg)
( )
Average feed intake (g) =
Pigs in each replicates were weighed and recorded at the start of the experiment and the weighed at
the end of each week for 4 weeks of the experiment. Final weights were taken and recorded at the end
of the experiment. The experimental animals were randomly allotted to three treatments consisting of
6 animals per treatments in a completely randomized design, each treatment was replicated three
times with two animals per replicate. Experimental design used was complete randomized design
(CRD). The average weekly weight gain, final weight gain, total feed consumed and feed conversion
ratio (FCR), were compared by one factor analysis of variance program of SAS (2012), the difference
between the treatments means were examined by Duncan multiple range test of SAS (2012).
Table 1: Comparative evaluation of crossbred weaned pig on concrete, straw and slatted floors
Parameters T1 (Concrete) T2 (Straw) T3 (Slatted)
Initial weight (kg) 11.00 0.00b 11.27 0.58b 11.34 2.29a
ab b
Final weight (kg) 16.83 0.14 14.17 0.58 21.08 3.64a
ab b
Average weight gain (kg) 5.83 0.14 4.50 0.0 7.08 1.91a
ab b
Weekly weight gain (kg) 0.73 0.02 0.56 0.00 0.89 0.24a
Daily weight gain (kg) 0.10 0.00ab 0.08 0.00b 0.13 0.03a
Feed intake Kg) 7.75 7.75 7.75
FCR 2.26b 2.69c 1.89a
a,b,c
means on the same rows with different superscript differ significantly )P<0.05)
FCR = Feed Conversion Ratio

Data obtained showed significant (P<0.05) difference in the final live weight of pigs across the
treatments with the highest live weight 21.08±3.64a recorded for pig in T3 (slatted floor) while the
least 14.17±0.58b was observed for pig in T2 (straw floor). The final live weight of pig raised on
concrete floor 16.03±0.14ab was similar (P>0.05) to 21.08±3.64a observed for pig on slatted floor. The
poor final live weight of pig raised on straw floor could be attributed to high feeding motivation in the
pigs and this must have affected their feed intake leading to increase in sleeping behavior since they
have no engage in activities relating to scavenging. Excessive temperature as a result of fermentation
of the substrate could result in heat stress reducing voluntary feed intake and weight gain of pigs
Page | 110
(Quiniou et al., 2000). The values obtained from average weight gain showed significant (P<0.05)
difference across the treatments. The lowest average weight gain 4.50±0.00b was observed in weaned
pig raised on straw floor while the highest value 7.08±1.91a was recorded in weaned pig raised on
slatted floor. The values obtained from weekly weight gain showed significant (P<0.05) difference
across the treatments. The lowest weekly weight gain 0.56±0.00b was observed in pig raised on straw
floor while the highest value 0.89±0.24a was recorded in weaned pig raised on slatted floor. The
values obtained from daily weight gain showed significant (P<0.05) difference across the treatments.
The lowest weekly weight gain 0.08±0.00b was observed in weaned pig raised on straw floor while the
highest value 0.13±0.03a was recorded in pig raised on slatted floor. Maize being an important and
staple food in Nigeria, its availability all the year round and easy access as crop residues necessitate
the choice of maize straw for this study. Feed conversion ratio showed significant (P<0.05) difference
across the treatment with the best result 1.89a obtained in weaned pig raised on slatted floor. The
performance of pigs is crucial as it reflects their response particularly to feed given and their living
environment.
CONCLUSION
Better pig production performance with improved weight changes and feed conversion ratio was
noted with pigs on slatted floor. It is therefore, concluded that pig raised on slatted floor promote
better pig welfare.
REFERENCES
Molino, J.P and Balbino, E.M (2010). Lactose em racoes para leitoes desmamados. The Revista de
Nutricao. 103: 1133 – 1149.
Morrison, R.S., Hemsworth, P.H., Cronin, G.M and Campbell, R.G (2003). The social and feeding
behavoiur of growing pigs in deep-litter, large group housing system compared to
conventional confinement system. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 103: 12 – 24.
Quiniou, N., Renaudeau, D., Dubois, S and Noblet, J (2000). Influence of high ambient temperature
on feed intake and feeding behavior of multiparous lactating sows. Animal Sciences 70: 471 –
479
SAS (2012). Statistical Analytical Software User‘s Guide. Static version 9.2. Ed. SAS Institute Inc.
Cary.
Spoolder, H.A.M., De Bree, J., Van der Mheen, H.W and Bracke, M.B.M (2003). Not animal related
but housing parameters determine an experts intuitive welfare assessment of pig farms. In:
Ferrante, F., Canali, E., Carenzi, C., Mattiello, S., Minero, M., Palestrini, C., Tosi,
M.V.,Verga, M. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 37th International Congress of the ISAE, Abano
Terme, Italy, 24-28 June
Tuyttens, F.A.M (2005). The importance of straw for pigs and cattle welfare: a review. Applied
Animal Behaviour Science 92: 261 – 282
Page | 111
EFFECTS OF TIGER NUT OFFAL MEAL-BASED DIETS SUPPLEMENTED WITH

KINGZYME® ENZYME ON HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF GROWER
RABBITS
*Abdullahi1, H. R., Alu2, S. E. and Yakubu2, A.

1
Department of Animal Science Federal University of Lafia, P.M.B 146, Lafia Nasarawa State of Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Science Nasarawa State University, Keffi, P.M.B.135, Shabu-Lafia campus, Nasarawa
State, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: Tel. +2348037613807 email: elhuud4real@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
A six week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of tiger nut offal meal based diet
supplemented with Kingzyme enzyme on haematological indices of grower rabbits. A total of 48
weaned composite rabbits of similar live weight were randomly allotted to the experimental diets in a
2x3 factorial arrangement fitted into Complete Randomized Design (CRD) which was replicated 4
times having 2 rabbits per replicate. Six experimental diets were formulated to be isocaloric
(2500kcal/kg) and isonitrogenous (15% crude protein) with tiger nut offal meal levels of 0, 50 and
100% and two levels of Kingzyme 0ppm and 200ppm. The rabbits were reared in an open-sided
hutches, fed with weighed amount of experimental diets and watered at all time. Other standard
routine management practices were strictly observed throughout the experimental period. The result
showed significant (P<0.05) increase in the red blood cell for rabbits fed on 50% TNO (6.70x10 9)
than 0%TNO (4.59 x109). Kingzyme supplementation significantly increased (P<0.05) white blood
cell. Thus, indicated that rabbits fed on 200ppm enzyme supplementation had higher white blood cell
(10.63x1012) than 0ppm enzymes (6.81 x1012). The interactive effects of TNO and enzyme (T4)
showed significant (P<0.05) increased in the level of red blood cell (7.75 x10 9) and white blood cell
(13.90 x1012) respectively. It is therefore, concluded from this experiment that rabbits could tolerate
50% tiger nut offal meal based diet supplemented with 200ppm Kingzyme enzyme in their diets. This
suggest an increased immunity against disease by the grower rabbits.
Keywords: Haematology, Kingzyme®, Rabbits, Tigernut offal meal, Immunity
INTRODUCTION
Rabbit as monogastric animal has several characteristics that qualify its production both at large and
small scale levels. Among these features are small body size, rapid growth, high reproduction
potential, short generation time, production of high quality meat, good potential for genetic
improvement, ability to utilize non-competitive feeds among others (Oloruntola et al., 2015). Non-
conventional feed resources from agro-industrial based are cheaply, easily and underutilized as feed
(Tuleun et al., 2005). These feed ingredients offer the best alternatives for reducing feed cost and
therefore a reduction in the cost of meat thereby making animal protein available to Nigerian populace
(Dafwang et al., 2001). Among these feed ingredients is tiger nut offal. According to Sánchez-Zapata
(2012) tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) is an underutilized crop of the family Cyperceae, that produce
rhizomes from the based and tubers which contain soluble glucose of about 21%. It has been reported
by Bamishaiye (2009) that tiger nut was cultivated for its nutritive edible nuts and it is rich in vitamin
E and C. The offal was believed to have gotten from local kunun aya (Tiger nut milk) processors. It
has been underutilized and thrown waste causing environmental pollution within town and villages.
Enzymes supplementation in livestock feed has positively improved feed intake, growth performance,
reduction of anti-nutrients found in feed ingredient and total well-being of the animal (Alu et al.,
2018). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding Tiger nut offal meal
based diets and Kingzyme on haematological indices of growing rabbits.

Experimental site
This experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Animal Science Department of
the Faculty of Agriculture, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Shabu-Lafia Campus.
Page | 112
Source of feed ingredients

Tiger nut offal was sourced from the local kunun Aya processors within Keffi and Lafia Local
Government Area of Nasarawa State and sundried for 2-3 days under natural condition while other
ingredients and enzymes were purchased from a registered dealer of animal feed ingredients.
Experimental rabbits and management
Forty eight (48) grower rabbits of the same age and similar live weight were purchased from National
Animal Production Research institute NAPRI and reared in an open- sided mesh rabbit hutches at the
rabbits unit. They were randomly assigned to a six dietary treatments with four replicates in each and
2 rabbits per replicate (incorporating Tiger nut offal meal and enzymes in a 3 x 2 factorial design).
Each hutch was equipped with feeders and drinkers. Rabbit were fed with weighed amount of the
experimental diets ad-libitum and drinking water supplied. Other routine management practices were
observed.
Proximate analysis of Tiger nut offal: Proximate composition of the experimental test ingredient
were determined using the procedure outlined by AOAC (2010) and the results are presented in Table
1.
Table 1: Proximate composition and fibre fractions of Tiger nut offal
Parameters (%)
Crude protein 9.43
Crude fibre 6.77
Ether extract 3.54
Ash 2.88
Moisture 11.95
*2Carbohydrate 72.20
*2Nitrogen free extract 65.43
*2Dry matter 88.05
*1Metabolizable energy (kcal/kg) 2905.243
*1Pauzanga (1985) and *2AOAC (2010)
Experimental diets and composition: Six experimental diets were formulated to be isocaloric
(2500kcal/kg) and isonitrogenous (15% crude protein) for the grower rabbits with three levels
inclusion of the tiger nut offal meal (0, 50 and 100%) and two levels inclusion of exogenous enzymes
(0, 200ppm Kingzyme) as presented in Table 2.
Hematological Indices
At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected into bottles containing anti- coagulant:
Ethylene diamine tetraacetic Acid (EDTA) as reported by Jain (1993) for hematological indices
analysis.
All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) for factorial experiment using
(SPSS, 2007) Model. Significantly different means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range

The results for the main and interactive effect of tiger nut offal meal and enzymes on haematology
were shown in Table 3. The result showed significant increased (P<0.05) level of red blood cell, for
rabbits fed on 50% (6.70 x109) and 100% (4.59 x109) TNO than 0%TNO (4.58 x109) rabbits. This is
an indication that TNO supplied more energy for normal physiological activities. This observation is
at divergence with the previous report of Alagbe (2017) who investigated effects of feeding varying
levels of Tiger nut seed meal on the performance and blood profile of weaner grass cutters and
reported that PCV, Hb, WBC, RBC, MCHC, MCV and MCH were not significantly affected by the
inclusion of Tiger nut meal. Kingzyme® supplementation on haematology showed significant
(P<0.05) increase level of white blood cell (10.63x1012) for rabbits fed on 200ppm enzyme
supplementation than rabbits fed on 0ppm enzymes (6.81x1012). This was an indication that rabbits
fed 200ppm might develop immunity against diseases than 0ppm rabbits. Tiger nut offal meal and
Kingzyme® supplementation interaction on haematology showed significant (P<0.05) increased in the
level of red blood cell, white blood cell 7.75 x109 and 13.90 x1012 for rabbits fed on 50%TNO and
Page | 113
200ppm enzyme respectively. This suggest an increased immunity against disease by the grower
rabbits.
Table 2: Ingredients composition of the experimental diets for grower rabbits
Ingredients T1 (0%TNO T2 (0%TNO T3 (50%TNO T4 (50%TNO T5 (100%TNO T6 (100%TNO
(%) +0ppm) +200ppm) +0ppm) +200ppm) +0ppm) +200ppm)
Maize 30.00 30.00 15.00 15.00 0.00 0.00
TNO* 0.00 0.00 15.00 15.00 30.00 30.00
Maize offal 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
GNC 10.75 10.75 10.75 10.75 10.75 10.75
Rice offal 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Full fat soya 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00
palm oil 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Fish meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Common salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Toxin binder 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Enzymes(ppm) 0.00 200.00 0.00 200.00 0.00 200.00
Calculated Analysis
ME Kcal/Kg 2586.82 2586.82 2506.16 2506.16 2425.49 2425.49
Crude Protein 16.24 16.24 16.32 16.32 16.40 16.40
Lysine 1.01 1.01 1.13 1.13 1.25 1.25
Methionine 0.53 0.53 0.69 0.69 0.85 0.85
Ether Extract 8.75 8.75 8.71 8.71 8.67 8.67
Crude Fibre 12.83 12.83 13.54 13.54 14.26 14.26
Calcium 1.14 1.14 1.16 1.16 1.19 1.19
Phosphorus 0.54 0.54 0.56 0.56 0.59 0.59
Ash 5.76 5.76 5.99 5.99 6.23 6.23
*TNO tiger nut offal inclusion levels.
Table 3. Main and interactive effect of Tiger nut offal meal and Kingzyme ® supplementation on
haematology of grower rabbits.
Factors Parameters
Paked cell Haemoglob Red blood White blood MCV MCH MCHC
volume (%) in (g/dl) cell (x109) cell (x1012 ) (fl) (g/dl) (g/dl)
*TNO 0% 34.00 11.08 4.58b 8.78 23.95 33.58 71.25
50% 37.25 12.35 6.70 a 9.38 24.00 32.65 66.25
100% 33.75 11.03 4.59 b 7.35 23.55 32.05 71.75
SEM 2.85 0.88 0.41 0.84 1.33 0.87 1.95
LOS NS NS ** NS NS NS NS
b
Enzyme 0ppm 36.25 11.91 5.11 6.81 23.30 33.39 68.13
200ppm 34.88 11.49 6.17 10.63a 24.45 32.08 69.63
SEM 2.47 0.77 0.35 0.73 1.15 0.75 1.69
LOS NS NS NS ** NS NS NS
Interactions T1 31.00 10.20 4.25b 8.60b 23.05 32.35 73.50
b b
T2 37.00 11.95 4.90 8.95 24.85 34.80 69.00
b c
T3 38.50 12.75 5.65 4.85 22.65 33.20 65.00
T4 36.00 11.95 7.75a 13.90a 25.35 32.10 67.50
T5 35.50 11.70 4.95b 7.20b 22.55 31.50 71.00
T6 32.00 10.35 4.24b 7.50b 24.55 32.60 72.50
SEM 1.49 0.48 0.40 0.93 0.69 0.48 1.24
LOS NS NS ** ** NS NS NS
TNO= Tiger nut offal; SEM= Standard error means, NS= No significant (P>0.05), LOS= Level of significant, a,
b c= Means on the same row bearing different superscript differ significantly (P<0.05).
Page | 114
This is in conformity with El-Kelawy et al. (2016) who investigated the impact of dietary
supplementation with multi enzyme and/or probiotic on growth performance, nutrients digestibility
and blood constituents of growing rabbits and reported that all blood biochemical and hematological
parameters were within the normal physiological range and suggested that addition of Kemzyme and
Actisaf are good growth stimulators to the growing rabbits and can be added together to the
commercial diet to improve feed utilization and growth performance without any adverse effects on
health status of rabbits.

This study has demonstrated that rabbits could tolerate 50% Tiger nut offal meals inclusion
supplemented with 200ppm kingzyme in their diet without negatively affecting their haematological
indices evaluated.
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A.O.A.C. (2010). Association of official analytical chemists. 17th ed. ShalliamTryd Press. Richmond
Virginia V.S.A.
Alagbe, J.O. (2017). Effect of feeding varying levels of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) seed meal on
the performance and blood profile of weaner grass cutters. Scholarly Journal of Agricultural
Science Vol. 7(1), pp: 15 – 19 February, 2017.
Alu, S.E., Ari, M.M., Bitrus, S.V., Eqya, I.O. (2018). Effect of toasted castor seed meal on serum
biochemistry of grower rabbit supplement with or without quantum blue® enzymes.
Proceedings. 43rd Annual conference of the Nigerian society for animal production, March
18th – 22nd 2018, FUT. Owerri.
Bamishaiye, E.O. (2009). Haematological parameters of albino rats fed on tiger nuts (Cyperus
esculentus) tuber oil meat based diet. The internet Journal of Nutrition and Wellness. 10(1).
Dafwang, I., Ikani, E.J., Chikwendu, D.O., Adeshinwa, A.O.K., Annale, A.I. and Iwuanyanwu, I.E.J.
(2001). An assessment of adoption of nonconventional feedstuff. Poultry and Rabbit
Research, (3): 3 -5
Duncan, D. B. (1955). Multiple Range F-Test. Biometrics, 9:1-42
El-Kelawy, H. M and El-Kelawy, M. I. (2016). Impact of dietary supplementation with multi enzyme
and/or probiotic on growth performance, nutrients digestibility and blood constituents of
growing rabbits. Egyptian Journal of Nutrition and Feeds (2016), 19 (2): 313-323
Jain, M.C. (1993). Physiology of blood with some comments on response to disease. International
Journal of Animal Science, 8:195-231.
Oloruntola, O.D., Daramola, O.T., Omoniyi, S.O. (2015). Effect of forages on Performance, Carcass
cuts and Hematological Profile of Weaner Rabbits. Architectural Zootechnology 2015;
64(245):87-92.
Pauzenga, U. (1985). Feeding Parent Stock. Zootechnology International. pp. 22-25.
Sánchez-Zapata E, Fernández-López J, Angel Pérez-Alvarez J, (2012). Tiger Nut (Cyperus
esculentus) Commercialization: Health Aspects, Composition, Properties, and Food
Applications. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety 11, 366-77.
SPSS. (2007). Statistical package for social science 160 Brief guide: spssinc 233south wacker drive,
11th floor Chicago IL 60606-6412 16.
Tuleun, C.C., Njike, M.C., Ikurior, S.A., &Ehiobu, N.G. (2005). Replacement of maze with cassava
root meal/brewer‘s yeast slurry in the diets of broiler. Proceedings of the 30th Annual
Conference of Nigerian Society for animal production (NSAP), 20-24th March, 2005,
University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Pp: 183-185.
Page | 115
INFLUENCE OF FEED ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE AND EGG QUALITY

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMERCIAL LAYING HENS IN BAUCHI
METROPOLIS
1
Sulaiman, R. 2Abubakar, M. M. and 2Abdullahi, U. S.
1
Department of Animal Science, Bauchi State University, Gadau. Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa university, Bauchi. Nigeria.
Corresponding Author. rilwanusulaiman71@gmail.com. Phone No. 07032920971
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to determine the influence of different feed on productive
performance and egg quality characteristics of commercial layers. A total of 528 Agrited
Lohmann brown laying hens managed in a battery cage system and grouped into eleven (11)
feed type coded as T1, (maize and wheat offal based diet), T2 (maize, sorghum, wheat offal
based diet), T3 (Sorghum and Rice Offal based diet), T4 (Maize, Wheat Offal and Rice Offal
based diet), T5 (Maize and Rice Offal based diet), T6 (Sorghum and Wheat Offal based diet),
T7 (Sorghum, Wheat Offa and Rice Offal based diet), T8 (Maize, Sorghum and Wheat Offal
based diet), T9 (Maize, Sorghum and Wheat Offal based diet), T10 (Commercial based diet),
and T11 (Commercial based diet) of 48 birds per treatment were used. In each treatment, the
bird were equally distributed into three (3) tiers (16 birds per tiers) of upper, middle and
lower tier of the battery cage that serve as replication in a completely randomized design.
Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. Data generated were analyzed using univariate
analysis of variance. Hen-day egg production feed conversion ration were significantly
(p<0.01) different. Hen-day egg production according age shows that age 2 (72 weeks old)
was higher than age 1(92 weeks old). Average egg weight according to age, weeks, period,
and treatment showed significant different (p<0.001). Egg length, shell thickness, and yolk
length show significant effect (p<0.05) on External and internal egg quality characteristics
observed.It was concluded that self formulated feed could be used in commercial layers feed
without detrimental effect on performance, average egg weight and egg quality
characteristics.
Keywords: Commercial diets, Formulated diet, Layer chickens, Performance and Egg quality
INTRODUCTION
Livestock farming particularly poultry is one of the fastest growing divisions of the
agricultural sector in Nigeria. It contributes immensely to the three major economic
sectors(Petroleum, mining and agricultural) in Nigerian economy and has evolved from
subsistence farming to an extremely profit driven commercial enterprise. Poultry production
in Nigeria was put at 114.3 million comprising 82.4 million chickens, 11% of which was
commercially raised, and 31.9 million other poultry including pigeons, ducks, guinea fowls
and turkey. This could be attributed to high productivity, high feed conversion efficiency,
improved fertility, hatchability, growth rate, egg yield and meat quality through genetics and
breeding within a short time and without a huge investment when compared with other
livestock breeding (John-Jajaet al., 2017). In laying hens, feather pecking and cannibalism
lead to welfare problems as well as economical loss for the egg producer when they occur.
Studies have shown that increased fibre intake can reduce the risk occurrence of these
behavioral abnormalities (Medugu et al., 2011).As early as 1900, egg number and egg quality
have become important parameters for poultry breeding and in poultry industry. Increasing
interest in egg quality especially in the developed world has resulted in numerous indices for
characterizing egg quality. The chicken egg, which is naturally designed for reproduction, is a
Page | 116
veritable source of protein affordable to all classes of people whether rich or poor.
(Swiatkiewicz et al., 2010). The by-product of the milling process has no value as human
food because of the high fibre content. Lawal et al (2012). A common commercial practice
used by the industry to increase the digestive capacity of the bird consists of increasing the
fiber content of the diets fed from 10 to 17 weeks of age (Lawal et al., 2012). However, the
scientific information on the benefits of this practice on hen productivity is very limited.
(Lawal et al., 2012)
MATERIALSANDMETHODS
The study was conducted at a private poultry farm at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University
Quarters, Kari Housing Estate, Tirwun along Maiduguri road, Bauchi, Bauchi state, Nigeria.
The state lies between longitude 8.500 and 11.00East of the Greenwich Meridian and latitude
9.300 and 12.30North of the equator. It occupies the Centre of the north-eastern region in the
Sudan savannah ecological zone of Nigeria. Bauchi State (figure 3) covers a total land area of
49,119Sq kilometers, which is about 5.3% of Nigeria‘s total land mass (Anon, 2020.
Experimental diets
The energy source (sorghum and maize grains) and the fiber source (wheat offal and rice
offal) used in these experiment were purchased from Muda Lawal Market in Bauchi
metropolis while the other ingredients were sourced from Animal care services consult (nig)
feed Bauchi deport, Bauchi state.
Experimental Birds and their management
A total of 528Agrited Lohmann brown layers at 94 and 72 weeks of age were used for this
study. The bird were kept in an open sided house, fitted with three-tier battery cages with
feeders and automated nipple drinkers. Long plastic rubber pipe were constructed and used
to partition the feeding troughs at intervals of four (4) cages. The idea was to prevent
spillover of feed from or to neighboring treatments. The chickens were randomly assigned to
eleven (11) groups of the experimental diets (Diets 1-9 while 10-11 are commercial diets)
that constitute the treatment of 48 birds each. The experiment lasted for 14weeks
Experimental design
Each treatment were replicates three times (3) with 16 birds per replicate in a completely
randomized design (CRD).
Data Collection
Productive performance was evaluated by measuring egg production and feed intake. Egg
collection and weighing were usually done three times a day: in the morning at 6 am(Period
1) and afternoon (Period 2) at12pm and then the final collection was made in the evening
(Period 3)at 6.00 pm. Each bird was fed an average of 109g per head per day. Feed was
weighed at feeding time usually every day, and the feed left in the feeder at the end of the
week were weighed and subtracted from the total amount supplied during the week. This
gave the total feed intake per week, and from this total the weekly and total feed intake per
treatment was calculated. Feed conversion ratio was expressed as kilograms of feed
consumed per weight and number of egg produced. Hen day egg production per treatment
and hen day egg production according to age of the hens (Age 1=94 week old, Age 2=72
weeks old) were determined. The average egg weight according to Day, Period, week and
treatment were also analysed

Percentage hen-day egg production according to feed type (treatment), feed conversion ration
and hen-day egg production according to age of the laying hen is presented in Table 2. There
was significant effect of treatment (P<0.001) on hen-day egg production, feed conversion
ratio and age of the laying hen. Hen-day egg production was higher in T10 (71.02%) and T11
Page | 117
(70.53%) followed by T9 (67.11%), T3 (64.13%), T4 (64.07%) and T7 (64.03%). Lowest

hen-day egg production was observed in T5 (61.62%), T1 (60.41%), T6 (60.28%) and T2
(60.01%). This findings is in line with the finding of (Filho et al., 2015) who report that feed
type had significant effect on percentage hen-day egg production. The present result
disagreed with the finding of (Mohammed et al., 2010) who reported that egg production and
egg weight increased when maize is replaced with enzyme supplemented barley. Means of
feed conversion ratio was statistically similar in T1 (2.88), T2 (2.83), T6 (2.82) and T5 (2.79)
followed by T7 (2.70), T3 (2.65), T9 (2.64) and T8 (2.64). The lowest feed conversion ratio
was seen in T10 (2.45) and T11 (2.45).This findings disagree with the finding of
(Mohammed et al., 2010) who noted significant increase in feed conversion ratio due to
substitution of yellow maize with enzyme supplemented barley grain in laying hen diet. Also
Oyeagu et al., 2015 reported higher significant effect of feed conversion ratio value in Shaver
Brown and Nera Black hens fed formulated diet. Based on the age of laying hen, age 1 (94
weeks old) had lower percentage hen-day egg production (62.33%) than age 2 (72 weeks old)
that had higher percentage hen-day egg production (69.55%).
The external and internal egg quality characteristics are presented in Table 3. The external
and internal egg quality characteristics observed are egg weight, egg length, egg width, shell
thickness, shell weight, yolk length, yolk weight and albumen weight. There was significant
difference (P<0.05) in egg length, shell thickness and yolk length. No significant effect
(P>0.05) in egg weight, egg width, shell weight, yolk weight and albumen weight. Highest
means of egg length was observed in T7 (58.19) and T8 (57.47) followed by T6 (57.07), T3
(57.05), T4 (56.54), T5 (56.54), T9 (56.44), T1 (56.27), T10 (55.30) which were statistically
similar. Lowest egg length was observed in T11 (54.83) and T2 (54.67). Highest means of
shell thickness was observed in T2 (1.49) followed by the other treatment with were
statistically similar. Means yolk length was higher in T3 (37.46) compared to other treatment
that were statistically similar. This finding is in harmony with observation of (Medugu et al.,
2011) who reported that result obtained from diets formulated with alternative cereal grain
and cereal by-product had no adverse effect on feed intake, feed conversion ration, yolk
weight, albumen weight and egg quality of laying hen.

Based on the result obtained, the following conclusions were made:
 Energy source; maize or sorghum could be included in formulating layer mash.
 Fibre source; wheat offal or rice offal could be included in layer mash.
 The influence of these combination (maize or sorghum as energy source; wheat offal or
rice offal as fibre source could be used in formulating layer mash and obtained higher egg
production and quality eggs.
 Agrited Lohmann brown hen stay longer in production and performed better.
RECOMMENDATION
From the result obtained, it could be recommended that: energy source (maize or sorghum),
fibre source (wheat offal or rice offal) which is less cost and always available could be
included in the diet of laying hen with no adverse effect on production performance, egg
weight, internal and external egg quality characteristics
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Table 1: Percentage composition of the experimental diets and their grantee analysis Diets
Ingredients 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Diets
Maize % 44.70 22.35 0.00 44.70 44.70 0.00 0.00 22.35 22.35
Sorghum % 0.00 22.35 44.70 0.00 0.00 44.70 44.70 22.35 22.35
Rice offal % 0.00 11.76 11.76 11.76 0.00 23.53 11.76 23.53 0.00
Wheat offal % 23.53 11.76 11.76 11.76 23.53 0.00 11.76 0.00 23.53
Concentrate % 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41 29.41
Limestone % 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18
Bone meal % 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18
Total 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100
Table 2: Performance characteristic of laying hen fed experimental treatment

Treatment HDP FCR
Overall means + SE 64.30 + 0.30 2.70 + 0.013
Treatment 1 60.42+ 0.98d 2.90 + 0.04a
d
2 60.01+ 0.98 2.80 + 0.04ab
3 64.14+ 0.98c 2.70 + 0.04d
c
4 64.10+ 0.98 2.70 + 0.04bcd
5 61.63+ 0.98cd 2.80 + 0.04abc
d
6 60.30+ 0.98 2.80 + 0.04abc
7 64.10+ 0.98c 2.70 + 0.04cd
c
8 64.03+ 0.98 2.60 + 0.04d
9 67.11+ 0.98b 2.60 + 0.04d
a
10 71.03+ 0.98 2.50 + 0.04e
a
11 70.05+ 0.98 2.50 + 0.04e
LOS *** ***
Age ***
Age 1 (96 weeks) 62.33 + 0.36
Age 2 (72 weeks( 69.55 + 0.58
HDP-Hen day egg production. FCR Feed conversion ratio * * * -P<0.001LOS Level of
significant
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Table 3: Influence of feed type on external and internal egg quality characteristics
Treatment
Variables Overall T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 LOS
means+ SE
Egg weight (g) 59.85 + 0.22 59.65 + 0.77 61.11+ 0.76 59.68+ 0.76 58.92+ 0.69 60.54+ 0.85 60.13+ 0.90 60.75 + 0.55 60.13+ 59.77+ 0.74 58.73+ 0.55 59.02+ NS
0.55 0.88
Egg length (mm) 56.40+ 0.20 56.28+ 0.67abc 54.67+ 1.34c 57.05 + 56.55 + 56.54+ 57.07+ 58.19+ 57.47+ 56.44+ 55.31+ 0.45bc 54.83+ X
0.27ab 0.41abc 0.67abc 0.46ab 0.41a 0.38a 0.42abc 0.81c
Egg width (mm) 42.82+ 0.15 43.02+ 0.46 42.33+ 1.06 42.78+ 0.25 42.62+ 0.42 42.48+ 0.31 42.71+ 0.23 42.64+ 0.18 43.15 + 42.56+ 0.34 42.73+ 0.27 43.97+ NS
0.52 0.80
Shell thickness (mm) 0.87+ 0.43 0.88+ 0.50b 1.49+ 0.46a 0.83+ 0.41b 0.85 + 0.59b 0.73+ 0.40b 0.75 + 0.48b 0.78+ 0.50b 0.82+ 0.82+ 0.43b 0.81+ 0.55b 0.81+ X
0.40b 0.41b
Shell weight (g) 8.85 + 0.72 9.23+ 0.32 9.05 + 0.21 8.77+ 0.26 8.78+ 0.30 8.82+ 0.25 8.96+ 0.29 8.61+ 0.22 8.66+ 8.94+ 0.20 8.95 + 0.19 8.65 + NS
0.19 0.19
Yolk length (mm) 36.37+ 0.14 36.08+ 0.60 36.70+ 0.54 37.50+ 0.32 36.50+ 0.34 36.72+ 0.50 36.31+ 0.44 36.50+ 0.43 35.5 + 35.90+ 0.62 36.35 + 0.45 36.18+ NS
0.43 0.45
Yolk weight (g) 15.23+ 0.78 15.10+ 0.24 15.25 + 0.25 15.24+ 0.24 14.99+ 0.30 15.50+ 0.26 15.26+ 0.23 15.53+ 0.20 15.15 + 15.00+ 0.22 15.50+ 0.30 15.10+ NS
0.20 0.20
Albumen weight (g) 24.11+ 0.11 24.32+ 0.40 24.31+ 0.30 24.00+ 0.37 23.90+ 0.53 24.22+ 0.42 24.22+ 0.41 24.13+ 0.30 23.80+ 24.01+ 0.30 24.44+ 0.35 23.80+ NS
0.32 0.25
Page | 120
REFERENCE
Anon (2020). Bauchi State Wikipedia. https://images.app.goo.gl/FGBWQZLsFgFEK7869
Filho, V.J.A, Geraldo, A., Machado, L.C., Avitodebrito, J., Bertechini, A.G and Murayama,
E.S.F., (2015). Effect of protease supplementation on production performance of laying
hens. Acta Sceintiarum, 37(1): 29-33.
John-Jaja, S.A., Abdullah, A.R. and Nwokolo, S. C. (2017). Genetic analysis of egg quality
traits in Bovan Neva Black laying hen undersparse egg production period. Iranian
Journal of Applied Animal Science, 7(1): 155-162
Lawal, T. E., Faniyi,G.F., Alabi,O.M., Ademola, S.G and Lawal, T. O. (2012). Enhancement
of the feeding value of wheat offal for broiler feeding after its solid state fermentation
with Aspergillus niger. African Journal of Biotechnology 11(65): 12925-12929.
Medugu, C.I., Raji, A.O., Igwebuike, J. U. and Barwa, E. (2011). Alternative cereal grains
and cereal by-products as sources of energy in poultry diets- A review. Research
Opinions In animal and veterinary sciences Print ISSN 2221-1896, Online ISSN 2223-
0343www.roavs.com.
Mohammed, Kh.A., Toson, M.A., Hassanien H.H.M, Soliman M.A.H., and Sana H.M., EI-
Nagar (2010). Effect of barley replacement and enzyme supplementation on
performance and egg quality of laying hens, Egypt Poultry Science, 30: 731-745
Oyeagu, C. E., Ani, A. O., Egbu, C. F., Udeh, F. U. and Omumuabuike, J. N. (2015).
Comparative performance of Nera Black and Shaver Brown hens fed self-compounded
and commerce layers‘ diets. Asian Journal of Science and Technology, 6(1): 940-946.
Swiatkiewicz S., Koreleski, J and Arczewska, A.(2010) Laying performance and eggshell
quality in hens fed diets supplemented with prebiotics and organic acid, Czech J. Anim.
Sci., (7):294-306
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FARMERS’ PREFERENCE FOR COMMERCIAL BROILERS AND LAYERS

CHICKEN PRODUCTION IN IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Ijadunola T.I., Popoola M.A*., Awopetu B.O., Odetola O.M., Bolarinwa M.O. and Ayangbola
K.B.
Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan, Oyo State
*moshood.popoola@fcahptib.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The study evaluated farmers‘ preference for commercial broilers and layers chicken production in
Ibadan, Oyo state. For this purpose 180 farmers were randomly selected as respondents with the use
of structured interview schedule to obtain information from them on their socio-economic
characteristics, chicken of their choice of preference and reasons for their choices. Data were
subjected to descriptive statistics using SPSS (v23). Results shows that most of the farmers were
within the bracket of 38-42 years, they were male, had tertiary education and had been in poultry
production for 13-17 years. Results further revealed that most of the farmers prefer to produce layers
chicken with the main reason of dual products obtained from the birds. In conclusion, most preferred
types of birds by farmers was layer chicken. These results has important implications for the need to
better understand commercial poultry farmers‘ preferences, as they have multiple and different
production objectives in the prevailing production and marketing system.
Keywords: Chicken, choice, farmers, preference, production
INTRODUCTION
The poultry sub-sector in Nigeria contributes immensely to the agriculture sector with about 30% of
the agricultural gross domestic product (CBN, 2007). Poultry industry in Nigeria occupies a
prominent position as a major source of animal protein supply to the citizen. Over the years, the
growth of poultry industry has followed a pattern closely dictated by the economic fortunes of the
countries. The increasing demand for animal food products and the trends in consumption and
production strongly suggest that much of the demand for meat can be met through increased
production (Okwoche. et al., 2012). In Nigeria broiler chicken meat consumption constitutes a vital
source of animal protein, needed to meet daily protein requirement (Kwadzo et al., 2013). USDA,
(2013) reported that commercial poultry production in Nigeria was estimated at about USD 800
million. The Agency in 2013 rated Nigeria as the leading country in Africa with respect to eggs
production, but fourth in broiler production.
The production management of chicken require many decisions that would be easier to make if
information on the economic value of populations, traits, productivity and processes were available.
According to Terfa et al., (2019), markets provide important information about economic values and
preference for traded goods and services. Economic valuation of production is essential to guide
decision makers as well as providing rational bases for priority setting by farmers for the type of
chicken to be produced. In Nigeria, however, there is no context-specific empirical evidence on
preferences and valuation of type of chickens produced by farmers to make informed decision on
management of the chicken in terms of production objectives. Thus, this study sought to evaluate
farmers‘ preference for broiler and layers chicken production.

The study was conducted in Ibadan, Oyo State in the south-west geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Ibadan
is the capital of Oyo State, situated in the South Western part of Nigeria, 128km Inland North East of
Lagos. The Population for this study were commercial poultry farmers‘ who are raising broiler and
layer chickens in Ibadan. A simple random technique was used to select 180 respondents with the use
of well-structured interview schedule to obtain information from these respondents. Information
obtained from respondents included: their socio-economic characteristics, their poultry production
enterprises and reasons for their preference for the type of chicken raised. Data were subjected to
Page | 122
both descriptive statistics (such as mean frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics such as
chi-square using SPSS (v.23).
The socio-economic characteristics of the respondents is presented in Table 1. Result shows that most
of the respondents were within the age range of 23-27 years (21.7%) which was strictly followed by
those who were within age range of 38-42 years (17.2%). This is an indication that majority of the
respondents are still economically active and have potentials of engaging in multiple livelihood
strategies. The result of this study corresponds to result reported by Hassan et al. (2014). More than
half of them were male (56.1%), married (52.2%), had tertiary education (54.4%) and were Christians
(63.9%). The marital status of respondents is expected considering their age. The result obtained for
educational level of majority of respondents implies that respondents will be more receptive to
innovation, since they can read and write and this will facilitate ease of adoption of new technology
on poultry production (Popoola et al., 2017). Most of the respondents had household size of less than
5. Result further revealed that most of the respondents had between 13-17 years of experience of
poultry production which was followed by those between 4-7years of experience. Furthermore, the
result revealed that there were significant (p<0.001) relationship between age of the respondents,
marital status, educational level as well as years of poultry production experience and the farmers‘
preference for choice of type of chicken raised by them. This implies these variables served as
significant factors in preference of choice of these farmers for raising either layer chicken or broilers
chicken.
The choice of preference for the type of chicken raised by respondents is presented in Fig. 1. Result
shows that more farmers prefer to raise and produce layers‘ chicken (72.2%) compared to the few
who preferred to produce broilers chicken (27.8%). The cost of production was opined to be the major
reason by most of the farmers for their preference to produce broiler chicken which they thought that
it cost more to produce layers birds than broiler chicken; this was followed by more facilities required
for production of layer chicken; management practices involved in the production, longer period of
producing layers chickens and quick market or sales for broiler chickens with the choice of
preferences ranked as 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively.
The result further revealed that most of the respondents prefer to raise layers‘ chicken because of dual
products (egg and meat) obtained from the chicken which afford them the opportunity to generate
more income from the enterprise; this was followed by the fact that production of layers chicken gave
them the opportunity to stay in and sustain the enterprise because layers production is a long term
venture compared to broiler chicken production which is seasonal - that is it is mostly done during
festive period except there is a ready market for it which is rare in most cases; 25% of the farmers
prefer to venture into layers production because of returns from daily sales of egg and the fact that the
birds can also be disposed as spent layers when they have stopped laying eggs. Market demand was
ranked the least reason for preference for producing layers chicken by the farmers, which implies that
the farmerse are not rational and do not tend to respond to market demand
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Table 1. Socio-economic characteristics of the respondents

2
Variables Frequency Percentage df χ p-value
Age (years)
18-22 18 10.0
23-27 39 21.7
28-32 25 13.9
33-37 21 11.7 6 20.622 0.004*
38-42 31 17.2
43-47 19 10.6
>47 27 15.0
Sex
Male 101 56.1
Female 79 43.9 1 2.689 0.101
Marital status
Single 63 35.0
Married 94 52.2
Divorced 14 7.8 3 1.107 0.004*
Widowed 9 5.0
Educational level
No formal education 18 10.0
Primary education 11 6.1
Secondary education 53 29.4 3 1.057 0.038*
Tertiary education 98 54.4
Religion
Christianity 115 63.9
Islam 59 32.8 3 1.918 0.724
Traditional 6 3.4
Household size
<5 76 42.2
5-10 67 37.2 3 66.533 0.114
11-15 27 15.0
> 15 10 5.6
Years of experience
<3 15 8.3
4-7 59 32.8
8-12 33 18.3 3 1.063 0.001*
13-17 61 33.9
18-22 6 3.3
>22 6 3.3
Broiler
chicken, 27.8
Layers
chicken, 72.2
Fig. 1. Choice of preference for the type of chicken raised by respondents
Page | 124
Table 2. Reasons for choice of preference for type of chicken raised by farmers
Reasons for choice of preference Frequency Percentage Average weighted Mean Rank
Broiler chicken
Cost of production 17 34.0 74.3 1
Duration of production 8 16.0 45.8 4
Facilities required for production 10 20.0 65.9 2
Management practices involved 9 18.0 63.5 3
Market demand 6 12.0 40.7 5
Layer chicken
Products obtained 57 43.8 66.3 1
Market demand 13 10.0 26.8 4
Returns from products 25 19.3 41.2 3
Enterprise sustainability 35 26.9 51.2 2
CONCLUSION
The result of this study revealed most preferred types of birds by farmers was layers chicken with the
fact that most of the farmers prefer to raise layers chicken. These results has important implications
for the need to better understand commercial poultry farmers‘ preferences, as they have multiple and
different production objectives in the prevailing production and marketing system
REFERENCES
Central Bank of Nigeria (2007). Economic and Financial Review. Vol 51: no. 22
Hassan, D. I., Mbap, S.T. and Naibi, S. A. (2014):Socio economic characteristics of Yankassa sheep
and West African Dwarf Goats farmers and their production constraints in Lafia, Nigeria. pp.
82 - 92.
Kwadzo, G. T. M., Deidzie, F., Osei-Asare Y. B. and Kuwornu, J. K. M. (2013): The marketing of
agricultural products Kohls, R.L. and UHL, J.N. 6th Edition Macmillan, New York, 1985
Okwoche V., Osogura B. and Chukwudi P. (2012). Evaluation of Agricultural credit utilizationby
cooperative farmers in Benue state of Nigeria. European Journal of Economics, Finance and
Administrative Sciences. 47, 18-27
Popoola M.A., Adebisi G.L., Osijinrin O.E., Babarinde G.T., Lawal A.M. and Kunuji O.M (2017).
Determinants of backyard poultry production as strategy for food security among households in
Ibadan Metropolis. Nigeria. Proceedings of 6th ASAN-NIAS Joint Annual Meeting. September 10-
14, 2017. Abuja
Terfa Z.G., Garikipati S., Kassie G.T., Dessie T and Christley R.M. (2019). Understanding farmers‘
preference for traits of chickens in rural Ethiopia. Agricultural Economics; 1–13. DOI:
10.1111/agec.12502
USDA, (2013). National Agricultural Statistics Services Publication: broiler poultry Production
NASS page address.
Page | 125
SENSORY AND MEAT QUALITY EVALUATION OF BROILER CHICKENS FED

DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF CORN COB AND SOYBEAN HULL
AS A REPLACEMENT FOR WHEAT OFFAL
*
Fasasi, M.O, *Abidola, B.B, *Bamgbose, A. M. **Raji, M.O, ***Olayemi, W.A., and *Oso, A.O.
*Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
**Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and
Technology, P.M.B 10, Igboora, Oyo State, Nigeria.
***Department of Agricultural Technology, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
* Correspondence: mukhulisololade@gmail.com, +2348136314270
ABSTRACT
To determine the meat quality and sensory evaluation of broiler chickens fed corn cob (CC) and
soybean hull (SBH) as a replacement for wheat offal (WO), a total of 105 one day-old broiler
chickens (Abor acre) were raised at the poultry unit of the Federal University of Agriculture,
Abeokuta, Nigeria. Upon arrival, the birds were weighed and randomly allotted into 5 dietary
treatments. Each dietary treatment consisted of 3 replicates of 7 birds each. The dietary treatments
consisted of the T1/control (100%WO:0% CC+SBH), T2 (75%WO:25%CC+SBH), T3
(50%WO:50% CC+SBH), T4 (25WO%+75% CC+SBH) and T5 (0%WO:100% CC+SBH). Corn cob
and soybean hull were included at ratio 1:1. At the 56th day of the experiment, breast meat samples
were taken from 3 birds in each replicate and analyzed for meat quality and sensory characteristics.
The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design and data obtained for sensory and
meat quality evaluation were subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Results obtained showed that
water absorption capacity, cooking loss and refrigeration loss were significantly influenced (p<0.05)
with birds on 100% CC+SBH recording lowest value for water absorption capacity (0.00%) and
highest for refrigeration loss (6.00%). Meaty flavor, saltiness and overall flavor were the sensory
parameters that were significantly influenced (p<0.05). However, overall acceptability remain
unchanged (p>0.05) across dietary treatments. The study concluded that replacement of WO with CC
and SBH at up to 100% replacement level had little impact on meat quality and sensory evaluation
and therefore recommended.
Keywords: Corn cob, Soybean hull, Wheat offal, Broiler and Fibre
INTRODUCTION
The projected increase in human population by 33% by the year 2050 (UNO,2015), there is no
doubt that food production would also increase and poor management of the resulting agro -
industrial by-products generated could have detrimental effects on the environment. Also, the
human competition with animals for conventional feed resources and the adverse effects of climate
change on crop yields has resulted in scarcity and soaring cost of conventional feed resources (Anaeto
et al., 2009). Wheat offal is one of the primary fibre sources in poultry diets due to its high
availability, digestibility and palatability. However the drastic reduction in wheat production due to
climate change and insurgency in northern Nigeria where most of the wheats are produced has
resulted in sudden surge in price and there is urgent need to look into some non-conventional
resources (such as corn cob and soybean hull) which are always in abundance and causing nuisance to
the environment. Corn cobs are a by-product of the maize crop, consisting of the central fibrous rachis
of the female inflorescence. It was estimated that the US produces about 50 million tons of cobs
annually in the 2000s, with most of them being left on the field (Jansen, 2012). Soybean hulls (a by-
product of soybean oil and meal production) also suffers the same fate. Whereas some researches
have suggested that these by-products are highly digestible (Agrifeeds, 2015) and may contain
bioactive substances that improve meat quality. Therefore, this study investigated the meat quality and
sensory characteristics of broiler chickens fed diets containing corn cob and soybean hull as a
replacement for wheat offal.
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Experimental location and management
The experiment was carried out at the poultry unit of the Directorate of University Farms
(DUFARMs), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of 105 one
day-old chickens (Abor acre) were used for the study. The initial weight of the birds were taken and
randomly distributed into 5 experimental treatments of 3 replicates each. Each replicate consisted of 7
bird making a total of 21 birds per treatment. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum and other
standard routine managements for deep litter system were duly kept to throughout the starter and
finisher phases of the experiment.
Sourcing of the test ingredients
Corn cob used was procured from Eleekara (a corn processing hub in Oyo town), Oyo State, Nigeria
and the Soybean hull was procured in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Collected corn cobs and
soybean hulls were cleaned, sorted by removal of foreign substances through hand picking, re-dried to
a moisture content of about 10% (measured with digital moisture meter), milled and packed inside an
airtight polythene bag till the time of use.
Experimental diets and design
A total of five experimental diets were formulated such that diet 1 (control) contained 100% wheat
offal without corn cob or soybean hull while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 25, 50, 75 and 100% corn
cob and soybean hull (ratio 1:1) respectively as a replacement for wheat offal. The experiment was
laid out in a completely randomized design. The gross composition of the experimental diets is shown
on tables 1and 2.
Table 1: Gross composition (%) of the experimental diets for starter phase (0-4 weeks)
Control 25% 50% 75% 100%
Ingredients 100%WO CC+SBH CC+SBH CC+SBH CC+SBH
Maize 53.00 53.00 53.00 53.00 53.00
Soybean meal 28.00 28.00 28.00 28.00 28.00
Groundnut Cake 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00
Fishmeal (72%) 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00
Wheat offal 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00 0.00
Corn cob 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00
Soybean hull 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Toxin binder 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
ME (Kcal/kg) 2845.44 2842.50 2839.57 2836.63 2833.70
Crude protein (%) 23.35 23.29 23.22 23.15 23.08
Crude fibre (%) 3.59 3.91 4.23 4.55 4.87
Ether extract (%) 3.86 3.88 3.90 3.91 3.93
Data collection
On the 56th day of the experiment, 3 birds per replicate were selected, slaughtered and breast meat
samples were taken to the laboratory for sensory evaluation and meat quality analysis. Sensory
evaluation was carried out by cooking breast meat samples from each replicate at 70 ºC for 30 minutes
inside water bath. The cooked samples were served to 10 trained panellists to taste and grade (for
colour, juiciness, meaty flavour, tenderness, saltiness, overall flavour and overall acceptability) based
on the 9 point hedonic scale of Ogunwole et al., 2013.
Meat quality parameters studied includes:
i. Water absorption capacity
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ii. Cooking loss

iii. Refrigeration loss
All data obtained from the study were subjected into One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in a
Completely Randomized Design using the GLM procedure of statistical analysis software SAS ®
version 2013, means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) as contained in the
SAS® software.
Table 2: Gross composition (%) of the experimental diets for finisher phase (4-8weeks)
Ingredients Control 25% 50% 75% 100%
100%WO CC+SBH CC+SBH CC+SBH CC+SBH
Maize 57.00 57.00 57.00 57.00 57.00
Soybean meal 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00
Groundnut Cake 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Fishmeal (72%) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Wheat offal 8.00 6.00 4.00 2.00 0.00
Corn cob 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00
Soybean hull 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 2.10 2.10 2.10 2.10 2.10
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
ME (Kcal/kg) 3034.12 3028.25 3022.38 3016.51 3010.63
Crude protein (%) 19.81 19.76 19.62 19.49 19.35
Crude fibre (%) 3.51 4.15 4.79 5.43 6.07
Ether extract (%) 3.84 3.87 3.91 3.95 3.98
CC= Corn cob ; SBH= Soybean Hull; WO= Wheat offal
Table 3: Meat quality and sensory characteristics of broiler chickens fed diets containing corn
cob and soybean hull as a replacement for wheat offal
Parameters Control 25% 50% 75% 100% SEM P-value
Meat quality (%)
Water absorption 3.33b 3.28b 4.92a 3.28b 0.00c 0.043 0.03
capacity
Cooking loss 12.80a 10.00b 9.74b 12.00a 9.60b 0.418 0.02
Refrigeration loss 3.00c 5.00ab 3.94b 4.20b 6.00a 0.298 0.00
Sensory evaluation
Colour 6.00 5.53 5.20 6.17 5.17 0.127 0.07
Juiciness 5.67 5.43 4.37 4.67 4.07 0.225 0.08
ab a b ab a
Meaty flavour 5.90 6.50 4.90 5.50 6.10 0.167 0.00
Tenderness 6.10 6.20 5.00 5.20 4.40 0.268 0.15
Saltiness 4.80b 4.70b 6.10a 5.30ab 4.80b 0.169 0.01
Overall flavour 5.90a 5.70a 5.27b 5.17b 5.13b 0.092 0.00
Overall acceptability 6.00 6.60 6.17 5.80 5.20 0.165 0.07
SEM- Standard error of mean;
Means on the same column having different superscript differ significantly at P < 0.05

Table 3 shows the result of meat quality and sensory evaluation of broiler chickens fed corn cob and
soybean hull as a replacement for wheat offal. Water absorption capacity, cooking loss and
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refrigeration loss were all significantly influenced (p<0.05) by the replacement of wheat offal with
corn cob and soybean. Meat samples from the birds on 100% corn cob+soybean hull showed the least
water absorption capacity (0.00%), this could be as a result of the high collagen in the alternative fibre
sources that made the intramuscular bond to be stronger to reduce shear force. Also, the lower values
recorded for cooking loss in birds fed 25, 50 and 100% corn cob+soybean hull could be as a result of
the body weight of the birds used. As Paul (1975) stated that as the weight of the bird increases the
percentage moisture loss reduces. This observation is in line with findings of Iyayi et al. (2005).
Colour, Juiciness, Tenderness and overall acceptability were sensory parameters that appeared not to
be significantly affected (p>0.05) by the inclusion of corn cob and soybean hull. However, meaty
flavor, saltiness and overall flavor showed significant variation (p<0.05) in birds fed corn
cob+soybean hull and those on 100% wheat offal. The inconsistence in the trend of results for meaty
flavor, saltiness and overall flavor could be attributed to the age of the birds as these parameters have
been reported to be more manifested in poultry birds as they grow older (Ramaswamy and Richards,
1982). Meanwhile, it‘s worth noting that the alternative fibre sources inclusion did not create off
flavor in poultry meat as shown by the non-significant difference observed in overall acceptability.

It can be concluded from this study that inclusion of corn cob and soybean hull as a replacement for
wheat offal did not negatively impact meat quality and sensory characteristics of broiler chickens.
Therefore, it is recommended that wheat offal should be replaced with corn cob+soybean hull up to
100% replacement level for reduction in feed cost and lower environmental pollution.
REFERENCES
Agrifeeds Nutrition Guide. (2015). Soybean meal production. http:/www.agrifeeds.co.nz
Anaeto, M., Oluwatoyin, T., Chioma, G.O., Ajao, A.O. and Peters, T.A. (2009). Health and nutrition
practices among smallholder sheep and goat farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. Livestock
Research for Rural Development. 21(11)
Iyayi, E.A. Ogunsola, O. and Ijaya, R. (2005). Effect of Three Sources of Fibre and Period of Feeding
on the Performance, Carcass Measures, Organs Relative Weight and Meat Quality in Broilers.
International Journal of Poultry Science 4 (9): 695-700.
Jansen, C., 2012. Breeding for cob traits in maize. In: Iowa State University Graduating Thesis.
Dissert. Paper 12982
Ogunwole, I.O., Oso,Y.A.A., Omotoso, R.R., Majekodunmi, B.C., Ayinde, B.O. and Oikeh, I. 2013.
Performance, carcass characteristics and meat physicochemical properties of broiler chickens
fed graded levels of supplemental ascorbic acid. Agricultural and Biological Journal of North
America 4(4): 485-495.
Paul, P.C. (1975). Influence of heating methods on eating quality of meat. In: Meat, (Cole, D.J.A. and
R.S. Lawrie, eds.), Butterworths Co. Ltd., London.
Ramaswamy, H. S., and J. F. Richards. (1982). Flavour of poultry meat—A review. Journal of
Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology. 15:7–18.
UNO - United Nations Organisation. Department of Economic and Social Affairs website; 2015.
Available from: http://www.un.org/en/ development/desa/news/population/2015-report.html.
Page | 129
RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKEN FED THREE UNDEFATTED PLANT

PROTEIN SOURCES
Aliyu A.M. and Yahaya, D.

National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), ABU, Zaria
Correspondent email layi5821@gmail.com 08065733087
ABSTRACT
The eight (8) weeks experiment was carried out to evaluate the performance and carcass
characteristics of chickens fed three undefatted plant protein sources. One hundred and eighty (180)
day old birds were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments in a completely randomized design
(CRD). Each treatment had 60 birds with 3 replicate of 20 birds each. Data were collected for
performance and carcass characteristics. The performance of chickens fed the three undefatted
proteins showed no significant (p>0.05) differences among the treatments, though, chickens on full-
fat soyabean meal had the highest weight gain (1220g) and the lowest FCR (2.02). This indicated that
the chickens utilized and converted the feed fed to meat. The result for carcass traits showed that
chickens on full-fat soybean meal had significantly (p<0.05) higher values for dressed weight, thigh,
drumstick, wings, neck, back cavity, breast, gizzard and kidney. It was concluded that the three
undefatted protein sources could be included in broiler diets without any detrimental effect on
performance and carcass characteristics but 30% full-fat soyabean meal enhanced carcass yield and
efficient nutrient utilization.
Key words: broilers, performance, carcass, undefatted protein
INTRODUCTION
One great challenge facing Africa is the provision of sufficient food for its ever-increasing population
(Aduku and Olukosi, 1990). This is due to the rate of increase in human population, which is not
matched with increase in food production. Low protein consumption is a general problem in Nigeria
and other developing countries (Ayorinde and Aromolaran, 1998). This is due to the shortage of
animal products, which has led to the current high prices making them too expensive and unaffordable
to an average Nigerian. Poultry production has been identified as one major means of solving this
problem (Nworgu et al., 2000). However, feeding poultry presents a great challenge to farmers and
nutritionists in Nigeria (Etuk et al., 2002) and several tropical countries. Farmers and feed millers
seem to have become addicted to using only the conventional feed ingredients in producing their
feeds. Unfortunately, these feed ingredients have become scarce and often times unavailable. This,
therefore, calls for expansion of resource base that can accommodate some unconventional feed
ingredients that have comparative nutrient potentials like the conventional ingredients (Ojewola and
Ewa, 2005). Apart from the major conventional plant protein sources (Soybean meal, groundnut cake)
others protein sources like pigeon pea seed meal, cottonseed meal, cashew nut meal, sunflower seed
meal and lima bean meal had been investigated (Odunsi, 2002; Amaefule et al., 2003) and results
indicated that these feedstuffs are capable of providing protein and energy for poultry. The cashew nut
tree (Anarcardium occidentale L.) is a tropical oil seed plant with great potential and increasing
commercial value (Odunsi, 2002). Aduku (1993) observed that cashew nut meal has the following
proximate composition: protein 40.9%; fat 1.30%; crude fiber 1.5%; calcium 0.06%; phosphorus
0.32%; ash 5.30%. This study was carried out to evaluate full-fats groundnut meal (GNM), cashew
nut meal (CNM) and soyabean meal (SBM) as potential feeding stuffs in the diets of chickens.

Experimental site
The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Ibrahim
Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State.
Sources and preparation of feed ingredients
Cashew nut meal was obtained from Lapai and Mokwa Markets of Niger State. The major ingredients
were bought from Samaru Market, Zaria, while the minor ones were purchased from Vetco animal
care, Yakubu Gowon Way, Kaduna State. The cashew nuts were collected, roasted and sun-dried for a
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week. It was hammered-broken for the kernel, dried again and ground for full-fat cashew nut meal.
Soybean and groundnut were individually toasted and ground to meal.
Chemical composition of the test ingredients
Samples of the GNM, CSM and SBM were taken to the Biochemical Laboratory, Department of
Biochemistry, Ibrahim Badamasi University, Lapai, for chemical analysis. The proximate
composition was carried out following the methods of A.O.A.C (2003).
Experimental diets
Three (3) experimental diets were formulated to meet NRC (1994) requirement. Diet 1 contains 30%
full-fat groundnut meal (FFGNM) as a source of protein, diet 2 contains 30% full-fat cashew nut meal
(FFCNM) as a source of protein and diet 3, 30% full-fat soybean meal (FFSBM) as a source of
protein.
Table 1: Nutrient composition of experimental broiler diets
Starter Diet (0-4 weeks) Finisher Diet (5-8 weeks)
Treatments Treatments
Ingredients (%) Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3
Maize 51.80 51.80 51.80 48.80 48.80 48.80
Maize offal 10.00 10.00 10.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
FFSBM - - 30.00 - - 30.00
FFCNM - 30.00 - - 30.00 -
FFGNM 30.00 - - 30.00 - -
Fish meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 1.50 .50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
Crude protein 22.74 22.54 23.14 20.20 20.49 20.44
Metabolizable energy 3084.54 2943.34 3120.54 3219.60 3243.84 3267.92
(Kcal/kg)
Vitamin premix (2.5kg/1000kg): vitamin A (15,000.000 U.I), vitamin D (3,000.000 I.U), and vitamin E (30,000 I.U) vitamin K
(2,500 3 I.U), Thiamin B1 (2,000mgr), Riboflavin B2 (6,000mgr). Pyridoxine B6 (4000mgr) Niacin (40,000mgr), vitamin B12
(20mgr), panthothenic (10,000 mgr), Folic Acid (1,000 mgr), Biotin (80mgr), Chlorine Chloride (500mgr), Antioxidant (125gr).
Manganese (96gr), Zinc (60gr), Iron (24gr), Copper (6gr) Iodine (1,4gr), Selenium (24gr), cobalt (12gr).
FFSBM: Full-fat soybean meal FFCNM: Full-fat cashew nut meal FFGNM: Full-fat groundnut meal
Experimental design and management of the animals

One hundred and eighty (180) Marshall Broiler Chicks were purchased. They were weighed and
randomly allotted to 3 dietary groups in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each dietary group
had 60 birds, which were replicated thrice, having 20 chicks per replicate. The chicks were raised on
deep litter system. All routine vaccination and medications were given. Birds were offered
experimental starter diet for the first four weeks followed by experimental finisher diets for the next
four weeks. The birds were fed feed and water ad libitum. The trial lasted for 8 weeks.
Data collection
Parameters on initial and final weigh, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio were taken
throughout the 8 weeks of the experiment. Mortality of the birds from each treatment was recorded as
they occurred. Carcass evaluation was carried out at the end of the trial (8 th week). Two birds were
randomly selected, starved overnight, weighed, and slaughtered by severing the jugular vein. After
scalding in warm water for about a minute, the feathers were manually plucked, and the dressed
carcass were cut into primal parts for external and internal parts measurement according to the
procedures of Ojewola et al. (2001).
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All data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) according to the procedure of
statistical analysis system (SAS, 2002) package. Treatment means were separated using Duncan‘s
Multiple Range Test (Steel and Torrie, 1980).

Table 2 shows the chemical composition of the test ingredients used for this trial. The crude protein
content of GNM (43.42%), CNM (42.35%) and SBM (44.38%) compared favourably with the values
reported by Olomu (1995). The crude fibre, ether extract, ash, NFE and dry matter followed the same
trend. The slight differences observed from the already established values can be attributed to the
different sources of the ingredients, methods of processing, length of storage and storage condition
among others.
Table 2: Chemical composition of test ingredients used

Test ingredients
Nutrients (%) GNM CNM SBM
Crude Protein 43.42 42.35 44.38
Ether Extract 2.54 2.18 1.09
Crude Fibre 6.49 13.26 1.33
Ash 5.96 6.15 5.05
Dry Matter 93.01 91.06 91.34
NFE 48.75 36.17 49.19
Moisture 6.99 8.94 8.66
ME (Kcal/kg) 3543 3028 3477
GNM = groundnut meal CNM = Cashew nut meal SBM = Soybean meal ME – Metabolizable Energy
The result of the performance of broiler birds fed diets with different plant protein sources was
presented in Table 3. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences among the treatment means in all
the parameters measured. Birds on diet 3 had the highest weight gain (21.79g) and the lowest FCR
(2.02) compared to diets 1 and 2. A lower FCR is an indication of better performance and feed
conversion into flesh. This also shows that the birds utilized and converted the feed consumed into
meat. Diet 1 recorded the highest mean value (23.33%) for mortality rate. This might be due to
afflatoxicosis which has been reported to cause lameness, paralysis of legs and wings and even death
(Ewa, 1999), or rancidity of undefatted meals which may also result in heavy mortality of birds
(Mauri et al., 2006)
Table 3: Performance characteristics of the experimental birds fed undefatted plant protein
sources
Parameters Treatments
Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 SEM
Initial weight (g/bird) 70.00 80.00 80.00
Final weight (g/bird) 1200.00 1000.00 1300.00
Weight gain (g) 1130.00 920.00 1220.00 0.84NS
Daily weight gain (g/bird) 20.17 16.42 21.79 0.49NS
Daily feed intake (g/bird) 8.69 7.74 10.78 1.08NS
Feed : gain 2.32 2.18 2.02 0.36NS
Mortality (%) 23.33 13.33 18.33
SEM=Standard error of mean. NS=Non- significant
Table 4 shows the carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed undefatted plant protein sources.
There were significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatment means for all the parameters
measured. The result obtained showed that higher live weights led to higher dressed weights. This is
in agreement with the work of Hayse and Marison (1973), who confirmed that heavier birds produced
a greater eviscerated yield. This is also due to the fact that plump appearance in broilers was
associated with high percentage of edible meat or fat. Birds fed diet 3 gave the highest value for breast
(11%) and thigh (10.1%) compared to birds on diets 2 and 1. This indicated that soyabean meal in the
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diet of broilers support tissue disposition to a particular part (Bamgbose et al., 1998). The back cavity
for the birds fed diet 3 (15.2%) was significantly (P<0.05) higher than birds on diet 2 (12.5%) but
compared favourably with birds on diet 1 (14.4%). This could be attributed to different abilities of the
test ingredients to differently induce tissue lay-down for the said cut part and agrees with the reports
of Abiola (1999). Differences in drumstick values might be attributed to similar reasons. Organ
proportions expressed as percent of live weight were significant (p<0.05) among treatment means for
heart, gizzard and liver while abdominal fat, kidney and spleen showed no significant (p>0.05)
differences. The significant (p<0.05) difference obtained for gizzard in diet 1 might have been
influenced by the degree of feed coarseness resulting from increased muscular activity of the gizzard
during grinding as noted by Fanimo and Odu (1996). Liver percentage was least in diet 1 but slightly
increased in diet 2 perhaps resulting from the detoxification process which the birds underwent due to
certain anti-nutrient factors present in the full-fat soybean meal, since the liver is involved in the
detoxification of metabolites (Sturkie, 1976).
Table 4:Carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed three undefatted plant protein sources
Treatments
Parameters Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 SEM
Live weight (g) 1216.70 900.00 1183.30
Dressed weight (g) 714.20 458.1 699.33
Dressed weight (%) 58.7b 50.9c 59.1a 0.02*
b c a
Thigh (%) 9.7 6.3 10.1 0.01*
Drumstick (%) 8.8a 7.5c 8.6b 0.01*
Neck (%) 5.0a 4.7b 5.3a 0.18*
Wing (%) 7.2b 6.7c 7.8a 0.04*
Back (%) 14.4b 12.5c 15.2a 0.18*
Breast (%) 10.5b 9.6c 11.0a 0.26*
Organ weights
Heart 0.6a 0.4b 0.5a 0.01*
c a
Liver 2.1 2.3 2.2b 0.03*
Gizzard 2.5b 2.2c 2.6a 0.04*
Kidney 0.5 0.4 0.5 0.25NS
Spleen 0.07 0.09 0.08 0.17NS
Abdominal fat 1.9 01.5 1.3 0.46NS
abc
values in same row with different superscripts are significantly different (P<0.05). NS=Non- significant. SEM=Standard
error of mean. *=Significant

The study revealed that undefatted protein sources (FFGNM, FFCNM and FFSBM) could be included
in broiler diets without any detrimental effect on performance and carcass characteristics but 30%
FFSBM increased weight gain, enhanced carcass yield and efficient nutrient utilization compared to
30% FFGNM and 30% FFCSM. Further research can be carried out on oil expelling before inclusion
in poultry diets, how to increase the nutritive value and also reduce their anti-nutrients
REFERENCES
A.O.A.C. (2003). Association of Official Analytical chemists. Official Method of Analysis; 17th
Edition. USA.
Abiola, S.S. (1999). Comparative utilization of toasted and cooked soyabean in broilers ration.
Proceedings of the 24th NSAP Conference, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, P: 84-
86.
Aduku, A.O. (1993). Tropical feedstuff and analysis table. Ahmadu Bello University Samaru, Zaria
Nigeria, p:1.
Aduku, A.O. and Olukosi, J.O. (1990). Rabbit management in the topics: production, processing,
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Amaefule, K.U., Odukwe, C.N and Ndubuisi, E.C. (2003). Pigeon pea seed meal as protein source for
broilers. Journal of Sustainability Agriculture and Environment, 5: 1-11.
Ayorinde, I.A. and Aromolaran, A.B. (1998). Economics of rabbit production in Abeokuta South
L.G.A of Ogun State, Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 25:100-105.
Bamgbose, A.M., Oyawoye, E.O., Apata, O.H.O., Mohammed, A.S. and Musa, A.M. (1998).
Utilization of roasted full-fat soyabean in diets for broiler chickens. Proceedings of the NSAP
Anniversary Conference, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta Ogun State, Nigeria.
Etuk, E.B., Udedibie, A.B.I. and Obikaonu, H.O. (2002). Replacement value of pigeon pea (Cajanus
cajan) seed meal for soyabean meal and maize in broiler finisher diets. Proceedings of the7th
Annual Conference of Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN). Abeokuta, Nigeria, p:
157-160.
Ewa, U.E. (1999). Evaluation of the metabolized energy and true digestible protein of jackbean
(Canavalia ensiformis) using Muscovy Ducks (Carina moschata). B.Sc. Project, Michael
Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, pp: 25-33.
Fanimo, O. A. and Odu, S. (1996). Effect of ripe plantain peels on growth performance and carcass
characteristics of growing rabbits. Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science, 19(1): 89-93.
Hayse, P.L. and Marison, W.W. (1973). Eviscerated yield, component part, meat, skin and bone ratios
in broiler chicken. Poultry Science, 57: 718-722.
NRC (1994). National Research Council. Nutrient Requirement of Poultry, 9th Edition.
Nworgu, F.C., Egbunike, G.N., Faphohunda, J.B., Ogundola, F.O., Omela, A.J., Ogbosuka, G.E. and
Okpeze,C.N. (2000). Performance of broiler chicks fed full-fat extruded soyabean meal and
full-fat soyabean. Tropical Animal Production Invest., 3:47-54.
Odunsi, A.A. (2002). Effect of feeding reject cashew kernel meal on pre and early laying performance
of pullet. Arch. Zootechnia., 51: 423-429.
Ojewola, G.S., Abasiekong, S.F. and Nwachukwu, C.S. (2001). Methionine supplementation in the
productive efficiency, carcass characteristics and Economics of growing Indigenous turkey.
Tropical Journal of Animal Science, 4: 161- 170.
Ojewola, G.S. and Ewa, U.E. (2005). Response of growing broilers to varying dietary plant protein.
International journal of Poultry Science, 4(10): 765-771.
SAS. (2002). User‘s guide Statistical version, 10th edition, SAS statistical package Inc., Cary, North
Calorina, USA.
Steel, R.G.D. and Torrie, J.H. (1984). Principle and Procedures of Statistics McGram Hill New York.
Sturkie, P.D. (1976). Avian Physiology: Lipid metabolism, Griminger, P. (ED.) Springer Verlag Inc.,
New York.
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EFFECT OF DIETARY LACTO ACIDOPHILUS®SUPPLEMENTATION ON LIVER FUNCTION OF

BROILER CHICKENS
Opoola , E. Olugbemi, T.S. and Kahuwai, C.Z.

Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Nigeria,
Corresponding email: emmycom123@yahoo.com, Phone number: 07032217712
ABSTRACT
Effect of lacto acidophilus dietary supplementation on liver function of broilers chickens was studied.
Two hundred and fifty-five one-day-old mixed sex Abor acre broiler chicks were allocated to five
dietary treatments with three replicates consisting of 17 birds per replicate. Treatment 1 was the basal
diet (positive control) with neither probiotic nor antibiotic addition.Treatment 2, 3 and 4 comprised of
basal diet with 150, 200 and 250g/100kg Lacto Acidophilus® respectively while treatment 5 contained
basal diet with 66g oxytetracycline (negative control).Total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, aspartate-
amino transferase (AST) and alanine-amino transferase (ALT)) were significantly different (P<0.05)
across all the treatments with the exception of alkaline phosphate (ALP). However, it was observed
that chickens fed 250g/100kg diet had the highest values for the all the parameters measured, although
some values were similar to the values recorded for the control. The linear trends, either positive or
negative, observed in many of the parameters studied of chickens fed 250g lacto acidophilus/100kg of
diet; suggest that more studies are needed to establish the optimal concentration of probiotics in
broiler feed. Also the mechanism by which probiotics affect liver function remains unclear, this calls
for further investigations.
Keywords: broiler, probiotic, liver, tropical environment.
INTRODUCTION
Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in liver function of broiler chickens. Total protein, albumin, AST,
and ALT concentrations) are crucial in determining the general health status of the broiler chickens.
There are many biological toxins present in the natural environment, which may be dangerous for
human and animal health. In poultry production, most of these biological toxins are mostly present in
the diets and water presented. Mycotoxins are currently considered to be among the most dangerous
ones (Liakbarpou et al., 2012). None of the geographic regions is free from mycotoxins. The data
published by FAO in 2001 showed that 25% of agricultural raw materials were contaminated with
mycotoxins, and their type and contamination levels were greatly dependent on the climatic zone.
However, studies have shown that the use of probiotic supplementation of the diets partially
ameliorated mcotoxins negative effects. Chickens exposed to bacterial and mycotoxins may have
severe histopathological changes in the liver and kidneys. However, the supplementations of
probiotics have been proven to significantly reduce the adverse changes of these organs when they are
exposed to harmful organisms. This present study was conducted to ascertain the effect of lacto
acidophilus supplementation of the liver function of broiler chickens reared under tropical
environment.

The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Department of Animal Science Teaching and
Research farm, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State. Zaria is in the Northern Guinea
Savannah Zone, located on latitude 11009‘ 01.78‘‘N, longitude 07039‘ 14.79‘‘E with an altitude of
671m above sea level. Two hundred and fifty five (255) week-old Ross broiler chicks of mixed sexes
were assigned to five dietary treatments for group brooding of one week after which they were
distributed on the basis of equal weight into three replicates per treatment with 17 birds each in a
completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were housed in deep litter pens and all necessary
routine management practices were observed. Water and feed were administered ad libitum for the 7
weeks experimental period. All vaccinations and medication were administered as at when due. The
diets were iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous and formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of the
broiler chicks during starter and finisher periods (Tables 1) according to the National Research
Council requirements (NRC, 1994).Diets comprising of five treatments were formulated as shown in
Tables 1 with Lacto Acidophilus® added in the diets.The Lacto Acidophilus® used was manufactured
Page | 135
by a commercial company (MIAVIT GmbH, Germany).Treatment 1 was the basal diet (positive
control) with neither probiotic nor antibiotic addition. Treatment 2, 3 and 4 comprised of basal diet
with 150, 200 and 250g/100kg Lacto Acidophilus® respectively. Treatment 5 contained basal diet with
66g oxytetracycline (negative control).
Table1: Ingredients contained in the basal diet for broilers chickens and its calculated nutrient
content
Ingredients Basal diet (starter) Basal diet (finisher)
Maize 51.90 58.92
Soya bean cake 27.50 21.00
GNC 13.21 12.00
Palm oil 1.50 1.50
Bone meal 2.50 3.00
Limestone 2.50 3.00
Common Salt 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.13 0.18
Vit-min-Premix1 0.16 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
ME (Kcal/kg) 2,998 2,990
Crude Protein (%) 23.21 20.37
Crude Fibre (%) 4.57 4.39
Ether Extract (%) 4.85 4.63
Calcium (%) 1.18 1.35
Phosphorus (%) 0.66 0.75
Methionine (%) 0.86 0.77
Lysine (%) 1.27 1.13
1
Vitamin mineral premix provide per kg of diet. Vit. A, 13,340 i.u; Vit. D 3, 2680 i.u; Vit. E, 10 i.u; Vit. K, 2.68 mg; Calcium
pantothenate, 10.68mg; Vit. B12, 0.022mg, Folic acid, 0.668mg; Choline choride, 400mg; Chlorotetracyline, 26.68mg;
manganese, 13mg; iron, 66.68mg; Zinc, 53.34mg; Copper, 3.2mg; Iodine, 1.86mg; Cobalt, 0.268mg; Selenium, 0.108mg
Liver Function Test
Two (2) ml of blood samples were collected from three birds per replicate at the end of the finisher
phase. The blood samples were collected into a sterilized sample bottles containing no anticoagulant
and were allowed to clot and then centrifuged. The serum was separated and stored at -200C at the
Clinical Pathology Laboratory of Ahmadu Bello Teaching Hospital for determination of parameters
related to liver function; globulin, albumin, total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT),
aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphate (ALP), according to the methods described
by Lamb (1991).
All data obtained from the two experiments were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using
the General Linear Model Procedures (GLM) of the Statistical Analysis Software package. Significant
Experimental Model
Yij = µ + Ti + eij
Yij = performance of jth animal fed ith levels of Lacto Acidophilus inclusion
µ = Overall mean
Ti = ith effect of treatment at varying levels of Lacto Acidophilus inclusion
eij = Random residual error

Table 2 shows the liver function indices of broiler chickens fed diets containing varying levels of
Lacto Acidophilus®. It shows that all parameters measured such as total protein (TP), albumin,
globulin, aspartate-amino transferase (AST) and alanine-amino transferase (ALT)) were significantly
different (P<0.05) across all the treatments with the exception of alkaline phosphate (ALP). Dietary
Page | 136
inclusion of 250g Lacto Acidophilus® and Oxytet were similar and significantly (P<0.05) higher in
total protein concentration (37.50g/dL) compared to other treatment groups. Treatment groups
supplemented with 150 and 200gLacto Acidophilus® were significantly lower in globulin
concentration compared to the control (0g Lacto Acidophilus®) and other treatment groups. However,
the concentration of albumin was significantly higher in treatment groups with dietary inclusion of
Lacto Acidophilus® (150g, 200g, 250g) and Oxytet compared to the control (0g Lacto Acidophilus®).
AST concentration was significantly higher in treatment groups supplemented with Lacto
Acidophilus® (200g, 250g) which is similar (P>0.05) to the control (0g Lacto Acidophilus®) but
different from treatment groups supplemented with Lacto Acidophilus® (150g) and Oxytet.
Furthermore, the concentration of ALT of treatment groups supplemented with Lacto Acidophilus®
(200g, 250g) were not significantly (P>0.05) different compared to the control but significantly higher
than treatment groups supplemented with 150g Lacto Acidophilus® and Oxytet. Liver function test is
used to determine the health of the animal liver by measuring the levels of proteins and liver enzymes
in the blood. Total protein, albumin, AST, and ALT concentrations are indices use as part of a general
health check up to determine the nutritional status of the birds, to screen or detect liver damage and
help diagnose liver diseases while ALP screens for or monitors the treatment of a liver disorder. A
significantly high amount of total protein in birds fed 250g Lacto Acidophilus® and Oxytet is an
indication of improvement in the nutritional status of the birds and normality of the liver probably due
to the impart of the probiotic and antibiotic in the feed. However, values of total protein were within
the normal range for healthy birds reported by Lee et al. (2010). The significant increase in albumin
with addition of Lacto Acidophilus® connotes better clotting ability. According to Kioumarsi, et al.,
(2012), serum albumin is a strong index for health. Low albumin concentration is an indicator for
poor health while higher albumin concentration means higher blood clotting ability, thus preventing
haemorrhage (Moses, 2017). However, globulin concentration was significantly different among the
treatment groups with 200g Lacto Acidophilus® having the least value. This indicates a lower immune
response and resistance to diseases. Albumin and globulin concentrations were within the normal
range for healthy chickens as reported by Lee et al. (2010). The higher value of AST recorded in 200
and 250g Lacto Acidophilus®could be a sign of liver injury leading to the leakage of the enzyme from
the liver into the blood. This may however not be an effect of the probiotic seeing that the values were
statistically similar to the control. Although ALP value was not significant; it monitors the treatment
for liver disorder and also indicate non-inflammation of the liver.
Table 2: Liver Function Indices of Broiler Chickens (8weeks) Fed Diets Containing
Varying Levels of Lacto Acidophilus®
Inclusion Levels of Lacto Acidophilus®
Parameters 0.0g 150g 200g 250g Oxytet SEM Ref V.
Total Protein (g/dL) 35.50 ab
33.00 b
34.00 b
37.50 a
37.50 a 1.32 30.00-49.00
Albumin (g/dL) 12.50 b
14.00ab
16.00 a
15.50 a
16.50 a 1.25 10.00-16.00
Globulin (mg/dL) 23.00 a
19.00 b
18.00 b
22.00 a
21.00 ab 1.35 19.00-29.00
AST (µ/L) 86.00 ab
79.00 b
99.00 a
90.50 a
79.00 b 6.74 -
ALT (µ/L) 68.00 a
51.00 b
64.00 ab
70.00 a
60.00 b 3.98 -
ALP (µ/L) 59.00 65.00 58.50 57.00 58.50 4.97 -
Oxytet = Oxytetracycline; SEM = Standard Error of Means; Ref V.= Reference Value
CONCLUSION
Eight-week-long supplementation with Lacto Acidophilus® may exert a favorable effect on liver
function. However, the inclusion of probiotics supplementation up to the highest level tested did not
show any risk to the liver of broiler chickens.
REFERENCES
FAO/WHO. (2001). Report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation on evaluation of health and
nutritional properties of probiotics in food including powder milk with live lactic acid bacteria.
Page | 137
Córdoba, Argentina: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and World
Health Organization, 30 p.
Kioumarsi, H., Shabani, R., Nosrati, M. and Javandel, F. (2012). The effect of probiotics on carcass
and internal organs of broilers. Annals of Biological Research, 12:5475-5477.
Lamb, G.N. (1991). Manual of Veterinary laboratory technique. Ciba-Geig Y, Kenya, 96-107.
Lee., K, Lillehoj, H. S and Siragusa, G. R. (2010). Direct-fed microbials and their impact on the
intestinal microflora and immune system of chickens. I. 47: 106-114.
National Research Council. (1994). Nutrient requirements of poultry, 9th ed., Washington DC:
National Academy Press, 176 p.
Moses, O., Onimisi, P.A. and Jegede, J.O. (2017). Effect of different inclusion levels of CRINA ®
Poultry Plusas replacement for antibiotic growth promoters on the performance of broiler
chickens reared under field conditions in Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Animal Sciences, 2:62-
71.
SAS Institute. (2002). SAS STAT user's guide.Version 9.0. Cary, NC: SAS Inst. Inc.
Liakbarpour H. R., Chamani M., Rahimi, G., SadeghiaA and Qujeq D. (2012). The Bacillus subtilis
and lactic acid bacteria probiotics influences intestinal mucin gene expression,
histomorphology and growth performance in broilers. Asian-Australian Journal of Animal
Science. 25: 1285-1293.
Page | 138
APPARENT METABOLISABLE ENERGY VALUES OF MAIZE OFFAL AS

INFLUENCED BY ENZYMES AND COCKTAILS
*Jimoh, A1. and Atteh, J. O2

1
Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: abdulhameedjimoh@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to quantify the effect of enzymes and cocktail of enzymes on apparent
metabolisable energy (AME) value of maize offal to facilitate its inclusion in feed formulation. A
completely randomized designed was used in the feeding trial comprising of eight treatments namely
T1 (control), T2 (with xylanase), T3 (with multipurpose), T4 (with phytase), T5 (with cocktail of
xylanase and multipurpose), T6 (with cocktail of xylanase and phytase), T7 (with cocktail of
multipurpose and phytase) and T8 (with cocktail of xylanase, multipurpose and phytase). Each
treatment was replicated thrice with one adult cockerel per replicate. The feeding trial was done using
the intubation method. Gross energy values for treatments and feacal samples were determined with
calorimeter while apparent metabolisable energy values were calculated. Data obtained were
subjected to ANOVA using Statistical Analysis System and treatments‘ means were separated using
Duncan Multiple Range Test. Enzymes individually improved the AME value of maize offal
compared to the control. The multipurpose enzyme was significantly best (P˂0.05) among the three
individual enzymes with AME value of 2952.72 Kcal/Kg while phytase was the least (2535.28
Kcal/Kg).The cocktails were significantly different (P˂0.05) in their effects on AME of maize offal
while treatment T8 gave the significantly highest AME (3649.28 Kcal/Kg) among the treatments.
However, there was no significant difference (P˃0.05) between treatments T3 and T7.It was
concluded that cocktail of enzymes is better than individual enzymes. The AME values obtained are
practically useful and have placed enzyme supplemented maize offal as a substitute to conventional
energy supplements.
Keywords: Cocktail, Energy, Enzyme, Intubation, Quantification
INTRODUCTION
Maize offal is a by-product of various maize processing industries, including starch and ethanol
production, and the production of maize-based foods. While maize bran theoretically consists of the
bran coating removed in the early stages of processing, the maize offal sold for livestock feeding is
usually a mixture of the bran fraction and other by-products and is, therefore, a very loosely defined
product of highly variable composition (Kalscheur et al., 2012). It is also obtained from milling of
fermented maize grain using locally fabricated machine which produces the polished grain used for
human consumption (Ezieshi and Olomu (2004). It contains the testa, aleurone layer, some quantities
of broken endosperm and most of the germ of the maize grain (Vantsawa et al., 2007). Maize offal
has 11% CP, 2.1% ether extract and 66.18% nitrogen free extracts (NRC, 1994). However, despite its
gross energy (GE) value of 4421.5Kcal/Kg which is similar to that of maize, its poultry metabolisable
energy (ME) value is 2325 Kcal/Kg which is just 52% of its GE compare to maize that has 77% of its
GE as ME. This is due to the inability of poultry to digest the fibre content of maize offal and release
the energy in the complex carbohydrate that makes up the fibre. The exorbitant price of maize
especially following the COVID-19 pandemic has forced several poultry farms in Nigeria to fold up
thereby exacerbating the existing problem of inadequate intake of animal protein in the country. There
is therefore the need for alternative to this energy source.
Exogenous enzymes are added to fibrous feed stuffs to digest the fibre and release the nutrients that
are embedded within the fibre. Enzymes have positive effects on maize offal (Jimoh and Atteh, 2018)
but the exact quantity of these effects has not been established. This is essential to make provision for
the released nutrients so as to make maximum advantage of enzyme inclusion. Furthermore, the need
to investigate the effect of enzyme cocktails has been raised based on the fact that enzymes have
different profile and activity and it may be impossible for one enzyme to achieve a complete
Page | 139
degradation of the crude fibre components. Therefore, this study was designed to quantify the effects
of individual enzymes and cocktails on apparent metabolisable energy value of maize offal.

Twenty four adult black cockerels of approximately equal weight (about 2.2Kg) were used in this
study using completely randomized design. There were eight treatments comprising of one control
and seven experimental treatments as shown in Table 1. Three exogenous enzymes namely xylanase,
multipurpose and phytase were used according to the manufacturers‘ recommended inclusion level of
100 ppm, 150 ppm and 150 ppm respectively for Xylanase enzyme, multipurpose enzyme and phytase
enzyme. The study was conducted at the University of Ilorin.
Table 1: Composition of Experimental Treatments

Treatments
Test Material T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8
Maize offal (%) 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100
Xy1 (ppm) -- 100 -- -- 100 100 -- 100
Mp2(ppm) -- -- 150 -- 150 -- 150 150
Ph3(ppm) -- -- -- 150 -- 150 150 150
Analysis
CP (%) 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2377 2377 2377 2377 2377 2377 2377 2377
1: Xylanase enzyme 2: Multipurpose enzyme 3: Phytase enzyme. T1= No enzyme, T2=Xylanase enzyme alone,
T3=Multipurpose enzyme alone, T4=Phytase enzyme alone, T5=Cocktail of Xylanase and Multipurpose, T6=Cocktail of
Xylanase and Phytase, T7=Cocktail of Multipurpose and Phytase, T8 =Cocktail of Xylanase, Multipurpose and Phytase
Twenty four (24) adult black cockerels were randomly allocated to the battery cage with one bird in a
cell representing a replicate. The birds were provided with ad libitum feed and water before the supply
of experimental diet. The feeding trial was done using the intubation method as described by Sibald
(1976) with some modifications. Gross energy values of the maize offal and the feacal samples were
determined using bomb calorimeter (Gallenkamp Ballistic Bomb calorimeter). Apparent
metabolisable energy value for each treatment was calculated. The general linear procedure of
Statistical Analyses System (SAS, 2002) was used to analyze the data while significant differences
between treatments‘ means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955).

Effects of enzymes and cocktails on AME of maize offal are shown in Table 2. The AME was
significantly highest (P˂0.05) for the multipurpose enzyme among the three individual enzymes while
phytase gave the least effect on AME of maize offal. Addition of enzymes is known to improve the
digestibility of maize offal (Milad et al., 2011; Jimoh and Atteh, 2018). However, Animal
Nutritionists, Researchers and livestock farmers have continued to use the same table value for maize
offal when supplemented with enzyme even when it is apparent that there will be improvement in the
nutritive value. This is due to the absence of enhanced nutritional value due to enzyme addition. This
value is essential so as to maximize the effects of the addition of enzymes on maize offal. Aletor
(1999) observed that cereal offal is known to be of high fibre content which reduces the nutrient
utilization and cause metabolic dysfunction in monogastric animals. With the addition of exogenous
enzymes which can break down fibre, the utilization of these nutrients would be enhanced. The degree
of enhancement will however depend on the type of enzyme involved. This may be responsible for the
difference in the AME values among the three individual enzymes as obtained in this study. The
positive effect of phytase on AME observed in this study may be attributed to ‗extra phosphoric‘
effect as it is originally designed for phytate.
The AME of treatment T8 (cocktail of the three enzymes) is significantly highest (3649.28 Kcal/Kg)
among the treatments. Three of the cocktails (T5, T6 and T8) are significantly better (P˂0.05) than
their respective individual enzymes (T2, T3 and T4) while cocktail of multipurpose enzyme and
phytase (T7) was not significantly different from the multipurpose enzyme (T3) although it was
Page | 140
significantly better than phytase (T4). These AME values for the cocktails are indications of the
synergistic effects of the enzymes‘ combination. Synergistic effect of enzymes may be attributed to
several reasons and these include the presence of endo- and –exo- acting enzymes, the difference in
activity of the enzymes (enzyme unit per gram) as well as the presence of the respective substrate.
When an enzyme‘s active sites are exhausted, the presence of another enzyme with similar activity
and more active sites would increase the overall digestibility of the substrate. For instance the
multipurpose enzyme has 18,000,000 units of xylanase per gram of the enzyme complex compared to
9,000 units for the xylanase enzyme used (as stated by the manufacturers). The multipurpose enzyme
also has other enzyme activities like glucanase, hemicellulase and cellulase among others. This
explains why treatment T5 is significantly better than treatment T3 (multipurpose enzyme) alone and
treatment T2 (xylanase) alone. This treatment also resulted in highest percentage increase in AME
with 53.46% compared to others while phytase gave the least of 6.62% increase in AME.
Table 2: Effects of Enzymes and Cocktails on Apparent Metabolisable Energy Value of Maize
Offal
Treatments
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 SEM
AME, 2377.94g 2688.28e 2952.72c 2535.28f 3316.61b 2785.27d 2993.69c 3649.28a 82.42
Kcal/Kg
AME 0.00g 13.05e 24.17c 6.62f 39.47b 17.13d 25.89c 53.46a 3.46
Increment,%
a, b, c, d, e, f, g: means in the same row with same superscript are not significantly different (P˃0.05)
AME=Apparent metabolisable energy, T1= No enzyme, T2=Xylanase enzyme alone, T3=Multipurpose enzyme alone,
T4=Phytase enzyme alone, T5=Cocktail of Xylanase and Multipurpose, T6=Cocktail of Xylanase and Phytase, T7=Cocktail
of Multipurpose and Phytase, T8 =Cocktail of Xylanase, Multipurpose and Phytase
The increment in AME value of maize offal due to phytase enzyme in this study (6.62%) corroborates
the findings of other researchers like Ravindran et al. (2000) who reported that phytase increased
the AME value of broiler diet by 5.34%. This effect of phytase on AME could be attributed to the
complex nature of the chelate (phytate) as its breakdown will result in the release of other nutrients
thereby making them available for digestive enzymes. Moreover, McCleary (2001) reported that most
enzyme complexes have traces of other side chain enzyme activity other than the main activity for
which it is labeled. Thus, there could be traces of carbohydrase, protease or lipase in the phytase
enzyme.

Quantifying the effects produced by enzymes is essential to ensure that feed formulation is done with
precision when enzymes are added to the feed. It also helps to maximize the advantage of enzyme
supplementation. The results of this study have also buttressed the need for cocktail of enzymes. The
AME values obtained in this study are practically useful when the respective enzymes are available.
REFERENCES
Aletor V. A. (1999): Some Agro-industrial By-products and Wastes in Livestock Feeding: A Review
of Problems and Prospects. World Review of Animal Production, 32:26-29
Duncan D.B. (1955): Multiple Range and Multiple F- tests, Biometrics 11: 1-42
Ezieshi E.V. and Olomu J. M. (2004): Comparative Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Varying
Levels of Palm Kernel Cake and Maize Offal. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 3(4):254-257.
Jimoh A. and Atteh J. O. (2018): In vitro Digestibility of Maize Offal with Enzyme Cocktails. In:
Okoli I. C., Ogbuewu I. P., Emenalon O. O. and Esonu B. O. (Eds.): Proceedings of the 43rd
Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production Held at Federal University
of Technology, Owerri, Imo State Nigeria; 19th- 22nd March, 2018. 1224-1227
Kalscheur K. F., Garcia, A. D., Schingoethe D. J., Diaz Royón F. and Hippen A. R. (2012): Feeding
Biofuel Co-products to Dairy Cattle. In: Makkar, H. (Ed.), Biofuel Co-products as Livestock
Feed: Opportunities and Challenges, Chapter 7: 115-154
Page | 141
McCleary B.V. (2001): Analysis of feed enzymes. In: Enzymes in Farm Animal Nutrition, M.R.
Bedford and G.G. Partridge (Eds.). CAB International.
Milad M., Hossein B. and Mohammad Y. (2011): Effect of Polyzyme in Broilers Fed with Corn (Zea
mays L.) bran-based Diets. Advances in Environmental Biology, 5(7): 1651-1655, 2011
National Research Council (1994): Nutrient Requirement of Poultry, 9th edition. National Academy
of Science, Washington DC
Ravindran V., Cabahug S., Ravindran G., Selle P. H. and Bryden W. L. (2000): Response of Broilers
Chickens to Microbial Phytase Supplementation as Influenced by Dietary Phytic Acid and
Non-phytate Phosphorus Levels II: Effects on Apparent Metabolisable Energy, Nutrient
Digestibility and Nutrient Retention. British Poultry Science 41:193-200.
Sibald I. R. (1976): The True Metabolisable Energy Values of Several Feeding Stuffs Measured with
Roosters, Laying Hens, Turkeys and Broiler Hens. Poultry Science, 55:1459¬1463
Statistical Analysis System SAS (2002): Statistical Analysis System SAS user‘s guide statistics,
Version 8, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, NC, USA
Vantsawa P. A., Ogundipe S.O., Dafwang I. I. and Omage J. J. (2007): Replacement value of Dusa
(locally processed maize offal) for maize in the diet of egg type chicks (0-8Weeks). Pakistan
Journal of Nutrition, 6(6):530-533.
Page | 142
PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF BROILER

STARTER CHICKS FED GRADED LEVELS OF MUCUNA PRURIENS SEED MEAL
*1
Akure, C. O.,2Abeke, F.O.,1Olukotun, O. and 1Ayodele. J.T.
1
Federal College of Forestry and Mechanization, Afaka, Kaduna
2
National Animal Production Research Institute, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
*
Corresponding Author: akurechristy@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A four week feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of boiled Mucuna seed meal
(BMSM) on the growth performance of broiler starter chicks. To achieve this, three hundred (300)
five-week old broiler starter chicks were randomly allocated to five experimental diets in a completely
randomized design (CRD). Each treatment was replicated three times having twenty birds per pen.
Boiled Mucuna seed meal was prepared and fed in graded levels of 7.5, 15.0, 22.5, and 30.0
alongside, control. The parameters measured and calculated include final weight, weight gain, feed
intake, feed to gain ratio and feed cost per kilogram gain. The heamatological parameters were
measured. The results showed that dietary levels of inclusion of BMSM had significant (P<0.05)
effect on these parameters. The final weight, the weight gain and feed intake of the birds fed 0.0 and
7.5%BMSM were statistically (P>0.05) similar and significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of other
treatments. Cost of feed per birds and feed cost per kilogram gain were lower for all BMSB diets. The
highest mortality rate was observed on birds fed 30%BMSM diet. There were no significant
differences (P>0.05) between the treatment means for packed cell volume (PCV), heamoglobin (Hb)
and Total protein (Tp). It was concluded that inclusion of BMSM in the diets of broiler starter chicks
has beneficial effects.
Keywords: Boiling, Performance, Mucuna pruriens, Broiler finisher, graded levels
INTRODUCTION
Livestock is an integral part of the agricultural sector and encompass a great impact on the national
economy. In many developing countries, like Nigeria poultry production is largely limited by
unavailability and high cost of quality feeds. Feed cost was estimated to be about 70% of the total cost
of production (Ogundipe et al., 2003). This high cost has been attributed to the over-dependence on
the expensive conventional feed stuffs such as soybean and groundnut cake which is mainly used in
poultry feed formulation as a major source of protein. Poultry farmers and nutritionists are mostly
interested in the total cost of production and the final returns after sales and the major thrust for them
is to lower cost without compromising quality. This high cost of feed necessitates research into non-
conventional feedstuffs (NCF) that are readily available, cheap and nutritionally safe. Utilization of
Mucuna pruriens seeds which has crude protein of about 33.4% in poultry feed can lower feed cost
because they are cheaper and are not consumed as food by humans. The seeds however, contain anti-
nutritional factors such as trypsin inhibitor, tannins, phytic acid (Oke et al., 2003). Which need to be
detoxified before they are fed to poultry (Akinmutimi and Okwu, 2006). Heat treatment such as
boiling is frequently used to improve the utilization of the nutrients in legumes by animals (Tuleun et
al., 2008). This study was designed to evaluate the growth performance and haematological
parameters of broiler finisher fed graded dietary levels of boiled Mucuna seed meals.

The experiment was conducted at the poultry section, Department of Livestock, Ministry of
Agriculture, Mariri, in Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State. Five experimental diets of
boiled Mucuna seed meal at 0.7.5, 15.0, 22.5 and 30.0% levels for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 were
formulated respectively. The feed composition for the chicks is shown in Table 1.The birds were
randomly assigned to pens in a completely randomized design (CRD). There were five treatments and
three replications of the five treatments each with 15 birds per pen. The management of the birds was
carried out according to the standard procedures for brooding, vaccination and medication. The birds
and feeds were weighed weekly. The performance characteristics were measured in terms of weight
gain, feed intake, and feed to gain ratio. Haematological samples were collected into a sterile,
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universal bottles containing Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and assayed. The result
obtained from performance was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using procedure of SAS
(2002), significant levels of differences among treatment means were determined using the Duncan‘s
multiple range test.
Table 1: Gross composition of Broiler starter diets containing Boiled Mucuna seeds meal
(BMSM)
Ingredients (%) 0 7.5 15.0 22.5 30.0
Maize 48.45 47.78 45.35 43.91 39.90
Groundnut cake 31.60 24.77 19.70 18.70 10.15
Mucuna seed meal 0.00 7.50 15.00 22.50 30.0
Soybean meal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Maize offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
FIsh meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Common salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
*Vitamin /trace min. premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated Analysis (%)
ME ( kcal/kg) 2924 2911 2908 2902 2900
Crude Protein 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00
Crude fibre 3.40 4.56 6.25 7.43 7.50.
Ether Extract 6.80 6.92 6.45 6.00 6.95
Ash 6.40 6.45 6.45 6.42 6.15
Calcium 1.21 1.23 1.12 1.19 1.20

Table 2 shows the performance of broiler starter chicks fed Mucuna seed meal. The final weight,
weight gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio, of birds fed 0 and 7.5% boiled Mucuma seed meal
(BMSM) were similar, higher and better than those on other treatments, this could be an indication
that chicks were able to efficiently utilize BMSM at 7.5% better than other levels. This result of better
feed to gain ratio observed for birds fed 7.5% BMSM could also be due to the fact that there were
sufficient digestible nutrients that were better utilized at this level. The results of the feed intake from
this study agreed with the findings of Akinmutimi and Okwu, (2006) who reported reduced feed
intake in cooked Mucuna seed meal as dietary levels of inclusion of cooked Mucuna seed meal
increased in the diets of broiler chickens. There was significant (P<0.05) decrease among treatment
means for feed cost per bird and cost per kilogram gain, which decreased as the dietary levels of
BMSM increased. The feed cost per bird and per kilogram gain were significantly (P<0.05) better for
all the BMSM diets compared to the control diet, This was because Mucuna seeds were cheaper and
readily available without much competition from humans as they are not cherished as human food.
Table 3 shows the result of the effect of BMSM in broiler diets on some haematological parameters of
broiler finisher chicks There were no significant differences (P>0.05) between the treatment means
for Packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) and total protein (Tp).The non-significant (P>0.05)
difference shown in the PCV, Hb and Tp showed that any of the diets was good enough to supply
sufficient nutrients for birds. This agreed with the findings of Tuleun et al., 2009 who reported a non–
significant (P>0.05) difference in PCV, and Hb values of broiler chickens fed 20% boiled Mucuna
seed meal and those fed the control diet.
CONCLUSION
From the results of the experiment, it was concluded that up to 7.5% of BMSM may be included in
the diets of broiler chicks without any significant negative effect on growth performance.
Page | 144
Table 2: Effects of feeding diets containing boiled Mucuna seed meal on performance of Broiler
starter chicks
Measurements 0.0 7.5 15.0 22.5 30.0 SEM
Initialweight (g/bird) 104.00 104.00 104.00 104.00 104.00 0.00
Final weight (g/bird) 861.11a 857.67a 780.00b 729.67c 680.60d 4.21
Weight gain (g/bird) 757.11a 753.67a 676.00b 625.67c 571.67d 4.23
Feed intake (g/bird) 1455.17a 1440.28a 1422.82ab 1399.78b 1320.10c 9.45
Feed to Gain Ratio 1.90a 1.90a 2.10b 2.24c 2.29Rd 0.01
d c bc b
Feed cost/bird (N) 380.44 367.58 365.24 362.48 356.32a 0.47
Feed cost/Kg weight gain (N) 155.73e 144.03d 129.87c 129.22b 121.61a 0.88
Motrality (%) - - - - -
abcd
Means within the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05)
Table 3: Effects of boiled Mucuna seed meal based diets on some blood parameters of broiler
stater chicks
Parameters 0.0 7.5 15.0 22.5 30.0 SEM
PCV (%) 34.57 34.56 34.55 34.53 34.50 1.07
Hb (g/d1) 11.62 11.60 11.60 11.62 11.63 0.54
TP (g/d1) 4.43 4.42 4.30 4.30 4.30 0.23
PCV= packed cell volume Hb= haemoglobin Tp= Total protein SEM = standard error of means
REFERENCES
Akinmutimi, A. H. and Okwu, N.D. (2006). Effect of quantitative substitution of Cooked Mucuna
utilis seed meal for soybean meal in Broiler finisher Diet. International Journal of Poultry
Science, 5: 477 – 481.
Ogundipe, S.O., Abeke, F.O., Sekoni, A.A. Dafwang ,1.1. and Adeyinka, I.A. (2003). Effects of
duration of cooking on the utilization of lablab purpureus beans by pullet chicks In:
Proceedings of the 28th Annual Conference, Nigeria Society for Animal Production, pp. 233-
235.
Oke, D. B. Oke, M.O. and Adeyemi, O. A. (2003). Predictions of cowpea seed protein quality
through total sulphur determination. In: Proceedings of the 7th Annual Conference, of Animal
science Association of Nigeria, September 16-19th pp.121.
Statistical Analysis System (SAS) (2002). User guide statistics, Version 9 Edition, SAS Institute Inc.
Cary. North Carolina, U.S.A.
Tuleun, C.D., Carew, S.N. and Ajiji, I. (2008). Feeding value of velvet beans (Mucuna
(utilis) for laying hens. Livestock Research Rural Development, 20 (81).
Tuleun, C.D., Patrick., J.P.and Tiamiyu, L.O. (2009).Evaluation of raw and boiled Velvet Bean (
utilis) as feed ingredients for Broiler chickens. Pakistan journal of nutrition 8(5): 601-606.
Page | 145
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND WATER CONSUMPTIONS LEVELS OF

BROILER CHICKENS FED GRADED LEVELS OF YAM PEEL MEALS
Akure, C. O1., Sekoni, A.A2., Abeke, F.O2., Vantsawa P.A3 ., And Ayodele. J.T4.
1
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
2
3
Department of Biological Sciences, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
4
akurechristy@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A total of One hundred and eighty (180). Anak 2000 broiler chicks were used in a four week feeding
trial to evaluate the effect of percentage replacement and utilization of yam peel meal (YPM) as
energy substitute for Maize Meal (MM) in the diet of broiler chicks. The broiler chicks were fed
graded levels of 0, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% YPM. Complete randomized design was used in which
there were five treatments and each treatment was replicated three times. Feed and clean fresh water
supplies were ad libitum. Routine medications, vaccinations and other standard management practices
were strictly observed. Results showed that birds fed 10% YPM were significantly (P<0.05) bigger
and heavier than other birds on other treatments. Similar trend was also observed in weight gain in
which birds fed 10% YPM made significantly (P<0.05) superior gain to birds on the rest diets. Cost of
feed/kg gain significantly (P<0.05) reduced with increasing levels of YPM. It was concluded that
YPM can be included up to 10 % level of inclusion in the diets of broiler chicks without any adverse
effect on their performance.
INTRODUCTION
There is problem of animal protein scarcity in Nigeria and other developing nations. This problem
may continue to be on the pages of our books so long as the conventional feed sources in poultry
industry remain soybean meal, groundnut cake, fish meal and maize. The available animal protein is
costly and remains grossly unaffordable by the poor. The high cost of the animal protein has been
blamed on high cost of conventional ingredients, which amount to 78.8% (Akure, 2013). Mentioned
earlier therefore to meet the protein requirement by man living in developing country like Nigeria,
becomes a mere dream, this therefore leads to protein malnutrition. What can the Animal nutritionists
do? Seek for alternative feed ingredients that are cheaper, affordable and in less use by man for food.
When this is done the animal protein on the long run becomes much cheaper and more affordable then
it could be found on the poor man‘s table. Energy has remain the most abundant nutrients to supply in
a balanced diet of finished feed for poultry industry and other monogastric animals and the bulk of it
is supplied by cereal grains constituting 42-55% (Akure, et.al., 2020). Yam (Dioscorea Spp.) being
cultivated in Nigeria and some other countries of the world is one of such tropical crops that the peel
may be useful in animal feed. The yam peel meal (YPM) has high energy content since it contains
high amounts of Nitrogen –Free- Extract (NFE), which is the soluble carbohydrate portion of feed
stuff. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of YPM on growth performance and water
consumption of broiler starter chicks
Materials and method

Agriculture, Mariri, in Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State. The area lies between
latitude 11055‘N and longitude 8036‘E at an altitude of 460m above sea level with an average annual
rainfall of 600-1000mm, mean temperatures of 21.210C and humidity of 52.81 %. (KNARDA, 2011).
Feeding trial
Fresh yam peels were collected from homes and restaurants. The peels were subsequently sun dried
before milling with 2mm hammer mill and used in the formulation of the experimental diets,
according to the requirement of NRC (1994). A total of 180, four weeks old ANAK 2000 broilers
were used for this study. They were randomly assigned to five treatment groups of 36 birds each.
Each treatment was replicated three times with twelve birds in a replicate. The five treatment groups
Page | 146
were fed the five experimental diets (Table 1) in a completely randomized design for four weeks.
Each replicate was housed in a concrete floor covered with wood shavings. Feed and fresh water were
supplied ad libitum throughout the four weeks of the experiment. Birds were weighed for their final
weight at the end of the experiment. Feed intake and water consumption were measured daily. At the
end of each week the feed intake, weight gain feed /gain ratio, water consumption and water/feed ratio
were computed.
Data obtained from the performance and the carcass evaluation were subjected to analysis of variance
(ANOVA) using procedure of SAS (2002), significant levels of differences among treatment means
were determined using the Duncan‘s multiple range test (Duncan. 1955).
Table 1: Composition of Broiler starter diets containing Yam Peal Meal (YPM)
Ingredients 0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0.% 20.0%
Maize 48.45 43.45 38.45 33.45 28.45
Ground nut cake 31.60 31.60 31.60 31.60 31.60
YPM 0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.0
Soya bean meal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Maize offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Lime stone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Common salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Vitamin premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated Analysis
ME ( kcals/kg) 3013 3006 3001 3000 3035
Crude Protein (%) 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00
Crude fibre (%) 3.40 4.06 4.25 4.43 4.50.
Ether Extract (%) 9.80 9.92 10.15 10.20 10.95
Ash (%) 6.40 7.45 7.95 8.42 8.75
Calcium (%) 1.21 1.23 1.28 1.30 1.20
Av.Phosphorus (%) 0.71 0.72 0.72 0.73 0.78
Lysine (%) 1.43 1.44 1.46 1.58 1.59
Methionine (%) 0.59 0.61 0.63 0.65 0.56
T1=0%YPM, T2= 10%YPM, T3=20%YPM, T4=30%YPM, T4 = 0%YPM
Table 2: Effects of feeding diets containing YPM on the performance of Broiler starters (1-4weeks)
Parameters 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 SEM
Initial weight(g/bird) 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 75.00 0.00
Final weight (g/bird) 700.11c 776.67b 840.00a 770.67b 706.67c 4.23
Weight gain (g/bird) 625.11a 701.67a 765.00a 695.67b 631.67c 4.23
Feed intake (g/bird) 1155.17d 1240.28c 1320.82a 1399.78b 1380.10b 9.45
Water Consumption(ml) 2350.10 3000.20 3470.25 3700.30 3590.22 2.30
Feed to Gain Ratio 1.85c 1.77b 1.73a 2.01d 2.18e 0.01
Water /Feed Ratio 2.03 2.41 2.62 2.64 2.71 0.02
abcd
SEM = standard error of means
Page | 147

Table 2 shows the performance of broiler starter chicks fed YPM at various levels of 0, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0
and 20.0%. At the end of the feeding trial the results were computed. The initial live weights of the
experimental broiler chicks were similar (P>0.05) between treatments. There were significant (P<
0.05) differences between treatment means with respect to water intake, feed intake, weight gain, feed
to gain ratio and final live weight at four weeks, while water/feed ratio was not significantly (P>
0.05) affected by treatment.
Feed consumption increased significantly (P< 0.05) with the inclusion of YPM and with a highest
level, up to 15% level of inclusion after which a decline occurred, with the 20% level of inclusion of
YPM recording the least total feed intake from among the treatments containing YPM. The observed
trend in feed intake may be as a result of general increase in bulkiness of feed with increasing level of
YPM, because birds tend to consume more feed in order to obtain the same levels of nutrients needed
to satisfy their needs. This agrees with Onimisi et. al.,(2005) who reported that bulky feeds which are
high in fibre are rather low in nutrient concentration per unit volume. A unit weight of the bulkier feed
contributes less digestible nutrients and as well makes other nutrients less available. However
depression in feed consumptions occurs when feed become excessively bulky. This is in agreement
with the findings of Stanley and Ishizanki (1982) who reported that excess bulk in feed reduces the
weight of feed consumed by birds hence imposing a physical limitation upon the intake of digestible
nutrients. This could also be that the chicks had crossed the threshold of their capacity for the
consumption of the YPM.
The weight gain significantly (P<0.05) increased as YPM increase up until 10% inclusion. The
highest weight gain and highest final live weight at four weeks were recorded for the birds on
treatment three (10% YPM) and not for birds on 15% YPM with the highest feed consumption. The
recorded weight at 10% YPM was higher than the control diet. Significant (P< 0.05) depression of
weight occurred at 20% level of YPM. The inclusion of YPM in the diets of broiler chicks increase
feed consumption significantly (P< 0.05) up to 15% level of inclusion but with non- significant (P>
0.05) difference in weight gain and live weight at 15% level of inclusion. This agrees with the
findings of Osuji (1982) and Alawa and Umunna (1993) who reported that the inclusion of most agro-
industrial by- products in livestock rations has often resulted in increase feed intake as a compensation
for the reduced nutrient availability/concentration of such diets and most often with non-
corresponding increase in weight gain. Linear increase occurred in feed /gain ratio with increasing
level of YPM in diet. Levels beyond 10% significantly (P<0.05) depressed the ability of the birds to
convert feed materials into weight gain. The feed conversion efficiency of birds reduced with higher
level of YPM in the diet. The bulkiness of feed with increasing level of YPM reduced the quality of
feed. This observation is common to most agro-industrial by –products used in livestock feeds
The water consumption pattern of birds is presented in Table2. The result shows that the presences of
YPM in the diets of the broiler chicks increased water intake. However, increasing the level of YPM
in the diet did not significantly increase the water intake though consumption increased with
increasing level of YPM. Since the water/feed ratio across the treatments was not significantly
(P<0.05) different, it may be concluded that the increased water consumptions was only in proportion
to the level of feed consumed. As the level of inclusion of YPM increased to 40% the level of water
consumption also increased though with no significant (P<0.05) difference among treatments, the
increase water consumption is only in proportion to the level of feed intake. This is in line with the
general observation that the level of water consumption is affected by the level of dry matter intake by
the animal. Onimisi et al.,(2005) also opined that increased dry matter consumed often increases the
level of water consumed by farm animals. Therefore the presence of YPM in the diets stimulates a
significant increase in water consumption, but not the quantity of it.
CONCLUSION
From the results of the experiment, it was concluded that up to 15% of YPM may be included in the
diets of broiler chicks without any significant negative effect on growth performance.
Page | 148
REFERENCES
Akure C.O (2013). Evaluation of the nutritive value of differently processed mucuna pruriens seed
meal (MSM) on the performance of broiler chickens. A PhD Dissertation. Ahmadu Bello
University, Zaria, Nigeria.
Akure, C.O., Sekoni, A. A., Abeke, F.O., Vantsawa, P.A., Babasanya, B., Olukotun, O. and Ayodele.
J.T. (2020). Growth performance and carcass characteristics of finisher broilers fed fermented
mucuna pruriens seed meal. Journal of Animal Production Research, 32 (1): 92-99.
Alawa, J.P. and Umunna, N.N (1993). Alternative feed formulation in the developing countries:
Utilisation of Agro-industrial by-products. Journal Animal Production Research, 13(2): 63-
98.
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple Range and Multiple F. Tests. Biometrics,
National Research Council (1994). Nutrients Requirements of Domestic Animals. 1. Nutrients
Requirements of Poultry 9th edition. National Academy press Washington D.C.
Onimisi, P.A., Dafwang, I.I. and Omage, J.J (2005). Growth performance and water consumotion
pattern of Broier Chicks fed graded levels of Ginger Waste Meal. Journal of Agriculture,
Forestry and the Social Sciences ( JOAFSS), 3(2): 113-119.
Osuji, P.O(1982). Agro-Industrial By-Products and Animal Feeding. World Review of Animal
Production. 18:43-56
Statistical Analysis System (SAS) (2002). User guide statistics, Version 9 Edition, SAS Institute Inc.
Cary. North Carolina, U.S.A.
Stanley, R.W and Ishizaki, S.M (1982). Local By-products as feeds for Dairy Cattle. Research Report
223. Hawaii Agricultural Experiment station. College of Tropical Agriculture, University of
Hawaii.
Page | 149
HAEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FINISHER

BROILER BIRDS FED HIGH LEVELS OF LEMON GRASS LEAF MEAL
Olabode, A.D., Adetutu, O.I., Ojuoloruntaye, T.J., Ebiaku, A.V and Uzoma, C.
Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State.
E-mail:- Adeoladavid2005@yahoo.com: 08063379970
ABSTRACT
The research was carried out to determine the effect of high levels of lemon grass leaf meal on the
haematological and biochemical characteristics of finisher broiler birds. A total number of ninety six,
four weeks old. ―Agric-tech‖ broiler birds were randomly distributed into four dietary treatments,
each replicated three times with eight birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD).
Four diets were formulated such that the lemon grass leaf meal was incorporated into the diets at the
rate of 1.25%, 2.50% and 3.75% respectively, while treatment 1 served as the control with 0% level of
lemon grass leaf meal. Feed and water were given ad-libitum throughout the experimental period of
twenty eight days. Proximate analysis of the lemon grass leaf meal and the experimental diets were
carried out accordingly. The values obtained for haematological indices namely, packed cell volume,
haemoglobin, red blood cell and white blood cell were all significantly (p<0.05) influenced by the
lemon grass leaf mean across the treatment groups. Also the results of the biochemical indices
revealed that the data obtained for total protein, albumin, creatinine and urea differed (p<0.05) across
the treatment groups. Thus all values obtained were within the recommended range of values for
normal broiler birds. It can however be concluded that the inclusion of high level of lemon grass leaf
meal in the diet of broiler finisher had significant (p<0.05) effect on the birds blood profile.
Keywords: Haematological indices, biochemical indices, finisher broiler birds, high levels, lemon
grass leaf meal.
INTRODUCTION
Blood plays an important role in the transportation of nutrients, metabolic waste products and gases
around the body. Moreover, blood represents a means of assessing clinical and nutritional health
status of animals (Olorode and Longe 2000). The haemato-biochemical profiles are most commonly
used in nutritional studies for chickens and other birds like pigeon, guinea fowl, bronze turkey and
Japanese quail (Arora 2010). The full blood count examines mostly the cellular components of blood
whereas biochemical testing focuses on its chemical constituents (Hrubec et al. 2002). It has been
shown that data from blood profiles could be exploited in the improvement of chicken stocks
(Ladokun et al. 2008). In addition, blood parameters help diagnoses of specific poultry hen
pathologies and might serve as basic knowledge for studies in immunology and comparative avian
pathology (Bonadiman et al., 2009).
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citrates) is a plant of importance because of the rich composition
of phyto-chemicals like tannins, flavonoids and phenols (Olorunisola et al., 2014).
Traditionally, tea made from Cymbopogon citrates leaves are popular in South America, Asia
and West Africa for its antiseptic, anti-fever, anti-dyspeptic, carminative, anti-inflammatory,
antipyretic and diuretic properties (Negrelle and Gomes, 2007). It is also an aromatic perennial
tropical plant that can grow as high as 3.5 meters with long thin leaves. The grass was originally
found growing wild in India. It produces a network of roots and rootless that rapidly exhausts the soil.
In human medicine, lemon grass has the following therapeutic properties; analgestic, anti-depressant,
antimicrobial, bactericidal, fungicidal and insecticidal. With all these remedies credited to lemon
grass, it is believed that some of these advantages can be harnessed and brought to bear generally in
livestock production and particularly in broiler production to enhance growth and the overall
production performance and thus replace the antibiotic growth promoters. It is also a C4 tropical and
sub-tropical grass.

The experiment was conducted at the poultry unit of the Animal Production Department, Federal
College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State. The lemon grass leaf that was use for the experiment
Page | 150
was sourced from Afikpo and Ishiagu, both in Ebonyi state. The lemon grass leaves were obtained
fresh and washed, then air-dried for a week at room temperature after which it was sun-dried for about
2 hours to get a cripsy-like leafy material. The cripsy leaves was then turned to leaf meal by means of
grinding. Ninety six, 4 weeks old broiler birds were used for the research work; they were randomly
distributed into four treatments. Each treatment was replicated three times in a completely randomized
design (CRD) with eight (8) birds per replicate. The birds were purchased from a reputable farm in
Enugu, Enugu state.
The birds were raised on a deep litter system with wood shavings which served as a source of litter.
The initial weight of the birds was obtained after distribution to their various pens. Feed and water
were given ad-libitum. All the routine vaccination and medication necessary for the birds‘ good health
during the entire growth cycle from day one to the end of the experiment were strictly adhered to
accordingly.
Experimental diets
Four experimental diets were formulated with diet 1 containing 0% lemon grass leaf meal which
served as the control. Diets 2, 3 and 4 contain the lemon grass leaf meal at the levels of 1.25%, 2.50%
and 3.75% respectively.
Table 1. Composition of finisher broiler birds diet fed supplemental levels of lemon grass leaf meal
Treatments
Wheat offal 6.90 6.45 6.00 5.65
Groundnut cake 10.00 9.55 9.10 8.75
Palm kernel cake 6.50 6.15 5.80 5.25
Lemon grass leaf meal 0.00 1.25 2.50 3.75
TOTAL 100 100 100 100
Other feed ingredient had same value across treatment group: Maize- 58.00; Soybean meal-2.00;Full
fat soya- 7.00;Fishmeal- 1.00; Blood meal-3.50; Bonemeal-2.50; Limestone-1.50; Salt-0.25; Finisher
premix-0.35; Lysine-0.20; Methionine-0.30.
Feed intake was recorded as the difference between the quantity of feed given the previous day and
the quantity that was left the next day. Feed conversion ratio was obtained as the ratio of feed intake
divided by the body weight gain. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and
significant difference mean were separated according to the method of Duncan multiple range test as
outlined by Obi (2002).

The result of the haematological and serum biochemical characteristics of finisher broiler birds fed
high level of lemon grass leaf meal is obtained in Table 2. The results showed that there was
significant (p<0.05) difference among the haematological values across the treatment group. Birds in
treatment 2 had the highest (p<0.05) value of 36.77% for packed cell volume, while the lowest value
of 34.61% was obtained for birds in treatment 1 (control). The result revealed that there was an
increase in the value of packed cell volume in the treatments where the lemon grass leaf meal was
added. Values obtained were within the recommended normal range of 25% to 45% as outlined by
Banerjee (2003). This confirms the assertion of Banerjee (2010) who reported that reduction in the
level of packed cell volume below the normal range is an indication of the presence of a toxic factor
Birds in treatment 3 had the superior (p<0.05) value of 10.91g/l of haemoglobin which did not differ
(p>0.05) from the value of 10.88g/l obtained for birds in treatment 2. Birds in control had the least
value of 8.89g/l for haemoglobin. Values obtained in this study were within the recommended range
of 7 to 12g/l as reported by Merck Manual (2012). This suggests that the quality of protein in the diet
of the birds was good enough to contribute to a positive state of the bird‘s haemoglobin level.
The results obtained for serum biochemical characteristics also showed significant (p<0.05)
differences among the parameters studied across the treatment group. Birds in treatment 3 had the
highest value of 3.89g/dl which was similar (p>0.05) to the value obtained for birds in treatment 2
with a value of 3.85g/dl. Treatment 4 had a value of 3.63g/dl which did not differ (p>0.05) from those
Page | 151
of birds in treatment 1 (3.61g/dl) which happens to be the least value. The high value obtained in
treatments 3 and 2 could suggest that the quantity and quality of protein made available to the birds
was sufficient for their normal performance and function (Alikwe et al., 2010).
Table 2. Haematological and Serum-Biochemical Characteristics of Finisher Broiler Birds fed high
levels of Lemon Grass Leaf Meal (LGLM)
Treatments
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM
*Packed Cell Volume (%) 34.61d 36.77a 36.32b 35.79c 0.25
c a a b
Haemoglobin (g/l) 8.89 10.88 10.91 9.92 0.25
Red Blood Cell (x1012/l) 3.59b 3.62a 3.71a 3.61a 0.02
*White Blood Cell (x109/l) 7.89d 9.96a 9.41b 9.30c 0.23
Total protein (gldl) 3.61b 3.85a 3.89a 3.63b 0.48
*Albumin (g/dl) 2.34d 2.41b 2.52a 2.39c 0.02
*Creatinine (mg/dl) 0.55a 0.59a 0.59a 0.51b 0.01
b b a b
*Urea (mg/dl) 7.09 7.11 7.22 7.08 0.02
abcd
Means on the same row with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different.
SEM = Standard error of mean
The improvement in the haematological constituents observed in the present study is an indication
that the inclusion of lemon grass leaf meal did not show any pathological effect on the bird thus did
not cause or create any haematological disorder.
CONCLUSION
Thus it can be concluded from the results obtained that the inclusion of lemon grass leaf meal in the
diet of finisher broiler birds up to 3.75% is acceptable by the birds without any negative effect in
terms of their health status as reflected in the normal range of acceptable standard of haematological
and biochemical profile and percentage mortality values.
REFERENCES
Alikwe, P.C.N., Faremi, A.Y. and Egwaikhide, P.A. (2010). Biochemical evaluation of
serummetabolites, enzymes and haematological indices of broiler-chicks fed with
varying levels ofrumen epithelial scraps in place of fish meal proteins. Res. J. Poult.
Sci. 3(2): 27-31.
Arora, K.L. (2010). Differences in hemoglobin and packed cell volume in blood collected
fromdifferent sites in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Int. J. Poult. Sci. 9(9): 828-
830.
Banerjee, G.C. (2010). Animal Husbandry textbook. Eight edition. Oxford and BH
Publishing company Ltd.
Bonadiman, S.F., Stratievsky, G.C., Machado, J.A., Albernaz, A.P., Rabelo, G.R.
andDamatta, R.A. (2009). Leukocyte ultrastructure, hematological and serum
biochemical profilesof ostriches (Struthio camelus). Poult. Sci. 88(11): 2298-2306.
Hrubec, T.C., Whichard, J.M., Larsen, C.T. and Pierson, F.W. (2002). Plasma versus
serum:Specific differences in biochemical analytic values. J. Avian Med. Surgery
16(2): 101-105.
Ladokun, A.O., Yakubu, A., Otite, J.R., Omeje, J.N., Sokunbi, O.A. and Onyeji, E.
(2008).Haematological and serum biochemical indices of naked neck and normally
feathered Nigerianindigenous chickens in a sub humid tropical environment. Int. J.
Poult. Sci. 7(1): 55-58.
Merck manual (2012). Haematologic reference ranges. Merck vetennary manual. Retrieved
from http:www.merckmanuals.com/.
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Negrelle, R.R.B. and Gomes, E.C. (2007). Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf: chemical
composition and biological activities. Revista Brasileira de Plantas Medicinais. 9: 80-
92.
Obi, I.U.(2002). Statistical methods of detection differences between treatments mean and
research methodology issue in laboratory and field experimentation. A.P. Company
Ltd. Enugu State, Nigeria.
Olorunnisola, S.K., Asiyanbi, H.T., Hammed, A.M. and Simsek, S. (2014). Biological
properties of lemongrass: An overview. International Food Research Journal. 21(2):
455-462.
Olorode, B.R. and Longe, O.G. (2000). Effect of replacing palm kernel cake with shear butter
cakeon quality characteristics, haematology and serum chemistry of laying hens.
Nigerian J. Anim.Prod. 27: 19-23.
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INFLUENCE OF PRODUCTION SEASONS ON EGG QUALITY

CHARACTERISTICS OF LAYERS IN SEMI-ARID SOKOTO, NORTH-WESTERN
NIGERIA
1*
Abdullahi, A.U.; 1Abubakar, A.; 2Chafe, U.M; 3Aliyu, S. 4Bello, A.; 5Magami, I.M.
1
Department of Animal science, Faculty of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, , Sokoto,
Nigeria.
2
Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University,
Sokoto.
3
College of Agriculture and Animal Science, Wurno. Sokoto state.
4
Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University,
Sokoto.
5
Department of Biological Sciences (Zoology Unit), Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
*Corresponding author: abccrcfge28@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to assess the influence of production seasons (Rainy and Cold Seasons)
on the egg quality performance of laying pullets in semi-arid Sokoto environment. Using Completely
Randomised Design (CRD), a total of 240 day-old chicks were raised to point of lay (POL) both in
battery cage (BC) and on deep litter (DL) housing systems under the rainy and the cold seasons
serving as treatments. For each of the seasons, 240 POL birds were divided into 6 replications with 20
birds per replicate and allocated to the BC and DL houses, under the same roof for each season. All
management recommendations were observed. At 20 weeks in lay, 72 egg samples were randomly
collected, 36 from each housing system and 6 eggs from each of the 6 replications for each season.
The sampled eggs were studied for external and internal egg quality traits. From these records, other
egg indices were calculated. Reported values are therefore, composite means of the two housing
systems under each season. Instruments used were sensitive electronic balance, vernier calliper,
micrometer screw gauge, meter rule, flat trays, tissue paper etc, for egg analysis. Results showed that
environmental factors that constitute the production seasons have varied effects on external (egg
weight (EW)(g), egg length (EL)(cm), egg width (EWd)(cm), egg shell surface (ESS)(cm) and egg
surface index (ESI)) and internal egg quality traits (Albumen height (AH)(cm), Albumen width
(AW)(cm), Albumen weight (AWt)(g), Albumen index (AI), Yolk height (YH)(cm), Yolk width
(YW)(cm), Yolk weight (YWt)(g), Yolk index (YI), Yolk colour (YC), Shell weight (SW)(g), Shell
thickness (ST)(mm) and the Haugh Unit (HU) (%) of eggs produced by commercial layers. These
traits were more significantly (P>0.05) favoured during the cold season production than in the rainy
season. HU, being the overall score of EQ was significant under the seasons in favour of the cold
season. It was thus concluded that the cold season is the best production season when EQ is attained at
its best, thus recommended to farmers in the study area to obtain the highest EQ and price for their
table eggs.
Key words: Egg quality, table eggs, production season, poultry farmers
INTRODUCTION
Poultry plays an important role in human nutrition, employment and income generation. Poultry is by
far the largest livestock group and has been estimated to be about 252.3 million consisting of
chickens, ducks and pigeons (BBS 2009). Poultry products constitute 30% of animal protein and will
increase to 40% before 2015 (IFPRI 2000) (Talukder et al., 2010). It has been noted that quality of
table eggs worldwide, costs the egg industry many millions of dollars annually. Thus, the production
of good egg shell quality is important to the economic viability of the global egg industry (Ahmad and
Rahimi, 2011). The hen‘s egg consists of the yolk (30-33%), albumen (approximately 60%) and the
shell (9-12%) (Stadelman, 1995). It is sold commercially as shell egg, egg product or as components
derived from eggs.
Environmental factors are generally recognized to have a major impact on the production of meat and
eggs from poultry. These include temperature, humidity, light (length of day and intensity), altitude
(air pressure and partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide), wind velocity (air movement), solar
Page | 154
energy, quality of air and water, and density of population. During the last decade, the influence of
environmental factors on poultry has received greater attention so that more reliable baseline values
are available. Most studies have dealt with only one environmental factor with other factors
presumably held constant. Yet, it is recognized that in husbandry practices, indoors or outdoors,
poultry are subjected to a multiple of factors, none held completely constant, and all interrelated
(NAS, 2015).
Thus, climatic conditions have also been known to affect the production behaviour of the laying hens
(Smith and Leclecq, 1990; Oluyemi and Roberts, 2000). In areas where climate is hot and humid,
commercial hybrids produce an average of 180-200 eggs per year, while in more temperate climate,
birds can produce between 250 and 300 eggs per year. The production cycle of eggs may also be
influenced by many other factors such as breed, mortality rate, body weight, laying house lighting
schedule, feed and culling (North and Bell, 1990).
Above 27°C feed consumption gradually decreases. Oarad et al. (1981) stated that higher temperature
reduce the productive performance of layer hens. At 35°C there is a remarkable decrease of feed
consumption. Moreover, high temperature is related to egg shell thickness. In high temperature the
shell thickness is decreased while Sloan and Harms (1984) reported that there is no effect of low
temperature on egg shell thickness. Merat and Bordas (1982) found that body weight did not differ
significantly but feed consumption was lower at the higher temperature. A negative correlation
between daily feed consumption and temperature in poultry was detected. As the temperature of
poultry house increased, feed consumption reduced. In addition, feed conversion ratio also decreased.
The reverse trend was observed in lower temperature.
If environmental temperature is allowed to exceed normal ranges, then egg production, egg size and
growth will be negatively affected. These factors along with others affect the birds‘ metabolism which
in turn is responsible for the output of eggs, meat, and body heat to maintain normal physiological
processes and functions. Environmental stressors such as hot temperatures, high air humidity, etc.,
may affect the bird in an additive manner if these stressors are imposed concurrently. These stressors
can negatively affect hen‘s growth performance, feed intake and efficiency, and physiological status
(Talukder et al., 2010). All these have direct relationship on the quality characteristics of shell eggs
produced by laying birds.

The research was conducted at the Poultry Production Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
located at the Sokoto Veterinary Centre, Sokoto metropolis.
In a completely randomised design (CRD), a total of 240 point of lay (POL) pullets were allocated to
2 housing systems, namely the battery cage (BC) and the deep litter (DL) systems and each housing
system was replicated 6 times with 20 birds per replicate, and raised in the rainy and cold seasons,
serving as treatment groups.
At the end of 20th week in lay, 6 eggs per replicate, in 6 replications, making a total of 36 eggs per
housing system and 72 eggs per season, were collected and studied for external and internal egg
quality characteristics in the Agric. Physical Laboratory. External egg quality characteristics studied
were egg weight (EW)(g), egg length (EL)(cm), egg width (EWd)(cm), egg shell surface (ESS)(cm)
and egg surface index (ESI). Internal egg quality parameters studied include Albumen height
(AH)(cm), Albumen width (AW)(cm), Albumen weight (AWt)(g), Albumen index (AI), Yolk height
(YH)(cm), Yolk width (YW)(cm), Yolk weight (YWt)(g), Yolk index (YI), Yolk colour (YC), Shell
weight (SW)(g), Shell thickness (ST)(mm) and the Haugh Unit (HU) (%).
Parametric values are therefore composite means of values from the two housing types in the seasons.
Instruments used were sensitive electronic balance, verrnier calliper, micrometer screw gauge, meter
rule, flat trays, tissue paper, centimeter rule, petri dishes and Roche Colour Fan etc, for egg analysis.
All data on egg quality characteristics were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and
significant means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) using Stat-View Statistical
Analysis System (GLM of SAS, 2004).
Page | 155

External Egg Quality Characteristics
Results on the external egg quality characteristics of the sampled eggs at 20 weeks in lay under the
different seasons is presented in Table 1.
Table 1: External egg quality performance of experimental birds under the two production seasons.
Parameter Production Season SEM
Rainy Season Cold Season
Egg weight (g) 53.08b 58.92a 0.49
Egg length (cm) 5.33b 5.63a 0.03
Egg width (cm) 4.36 4.38 0.02
Shell weight (g) 6.34b 6.75a 0.13
Shell thickness (mm) 0.43a 0.38b 0.01
b a
Egg shell surface (cm) 65.40 71.42 0.99
Egg shape index 0.81a 0.78b 0.01
Means with different superscripts along the same row are statistically significant (P<0.005).
Significant (P<00.5) effect of the production seasons was reported on EW performance, being higher
during the cold season than the rainy season. This is in line with the reports of Talukder et al. (2010)
who reported positive effect of low temperature on EW performance of laying birds. High
temperatures have been known to affect EW negatively (Star et al., 2008). Egg weight of up to 50-70g
have been reported by Nys et al. 2008; Gerzilov et al., 2012, Lolli et al., 2013). There is a dearth of
research information on the influence of the seasons on egg weight performance in the study area to
compare this performance with. Egg length was significant (P<0.05), being higher (5.63) in the cold
season against a lower value of 5.33 recorded in the rainy season. Thus, lower temperature of the cold
season in the study area has a marked effect on EL in this study. EL of up to 5.84-6.00 has been
reported by Ojedapo (2013) under similar tropical conditions.
SW performance was significant (P<0.05) and was better at 6.75 in the cold season against the value
of 6.34 determined during the rainy season. ST was significant (P<0.05) and surprisingly better under
the rainy season (0.43) than under the cold season production (0.38). Thus, ST was higher in eggs
produced during the rainy season with characteristic high temperature, than during the cold season
when temperatures were milder in favour of good shell formation. Many authors reported contrasting
effect of temperature or season on ST performance of birds. According to Talukder et al. (2010), high
temperature is related to egg shell thickness because at high temperature, ST is decreased. However,
Sloan and Harms (1984) reported no effect of low temperature on egg shell thickness. ST range of
0.38 and 0.43 recorded in this experiment is in line with 0.39 – 0.41 reported by Kucukyilmaz et al.
(2012).
ESS was significant (P<0.05) under the seasons, being lowest during the rainy season at 65.40 and
was best at 71.42 for eggs laid in the cold season. This shows that lower temperatures of the cold
season had marked effect on ESS of eggs laid by birds. ESS is a function of egg size and weight and
these factors are affected by temperature at which birds are raised as reported by Balnave, (1998).
This is supported by the fact that EW under the seasons was also significant (P<0.05) and in favour of
the cold season, a time when temperatures are moderately low and in favour of higher EW. ESS
values obtained in this research are lower than the ESS value range of 73.50-75.81 as reported by
Englmaierova and Tumova et al., (2009) and Lolli et al., (2013).
ESI performance was significant (P<0.05) and best at 0.81 for eggs laid during the rainy season in
contrast to lower value of 0.78 recorded on eggs laid during the cold season. Thus, seasonal factors
have effect on ESI of eggs laid by laying hens at different seasons. ESI values recorded in this
experiment seasons were similar to the values (0.77 to 0.78) reported by Kucukyilmaz et al., (2012).
Internal Egg Quality Characteristics

Table 2 shows the internal egg quality (EQ) characteristics of eggs laid at 20 weeks in lay by the
experimental birds under the production seasons.
Page | 156
Table 2: Internal egg quality performance of experimental birds under the two production seasons.
Parameter Production Season SEM
Rainy Season Cold Season
Albumen height (cm) 1.17 1.12 0.02
Albumen width (cm) 5.83a 5.21b 0.07
Albumen weight (g) 34.20b 40.19a 0.62
Albumen index 0.65a 0.45b 0.05
Yolk height (cm) 1.90 1.77 0.08
Yolk width (cm) 3.91a 3.43b 0.03
Yolk weight (g) 12.51 a 11.60 b 0.24
Yolk index 0.49 0.47 0.01
Haugh Unit (HU) (%) 94.82b 96.04a 0.44
Means with different superscripts along the same row are statistically significant (P<0.005).
AH, YH and YI were not significant (P>0.05) in this study, thus the production seasons have no
influence on these egg parameters. AW showed a significant (P<0.05) difference between the
production seasons. AW was high during the rainy season at 5.83, higher than 5.21 attained by birds
during the cold season.
AWt performance in lay showed AWt was better (40.19) during the cold season than the record of
34.20 attained in the rainy season.
Significant (P<0.05) difference was reported on AI in this research under the production seasons. AI
was significant (P<0.05) in favour of the rainy season. There is a dearth of research literature to
compare AI performance of birds in this experiment in similar setting in the study area or the tropics.
Yolk Quality
According to Jacob et al. (2000), yolk quality of eggs is determined by the yolk colour, texture,
firmness and smell of the yolk. The yolk of a freshly laid egg is round and firm. However, as the egg
ages and the vitelline membrane degenerates, water from the albumen moves into the yolk and gives
the yolk a flattened shape. Rubbery yolks may be caused by severe chilling or freezing of intact eggs,
the consumption of crude cottonseed oil or the seeds of some weeds.
Performance of birds on YW was similarly significant (P<0.05). YW was 3.91, higher in the rainy
season and was 3.43, lowest for birds managed during the cold season. This implies that seasons have
effect on YW performance of birds on eggs laid and studied by commercial hens in this study. YW
mean value in the cold season when ambient temperature was cooler, was lower than that for the rainy
season when temperature was higher. This suggests that ambient temperature is likely a factor
affecting yolk quality of laid eggs in hot periods. Storage temperature is one of the many factors
believed to influence yolk quality of eggs especially yolk firmness, viscosity and stability of yolk
vitelline membrane. There is dearth of research literature for comparing performance in this egg
quality parameter in a similar experimental setting comparing the seasons in the study area or the
tropical environment.
Significant (P<0.05) difference existed on YWt values recorded. Mean YWt value of 12.51 was the
highest in the rainy season, better than 11.60 attained during the cold season. YWt values of 20.05 –
21.05 have been recorded by Stanley et al (2013). There is a high lack of research data comparing
YWt performance of eggs from layers raised under different seasons, especially in the tropical region.
Haugh Unit/Quality
HU is a measure of egg quality, particularly albumen quality. It signifies the freshness of an egg. HU
is calculated from the height of the albumen and the weight of the egg (Coutts and Wilson, 1990,
Sekeroglu et al., 2008). A minimum measurement in HU for eggs reaching the consumer is 60.
However, most eggs leaving the farm should be between 75 and 85 HU (Coutts and Wilson, 1990;
Gerber, (2011).
In this study, HU was significant (P<0.05) with the cold season having a higher HU value of 96.04,
than the value of 94.82 recorded during the rainy season. Thus, the production seasons have influence
on HU performance of eggs produced by laying hens in the seasons in the area of production. HU
Page | 157
values reported in this trial, are higher than the values of 85.0 - 87.2 recorded by Englmaierova and
Tumova (2009) from table eggs from birds studied under the season.
CONCLUSION
HU was reported to be significant (P<0.05) under cold season. Since HU is the overall score of EQ
and was best and significant (P<0.05) under the cold season study, internal EQ traits could be said to
be better in the cold season, in spite of significant (P<0.05) difference in some individual external and
internal parameters in favour of the rainy season. Hence, the cold season is concluded to be the best
season for attaining better EQ from eggs produced by commercial layer hens.
RECOMMENDATIONs
Going by the outcomes of this experimental study, it is hereby recommended that:
1. The cold season period gives the best overall performance in terms of EQ traits.
2. Another research in this set up, should be conducted again in the study area, to include the hot
season, which this research failed to capture. If done, it will paint an all-year-round picture of
the seasons in EQ performance in the study area. This will avail local layer bird farmers with
the best season to target high EQ for optimal and profitable egg production.
REFERENCES
Ahmadi, F. and F. Rahimi (2011): Factors Affecting Quality and Quantity of Egg Production in
Laying Hens: A Review. World Applied Sciences Journal 12 (3): 372-384.
Balnave, D. (1998): High temperature nutrition of laying hens. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry
science Symposium, 1998. Pp. 1-218.
BBS, (2006): Agriculture Sample Survey of Bangladesh-2005. Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics.
Planning Division, Ministry of Planning. Government of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh.
Coutts, J.A. and G.C. Wilson, (1990): Egg Quality Handbook. Queensland Department of Primary
Industries, Australia. Pp. 1-112
Englmaierová,M. and E. Tumová (2009): The effect of housing system and storage time on egg
quality Characteristics Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Natural
Resources Prague, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21, Prague 6-
Suchdol, Czech Republic.
Gerber, N. (2011): Factors affecting egg quality in the commercial laying hen: A review.
Gerzilov, V., V. Datkova, S. Mihaylova and N. Bazakova (2012): Effect of poultry housing systems
on egg production. Bulgarian Journ. Agric. Sci., 18(6):953-957.
IFPRI. 2000. www.cgiar.org/IFPRI.
Jacob, J.P, R.D. Miles, and F.B. Mather (2000): Egg Quality. University of Florida. Extension,
Institute of food and agricultural science, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/PS/PS02000.PDF
Küçükyılmaz, K., M. Bozkurt, Emine Nur Herken1, Mustafa Çınar, Abdullah Uğur Çatlı, Erol
Bintaş and Fethiye Çöve (2012): Effects of Rearing Systems on Performance, Egg
Characteristics and Immune Response in Two Layer Hen Genotype. Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci.
25(4) : 559 – 568.
Lolli, S., A. Hidalgo, C. Alamprese, V. Ferrante1, M. Rossi (2013): Layer performances, eggshell
characteristics and bone strength in three different housing systems Biotechnology in Animal
Husbandry 29 (4): 591-606
Merat P. and F. Bordas. (1982): Effect of temperature on Fayoumi fowl. In: Recent Developments in
Poultry Nutrition. Eds: Cole, D. J. A and Haresign, W., Butterworths, Kent, England. Pp. 1-
241
NAS, (2015): Effect of Environment on Nutrient Requirements of Domestic Animals Subcommittee
on Environmental Stress, National Academy of Science. National Research Council
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/4963.html
North, M.O. and D.E. Bell (1990): Breeder management. In: Commercial chicken production manual.
(4th ed.) Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York, USA. Pp. 1-564.
Oarad, Z., J. Marder, and M. Soller, (1981): Effect of gradual acclimatization to temperature up to
44°C on productive performance of the desert Bedouin fowl, the commercial white Leghorn
and the two crossbreds. Brit. Poult. Sci., 22: 511-520.
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Ojedapo, L.O. (2013): Effect of two housing systems (cages vs. deep litters) on external and internal
egg characteristics of commercial laying birds reared in derived savannah zone of Nigeria.
Transnational Journ. Of Sci. and Tech., 3(7):25-34.
Oluyemi, J.A. and F.A. Roberts (2000): Poultry production in warm wet climates (2nd Edition).
Spectrum Books Limited, Ibadan, Nigeria. Pp. 1-192.
SAS, (2004): SAS/STAT User‘s Guide: Statistics. Release 9.1. SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC.
Şekeroglu, A. M. Sarica, E. Demir, Z. Ulutaş, M. Tilki4 and M. Saatcı (2008): The effects of housing
system and storage length on the quality of eggs produced by two lines of laying hens
Arch.Geflügelk., 72 (3). S. 106–10
Sloan, D.R. and R.H.Harms, (1984). The effects of temperature on feed consumption and egg Size in
commercial layer houses. Poultry Sci., 63: 38.
Smith, A.J. and P. Leclecq (1990): Poultry. Macmillan Publishers Ltd., London, UK. Pp. 1- 301.
Stadelman W.J. (1995): Qualty identification of Shell Eggs. In: Egg Science and Technology (Ed).
W.J. Stadelman, O.J. Cotterill. The Harworth Press,Inc. New York, London. Pp. 39-66.
Stanley, V.G., D. Nelson and M.B. Daley (2013): Evaluation of Two Laying Systems (Floor vs. Cage)
on Egg Production, Quality, and Safety Agrotechnol. 2(1): 2168-9881.
Star, L., B. Kemp, I. van den Anker and H.K. Parmentier (2008): Effect of single or combined
climatic and hygienic stress in four layer lines:1. Performance. Poultry Science, 87: 1022-
1030.
Talukder, S. T. Islam, S. Sarker and M. M. Islam (2010): Effects of environment on layer
performance. J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(2): 253–258.
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EFFECTS OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) MEAL ON HAEMATOLOGICAL

AND SERUMBIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF JAPANESE QUAIL (COTURNIX
COTURNIX JAPONICA)
Olayinka O.I1., Bawa G.S2., Abeke,F, O3., Afolayan M4.

Kabba College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria1.
Department of Animal Science,Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria2.
National Animal Production Research Institute, Shika,Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria3.
Samaru College of Agriculture,Ahmadu Bello University,Zaria ,4
Corresponding email: babawaleoluseyi@gmail.com, 07069387726
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to investigate the haematological and serum biochemical indices
of Japanese quails fed graded levels of garlic meal. A total of 372 (three hundred and
seventy-two) two weeks old Japanese quails of mixed sexes (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments of ninety three (93) birds each, and were
replicated three times in a completely randomized design with thirty-one (31) birds per
replicate. They were fed four experimental diets containing 0g, 250g, 500g and 750g garlic
meal. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Blood samples were collected at six weeks
old of growth phase into two sets of labelled sterile bottles and used for blood analyses. The
results showed that birds fed 750g of garlic in the diet had significantly (p<0.05) higher
values for all the haematological parameters. Birds fed 750g garlic meal had significantly
(p<0.05) higher values for albumin, globulin and lower glucose and cholesterol values.
However, it was observed that the values for both haematological and blood serum
biochemical indices fell within the normal values. It was concluded that at 750g garlic
inclusion there were no adverse effect on haematological and blood serum biochemical
indices.
Keywords: Japanese quail, garlic meal, haematological parameters, biochemical indices,
dietary levels.
INTRODUCTION
Garlic has potential hypolipidemic, hypotensive, hypoglycemic, hypothrombotic and
hypoatherogenic properties (Warshafsky et al 1993).They have anticancer effects and help
inhibit cancerous growth; they help eliminate and remove stones from liver, kidneys and gall
bladder; they accelerate recuperation after blood stroke and help strengthen the heart muscles;
they are powerful stimulants for sexual potency (Jain et al 1993) they promote good memory,
enhance brain activity and regulate the nervous system (Amagase et al 2001). In the past
years, haematological analysis has been used as a guide in the diagnosis of many diseases and
in evaluating the responses to the therapy in both animals and humans (Teleb 2004). In
similar vein, haematological changes have been used to assess the level of stress due to
environmental and nutritional factors (Mmereole 2004). It has been established that
haematological parameters are associated with production traits in chickens. For example,
high PCV and high Hb are indicators of high feed conversion efficiency (Mitruka and
Rawnsley 1997). High level of circulating lymphocytes indicates the ability of the birds to
survive within stressful conditions. Thus, this study was aimed to evaluate the effect of garlic
meal on the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of Japanese quails.

Experimental Site
The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit, Kabba College of Agriculture, Division of
Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State. Kabba is located in the
Page | 160
Southern Guinea Savannah Ecological Zone of Nigeria on the Latitude 7o53‘ N, Longitude 6
o
02 E with an average rainfall of about and 1500mm per annum with an average temperature
ranges from 18oC -32oC . It is 427m above sea level.
Source and Processing of Garlic bulb
Garlic bulb was purchased from a local market in Kabba, Kogi State. The garlic bulbs were
sliced, sundried for 7 days and milled before being incorporated into the experimental diets.
Experimental Diets
Four experimental diets were formulated for the experiment:
Treatment 1- 0% inclusion of experimental diet (Control)
Treatment 2 –0.25% inclusion of garlic meal
Haematological and Biochemical analysis
At the 4th week of the experiment, blood samples were collected from the brachial vein of ten
randomly selected birds per group. The blood samples were analyzed for some hematological
and serum biochemical parameters; blood samples for heamatology were collected into
bottles containing Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetate (EDTA) and the other set of bottles
without anti-coagulant were used to determine the biochemical indices such as Albumin,
Globulin, Glucose, Cholesterol, Creatinine, Urea and Uric acid, according to (Schalms et al
1986). The heamatological parameters such as packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell
(RBC), white blood cell (WBC), haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and absolute counts of
lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophil were studied.
All data obtained from the two experiments were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA)
using the General Linear Model Procedures (GLM) of the Statistical Analysis Software
package. Significant difference between treatments means were separated using Duncan
Multiple Range Test (SAS, 2002).

Table 1 shows the dietary composition of the experimental diet. The effect of garlic meal
inclusion on haematological parameters of Japanese quails for the growth phase is as shown
in Table 2. The result shows that dietary treatments had significant (P<0.05) difference on all
the haematological parameters However, it was observed that birds fed diets containing
750g garlic had the highest values for all the observed parameters in this study. A linear
increase in the values for packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin count (Hb), white blood
cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), monocytes, and eosinophil increased as the levels of garlic
increased. These results contradict the reports of (Seiser et al 2010) who recorded no
significant differences in haematological parameters of Japanese quails fed garlic
supplemented diets. This difference may be as a result of differences in location, season and
levels of garlic replacement. Haematological parameters in birds had been shown to be
influenced by various factors including physiological (age, sex), environmental conditions (as
season), diet contents and age (Yang et al 2007). The effect of garlic inclusion on serum
biochemical parameters of Japanese quails for the growth phase is as shown in Table 3. The
result shows that there were significant differences (P<0.05) in values obtained among
treatments for albumin, globulin, glucose, cholesterol and creatinine but urea and uric acid
were not affected (P>0.05) for the growth phase. The cholesterol level in this study was lower
for Japanese laying quail as reported by (Akiba and Matsumoto 1980). The decrease in
cholesterol of the quails fed 750g garlic meal could be attributed to the antioxidant property
of garlic (Aletor 1998). High values of creatinine and urea suggests kidney disease and renal
failure due to damage to the glomerulus and hence poor glomerular filtration and excretion. .
Page | 161
The value obtained in birds fed 750g garlic meal having low value of urea is in support of
(Roberts et al 2003) reported low values of urea implies better protein utilization. These
findings are in agreement with the present results of this study.
CONCLUSION AND APPLICATION

It could therefore be concluded that 750g of garlic meal could be included in the diets of
Japanese quails with increased performance.
REFERENCES
Akiba, Y.A and Matsumoto, T. (1980). Effects of several types of dietary fibres on
lipid content in liver and plasma, nutrient retention and plasma transaminase
activities in force fed growing chicks. The Journal of Nutrition, Volume 110.
Pp.1112-1121.
Aletor, V.A., Agbede, J.O. and Sobayo, R.A. (1998). Haematological and biochemical
aspects of feeding broiler chickens conventional or underutilized protein sources
Nigerian Society of Animal Production proceedings held at Gateway hotel Abeokuta.
Pp 157 – 160.
Amagase, H., Petesch, B.L., Matsuura, H., Kasuga, S. and Itakura, Y. (2001). Intake of
garlic and its bioactive components. Journal Nutrition 131: 955-962.
Jain, A.K., Vargas, R., Gotzkowsky, S. and McMahon F.G. (1993). Can garlic reduce
levels of serum lipids. A controlled clinical study. The American Journal of
Medicine, 94,632-635.
Mitruka, B.M. and Rawnsley, H.M. (1997). Chemical biochemical and haematological
references values in normal experimental animals. Masson publishing U.S.A, pp.89-
90.
Mmereole, F.U.C. (2004). Haematological and serological profiles of the local and
exotic chickens in Southern Nigeria. PhD Thesis submitted to the Department of
Animal Science, Delta State University, Asaba, Delta State of Nigeria.
Roberts, K.M., Daryl, K.G., Peter, A.M. and Victor, W.R. (2003). Harper's
Biochemistry 25thEdition,McGraw-Hill, New York 25: 763 –765.
Schalms, O.W., Jain N.C. and Corroll E.J. (1986). Veterinary hematology, fourth edition.
Lea and Febiger, Philadephia.
Seiser, P.E., Duffy, L.K., McGuire, D., Roby, D.D., Golet, G.H. and Litzow, M.A.
(2010). Comparison of pigeon guillemot, Cepphus Columba, blood parameters
form oiled and un-oiled areas of Alaska eight years after the Exxon Vadez oil
spill. Marie Pollution Bullet, 40:152-164.
Teleb, S.M. (2004). Spectrochim acta, A, 60A, 3093.
Warshafsky, S., Kamer, R.S. and Sivak, S.L. (1993). Effects of garlic on total serum
cholesterol. A meta-analysis. Annual International Medicine 119:599- 605.
Yang, W.Z., Benchaar, C., Ametaj, B.N., Chaves, A.V., He, M.L. and McAllister,
T.A. (2007). Effects of garlic and juniper berry essential oils on ruminal
fermentation and on-site and extent of digestion in lactating cows. Journal of
Dairy Science, 9:5671- 5681.
Page | 162
Table 1: Composition of Experimental Diets for Japanese Quails Containing Different Inclusion level of garlic meal (2-6 weeks)
Diets Ingredients Calculated Analyses
Maize SBC GNC BM Li GM CS Ly Me VP Total ME- E: Prot. CP EE CF Ca AP Ly Me + Ca:P
Kcal/kg Ratio Cy ratio
% %
0 51.70 30.00 15.00 0.07 2.00 0 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.25 100 2847 116 25.00 4.87 4.53 1.00 0.23 1.27 0.83 4.00
250 51.45 30.00 15.00 0.07 2.00 0.25 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.25 100 2838 116 25.00 4.87 4.52 1.00 0.23 1.27 0.82 4.00
500 51.20 30.00 15.00 0.07 2.00 0.5 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.25 100 2829 116 25.00 4.86 4.52 1.00 0.23 1.27 0.82 4.00
750 50.95 30.00 15.00 0.07 2.00 0.75 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.25 100 2821 116 25.00 4.85 4.51 1.00 0.23 1.27 0.82 4.00
GM= Garlic Meal, SBC= Soya bean cake, GNC = Groundnut cake, BM= Bone meal, Li= Limestone, CS= Common salt, Ly= Lysine, Me= Methionine, VP= Vitamin
premix, ME = Metabolisable Energy, CP=Crude Protein, CF= Crude Fibre, EE = Ether Extract, AP = Available Phosphorus in percentage, Cy= Cycsteine, Ca: P ratio =
Calcium: Phosphorus ratio
Table 2: Heamatological Parameters Of Quails Fed Graded Levels Of Garlic Meal (2 - 6 weeks)
Parameters
0g 250g 500g 750g SEM
Packed Cell Volume (%) 40.03d 42.84c 43.80b 45.25a 0.49
Heamoglobin (g/dl) 13.16d 13.83c 14.51b 15.13a 0.19
Red Blood Cell (106mm3) 3.85d 4.49c 4.54b 4.63a 0.02
White Blood Cell(106mm3) 6.64d 7.13b 6.91c 9.33a 0.19
Lymphocyte (%) 26.67d 30.52c 31.79b 34.26a 0.19
d c b a
Monocyte(%) 0.33 0.67 1.00 1.33 0.29
Eosinophil (%) 1.00c 1.00c 1.33b 1.67a 0.24
a,b-means in the same row with different superscripts are significant (P<0.05).
Table 3: Biochemical Parameters of Quails Fed Graded Levels Of Garlic Meal (2 – 6 weeks)
PARAMETERS 0g 250g 500g 750g SEM
Albumin (g/dl) 3.70c 4.44b 4.41b 4.87a 0.023
Globumin (g/dl) 2.30c 2.82b 3.35 a 3.42a 0.005
Glucose (g/mol) 5.36d 5.74c 6.37b 7.16a 0.104
a b c d
Cholesterol (µ/mol) 216.40 205.87 188.05 184.59 0.081
Creatinine (g/mol) 42.81d 44.01c 47.19b 51.31a 0.11
Urea (g/dl) 1.87b 1.92a 1.66c 1.39d 0.005
Uric acid (µ/mol) 5.15b 6.20a 6.20a 5.09c 0.008
Page | 163
HEAMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF JAPANESE

QUAIL (COTURNIX COTURNIX JAPONICA) FED GRADED LEVELS OF
TURMERIC (CURCUMIN LONGA) POWDER
Olayinka O.I1.,Bawa G.S2., Abeke,F. O3., Afolayan M4.

1
Kabba College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University.
2
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University.
3
National Animal Production Research Institute, Shika, Ahmadu Bello University.
4
Samaru College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Corresponding email: babawaleoluseyi@gmail.com, 07069387726.
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to observe the haematological and biochemical indices of Japanese quails fed
graded levels of turmeric powder. A total of 372 (three hundred and seventy-two) two weeks old Japanese
quails of mixed sexes (Coturnix coturnix japonica). The birds were randomly allocated to four dietary
treatments of ninety three (93) birds each, and were replicated three times in a completely randomized
design with thirty one (31) birds per replicate. Four experimental diets containing 0, 250g, 500g and 750g
turmeric powder were given. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Blood samples were collected at
six weeks old of growth phase into two sets of labelled sterile bottles and used for the analysis
respectively. The results showed that dietary treatments had significant (0.05<p) effects of the packed cell
volume, haemoglobin counts, red blood cells, white blood cell, lymphocyte, monocyte and eosinophil.
However, it was observed that bids fed 500g turmeric had higher values for haematological parameters.
Also, birds fed 500g turmeric powder had significantly higher (p<0.05) albumin, globulin, creatinine and
urea but lower glucose and cholesterol level. For optimal productivity, 500g inclusion of turmeric powder
is therefore recommended.
Keywords: Japanese quails, turmeric powder, haematological parameters, biochemical indices, graded
levels
INTRODUCTION
The use of antibiotics growth promoter at sub-therapeutic level (AGPs) has been practiced in the poultry
industry since 1946, but recent research has proven that its continuous use can cause bacterial resistance
and possible transmission of the antibiotic residues into the food chain (Kemmett. K. 2015). Due to food
safety concerns, there has been a recent ban in the use of synthetic antibiotics in livestock by European
countries. However, research is now been channeled on the use of medicinal plants as alternatives in
animal production, because people are now informed on the dangers of the use of synthetic drugs: its
toxicity, high cost and adverse effects in the human body (Adu, et al., 2009).).Turmeric is also one of the
plants containing curcumin which is the active ingredient that possess anti- bacteria, anti-inflammatory
and anti-oxidant properties. (Rachmawati, et al., 2015) stated that the curcumin anti-bacteria working
mechanism is examined with a transmission electron micrograph (TEM) analysis, which reveals that these
particles enter bacteria cell walls by completely damaging the cell walls resulting in cell death. The
presence of this curcumin anti- bacteria characteristic is expected to have the same function as an
antibiotic characteristic in inhibiting pathogenic bacteria in the small intestine, which will then result in
better quail growth. It is also found to affect lipid metabolism and inhibit lipid peroxidation. Curcumin
regulates chemical messengers that cause inflammation in the body, suggesting that curcumin may be
particularly effective in treating autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.According to Togun
and Oseni (2005), haematological indices: red blood cells, white blood cells, packed cell volume and
haemoglobin have been found useful for disease prognosis and for therapeutic and feed stress monitoring.
The use of biochemical indices as a pointer to conditions that may not be readily noticed by performance
indices cannot be over emphasized. Plane of nutrition is known to affect these values (Agunbiade, et al.,
Page | 164
2007). The objective of this study was to determine the optimal level of inclusion of turmeric powder
through haematological and biochemical indices.

Experimental Site
The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Unit, Kabba College of Agriculture, Division of
Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University. Kabba is located in the Southern Guinea Savannah
Ecological Zone of Nigeria on the Latitude 7o53‘ N, Longitude 6 o02 E with an average rainfall of about
and 1500mm per annum with an average temperature ranges from 18oC -32oC .
Source and Processing of Turmeric rhizome
Turmeric rhizome was purchased from a local market in Kabba, Kogi State. The turmeric rhizome were
sliced, sundried for 7 days and milled before incorporated into the experimental diets.
Source of Experimental Birds
A total of 372 (three hundred and seventy-two) two weeks old Japanese quails of mixed sexes (Coturnix
coturnix japonica) were obtained from National Veterinary Research Institute, (NVRI) Ikire, Osun State.
Experimental Diets
Four experimental diets were formulated for the experiment such that Treatment 1 had 0% inclusion of
experimental diet (Control) Treatment 2 – 4 had 0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75% inclusion of turmeric powder
respectively.
Table 1: Composition of Experimental Diets for Japanese Quails Containing Different Inclusion
levels of Turmeric powder (2- 6 weeks)
Ingredients 0g 250g 500g 750g
Maize 51.70 51.45 51.20 50.95
SBC 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00
GNC 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Bone meal 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.70
Limestone 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Tumeric powder 0.00 0.25 0.50 0.75
Common salt 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Vit. Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total (%) 100 100 100 100
Calculated Analyses
ME (Kcal/kg) 2847 2838 2829 2821
CP (%) 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00
MET+ CYS (%) 0.83 0.82 0.82 0.82
SBC= Soya bean cake, GNC = Groundnut cake, ME = Metabolisable Energy, MET+CYS: Methionine
+cycsteine (%) CP=Crude Protein, CF= Crude Fibre, EE = Ether Extract, Avail P = Available Phosphorus
in percentage, Ca: P ratio = Calcium: Phosphorus ratio
Haematological and Biochemical analysis

At the 6th week of the experiment, blood samples were collected from the brachial vein of ten randomly
selected birds per group. The blood samples were analyzed for some hematological and serum
biochemical parameters; blood samples for heamatology were collected into bottles containing Ethylene
Diamine Tetra Acetate (EDTA) and the other set of bottles without anti-coagulant were used to determine
the biochemical indices such asAlbumin, Globulin, Glucose, Cholesterol, Creatinine, Urea and Uric acid,
according to Schamls et al. (1986). The heamatological parameters such as packed cell volume (PCV),
red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), absolute counts of
lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophil were analysed.
Page | 165
All data obtained from the two experiments were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the
General Linear Model Procedures (GLM) of the Statistical Analysis Software package. Significant

The dietary composition of the experimental diet is shown in Table 1. Haematological indices of 6-week
old Japanese quails fed graded levels of turmeric powder are presented in Table 2 while biochemical
indices are shown in Table 3. Birds fed 500g dietary turmeric had the highest values for packed cell
volume, haemoglobin count, red blood cell, white blood cell and lymphocyte compared to the control
diet. The values of RBC obtained for quails fed 500g turmeric diet was significantly higher than that
obtained for quails on diets 0g, 250g and 750g (P < 0.05). This showed that the birds fed 500g turmeric
had better RBC and haemoglobin (Hb) and can be attributed to the antioxidant capacity of turmeric and
its digestive enhancing effect that may improve iron absorption of the quails. This is buttressing the fact
that turmeric powder has no detrimental effect on haematological parameters of the birds but exerts some
modulatory effects on lipid metabolism in the quail as rightly reported by (Sadeghi et al 2012). The
difference in albumin, globumin, creatinine and urea level were significantly higher (P<0.05) for birds fed
500g of turmeric compared to other treatments except for uric acid (Attia et al.2017) . However, the levels
of these observed parameters fell within the recommended range for healthy quails (Sadeghi et al. 2012).
Birds fed 500g showed lower cholesterol level as compared to the control group. This report is similar to
the findings of Kermanshahi and Riasi, (2006) who reported that turmeric powder could be useful in the
management of arteriosclerosis. Generally, it was observed that birds fed turmeric powder as an
osmoregulatory agent for relief the adverse effect of heat stress and reduces the breakdown of body lipids
in heat stress condition and lowers blood glucose and cholesterol, (Borges et al., 2007).
Table 2: Heamatological Parameters of Quails Fed Graded Dietary Levels of Turmeric Powder
(2-6weeks)
PARAMETERS INCLUSION LEVELS OF TURMERIC POWDER
0g 250g 500g 750g P Value
Packed Cell Volume (%) 40.03d 42.81c 46.17a 44.07b 0.28
Heamoglobin(g/dl) 13.16d 15.09b 15.47a 14.20c 0.12
Red Blood Cell (106mm3) 3.85c 4.71b 5.38a 4.79b 0.01
White Blood Cell(106mm3) 6.64c 6.91b 7.12a 6.63c 0.02
d ab a c
Lymphocyte (%) 26.67 35.51 35.68 34.17 0.00
Monocyte(%) 0.33c 0.67b 1.00ab 1.33a 0.28
Eosinophil (%) 1.00b 1.00b 1.33ab 1.67a 0.23
Table 3: Biochemical Parameters of Quails Fed Graded Dietary Levels Of Turmeric

Powder (2 - 6 weeks)
PARAMETERS INCLUSION LEVELS OF TURMERIC POWDER
0g 250g 500g 750g P Value
c c a
Albumin (g/dl) 2.77 2.85 4.87 3.08b 0.004
Globumin (g/dl) 2.30c 2.79b 3.10a 2.85b 0.008
a c d
Glucose (g/mol) 6.73 5.36 5.13 5.74b 0.095
a ab c
Cholesterol (µ/mol) 216.40 214.86 168.52 188.89b 0.185
d c a
Creatinine (g/mol) 42.81 45.53 57.53 51.48b 0.151
b c a
Urea (g/dl) 1.87 1.63 2.05 2.03a 0.008
d a c
Uric acid (µ/mol) 5.15 7.52 6.47 6.66b 0.011
a,b- means with varying superscripts differ significantly, P <0.05).
Page | 166

The addition of turmeric powder had significant effects on the blood parameters of quails. It is
recommended that turmeric powder could be added up to 500g without any detrimental effect on the
bird‘s health.
REFERENCES
Adu, O.A., Akingboye, K.A. and Akinfemi, A. (2009).Potency of pawpaw latex as an antihelmintic in
poultry production. Botany Resource International 2: 139-142.
Agunbiade, J. A., Salau, O. and Adeyemi, O. A. (2007).Ultilization of hatchery waste meal in cassava
productsbased broiler finisher diet. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual conference of the
Nigerian Society of AnimalProduction. Pp. 275 – 277.
Akinmutimi, A.H. (2004). Evaluation of sword bean (Canavalia gladiata) as an alternative
feed resource for broiler chicks. Ph.D. Thesis, College of Animal Science and Animal Health,
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Pp 4 – 17.
Attia, Youssef A.; Al-Harthi, Mohammed A.; Hassan, Saber S. (2017). Turmeric (Curcuma longa
Linn.) as a phytogenic growth promoter alternative for antibiotic and comparable to
mannanoligosaccharides for broiler chicks. Vol. 8,pp. 11-21.
Borges, S.A., Fischer, A.V., Silva, D.A. and Maiorka, A. (2007). Acid base balance in broilers. World's
Poultry Science Journal; 63:73-81.
Kermanshahi, H., and Riasi, A. (2006). Effect of turmeric rhizome powder and soluble NSPdegrading
enzyme on some blood parameters of laying hens. International Journal of Poultry Science
5:494-498.
Kristy,Kemmett.(2015).Probiotics and enzymes:A good combination. Animal feed
manufacturers association magazine (AFMA). April – July 2015, Volume 24 No 2.
Rachmawati, H., Budiputra, D.K. and Mauludin, R. (2015). Curcuminnanoemulsion for dermal applicatio
n: formulation and evaluation. Drug Development Industrial Pharmarcology. 41(4):560–566.
Sadeghi, G.H, Karimi ,A., Padidar, J.S.H, Azizi, T. and Daneshmand ,A. (2012). Effects of cinnamon,
thyme and turmeric infusions on the performance and immune response in 1to 21dayold
male broilers. Brazilian Journal Poultry Science; 14:1520
Schalms, O.W., Jain N.C and Corroll, E.J. (1986). Veterinary hematology, fourth edition. Lea
and Febiger, Philadephia.
Togun, V.A. and Oseni, B.S.A. (2005). Effect of low level inclusion of biscuit dust in broiler finisher diet
on pre-pubertal growth and some haematological parameters on unsexed broilers.Resource
Commercial.Animal Science 25(1):22–24.
Page | 167
BENEFITS OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAVES MEAL (MOLM) AS A NATURAL FEED

SUPPLEMENT OF BROILER CHICKS REARED UNDER HEAT STRESS CONDITIONS
1
Olusiyi, J. A., 2Yusuf, H. B; 2Yusuf, S. Z.,3Daudu, A. M. J and 4Igila, T. T
1.Department of Animal Production and Health. Federal University, Wukari.
2. Department of Animal Science and Range Management, Modibbo Adama University, Yola.
3. Livestock Department, Taraba State Ministry of Agriculture, Jalingo.4. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
University, Bauchi
Corresponding author‘s email: niyisiyi@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A growth experiment was conducted to study productive performance, carcass characteristics and some
blood parameters of broiler chicks fed corn-soybean meal diets supplemented with Moringa oleifera
leaves meals (MOLM) under heat stress condition. Three hundred a week-old chicks were randomly
assigned to five treatments designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 supplemented with MOLM (0, 5, 7.5, 10
and 12.5%), respectively. The results did not show that body weight gain, feed intake and final weight
increased with increased inclusion levels of MOLM, so also was the feed conversion ratio. The
cumulative feed conversion ratio was better in T2. The levels of MOLM had no significant (P>0.05)
effect on carcass relative weight, Haemoglobin (HB), white blood cells (WBC), albumin and total plasma
protein increased with increasing levels of MOLM. Mortality rates decreased with increasing levels of
MOLM. The best result in most of the parameters however, was obtained in T2 (5%) inclusion level. It
could be concluded that addition of Moringa oleifera leaves improved broiler performance, blood
parameters and enhanced the ability to resist heat stress conditions of broilers fed corn-soybean meal diet
Keywords: Moringa oleifera leaves meal (MOLM), Broiler, Diets
INTRODUCTION
One of the major factors militating against poultry production in Nigeria especially in the arid and semi-
arid zone of the country is harsh weather condition especially between February and April of most years.
At this period, broiler production is almost practically impossible due to high temperature that usually
range between 380C-420C. A temperature above 300C represents a heat stress condition that affect
production criteria. High mortality, decreased feed intake, lower body weight gain and poor feed
efficiency are common adverse effects of heat stress often seen in meat type poultry flocks (Altan et al.,
2003). Antioxidants are known to be helpful agents that can combat the effect of heat stress. Amongst the
most popular antioxidants is vitamin C which is a natural component of different plants. Moringa oleifera
has been identified to contain certain natural antioxidants. Moreover, the antioxidant effect of Moringa
oleifera leaf was due to the presence of polyphenols, tannis, anthocyanin, glycoside and thiocarbamates
which removes free radicals activate antioxidants enzymes and inhibit oxidaxes. Although, some drugs
have been found capable on inducing resistance to heat stress. Some of these are tranquilizers like
reserpine and chlorpromazine, aspirin (acetylsacylic acid), ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and other have been
tried with some beneficial results, especially in reducing body temperature and improving egg quality. All
these drugs are used in human medication and their use in poultry feeding is subject to abuse and other
implications. In view of this, there is need to look for an alternative, Moringa oleifera leaves easily come
to mind as it is reported to exhibit numerous medical properties, including antioxidant, hepatotrotective,
anti-bacteria and antifungal activities as well as antihepatoxic and hypoglyceridemic features (Altan et al.,
2003).

The study was carried out between March and April, 2015 (at the peak of heat period with the
environmental temperature range of 35-420C) at the Taraba State College of Agriculture Jalingo, poultry
units of the Teaching and Practical Farm. The College is located in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area in
Page | 168
the North East geo-political zone of Nigeria. It lies between latitude 80 53‘ North and longitude 110 23‘
East of the equator in the guinea Savannah zone of northern Nigeria (Taraba State Diary, 2008).
A total of 300 a week-old chicks were used. They were randomly distributed into five treatments of 60
birds per treatment designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. Each treatment was replicated three times also
coded as R1, R2 and R3, respectively. As can be observed in Tables 1 and 2 diets were formulated for both
starter and finisher phases with MOLM inclusion levels 0%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5% for T 1, T2, T3, T4
and T5, respectively. All data generated from the experiment were subjected to one-way analysis of
variance in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) according to Steel and Torrie (1980). Differences
between treatment means were compared using Duncan Multiple Range test (DMRT) (Duncan, 1955).
Table 1: Ingredients and Composition of Broiler Starter (1-4 weeks) Diets
Inclusion Levels of MOLM

Ingredients T1(0%) T2(5%) T3(7.5%) T4(10%) T5(12.5%)
Maize 48.75 46.32 45.32 44.18 43.04
Soya-Bean Meal 31.85 29.14 27.78 28.43 25.06
MOLM 0.00 5.00 7.50 10.00 12.50
Wheat Offal 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish Meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Oyster Shell 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
*Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis:
ME (kcal/kg) 2909.85 2910.33 2910.06 2911.15 2911.10
Crude protein (%) 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00
Crude fibre (%) 4.04 4.33 4.37 4.43 4.47
Calcium (%) 1.41 1.45 1.33 1.47 1.49
Phosphorus (%) 0.94 0.93 0.92 0.91 0.91
EE (%) 7.49 7.67 7.56 7.27 7.14
NFE 48.70 51.20 51.05 47.07 54.7
*Vitamin – Mineral Premix (Bio-Mix) provided per kg the following: Vitamin A 500iu;
Vitamin D3, 888, 00iu; Vitamin E, 12, 000mg; Vitamin K3, 15, 000mg; Vitamin B1, 1000mg; B2, 2000mg;
Vitamin B6, 15000mg; Niacin, 1200mg; Pantothetic acid, 2000mg; Biotin, 1000mg; Vitamin B12,
3000mg; Folic acid, 1500mg; Chlorine Chloride, 60, 000mg; Manganese, 10, 000mg; Iron, 1500mg Zinc,
800mg; Copper, 400mg; Iodine, 80mg; Cobalt, 40mg; Selenium, 800mg.
MOLM- Moringa Oleifera Leaves Meal; EE- Ether Extract; NFE- Nitrogen Free Extract; ME-
Metabolizable Energy
Page | 169
Table 2: Ingredients and Composition of Broiler Finisher (5-8 weeks) Diets

Ingredients T1(0%) T2(5%) T3(7.5%) T4(10%) T5(12.5%)
Maize 52.98 51.03 49.89 48.75 47.61
Soya-Bean Meal 22.62 19.57 18.21 16.85 15.49
MOLM 0.00 5.00 7.50 10.00 12.50
Wheat Offal 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish Meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Oyster Shell 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
*Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis:
ME (kcal/kg) 2935.07 2936.07 2936.07 2936.55 2936.84
Crude protein (%) 20.00 19.94 19.90 19.84 19.76
Crude fibre (%) 3.95 3.97 3.55 3.45 3.34
Calcium (%) 1.25 1.42 1.43 1.44 1.46
Phosphorus (%) 0.88 1.87 0.86 0.85 0.84
EE (%) 6.06 5.66 5.67 5.54 5.41
NFE 55.77 55.46 55.31 55.14 55.00
*Vitamin – Mineral Premix (Bio-Mix) provided per kg the following: Vitamin A 500iu;Vitamin D3, 888,
00iu; Vitamin E, 12, 000mg; Vitamin K3, 15, 000mg; Vitamin B1, 1000mg; B2, 2000mg; Vitamin B6,
15000mg; Niacin, 1200mg; Pantothenic acid, 2000mg; Biotin, 1000mg; Vitamin B12, 3000mg; Folic acid,
1500mg; Chlorine Chloride, 60, 000mg; Manganese, 10, 000mg; Iron, 1500mg Zinc, 800mg; Copper,
400mg; Iodine, 80mg; Cobalt, 40mg; Selenium, 800mg.
MOLM -Moringa Oleifera Leaves Meal; EE- Ether Extract; NFE- Nitrogen Free Extract; ME-
Metabolizable Energy

As demonstrated in Tables 3 and 4, feed intake did not significantly (P>0.05) increased with increasing
levels of MOLM across treatment groups. However, there were significant (P<0.05) different across
treatment groups. Feed intake decreased significantly (P<0.05) within treatment groups. This can be
attributed to the fact that: one of the obvious signs of heat stress is decreased feed intake; the high
inclusion levels of moringa, which is higher than 0.1 – 03% as reported by Aderinola et al. (2013). He
reported that MOLM had a positive effect on productive performance, physiological responses and
enhances the ability of broilers to resist the heat stress conditions and the best level of MOLM was 0.2%
compared with the least of 5% in this experiment. The effects of dietary treatments on carcass yield and
internal organ characteristics are shown in Table 5. The carcass weight, liveweight, dressing percentage
and back weight were lower (P<0.05) ontreatments with MOLM inclusion. This is contrary to Aderinola
et al. (2013) who reported that broiler feeds supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% MOLM extracts
yielded significantly increased dressing percentage and meat fat compared with control broilers feed,
whereas 1.0% MOLM exhibited the highest dressing percentage and meat fat among treatments.
The results of the haematological indices showed no significant (P>0.05) difference among the
treatments group for most of the parameters except for the white blood cells (WBC) count which was
significantly (P<0.05) different. This shows that the principal function of phagocytes, which is to defend
against invading micro-organisms by ingesting and destroying them was enhanced. This is in line with
Aderinola et al. (2013) who reported that dietary supplementation of MOLM may increase the immune
Page | 170
ability of broilers as can be explained with decreased in mortality with increasing levels of MOLM
inclusion.
Table 3. Effect of Moringa Oilefera Leaves Meal (MOLM) as a protein source supplement of
soybean cake on the performance of broiler chicken (1-4 weeks) starter phase

Parameters T1(0%) T2(5%) T3(7.5%) T4(10%) T5(12.5%) SEM
Initial Weight(g) 114.58 112.50 114.58 114.50 114.58 1.85
Final Weight(g) 1079.85b 916.80a 917.68a 889.01a 906.49a 22.98
FI (g) 69.58b 64.50a 66.96ab 64.64a 66.14ab 0.84
BWG(g) 34.47b 28.73a 28.68a 27.66a 28.28a 1.45
FCR 2.02b 2.25a 2.34b 2.33b 2.35b 0.07
Mortality:
Due to Heat Stress - - - - -
Due to other factors 2 2 2 2 2
a,b
-Means within the same row bearing different superscripts are significantly (P<0.05) different; MOLM-
Moringa Oleifera Leaves Meal;
SEM- Standard Error of Means; FI- Feed Intake; BWG- Body Weight Gain ; FCR-Feed Conversion Ratio
Table 4. Effect of Moringa Oleifera Leaves Meal (MOLM) as a protein source supplement of soya
bean cake on the performance of Broiler Chicken (5-9 weeks) Finisher Phase
Initial Weight(g) 1079.85b 916.80a 917.68a 889.01a 906.49a 22.985
Final Weight(g) 1926.67b 1826.67ab 1770.00ab 1680.00ab 1576.67a 91.72
A D F I (g) 104.21 98.56 103.04 96.30 100.50 3.46
A D W G (g) 30.16 32.49 30.44 28.25 23.94 4.54
FCR 3.52 3.25 3.49 3.47 4.24b 0.47
Mortality
Due to Heat Stress 15 5 2 1 0
Due to other factors 4 2 2 1 1
Total 21 (35%) 9 (15%) 6 (10%) 4 (6.67%) 3 (5%)
a,b
- Means within the same row bearing different superscripts are significantly (P<0.05) different;
MOLM- Moringa Oleifera Leaves Meal;
SEM- Standard Error of Means; FI- Feed Intake; BWG- Body Weight Gain ; FCR-Feed Conversion Ratio
Page | 171
Table 5.Carcass yield and internal organ characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed various Levels of
Moringa Oleifera leaves meal as a protein source supplement of soybean cake

Liveweight(g) 1926.67b 1826.00ab 1770.00ab 1680.00ab 1576.67a 91.72
Pluck weight(g) 1710.00 1776.67 1610.00 1560.00 1436.67 2489.41
ab
Eviscerated wt(g) 1650.00 1436.60 1386.67 1286.67 1166.67 1891.49
Carcass weight (g) 1433.33b 1320.00 1243.33ab 1166.67ab 1036.67a 90.27
Dressing (%) (D%) 71.89b 71.89b 70.75abab 69.38ab 65.59a 2.48
Head (g) 47.00 51.50 50.83 45.17 42.33 4.14
Neck (g) 107.67 98.33 84.67 80.67 75.83 10.16
Breast (g) 362.67 321.33ab 325.00ab 288.50ab 243.00a 28.55
Wings (g) 170.00 163.67 153.50 143.67 139.50 9.39
a ab ab a
Chest (g) 110.33 98.17 95.00 82.33 75.00 7.00
a ab ab ab a
Thighs (g) 227.50 209.83 196.00 179.17 154.67 18.14
Drumstick (g) 196.50 193.17 176.67 173.83 154.33 12.56
b b ab a a
Back (g) 171.67 158.17 136.33 120.33 113.33 11.09
Shanks (g) 87.33 89.67 8.33 85.00 73.50 6.74
Internal Organs (%)
Heart (g) 0.42 0.45 0.37 0.44 0.41 0.461
Liver (g) 2.02 2.14 1.84 1.96 2.14 2.88
a b a ab ab
Lungs (g) 0.67 0.70 0.49 0.55 0.65 3.24
Gizzard (g) 2.60 2.91 2.51 3.02 3.12 1.12
Kidney (g) 0.61a 0.37a 0.56ab 0.67b 0.70b 0.85
c bc a a ab
Pancreas (g) 0.13 0.12 0.09 0.10 0.08 14.53
SIW (g) 3.49 4.24 5.25 5.63 6.28 0.85
LIW (g) 0.18a 0.29a 0.26a 0.28a 0.53b 1.62
Caecal wt (g) 0.56 0.58 0.53 0.57 0.79 1.91
SIL (cm) 200.00 207.33 180.83 229.67 196.00 1.91
LIL (cm) 8.33 10.33 11.83 11.50 10.33 15.69
Caec. Lght (cm) 37.33 39.27 40.50 41.33 42.33 2.52
Abd. Fat wt (g) 01.07 1.01 0.43 0.10 0.10 10.19
a,b,c
- Mean with different superscripts on the same row are significantly dif
ferent; SIW- Small Intestine Weight; LIW- Large Intestine Weight; SIL- Small Intestine Length; Abd.
Fat; Abdominal Fat; SEM- Standard Error of Means
Page | 172
Table 6.Haematological and Biochemical Indices of Broiler Chicken fed various levels of MOLM as
Protein source supplement of soya bean cake.
Diets / Treatment
Haematological Indices
PCV (%) 28.33 29.33 30.0 26.33 26.67 2.31
MCV (FL) 90.40 90.70 90.03 89.90 90.33 0.37
MCHC (g/100ML) 32.03 31.60 31.6 31.63 32.90 0.70
MCH (Pg) 29.00 28.57 28.0 29.03 30.13 0.66
Hb (g/dL) 9.10 9.47 9.50 8.40 8.77 0.89
WBC (x 109/L) 103.00b 119.16a 112.00ab 111.16ab 123.23a 4.27
RBC (x 1012/L) 3.10 3.40 3.37 3.43 2.99 0.21
Biochemical Indices
Glucose (MMOl/L) 8.13 7.83 7.73 9.30 9.07 1.04
Urea (MMOl/L) 0.95 0.85 1.22 1.01 1.63 0.23
Creatinine (MMOl/L) 42.77 42.73 39.8 41.27 50.13 3.45
Cholesterol (MMOl/L) 3.00a 2.47b 2.20c 2.18c 1.80d 0.28
Albumin (g/L) 9.27 26.40 26.53 32.67 31.27 3.74
Total Protein (g/L) 23.63 26.40 26.53 32.67 31.27 3.74
a,b,c,d
-Means of different superscripts were significantly (P<0.05) different; MOLM-Moringa Oleifera
Leaves Meal; SEM-Standard Error of Means

On the basis of the results obtained, it could be concluded that supplementation of MOLM in the diets
during heat stress condition with the present experimental levels (0, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5%) has positive
effects on productive performance physiological responses and enhance the ability of broilers to resist the
heat stress condition. The best level of MOLM is 5%. This improvement can lead to increasing broiler
production under heat stress conditions in tropical and sub-tropical countries. However, more studies are
needed to evaluate the best level of supplementation.
REFERENCES
Aderinola, O. A.,Alabi T. A. and Adeagbo, O. A. (2013). Utilization of Moringa Oliefera leaf as feed
supplement in broiler diets. International journal of food Agricultural and veterinary sciences
3(3): 94-102.
Altan, O; Pabuccuoglu, A., Altan, A; Konyalioglu, S. and Bayraktar (2003). Effect of heat stress on
oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and some stress parameters in broilers. Br. Poult. Sci., 44: 545
– 550.
Duncan, D. B. (1955). Multiple Range and Multiple F. Test Biometrics. 1:1-42.
Taraba State Diary (2008). Taraba State Annual Official Diary.
Page | 173
EFFECT OF RUMEN-FILTRATE FERMENTED RICE HUSK ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE

AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF BROILER CHICKENS
Yahaya, D. and Aliyu A.M.

National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison services (NAERLS), ABU, Zaria
Correspondence email yahaya.danteni@gmail.com 07035237560.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Rumen-filtrate fermented rice husk on growth
performance of broiler chickens. A total of 150 Day-old chicks were used for the research. Rumen filtrate
treated rice husk Meals was included at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% to form diets T 1, T 2, T 3, T 4, and T 5. The
experimental design used was Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The chickens were randomly
allocated to five treatments having three replicates each with ten birds per replicate. Clean water and fed
were provided ad libitum. Experimental birds were managed under a deep litter system. Nutrient
digestibility trial was conducted at eight week. Data on feed intake, body weight, weight gain and feed
conversion were collected and analysed using One Way Analysis of Variance. The results showed no
significant (P>0.05) differences in live weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and mortality. However,
the growth rate was influenced (P<0.05) by the dietary treatments (T1 13.87, T2 11.76, T3 14.50, T4
14.68, T5 14.80). Apparent digestibility results showed that dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre and
ether extract digestibility were influenced (P<0.05) by dietary treatments. The results obtained from this
study indicated that dietary inclusion of fermented rice husk meal supported a superior performance of
chicks and can be included in broiler‘s diets up to 20% without detrimental effects.
Key words: rumen filtrate, broiler, fermentation, performance, digestibility
INTRODUCTION
The developing countries pursuit in advocating the production of rapid growing animals like poultry
comes up as a result of rising demand for food (Obinne and Okorie, 2008). This is ascribed to the growth
in population. Nigeria in particular, poultry supplies up to 15 % of the entire total annual protein
consumption with an estimated 1.3kg of poultry stuffs consumed per head per annum (Adeyemi et al.,
2008). High increase in price of poultry products made it difficult for an average Nigerian to consume
chicken meat or its products meant for standard nutrition requirement. It is expected that other feed
products should be available, cheap, and have a comparative nutritional value when compared to
conventional feed ingredients (Adeyemi et al., 2008). Rice husk fermentation using rumen filtrate as
innoculum increase crude protein and decrease the crude fiber content (Wizna et al., 2008).The bacteria in
the rumen filtrate act on the fiber part of the husk through cellulase enzyme and act on the phytate-
phosphorus by its content of phytase enzyme which lowers fiber content and makes the organic
phosphorus available to the chickens. This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of rumen
filtrate fermented rice husk\ diets on growth performance of broiler chickens.

Sources of Experimental Birds and Feed Ingredients
One hundred and fifty day-old broilers were purchased from Chi farms, Ibadan. Rice husk, feed
ingredients and micro nutrients were purchased at Veterinary Shop, Minna. Ruminal fluid was collected
from rumen compartment of slaughtered cattle in sterile collection bottles at the Minna Modern Abattoir.
The fluid was filtered through a muslin cloth. Solid material was discarded while the fluid content was
transferred to clean bottle for laboratory culturing at Microbiology laboratory Bosso Campus Minna.
Experimental diets, animals and their management
Five experimental diets were formulated and designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 representing different
levels of inclusion at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%. The formulated diets consisted of maize, groundnut cake,
fermented rice husk, fish meal, lysine, methionine, bone meal, salt, palm oil and vitamins/minerals premix
to give 23% crude protein and metabolizable energy of 3000 ME (Kcal/kg).One hundred and fifty day-old
Page | 174
broiler chicks were subjected to 56 days of experimental period. On arrival, birds were weighed and
randomly allocated to five treatments with three replicates of ten chicks in a Completely Randomized
Design (CRD).Routine vaccinations were provided. Feed and water were provided ad libitum.
Table 1: Composition of Experimental Diets for starter and finisher phase

Dietary levels of fermented rice husk meal
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
Ingredients (%) Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 4 Diet 5
Maize 62.18 59.07 55.96 52.85 49.74
Rice husk 0.00 3.11 6.22 9.33 12.44
Groundnut cake 28.82 28.82 28.82 28.82 28.82
Fish meal 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00
Palm oil 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Chemical composition
Crude protein 21.08 21.17 21.27 21.36 21.45
Crude fiber 2.83 2.84 2.87 2.89 2.90
Ether extract 6.43 6.47 6.53 6.57 6.63
Methionine 0.34 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.32
Lysine 0.84 0.84 0.84 0.83 0.83
Calcium 1.35 1.36 1.36 1.37 1.37
Phosphorus 0.77 0.78 0.78 0.79 0.79
ME(Kcal/kg) 3059.75 2996.95 2931.24 2865.52 3062.67
*Biomix premix supplied the following per kg diet: Vit. A, 10000 I.U; vit. D, 2000 I.I; Vit. E, 25 mg; Vit.
K, 2 mg; Thiamine B1, 1.8 mg; Riboflavin B2, 5 mg; Pyridoxine B6, 3.5 mg; Niacin, 28 mg; Vit. B12
0.015 mg; Pantothenic acid, 7.5 mg; Folic acid, 0.75 mg; Biotin, 0.06 mg; choline chloride, 300 mg;
Manganese, 40 mg; Zinc, 30 mg; Antioxidant 1.25mg Iron, 20 mg; Copper, 3 mg; Iodine, 1 mg;
Selenium, 0.2 mg; Cobalt, 0.2 mg
Data Collection and nutrient digestibility

The following parameters were measured from daily and weekly feeding trials: Feed intake, Body weight,
Weight gain, Feed conversion ratio and digestibility. At the end of 56th day of the feeding trial, two birds
were randomly selected per replicate and housed in metabolic cages for digestibility trial. Chickens were
fed ad libitum for three days to get acclimatized. Feeds were given to birds on equal quantity. Droppings
were collected separately for each treatment at fifth day as adopted by Ayanwale and Aya (2006).
Data generated during the study on various parameters were subjected to analysis of variance using the
(SAS, 2000) package. Where statistical difference occurred, (P<0.05) means were separated using
Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test.

Table 2 shows the proximate composition of the unfermented and fermented rice husk meal. Fermentation
led to a slight increase in the dry matter (91.37-93.48 %), crude protein (6.04-8.87 %), ether extract (2.21-
5.00 %) and nitrogen free extract (27.10-43.74). Fermentation however led to a decrease incrude fibre
(42.12-29.33) and ash (13.90-6.54) of the rice husk meal.The proximate composition showed that
Page | 175
fermentation improved the nutrient content. This is in line with the study of Akinwolere and Tsado (2014)
who reported that rumen filtrate of rice husk meal increased dry matter, crude protein and reduced ash.
Reason, fermentation tends to degrade the crude fibre making it a better alternative for broilers.
Table 2: Proximate composition of unfermented, fermented rice husk and their percentage change
Parameters Unfermented rice husk Fermented rice husk % change
Dry matter (%) 91.37 93.48 2.26
Crude protein (%) 6.04 8.87 31.91
Ether extract (%) 2.21 5.00 55.80
Ash (%) 13.90 6.54 -52.90
Crude fibre (%) 42.12 29.33 -30.36
Nitrogen free extract (%) 27.10 43.74 38.04
Moisture 8.63 6.52 -24.48
Metabolisable Energy Kcal/Kg 1366.31 2289.96 40.33
(37 * CP + 81.8 * EE + 35.5 * NFE Pauzenga, G. 1984)
The proximate composition of five experimental diets fed to broiler chickens at the starter phase is
presented in Table 4. The results showed that the dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract,
nitrogen free extract, ash and moisture contents ranged from 93.30 to 95.40, 22.75 to23.63, 2.50 to 4.10,
9.00 to 12.10, 47.55 to 50.29,7.70 to 9.90, 4.60 to 6.70 and the calculated amounts of energy provided
was 3290.87 to 3545.46 Kcal/kg.
Table 3: Proximate compositions and calculated energy value of the experimental diets
Dietary Treatments
Parameters Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 4 Diet 5
Dry matter (%) 93.30 95.26 93.58 94.20 95.40
Crude protein (%) 23.45 22.97 23.25 23.63 22.75
Crude fiber(%) 2.50 3.20 3.70 3.90 4.10
Ether extract (%) 12.10 10.30 9.00 9.74 9.36
NFE (%) 47.55 50.29 47.73 48.58 49.64
Ash(%) 7.70 8.50 9.90 8.35 9.55
Moisture (%) 6.70 4.74 6.42 5.80 4.60
ME (kcal/kg) 3545.46 3477.73 3290.87 3395.63 3369.62
Calculated composition
Crude protein (%) 21.08 21.17 21.27 21.36 21.45
Crude fiber (%) 2.83 2.84 2.87 2.89 2.90
Ether extract (%) 6.43 6.47 6.53 6.57 6.63
Methionine (%) 0.34 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.32
Lysine (%) 0.84 0.84 0.84 0.83 0.83
Calcium (%) 1.35 1.36 1.36 1.37 1.37
Phosphorus (%) 0.77 0.78 0.78 0.79 0.79
ME(Kcal/kg) 3059.75 2996.95 2931.24 2865.52 3062.67
Results of the effect of rumen-filtrate fermented rice husk on growth rate, live weight, feed intake, feed
conversion ratio and mortality are presented in Table 4. Dietary treatments had effects (p<0.05) on the
growth rate only. Chickens on T1,T4 and T5 had similar (P>0.05) growth rate. Chickens on T 1, T2 and T3
had (P>0.05) similar growth rate. While chickens on T4 and T5 had higher (P<0.05) growth rate than those
on T2, and T3.The significant influence (P<0.05) on growth rate among the treatment groups agreed with
Warren and Farrel (1990) who reported similar trend when chicken were fed at different inclusion levels
of diets and 20% had the highest influence on them. Live weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and
mortality which were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced were in contrary to the research work of
Page | 176
Adeniji (2010) who used 15% inclusion level of fermented rice husk and recorded decreased in weight
but increased in feed intake and feed conversion ratio.
Table 4: Effect of rumen filtrate fermented rice husk on growth (g), live weight (g), feed intake (g), feed
conversion ratio and mortality of Broiler chicken at finisher phase
Parameter T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM LS
Growth rate 13.87ab 11.76b 14.50b 14.68a 14.80a 17.143 **
Live weight 631.91 558.58 661.24 614.94 654.26 0.418 NS
DFI 45.62 48.73 53.11 50.98 60.13 2.012 NS
FCR 3.37 4.16 3.68 3.68 4.07 0.167 NS
Mortality 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 NS
a,b,c; Means denoted by different superscripts in the same row are significantly different (P<0.05).
Key:**= Significant, NS=Not significant SEM=Standard error mean DFI=Daily Feed intake FCR=Feed
conversion ratio
Table 5 shows the apparent nutrient digestibility of dry matter and nutrients in the diets containing
varying levels of rumen-filtrate fermented rice husk (RFRH). The digestibility values for the dry matter,
crude protein, crude fibre and nitrogen free extract were higher in Treatment 4 (15 %) than in 1, 2, 3 and 5
(0, 5, 10 and 20 %).General trend observed was that the RFRH diets increased the nutrient digestibility of
all the parameters significantly (P>0.05) except nitrogen free extract. The results obtained on the
digestibility revealed that dietary treatment had significant (P<0.05) influence on dry matter, crude
protein, crude fibre and ether extract which also agrees with research work of Campos et al., (1987) who
observed the effect of adding fermented rice husk to a diet based on rice for fattening chickens and had
significant (P<0.05) influence in digestibility, crude protein, crude fibre and ether extract. However,
nitrogen free extract not significantly (P>0.05) influenced was contrary to the report of Akinwolere and
Tsado (2014) who studied the apparent nutrient digestibility of rumen filtrate fermented shea nut meal on
broilers and reported significant (P<0.05) difference on all the apparent nutrient digestibility parameters.
Table 5: Effect of rumen filtrate fermented rice husk diets on nutrient digestibility
Parameters(%) T1 0% T2 5% T3 10% T4 15% T5 20% SEM LS
Dry Matter 91.00ab 91.33ab 92.33a 92.67a 89.33b 0.443 **
ab ab a a b
Crude Protein 88.67 88.67 90.67 90.67 86.67 0.573 **
Crude Fibre 66.00c 77.00ab 80.33ab 83.67a 74.33b 1.850 **
Ether Extract 90.33a 91.67a 93.67a 93.00a 84.33b 0.985 **
NFE 96.33 96.00 95.67 96.67 95.67 0.182 NS
a,b,c; Means denoted by different superscripts in the same row are significantly different (P<0.05).
Key:**: Significant NS=Not significant SEM=Standard error meanLS=Level of
significanceNFE=Nitrogen free extract

The results of the study showed that 20% inclusion level of rumen filtrate fermented rice husk (RFFRH)
gave better growth rate. The digestibility study showed that the dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre and
ether extract were significantly influenced by dietary treatments. RFFRH meal can be included in the
diets of broiler chickens up to 20% without detrimental effects on the birds. The use of rice husk as a non-
conventional feed ingredient should be advocated in order to reduce its effect as an environmental
pollutant or waste and create wealth in areas where rice husk is abundant. Further research work should
be carried out on the use of rumen filtrate fermentation of rice husk meal in the diets of other categories of
chicken.
Page | 177
REFERENCES
Adeniji, A. A. (2010). Effects of dietary grit inclusion on the utilization of rice husk by pullet chickens,
Tropical and subtropical Agroecosystems, 12: 175-180.
Adeyemi, O. A. Eruvbetine, D. T. Oguntona, O. Dipeolu M. A. and Agunbiade J. A. (2008). Feeding
broiler chicken with diets containing whole cassava root meal fermented with rumen filtrate.
Arch. Zootec. 57(218): 247-258.
Akinwolere, J. & Tsado, D.N. (2014). Performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of
broiler chickens fed replacement levels of rumen filtrate fermented shea nut (VItellaria paradoxa)
meal for groundnut meal. Nigerian Journal of Technological Research. Vol. 9 (1):. 7-14.
Ayanwale, B. A. and Aya V. E. (2006). Nutritional Evaluation of Cornflakes Waste in diets for Broilers.
Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 5(5): 485-489.
Campos, J., Montilla, J. J., Vargas, R. E. and De Basilio, V. (1987). El arrozy sus subproductos en la
alimentacion de aves y cerdos. Jornadas Internas de Investigacion.
Obinne, J. I., & Okorie, A. U. (2008). Effect of different crude protein and digestible energy levels on the
growth performance of rabbits in the tropics. Nigeria Journal Animal Production, 35, 210–216.
Pauzenga, U.(1985). Feeding Parent Stock. Zootecnica International, December 1985, pp: 22-24.
SAS Institute, (2000). Statistical Analysis System. SAS/STAT Guide for personal computers. Version 8
Edition. SAS Institute Inc. Cary, NC.
Wizna, Abbas H., Rizal,. Dharma Y.A., and. Kompiang P. (2008). Improving the Quality of Sago Pith
and Rumen Content Mixture as Poultry Feed through Fermentation by Bacillus
amyloliquefaciens. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 7(2): 249-254.
Page | 178
UTILISATION OF MILLET AND SORGHUM IN PLACE OF MAIZE IN BROILER CHICKEN

DIETS: A REVIEW
Sa’idu, I. and Yakubu, N.

*
Department of Animal Production Technology

Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Bauchi
ABSTRACT
Maize is the major source of energy constituting 50-60% in poultry diets and has a greater acceptance.
However, inadequate production of this grain and the intense competition for maize between man,
industries and livestock especially in the tropics has pushed its price to an alarming height, making
poultry products to be expensive. The nutrients profile for maize, sorghum and millet are crude protein
(7.0, 8.0 and 10.0% min), metabolizable energy (3350, 3288 and 2560 kcal/kg min), crude fibre (3.0, 5.0
and 8.0% max) and ether extract (4.0, 3.0 and 4.0% max) respectively. Several experiments conducted
have shown that there was no significant difference in most of the performance parameters among the
three energy sources. This review revealed that performance of broiler chickens were not affected by the
dietary levels of sorghum and millet. Sorghum and millet are suitable alternatives to maize considering
their cost, availability and nutritive value. It is therefore concluded that sorghum and millet could
effectively replace 100% maize in the diets of broiler chickens without compromising performance and
even with a reduction in cost of production.
Key Words: Broiler Chicken, Maize, Sorghum, Millet and non-conventional
INTRODUCTION
Poultry plays significant role in the provision of animal protein required by man to meet his daily protein
intake. However, in commercial poultry production the main constraint is the feed cost which account for
about 65- 75% of the total cost of production (Medugu et al., 2011). In terms of total cost, energy is the
most expensive item in poultry diets, because of the amount required. Maize is the major source of energy
in poultry feeds and constitute 50-60% of broiler chickens ration (Ojowola and Olugbemi, 2011). Maize
also has a greater acceptance in poultry feeds (Panda et al., 2010), its serve also as staple food for good
proportion of Nigerians. However, the competition between man, industry and livestock has continued to
push the price higher, thereby, causing instability in the poultry industry. Its production is also not
sufficient to meet the ever increasing demand of poultry industry (Ani et al., 2013). Thus, it is imperative
to search for suitable alternative sources of energy in poultry feeds to reduce the cost of production.
Among cereal grains, millet and sorghum are the relatively cheaper promising grains that can be
successfully utilised as a component of poultry rations. Millet is a possible alternative that can replace
maize at 100% in broiler ration (Abubakar et al., 2006). It has been indicated that millet is superior to
maize and sorghum in protein content (table 1) (NIAS, 2018). Sorghum is another cereal crop that can be
used to replace maize to reduce the cost of poultry production (Etuk et al., 2012). Alternative sources of
energy will reduce the cost of feeds, improve protein availability and intake, increase efficiency of broiler
production and improve the profit margin of the poultry producers. The aim of the review is to evaluate
performance and economic gain of broiler chickens fed with millet or sorghum based diets and compared
it with the performance of birds fed with maize based diets.
Page | 179
Table 1: Proximate Composition of different Energy Sources

________________________________________________________________________________
Energy Crude Protein %(min) Ether Extract%(max) Crude Fibre%(max) ME(kcal/kg)(min)
__________________________________________________________________________________
Maize-White 7.0 4.0 3.0 3350
Maize-Yellow 7.0 4.0 3.0 3350
G/corn-White 8.0 3.0 5.0 3288
G/corn-Yellow 8.0 3.0 5.0 3288
Millet 10.0 4.0 8.0 2560
__________________________________________________________________________________
Source: NIAS (2018)
Poultry farming in Nigeria occupies a prominent position as a source of animal protein supply to the
citizen. Over the years the growth of poultry industry has followed a pattern closely dictated by the
economic futures of the countries. USDA (2002) reported that commercial poultry production in Nigeria
was estimated about USD 800 million. It was recorded that the poultry industry contributed about 25% of
the country agricultural GDP (FAO, 2010). Moreover, Nigerian chicken population is about 150, 682
million of which 25% are commercially farmed, 15% semi-commercial, and 60% in back yards: USDA
(2002) currently rated Nigeria as the leading country in Africa with respect to eggs production but fourth
in broilers production, this report indicated that Nigeria still have to improve on their production with
respect to broilers. Moreover, since feed cost make up about 70% of the total cost of intensive production
systems, the available of cheap feeds is one of the most important factors for poultry industry
development. FAOSTAT (2012) data shows that Nigeria‘s domestic poultry production has supplied
close to 100 percent of the country‘s consumption, both before and after the 2002 import ban (Figure 1).

Cereal and by Products are the main energy source in commercial poultry diets. During recent years price
of cereals, particularly maize increase sharply since its use for biofuel production. Maize a conventional
dietary energy source is the most expensive ingredient in poultry feed because of the quantity required for
inclusion level which constitute about 50-70% of the total ingredients in poultry ration, consequently a
stiff competition between man and livestock for the available of cereal grain is of the main reason for the
high cost of feed which account for 70-80% of total production cost. Thus poultry nutritionist had
advocated for the exploitation of cheaper and readily available feedstuffs alternative to the conventional
ones. Maize is a common energy source which is highly competed for by man, livestock and poultry. The
market price of maize has therefore escalated as a result of this competition.
Page | 180
Figure 1. Domestic Poultry Production &

Consumption (Tonnes)
There is also the effect of underproduction due to traditional method of cultivation. In addition to the
effects of pest and diseases in some areas. Low maize production is also attributed to frequent floods and
droughts in some major producing areas (Agwunobi, 1999). The attraction of feedstuffs such as fish meal
and Soybean to use as valuable components of poultry diets is because of their high protein content and
good amino acid profile. However, current global biofuel mediated increases in the cost of grains as
energy sources in poultry feed. Therefore, identification, development and utilisation of potential
alternatives are imperative for the sustainability of livestock production. Saidu et al. (2014) formulated
six (6) iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets containing yellow maize, white maize, Dauro Millet, Pearl
Millet, White sorghum and red sorghum as diet 1, 2,3,4,5 and 6 respectively which were fed to Anak
2000 broilers. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio did not differed significantly (P>0.05) in all
phases of production (table 2).
Table 2: Performance of broiler chickens fed diets with varying energy sources at finisher phase (1-
9weeks)
Ingredients Diets
1 2 3 4 5 6 SEM
Daily feed intake (g) 90.56 80.60 94.75 89.82 88.11 85.73 4.01NS
Daily weight gain (g) 24.26 23.73 27.88 24.04 26.61 22.60 1.46NS
Feed conversion ratio 2.35 2.37 1.96 2.22 2.07 2.17 0.096NS
Mortality 2 2 0 1 2 0 -
NS - Not significant SEM - Standard error of mean
Source: Saidu et al. (2014)
Page | 181

It can be concluded that millet or sorghum could be safely incorporated in replacement of maize in
broiler chicken diets. Millet or sorghum can effectively replace 100% maize in the diets of broiler
chickens without compromising performance. Hence, based on chemical composition and potential
feeding value, it is recommended these products can be incorporated in the poultry diets to economise the
feed cost and to increase the profit margin for the poultry farmers.
REFERENCES
Abubakar, A., Bashar, Y. A. and Eguke, B. O. C. (2006). Pearl millet as substitute for Maize
Tropicalournal of Animal Science: 9(4) 53-61
Agwunobi I.N. (1999) Performance of broiler chicks fed Sweet Potato meal. Tropical Animal Health and
Production, 31:383 – 389
Ani, A.O., Kalu, I., Ugwuowo, L.C and Iloh, E.A (2013). Dietary effect of rice milling waste and
supplementary enzyme on performance of broiler chicks. Afr. J. biotech. 12: 5326-5332.
Etuk E.B., Opara M. N., Okeudo N. J., Esonu B. O. and Udebibie A. B. I. (2012). Haematological and
serum biochemical parameters of local turkey poults fed diets containing two varieties of sorghum.
Journal of World’s Poultry Research 2(4): 81-89
FAO. (2010). Livestock sector brief: Nigeria. Retrieved from
http://www.fao.org/ag/againfo/resources/en/pubs_sap.html
FAOSTAT (2012) Food and Agricultural organization of the United Nation website
http://faostat3.fao.org/browse/Q/ QC/E accessed on 10/11/2014
Medugu C.I, Kwavi I.D., Igwebike, J;, Nkama, I., Mohammed D. I. and Hamaler, B. (2011). Carcass and
blood components of broiler chickens fed soghum or millet as replacement for maize. Agriculture
and Biology jornal of North America 1(3): 326-329.
NIAS (2018). Nigerian institute of Animal Science: Nutritional composition of major Livestock Feeds in
Nigeria.
Ojewola, G.S. and Olugbemi. F. (2011). Millet meal: A possible Alternative dietary energy sources for
broilers chickens. Proceedings 26th conference of Nigerian society for Animal Production 13-16th
March, Abuja Nigeria
Panda, A.K., Raju, M.V.L.N., Rama Rao, Lavanya G, Reddy, P.K. and Sunder, G.S. (2010). Replacement
of normal maize response and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Asian-Australas. J. Anim.
Sci. 23: 1628-1631
Saidu, I., Mbap.S. T., Egbo, M.L. and Doma, U.D. (2014). Performance of broilers fed two types each of
maize, Millet and sorghum as energy sources. Journal of Agricultural, Biological and applied
Sciences 2(3) 42 – 47
USDA (2010) Foreign Agricultural Service, p. 6
USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. (2002). GAIN report: Nigeria poultry and products, poultry
update 2002. Retrieved from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200211/145784683
Page | 182
EFFECT SOME SELECTED LEAVE MEALS ON MEAT QUALITY OF RABBIT
Oshibanjo D.O1*, Nwamo A. C.2, Philips M. Goholshak2, Obialor A. P.3 , Olatunji G.J.4, Adesope
A.I,4 Ejidare, D.A.2, Haliru H.2, Osadebamwen U.G4 Agu C. G2, and Akwashiki M.A1.
*1
Department of Animal Production, University of Jos, Jos Plateau State Nigeria
2
National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom Jos Plateau State Nigeria
3
Africa Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development University of Jos, Jos
Nigeria (ACEPRD)
4
Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan Oyo State Nigeria
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to seek the effect of feeding some selected leaf meals on meat quality. A total
of 48 cross breed unsexed weaner rabbits of 6 weeks‘ old were divided into four dietary treatments of 4
rabbits in 3 replicate in a completely randomized design. The initial weight of all the animals in each
treatment were taken before the beginning of the experiment. The experimental animal was housed, one
per hutch. Gliricidia sepium, Moringa oleifera andLeucaena leucocephala leaves were harvested from
Dagwom Farm Division of the National Veterinary Research Institute Vom, Plateau State (NVRI) by
hand picking, washed with distill water and air dried under shade until they were crispy to touch. The
leaves were thereafter crushed with hammer mill before incorporation each at 25% inclusion level. After
termination of the feeding experiment, three representative rabbits randomly chosen from each group
were fasted for overnight, weighed and slaughtered. Meat quality parameters were measured. Data were
analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. Cold shortening, thermal shortening and
oxidative rancidity were significantly higher in meat from rabbits fed control diet without leaf meal
compared to meat from rabbits fed leaf meals. Cooking loss was higher in meat from rabbits fed
gliricidia-based diet compared to other diets. The water holding capacity was significantly higher in the
meat from treated groups. Inclusion, adding leaf meals such as gliricidia, leuceana and moringa at 25%
inclusion level to the diet of rabbit pose no advert effect but rather improves the meat quality.
Keywords: Gliricidia-based diet, moringa-based diet, leuceana-based diet, meat quality and weaned
rabbit
INTRODUCTION
The incorporation of leaf meal is primarily subjected to reduce the use of protein-rich feed ingredients in
broiler rations and, hence, reduce the cost of feeds (Adelowo et al., 2020). Leaves from plants contain
different bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, phenolic compounds. tocopherols, carotenoids most
of which have been reported to have a variety of biological effects such as antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic,
anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial activities. Such plants are Gliricidia sepium, Moringa oleifera
andLeucaena leucocephala (Oshibanjo et al., 2019).
Gliricidia leaves have also been reported to contain compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenolics and
saponin (Akharaiyi et al., 2012) which could serve as drawbacks/ feed ingredients in compounding their
use as animal feeds at relatively high inclusion level. Sarwatt et al. (2002) reported that moringa foliages
are potential inexpensive protein source for livestock feeding. The advantages of using moringa as a
protein resource are numerous, and include the fact that it is a perennial plant that can be harvested
several times in one growing season and also has the potential to reduce feed cost. Although rabbits can
survive on most forage diet, optimum performance can only be ensured in a mixed feeding regime
involving forage and formulated feeds (Oshibanjo et al. 2018).
L. leucocephala is one the highest quality and most palatable fodder trees in the tropics, often being
described as the ‗alfalfa of the tropics‘. It serves as a good potential, cheaper plant protein source with
high nutritive value. Hence, need to study its effects on the physiological status of rabbits fed with L.
leucocephala. This study was carried out to seek the effect of feeding some selected leaf meals on meat
quality of rabbits.
Page | 183

Study Location
The research was carried out at Dagwom Farm Division of the National Veterinary Research Institute
(NVRI) Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State Nigeria.
Experimental Animals
A total of 48 cross breed unsexed weaner rabbits of 6 weeks old were divided into four dietary treatments
of 4 rabbits in 3 replicate in a completely randomized design.
Test ingredients
Gliricidia sepium, Moringa oleifera andLeucaena leucocephala. leaves were harvested from Dagwom
Farm Division of the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), by hand picking, washed with distill
water and air dried under shade to prevent the leaves from being denatured until they are crispy to touch.
The leaves were thereafter crushed with hammer mill before incorporation in the test diets at 25%
inclusion level.
Experimental diet
The experimental diet is shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Composition of the experimental diet

25% gliricidia- 25% Moringa- 25% Leuceana-
Ingredients Control
based diet based diet based diet
Maize 38.50 33.00 33.00 33.00
Full fat soya 17.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Wheat offals 15.00 15.00 14.75 14.75
Rice offals 16.50 14.75 10.00 10.50
Palm kernel cake 8.75 3.00 8.00 7.50
Gliricidia leaf meal 0.00 25.00 0.00 0.00
Moringa leaf meal 0.00 0.00 25.00 0.00
Leuceana leaf meal 0.00 0.00 0.00 25.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Lime stone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100 100 100 100
Calculated:
Crude Protein 15.89 16.00 16.25 15.99
Metabolizable energy 2591.68 2609.48 2601.75 2639.12
Crude fibre 8.96 8.82 9.40 8.90
Parameters measured
Cold and thermal shortening was carried out using the following formula:
Cold shortening = Initial length – final length X 100

Intial length
Thermal shortening = Initial length – final length X 100

Intial length
Page | 184
Cooking yield
The weight of meat was recorded before and after cooking and the yield was expressed as percentage
Cooking yield = Weight of cooked meat X 100
Weight of raw meat
Oxidative rancidity
Thiobarbituric Acid value (TBA) was estimated by modified methods of Buege and Aust (1978).
pH
The pH value of raw and cooked meat samples was according to method described by AOAC (2000).
Water holding capacity
Water Holding Capacity (WHC) was determined according to Wardlaw, Maccaskill, and Acton (1973).
Experiment design
A completely randomized design was used
Data Analysis
Data obtained was subjected to analyses of variance using SPSS statistical package version 25.
Significant differences between treatment means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test.
RESULTS
Table 1 shows the meat quality rabbits fed leaf meal-based diet. Cold shortening, thermal shortening,
oxidative rancidity and water holding capacity were significantly higher in meat from rabbits fed control
diet compered to meat from rabbits fed leaf meals. Cooking loss was higher in meat from rabbits fed
gliricidia-based diet compared to other diets.
.
Table 1: Meat quality rabbits fed Leave Meal-Based Diets
25% gliricidia- 25% Moringa- 25% Leuceana-
Parameters Control SEM
based diet based diet based diet
Cold shortening (%) 21.29a 7.23c 11.13b 8.87c 1.67
a a a
Thermal shortening (%) 28.43 28.00 27.23 24.59b 0.51
a b b b
Oxidative rancidity (mg/g) 3.35 1.88 1.63 1.91 0.63
Cooking loss (%) 17.27b 21.61a 16.47b 16.75b 0.68
Ph 6.98 6.85 7.03 7.07 0.25
Water holding capacity (%) 55.00b 64.44a 67.22a 68.33a 1.82
a, b
Means in the same row not sharing superscript are significantly different at P<0.05.
SEM: Standard error of the mean
DISCUSSIONS
Meat quality depends solely on the nutritional status and pre-slaughtering of an animal Oshibanjo et al.
(2019). Cold shortening, thermal shortening, cooking loss and water holding capacity is a pointer to meat
tenderness. The higher the value obtained for the cold shortening, thermal shortening and cooking loss,
the more the toughness of the meat (Oshibanjo et al., 2019). In this study, the result obtained shows that
meat from rabbits fed the control diet will be more tough than meat from the treatment groups. This result
reveals that meats from rabbits fed leaf meals are more tender which could be due to the phytochemical
profile present in those leaves used.
The oxidative rancidity of meat shows the lipid peroxidation of meat and how easy meat can spoil. The
higher the value obtained, the easier the meat can get rancid and spoilt due those water, oxygen, light and
microbial contamination (Oshibanjo et al., 2019). In this study, the data obtained shows that leaf meals
are capable of reducing or preventing the onset of rancidity in rabbit meat which could be due to the
presence of some bioactive compounds found in them.
Water holding capacity (WHC) of meat is the ability of meat to retain its water after external pressure is
applied (Oshibanjo et al., 2019). The higher the WHC the more the juiciness and tenderness of meat. In
this study, leaf meals improve the WHC of rabbit meat which could be due to the high nutritional value
and bioactive compounds in those leaves (Oshibanjo et al., 2019).
Page | 185
CONCLUSION
Inclusion, adding leaf meals such as gliricidia, leuceana and moringa at 25% inclusion level to the diet of
rabbit can improve the meat quality
REFERENCES
Adelowo, O. V., Oshibanjo, D.O., Olaiya, O. D., Emmanuel, N. Y., and Joseph, N. (2020). Growth
performance of broiler chickens fed diets with graded levels of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina)
meal. Proceedings of the 45th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production,
Bauchi 2020, March 16 – 19, 2020 Pg: 1086 – 1089.
Akharaiyi F., Boboye B. and Adetuyi F.C. (2012) Antibacterial, phytochemical and antioxidant activities
of the leaf extracts of Gliricidia sepium and Spathodea campanulata. World Appl Sci J.;16(4):523–
30.
AOAC (2000). Association of Official Analytical Chemistry Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC
international (17th ed.). MD, USA.
Buege, J.A., Aust, S.D., (1978). Microsomal lipid, Peroxidation. In: Flesicher, S., Packer, L. (Eds.),
Methods in Enzymology. Vol. 52. Academic Press, New-York, pp. 302–310
Oshibanjo, D.O., Goholshak, P M., Akinfolarin, O., Akwashik, M. A., Adediran, O., Adesope, A.I., and
Abegunde, L. (2018). Evaluation of Reproductive Performance of Rabbits Fed Graded Levels of
Moringa oleifera Leaves and Twigs Meals" International Journal of Research and Innovation in
Applied Science -IJRIAS vol.3 issue 12 December 2018, pp.01-04
Oshibanjo, O.D., Olusola, O. and Adepoju, G. (2019). Quality Assesement of Suya (Tsire) as affected by
Moringa Leaf Powder. Int. J. Meat Sci., 9: 1-6.s
Sarwatt, S.V., Kapange, S.S. and Kakengi, A.M. (2002). Substituting sunflower seed cake with Moringa
oleiferaleaves as supplemental goat feed in Tanzania. Agro-forestry systems, 56: 241-247.
Wardlaw, F.B., Maccaskill, L.H. and Acton, J.C. (1973) Effect of postmortem muscle changes in poultry
meat loaf properties. Journal of Food Science, 38, 421–424
Page | 186
NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION OF BOILED KARAYA GUM TREE (sterculia setigera) SEED

MEAL ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF RABBITS
*1Yusuf, A. M., 2Aremu, A., 2Ijaiya, A.T., 2Malik, A.A and 1Adelakun, K. M.
1
Federal College of Wildlife Management of Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, P.M.B. 268, New
Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria
2
Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Nutritional evaluation of boiled Karaya gum tree (Sterculia setigera) (S.S) seed meal was studied using
weaned rabbits in a twelve weeks experiment. Three diets were formulated with control diet (A) having
0% S.S. seed meal while diets B and C had 5% and 10% S.S seed meal respectively. Thirty-six mixed
breed weaned rabbits with average initial weight of 525g were allocated to the three diets in complete
randomized design with twelve rabbits per treatment. At the end of the twelve weeks, digestibility trial
was conducted. Feed intake and weight gains were determined. Feed intake and weight gains were higher
(P< 0.05) in diets containing S.S. seed meal. Intake, gain and feed conversion ratio were better (P< 0.05)
in treatment containing 5% S.S. seed meal than control and 10% S.S. diet. Similarly, nutrient digestibility
was also better in B than in A and C. The results had indicated that boiled S.S. seed meal had no negative
effect on performance and nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits and can therefore be included in the
diet of rabbits up to 10% level.
Keywords: Boiled Sterculia setigera, Performance, Nutrient digestibility,
INTRODUCTION
The search for cheaper source of animal protein brings rabbits production into focus since it provides an
inexpensive source of meat that is lower in cholesterol but higher in protein value than other meat types
(Okonkwo, et al., 2008). However, high cost and scarcity of compounded feed in one of the problems
faced by livestock farmers in Nigeria. These are the major factors affecting the development of livestock
industries and hence the supply of animal protein as a result of competition between man and monogastric
animals for grain sources (Jiya et al., 2008). This high cost and scarcity of conventional feed ingredients
used in compounding feed had necessitated the search for cheap and available alternative sources that will
reduce the cost of producing livestock.
Although grains and grain products are the main nutrient sources in diet of livestock (Durunma, et al.,
2000), many wild seeds are available that are less utilized in feeding livestock which could be
incorporated in rabbits diet. Some of these wild seeds are reported to contain some anti-nutritional factors
but could be removed or reduced by processing methods. Ayanwale (2004) had stated that different
processing methods to detoxify anti-nutritional factors include roasting or toasting, soaking in water,
fermentation, addition of alkaline salt, extruding and blancling.
Karaya gum tree (sterculia setigera) is a wild plant that wide spread in tropical Africa (Agishi, 2004). It
produces seeds in pods which are less utilized by man and animals. Research on the seeds of this plant
could help to reveal the potentials of the seeds as feed ingredient for incorporation in livestock feed. This
research work therefore was carried out to determine the effect of boiling, as a processing method, of
Karaya gum tree seeds on growth performance and nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits.

The experiment was conducted at the Rabbitry unit of Federal College of Wildlife Management, New
Bussa, Niger State, Nigeria. Matured and ripped seeds of (sterculia setigera) (S.S) were collected within
New Bussa. The seeds were cleaned to be free of unwanted particles and properly dried. The seeds were
poured into boiling water (1000C) in aluminium pot on fire without cover and boiled for thirty minutes.
Thereafter, they were washed, air-dried and milled for inclusion in the diet. Three experimental diets were
formulated in which diet A served control with 0% S.S. seeds meal while diets B and C contained 5% and
10% seed meal respectively (Table 1). Thirty-six mixed breed weaned rabbits with average initial weight
Page | 187
of 525g were used for the experiment groups. Each treatment had triplicates with four animals per
replicate housed in wooden/wire hutches in a well-ventilated pen (4m by 5m). The animals were allotted
to the three diets in a complete randomized design. Two weeks adjustment period was given for
adaptation followed by twelve weeks experimental period, feed and water were served ad-lib. Feed intake
(served feed – leftover feed) and weight gains were determined using weighing scale over the twelve
weeks period followed by one week digestibility trial. Boiled sterculia setigera seed meal, feed and faecal
samples were analyzed for nutrient composition according to Association of official Analytical chemists
(AOAC, 1990) method. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) according to
the procedure of Steel and Torrie (1980) while means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range

Composition of the experimental diets is presented in Table 1, while nutrient composition of the diets,
raw and boiled sterculia setigera (S.S) seed meal is presented in Table 2. The results had shown that
boiling had effect on the nutrient composition of the seeds. Table 3 shows the performance of rabbits fed
experimental diets. Higher daily feed intake and high total feed intake were recorded in diets containing
the S.S. seed meal. This could be due to the aroma of the seeds which might have attracted the rabbits to
consume more feed than those on diet without S.S. seed meal. Increase in boiled S.S. seed meal in the diet
led in increased palatability and consequently feed intake, this is in line with the observation of Yusuf
(2019). However, daily and total feed intakes were higher in diet with 5% S.S. than in 10% S.S. The
values for feed intake were significantly (P< 0.05) different between the treatments. Similarly, average
daily and total gains, and feed conversion ratio followed the same trend with feed intake. The daily feed
intake as and daily weight gain were better than those recorded by Adeyina and Apata (2008), Carew et
al. (2008) and Oninisi et al. (2008) on effects of dietary level of cocoa bean shell on nutrient digestibility,
organ weight and serum metabolites of weaner rabbits, nutrient composition and feed value of Tephrosia
bructeolata seed meal for rabbits. A preliminary study, growth performance, and carcass characteristics of
young rabbits fed steamed castor bean cake based diets.
Table 4 shows the nutrient digestibility of the rabbits. From the results, all the nutrients in the feeds were
relatively (more than 50%) digested. Digestibility of nutrients was higher in diets containing S.S. seed
meal. The values were significantly (P< 0.05) different between the treatments. This is an indication that
inclusion of boiled S.S. seed meal has no negative effect on nutrient digestibility. Although feed intake,
weight gain and digestibility were higher in diets containing S.S. seed meal, 5% level of inclusion was
better than 10%.
CONCLUSION
From the results obtained in this study, it is evident that boiled sterculia setigera seed meal can be
incorporated in the diets of weaned rabbits without any deleterious effect on performance and nutrient
digestibility. This will reduce dependency and competition on conventional feed ingredients.
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Annual Conference of Nigerian society for Animal Production (NSAP), Ayetoro, Ogun State. Pp. 204
– 207.
Steel, R.G.D. and Torrie, J.H. (1980). Principles and procedures of statistics. A Biometrical Approach, 2 nd
ed. McGraw-Hill Book Co. Inc., New York.
Yusuf, A.M. (2019). Effect of raw Karaya gum tree (Sterculia setigera ) seed meal on growth
performance and haematological indices of grower rabbits. Int. J. of Research-GRANTHAALAYAH
(IJRG). http://www.granthaalayah.com (In press).
Table 1. Composition of the Experimental Diets

Composition (%) Diets
A (0% S.S.) B (5% S.S.) C (10% S.S. )
Maize 42.0 39.0 35.0
Boiled Sterculia setigera 0.0 5.0 10.0
Soya bean Cake 15.5 13.5 12.5
Full fat soya bean 14.5 14.0 14.5
Rice offal 24.0 24.0 24.0
Bone meal 3.5 3.5 3.5
Vitamin / premix 0.3 0.3 0.3
Lysine 0.2 0.2 0.2
Methionine 0.2 0.2 0.2
Salt 0.3 0.3 0.3
Total 100 100 100
Calculated composition:
% Crude protein 16.78 16.73 17.03
% crude fiber 11.91 12.26 12.66
M.E. (Kcal/kg 2587.44 2651.63 2699.05
Table 2. Proximate composition of diets, raw and boiled Sterculia setigera (S.S.) seed meal
Parameters Raw S.S. (%) Boiled S.S. (%) Diets
A (0% S.S.) B (5% S.S.) C (10% S.S.)
Dry matter 93.17 91.18 93.89 93.14 93.18
Crude fibre 6.76 5.86 11.96 12.06 12.19
Crude protein 18.72 18.02 16.75 16.72 16.99
Ash 2.56 5.68 11.77 11.32 11.47
Ether extract 18.90 16.35 6.56 7.19 7.40
Nitrogen Free 46.23 45.27 46.85 45.85 45.13
Extract
Page | 189
Table 3. Performance of Rabbits fed diets containing boiled Sterculia setigera (S.S.) seed meal
Parameters Diets SEM LOS
A (0% S.S.) B (5% S.S.) C (10% S.S.)
Initial body weight (g) 525.00 525.00 525.00 0.12 NS
Final body weight (g) 2065.00b 2180.00a 2100.00b 13.67 *
Total weight gain (g) 1540.00b 1654.83a 1575.00b 13.65 *
b a ab
Average daily gain (g) 18.33 19.70 18.75 0.16 *
Daily feed intake (g) 62.11b 65.70a 64.30a 0.49 *
Total feed intake (g) 5401.20c 5518.80a 5401.20b 232.83 *
Feed Conversion Ratio 3.39ab 3.34a 3.43b 0.04 *
A, b, c
means on the same row with different superscripts are significantly (P<0.05) different
NS = Not significant *= Significant S.S. = Sterculia setigera
Table 4. Nutrient Digestibility of Rabbits fed diets containing boiled Sterculia setigera (S.S.) seed
meal
Parameters Diets SEM LOS
A (0% S.S.) B (5% S.S.) C (10% S.S.)
Dry matter 60.41c 64.02a 63.81b 0.48 *
b a
Crude fibre 64.50 66.47 64.92b 0.02 *
Crude protein 58.12 59.17 58.64 0.19 NS
Ash 52.67a 51.37ab 50.19b 0.46 *
Ether extract 61.18 60.88 60.69 0.08 NS
Nitrogen Free Extract 57.78b 60.13a 59.27ab 0.31 *
A, b, c
means on the same row with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different
NS = Not significant *= Significant S.S. = Sterculia setigera
Page | 190
REPLACEMENT VALUE OF SIEVED PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENT (POME) FOR MAIZE
ON BLOOD PROFILE OF TURKEY POULT
1
Adetutu O. I.*, 2 Oladunjoye I. O., 1 Olabode A. D., 1 Ojuoloruntaye T. J. and 1Adetutu O. B.
1
Department of Animal Production Technology, Federal College of Agriculture, P.M.B. 7008, Ishiagu,
Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Production and Health, LAUTECH, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
*Corresponding author’s e-mail: adetutuoi@fcaishiagu.edu.ng (08136869695)
ABSTRACT
The experiment evaluates the replacement value of sieved palm oil mill effluent for maize on blood
profile of turkey poult. The trial conducted at the Poultry Unit of Ladoke Akintola University of
Technology Ogbomoso. One hundred and fifty (150) day old poults were used for the trials that lasted
eight (8) weeks. Wet POME was collected, pressed and sun-dried, milled to replace 0% (control diet),
10%, 20% and 30% and 40% maize in diets 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Five dietary treatments groups
of 30 birds each which were further subdivided into 3 replicates of 10 birds each in a Completely
Randomized Design was used. Results shows that dietary substitution of sieved POME had no significant
(P>0.05) effect on the Packed cell volume, Red blood cell counts, White blood cell counts and Mean
Corpuscular volume across the dietary treatments. However, birds fed 40% sieved POME in replacement
of maize had significantly (P<0.05) higher haemoglobin concentration (Hb) value (11.40g/dl) than other
diets. Birds fed 30% sieved POME had significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein and globulin values
(5.72g/dl, 3.52 g/dl) than in other diets. There were significant differences (P<0.05) among treatments for
serum cholesterol, alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Highest
cholesterol value (147.27mg/dl) was recorded for 40% sieved POME while lowest value (131.23mg/dl)
was recorded for 0%. Conclusion, haematological parameters and serum biochemistry were all within the
recommended values and thus shows that sieved POME did not have any detrimental effect on the health
of the birds.
Keywords - POME, Turkey poults, Haematology, Serum, Sieved
INTRODUCTION
Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) are reared all over the world for their tasty and high-quality meat
(Prabakaran, 2003). It originates from North America and has been introduced nearly worldwide
including Nigeria. The massive production of these poultry species is increasing in many countries as an
important source of animal protein due to its comparatively high percentage of protein and low
percentage of fat (Ibrahim et al., 2002). Haematology is the scientific study of the natural functions and
disease of blood. Haematological indices are those factors in the blood whose level is usually determined
in order to assess the degree of well-being of animal (Kral and Suchy, 2000). It provides valuable
information on the immune status of animals. Such information, apart from been useful for diagnostic and
management purpose, could equally be incorporated into breeding programmes for the genetic
improvement of indigenous chickens (Kral and Suchy, 2000). Haematological value of chickens is
influenced by age, sex, breed, climate, geographical location, season, day length, time of day, nutritional
status, life habit of species and other physiological factors (Swenson, 2002). Kral and Suchy (2000)
reported that serum biochemical parameters provide valuable information on the immune status of
animals. In our semi-arid environment, available reports on plasma chemistry data of blood are limited to
those of fowl and guinea fowls, but that of turkeys are very scanty and information on them are useful for
diagnostic and management purposes which could further be incorporated into breeding programmes for
genetic improvement of our turkeys (Ibrahim et al., 2002). This experiment therefore evaluates blood
profiles of turkey poult fed varied inclusion levels of sieved palm oil mill effluent
Page | 191

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of Teaching and Research Farm, Ladoke Akintola
University of Technology Ogbomoso. Wet palm oil mill effluent (POME) sample was collected from the
effluent storage tanks of palm oil extraction factory into empty sacks. The sacks containing the wet
effluent was put under hydraulic press in order to drain the residual water and oil. The sample was later
manually pulverized and sun-dried on polythene sheets to prevent it from caking and going rancid before
and during storage. The dried material was milled and then manually sieved using 0.5mm and 1mm sieve
for starter and grower phases respectively to remove coarse fibrous materials in it. Five diets were
formulated based on the nutritional requirement of turkey (8). Diet 1 was the control diet without POME.
Diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 had 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% maize respectively substituted with POME in the control
diet. The gross composition of the diets is shown in Tables 1 and 2. Total of one hundred and fifty (150)
unsexed day-old local turkey poults from a reputable commercial hatchery was used for the experiment.
The birds were weighed and randomly grouped into five (5) treatments of three (3) replicates. Each
replicate contained ten (10) birds making a total of thirty (30) birds per treatment. The feeding trial lasted
for eight (8) weeks. Vaccinations and medications were done as at when due. Fresh feed and clean water
were given ad-libitum. The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design (CRD). At the end
of the experiment two birds from each replicate were randomly selected, tagged and blood samples were
collected through the wing web. The blood samples for haematology were collected into the bottle
containing ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) as anti-coagulants. The parameters determined
were; Haemoglobin concentration (Hb), Red Blood Cell counts (RBC), White Blood Cell counts (WBC),
Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin
(MCH), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC). The blood samples for serum
biochemical measurements were collected into EDTA free tubes and allowed to clot for the separation of
the serum from the clot. Total serum protein, serum albumin, globulin concentrations, cholesterol,
creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine
aminotransferase (ALT). Blood samples were collected using the procedure as described by Jain (1986).
Data collected were analysed by One-way analysis of variance of a Completely Randomized Design using
SPSS (2012) software and means were compared using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test of the same
package at P<0.05.
Table 1: Gross Composition of Experimental Turkey Starter Diets

% of POME substituted for maize
Ingredients 0 10 20 30 40
Maize 46 41.4 36.8 32.2 27.6
POME - 4.6 9.2 13.8 18.4
TOTAL 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated values
ME (Kcal/kg) 2852 2871 2890 2908 2927
Crude protein 27.9 28 28 28 28
POME = Palm oil mill effluent; ME = Metabolizable energy
Fixed ingredients - Soybean meal 30; Groundnut cake 15; Fish meal 2; Blood meal 3; Bone meal 2;
Oyster shell 1; Salt 0.25; Premix 0.25; Methionine 0.25; Lysine 0.25
Page | 192
Table 2: Gross Composition of Experimental Turkey Grower Diets

% of POME substituted for maize
Maize 48 43.2 38.4 33.6 28.8
POME - 4.8 9.6 14.4 19.2
TOTAL 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated values
ME (Kcal/kg) 2900 2920 2939 2959 2979
Crude protein 26.3 26.3 26.3 26.3 26.4
POME = Palm oil mill effluent; ME = Metabolizable energy
Fixed ingredients - Soybean meal 28; Groundnut cake 13; Corn bran 3; Fish meal 2.5; Blood meal 2;
Bone meal 1.5; Oyster shell 1; Salt 0.25; Premix 0.25; Methionine 0.25; Lysine 0.25

The dietary substitution of sieved POME in replacement of maize had no significant (P>0.05) effect on
the PCV, RBC, WBC and MCV across the dietary treatments. Higher Hb concentration recorded at 10%,
30% and 40% might have been as a result of dehydration. MCH of the birds fed 0%, 20% 30% and 40%
sieved POME in replacement of maize were similar (51.77Pg, 51.59Pg, 52.46Pg, 52.64Pg) and
significantly (P<0.05) lower than that from 10% (55.36Pg). MCHC from birds fed 0% (31.08g/dl) was
similar to 10% (30.88g/dl) but significantly (P<0.05) lower than those fed 40% (32.76g/dl). The values
from this result concurred with the report of Etuk et al. (2012); Denise (2000) for local turkey. Lower
MCV values recorded from the groups that received POME might have been a result of poor dietary
intake of Iron. However, Fluctuation in MCV, MCH and MCHC recorded in this result had also been
observed in broilers (Talebi et al., 2005; Islam et al., 2004).
Table 3: Haematological Parameters of Turkey Poults Fed with Varied Substitution Levels of
Sieved POME
% Levels of POME substituted for maize
Packed Cell Volume (PCV) (%) 32.33 33.00 33.00 34.00 33.33 0.29
Haemoglobin (Hb) (g/dl) 10.47c 10.83b 10.27d 10.70b 11.40a 0.05
Red Blood Cell (RBC) (106ul) 2.33 2.90 2.63 2.64 2.26 0.11
White Blood Cell (WBC) (103ul) 16.45 15.43 16.25 16.26 16.74 0.26
MCV (fl) 167.21 161.47 163.28 162.28 166.55 1.20
MCH (Pg) 51.77b 55.36a 51.59b 52.46b 52.64b 0.28
MCHC (g/dl) 31.08b 30.88b 31.55ab 32.22ab 32.76a 0.21
Means values with similar superscripts alphabet along the same row are not significantly (P > 0.05)
different.
SEM = Standard Error of Mean; MCV = Mean Corpuscular volume; MCH = Mean Corpuscular
Haemoglobin; MCHC = Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration
Birds fed 30% sieved POME in replacement of maize had significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein and
globulin values (5.72g/dl, 3.52 g/dl) than in other diets. Those that were fed 20% had the lowest value
(5.20g/dl, 3.12g/dl). Albumin from birds fed 0% (2.28g/dl) was similar to 10% (2.17g/dl), 30% (2.20g/dl)
and 40% (2.12g/dl) respectively and significantly (P<0.05) higher than those fed 20% (2.08g/dl). There
were significant differences (P<0.05) among treatments for serum cholesterol, ALT, and ALP. Birds that
received diet in which 40% maize was substituted with sieved POME had higher cholesterol in their
serum than those fed control diet. The highest cholesterol value (147.27mg/dl) was recorded for 40%
sieved POME while lowest value (131.23mg/dl) was recorded for 0%. Turkey poults that were fed sieved
Page | 193
POME were similar to those fed control diet in term of ALT. However, ALP did not follow any particular
trend. There were no significant (P<0.05) difference in creatinine, urea and AST values across the dietary
treatments. Higher urea values recorded at 10% (18.81m/dl) and 20% (18.87m/dl) might be a result of
low blood flow to the kidney caused by dehydration. The total serum protein and globulin values were
within the values reported for eight (8) weeks old turkey poults by Ogungbenro et al. (2013). Albumin
values recorded varied (P<0.05) across the dietary substitution. Increased blood serum cholesterol values
with increase inclusion levels of sieved POME might have been influenced by increased metabolizable
energy and ether extract in the diets. Decreased serum urea recorded from 40% could be attributed to
improved protein utilisation. Serum urea is assumed to indicate protein breakdown and higher urea value
indicates poor dietary protein utilisation (Etuk et al., 2012). Values recorded for AST, ALT and ALP
followed no trend and this disagree with the report of (Babatunde et al., 1987). However, the values
recorded were within the values reported by Ogungbenro et al. (2013); Ibrahim et al. (2012). Higher
levels of ALT and ALP recorded might be an indication of tissue damage.
Table 4: Serum Biochemistry of Turkey Poults Fed with Varied Substitution Levels of Sieved
POME
% Levels of POME substituted for maize
b b b a b
Total protein (g/dl) 5.42 5.44 5.20 5.72 5.37 0.04
Globulin (g/dl) 3.14b 3.27b 3.12b 3.51a 3.25b 0.03
Albumin (g/dl) 2.27a 2.17ab 2.08b 2.20ab 2.12ab 0.03
Creatinine (mg/dl) 0.06 0.05 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.01
Cholesterol (mg/dl) 131.23b 135.38ab 136.04ab 140.82ab 147.27a 2.06
Urea (mg/dl) 15.97 18.81 18.87 16.28 15.83 0.50
AST (i.u/l) 60.09 58.82 57.73 59.33 58.48 0.76
ALT (i.u/l) 5.65ab 5.44ab 5.09b 5.29ab 6.24a 0.15
ALP (i.u/l) 81.18c 86.59a 85.96ab 83.32bc 86.01ab 0.50
Means values with similar superscripts alphabet along the same row are not significantly (P > 0.05)
different.
SEM = Standard Error of Mean; AST = Aspartate Aminotransferase; ALT = Alanine Aminotransaminase;
ALP = Alkaline Phosphatase
CONCLUSION
It can be concluded from the results in this experiment that;
1. sieved POME which is a major waste from palm oil mill industry and a highly polluting material
can be effectively utilised to substitute maize as a good source of nutrient in the diet of turkey when
sieved.
2. birds fed sieved POME substituted for maize up to 40% revealed the nutritional quality of POME.
RECOMMENDATION
It was concluded from the results of this experiment that sieved POME can be substituted for maize up to
40% in the diet of turkey without impairing the health of the bird. However, further study on organ
histology is recommended.
Page | 194
REFERENCES
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management system on some haematological parameters of intensively and semi-intensively kept
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Dietary Safflower Oil or Hydrogenated Coconut Oil on Growth Rate and on Swine Blood and Tissue
Components of Pigs Fed Fat-free Diets. Journal of Nutrition, 92: 1903.
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36(2):393-396.
Etuk E.B., Opara M.N., Okeudo N. J., Esonu B.O. and Udedibie A.B.I. (2012). Haematological and
Serum Biochemical Parameters of Local Turkey Poults Fed Diets Containing Two Varieties of
Sorghum. Journal of World's Poultry Research 2(4): 81-89.
Ibrahim A.A., Aliyu J., Abdu M.I. and Hassan A.M. (2012). Effects of Age and Sex on Serum
Biochemistry Values of Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) Reared in the Semi- Arid Environment of
Nigeria. World Applied Sciences Journal 16 (3): 433-436.
Islam M.S., Lucky N.S., Islam M.R., Ahad A., Das B.R., Rahnan M.M. and Siddini M.S.I. (2004).
Haematological Parameters of Fayoumi, Assil and Local Chickens. Reared in Sylhet Region in
Bangladesh. International Journal of Poultry Science, 3 (2): 144 – 147.
Jain C.N. (1986). Schalm‘s Vetenary Heamatology, 4th (Ed) Lea and Febiger. Philadelphia.
Kral, I. and Suchy, P. (2000). Haematological studies in adolescent breeding cocks. Acta. Vet. Bmo.,
69:189-194.
Lee I. C. (2014). Animal Nutrition Handbook. 3rd revision. Poultry Nutrition and feeding. Pp 410 – 425
NRC (1994). Nutrients Requirements of Poultry. 9th Rev. Ed. National academic Press, Washington DC.
(SF494.N37)
Ogungbenro S.D. Raji M.O., Bamgbose A.M., Oso A.O. and Sogunle O.M. (2013). Effect of replacement
of cashew nut meal-maize offal with maize on the performance of turkey poults. International
Journal of Agricultural Bioscience 2(4): 164-167.
Prabakaran, R., (2003). Good practices in planning and management of integrated commercial poultry
production in South Asia. FAO Animal Production and Health, 159: 71-86.
Talebi A., Asri-Rezaei S., Rozeh-chai R. and Sahraei R. (2005). Comparative Studies on Haematological
Values of Broiler Strains (Ross, Cobb, Arbor-acres and Avian). International Journal of Poultry
Science, 4 (8): 573 – 579.
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ASSESSMENT OF CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND ORGAN WEIGHTS OF FINISHED

BROILER CHICKENS FED UREA PLUS METHIONINE TREATED AND FERMENTED
SORGHUM BEER RESIDUE
*†Ndams, S. S†,Sekoni, A.A§ Duru, S¶ and Olugbemi, T.S¶

†
Division of Agricultural Colleges, CAAS/A.B.U. Mando Kaduna, Nigeria
¶
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria
§
National Animal Production Research Institute, Shika, A.B.U. Zaria, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author’s Email: Samuel_ndams@yahoo.com; Tel: +234 808 618 3938
ABSTRACT
The carcass yield and Organ weights of finished broiler chickens fed urea plus methionine supplemented
and re- fermented sorghum beer Residue (RSBR) were investigated after a 4-week finisher period. At the
end of the finisher phase, three birds from each pen were selected for carcass analysis. The dressing
percentage of birds on 50% RSBR diet was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those on control and other
diets. The breast weight percentage for birds on the control was observed to be highest significantly
(P<0.05) while that for birds on 100% RSBR diet to be the lowest significantly (P<0.05). The thigh
percentage of birds on control and 50% RSBR diets were similar but significantly (P<0.05) higher than
those of birds on other diets. Heart and gizzard percentages of birds on 100% RSBR diet were
significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those on control and other diets. This study indicates that up to 75%
RSBR can adequately support carcass yield and organ weights without detrimental effect on finisher
broiler chickens.
Key word: Broilers, re-fermented sorghum beer residue, Carcass yield, Organ weights, fermentation.
INTRODUCTION
Today, broiler chicken production is among one of the fastest means of producing animal protein because
of their short generation interval (Babatunde, 1980). However, the cost of production of broiler products
has remained high due to high cost of feed. The feed deficit situation is further compounded with the
advent of Covid-19 pandemic that has impacted negatively to national economies. Groundnut cake
(GNC) has been used as a protein supplement in broiler diets but its price has continued to increase in our
markets (Isekwenu, et al., 2008). Sorghum beer residue (SBR) is a possible alternative to groundnut cake
(GNC) because of its nutritional qualities that are comparable to GNC. SBR is cheap and readily available
and contributes to the protein, amino acids and energy content of formulated feeds. The need to further
recycle SBR through the process of fermentation in order to reduce its fibre content, obtain a high protein
biomass and interesting amino acid composition by treatment with urea-nitrogen and methionine (sulfur)
is imperative. Urea and Methionine have been recommended for use as sources of nitrogen and sulfur for
ruminant animals respectively by Loest et al. (2001). Therefore, the objective of this study was to subject
SBR into a second stage fermentation after pretreatment with urea grade fertilizer plus methionine and the
assessment of its dietary effects on carcass yield and organ weights when fed to finisher chickens.

Fermentation of sorghum beer residue for On-farm feeding.
The inoculation of sorghum beer residue prior to fermentation was carried out as described by Ndams et
al. (2011). SBR was moistened with water at a ratio of 1:5 (w/w). SBR was treated with urea and
methionine concentrations at a ratio of 1.5: 0.37 % (Ndams, 2009). The quantities of methionine, urea,
SBR, water and inoculum used and the process of fermentation carried out was as described by Ndams,
(2015). The fermented product (RSBR) was sundried for 7days on concrete floor and samples taken for
proximate analysis according to AOAC (2000) procedures at the Department of Animal Science, A.B.U.
Zaria.
Page | 196
Feeding Trial/ Broiler finisher phase (4 weeks)

The carcass yield and organ weights were evaluated after a 4-weeks feeding trial where urea plus
methionine supplemented and fermented SBR (as a test ingredient) was used to replace groundnut cake
(GNC) at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels on protein equivalent basis during the finisher phases. The
ingredient composition of the broiler finisher diet used is shown in Tables 1.
Table 1: Ingredient composition (%) of broiler finisher diets containing replacement levels of urea plus
methionine supplemented and fermented sorghum beer residue (4-8 weeks)
Levels of RSBR inclusion (%)
Ingredient (%) 0 25 50 75 100

Maize 48.00 43.85 42.50 42.40 40.11
Maize offal 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
RSBR 0.00 7.90 18.05 24.30 36.39
GNC 32.40 25.90 17.00 10.85 0.00
Fishmeal 3.80 3.80 3.80 3.80 3.80
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40
Palm oil 1.82 4.50 4.50 4.50 5.55
Lysine 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
1
Vit/Min Premix 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated nutrients
ME.kcal/kg 2948.09 3027.18 2963.91 2947.09 2945.31
CP (%) 20.53 20.52 20.47 20.46 20.50
EE (%) 5.49 4.86 4.13 3.66 2.76
CF (%) 4.32 5.21 5.61 6.16 7.12
Ca (%) 1.28 1.29 1.30 1.31 1.32
Avail.P(%) 0.88 0.87 0.87 0.86 0.86
Lysine(%) 1.23 1.18 1.17 1.15 1.20
Met. + Cyst. (%) 0.83 0.91 1.01 1.05 1.16
Cost N/kg 103.62 103.61 96.91 92.72 86.89
1 R
Vitamin/ mineral premix (Animal Care.Optimix ) Each 1.25kg supplied: Vit A 12,000,000 I.U; D3
3000,000 I.U; Vit. K 2500mg; B1, 200mg; B2 500mg; B6 3,500mg; Niacin 40,00mg; B12 20mg;
Pantothenic acid 10mg; Folic acid 1,000mg; Biotin 80mg; Choline chloride 200,000gm; Anti oxidant
125,000mg; Manganese 70,000gm; Iron 40,000gm; Copper 8000mg; Iodine 1,200mg; Selenium 250mg;
Cobalt 250mg.
At the end of the broiler finisher phase (4-weeks), three birds from each pen whose weights were equal or
close to the mean weight of the birds in the pen were selected. The sampled birds were sacrifice for
carcass analysis. They were slaughtered, de-feathered and eviscerated. The breast,
Page | 197
thigh, back, neck, wings, legs, head, liver, heart, gizzard, pancreas and the abdominal fat were weighed
and expressed as percentages of the live weights.
Data analysis
Data collected were subjected to Analysis of variance procedure. (ANOVA-Single factor) using
―Analyse-it‘‘ for Microsoft Excel (3.03) Standard. Significant means were separated using the Duncan
Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1995) taking P <0.05 as significance level
RESULTS
Carcass Characteristics and Organ weights of finished birds
Table 2 shows the result of carcass analysis and the organ weights of the experimental birds. There were
no significant differences (P>0.05) in dressing percentage, among birds on 0 and 25% RSBR diets and
also among birds on 75 and 100% RSBR diets.
Table 2: Carcass characteristics and organ weights of finished broiler chickens fed urea plus
methionine supplemented and fermented SBR in diets (4-8 weeks)
Levels of RSBR inclusion (%)

Parameter 0 25 50 75 100 SEM
Final live weight (g/bird) 2803.33a 2723.33 a 2823.33 a 2436.67b 1766.67c 193.34
Dressing % 80.3 b 80.17 b 82.05 a 77.99 c 77.36 c 0.85
a c b d
Breast weight (%) 25.03 22.16 23.62 20.48 19.15e 1.05
Thigh weight (%) 23.25 a 21 b 23.93 a 20.2 b 14.57 c 1.66
b b d c
Back weight (%) 14.86 14.69 13.64 14.23 15.28 a 0.28
c a d b
Wings (%) 7.49 8.51 7.02 8.14 8.77 a 0.32
Organs
Liver (%) 2.32 c 2.63 a 2.36 c 2.6 a 2.55 b 0.06
c c c
Gizzard (%) 2.32 2.26 2.3 2.6 b 2.92 a 0.13
c c c
Heart (%) 0.48 0.49 0.47 0.55 b 0.66 a 0.04
a c a
Abdominal fat (%) 2.32 1.53 2.42 1.85 b 1.79b 0.17
c b b
Intestinal length (cm) 216 227.67 229.67 263.33 a 211.33c 9.11
a,b,c,d
Means within rows with different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05)
The breast weight percentage for birds on the control was observed to be highest significantly (P<0.05)
while that for birds on 100% RSBR diet to be the lowest significantly (P<0.05). The thigh percentage of
birds on control and 50% RSBR diets were similar but significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of birds
on other diets. The percentage back of birds on 100% RSBR diet was the highest significantly (P<0.05)
compared to those of birds on other diets. The percentages for wings of birds on the 25 and 100% RSBR
diets were similar and the highest (P < 0.05) compared to those of birds on control and other RSBR diets.
The percentage liver of birds on 25 and 75% RSBR diets were similar (P>0.05) but significantly (P<0.05)
higher than those on 0, 50 and 100% RSBR diets. The percentage liver of birds on 0 and 50% RSBR
diets were similar (P>0.05) but significantly (P<0.05) lower compared to those on 100% RSBR diet.
The gizzard and heart percentages for birds on 0, 25, and 50% RSBR diets were similar but significantly
(P<0.05) lower than those for birds on 75 and 100% RSBR diets. The intestinal length for birds on 75%
RSBR diet was the highest (P<0.05) while the intestinal length of birds on 25 and 50% RSBR diets were
similar (P>0.05) but significantly (P<0.05) higher than those on control and 100% RSBR diets which
were similar (P>0.05). The intestinal length for birds on 75% RSBR diet was the highest (P<0.05) while
the intestinal length of birds on 25 and 50% RSBR diets were similar (P>0.05) but significantly (P<0.05)
higher than those on control and 100% RSBR diets which were similar (P>0.05).
DISCUSSION
The carcass weight in relation to the live weights (dressing percentage) of birds on all diets except those
on 100% RSBR diets were comparable to the standard (80%) for broilers at marketing (Barry, 2006). The
Page | 198
percentage breast of birds was observed to be depressed on RSBR supplemented diets compared to those
on control. This findings is in agreement with that previously observed by Ndams et al. ( 2009). Birds on
25, 75 and 100% RSBR diets had significantly lower percentage thigh compared to those on control and
50% RSBR diets. This observation is in agreement with the findings of Lemme and Petri (2002) who
reported a decrease in percentage thigh with higher dietary levels of lysine in wheat diets as well as
Ndams et al. (2009) who reported a decrease in percentage thigh with increased dietary supplementation
of amino acid and enzymes in re-fermented brewers‘ dried grains (RBDG) diets.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the results of this study indicates that up to 75% urea plus methionine RSBR can
adequately support carcass yield and organ weights without detrimental effect to finisher broiler chickens.
RECOMMENDATION
75% urea plus methionine RSBR can be fed as a protein source in place of groundnut cake to finishing
broiler chickens for adequate carcass yield and organ weights without detrimental effect.
REFERENCES
Association of Official analytical Chemists (2000). Official methods of analysis, 15th ed. AOAC,
Arlington, Virginia, U.S.A, Pp. 12-98.
Babatunde, G. M. (1980). Role of Nigerian poultry industry in protein; bridging the animal protein gaps.
Inaugural lecture, University of Ibadan, Ibadan Nigeria.
Barry, S. (2006). The Farming Handbook, ACTA. Sharing knowledge, improving rural livelihoods.
University of KwaZulu-Natal Press. 431pp
Duncan, D.B, (1995). New Multiple Range and Multiple F-Test. Biometrics 11: 1-42
Isikwenu, J.O.., Apkodiete, O.J. and Bratte, L. (2007). The effect of Urea-Treated and Fermented
Brewer‘s Dried Grains Diets on performance in Broilers: A Preliminary Study. Tropical Journal of
animal Science.10: (1- 2) 253-357
Lemme, A and Petri, A. (2002). Economic determination of optimum amino acids levels essential in
compound feed formulation. Feedstuffs (Special report). May 20, 2002: 24-26.
Loest, C. A., Titgemeyer, E. C., Drouillard, J. S. Lambert, B. D. and Trater, A. M. (2001). Urea and biuret
as non-protein nitrogen sources in cooked molasses blocks for steers fed prairie hay. Animal Feed
Science Technology. 94:115.
Ndams, S. S., Tegbe, T.S.B., Ogundipe, S.O. (2009). Effect of feeding Graded levels of Re-fermented
brewers‘ Dried Grains on performance and Carcass Characteristic of Broiler Chickens. Journal of
Applied Agricultural Research. 1:37-45
Ndams, S. S., Tegbe, T.S.B., Ogundipe, S.O. and Sheyin, Z. (2011). Determination of the optimum
inoculums concentration and fermentation period and their effect on nutrient composition of
Brewers dried grains. Science World Journal.6 (1): 13-19
Page | 199
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF

BROILER CHICKEN FED GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) POWDER BASED DIET
Odukoya, S. O., Yahaya, M. O., Awodola-Peters, O. O. and Saka, A. A.

1
Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, P. M. B. 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan.
Corresponding author: saka.azeez@gmail.com Phone number: 08055624725
ABSTRACT
A 56 days study was conducted to determine the effect of garlic powder (GP) supplementation on growth
performance and serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken. A total of 150 day old broiler chicks, were
randomly allotted into four (4) treatment groups with three replicates, each replicate consisted of 12 birds
in a completely randomized design. Four (4) diets were formulated to contain 0, 1, 5, 10g/kg GP and these
were designated as D1, D2, D3 and D4 respectively. Data were collected based on feed intake, weight gain,
feed conversion ratio and serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken. Results showed that, GP based
diet significantly (P<0.05) influenced the feed conversion ratio across the dietary treatments as birds in D2
(1g/kg GP) recorded the best FCR (1.64) values. Serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken observed
in this study increased across the dietary treatments as the GP inclusion levels increased. Birds fed 5g/kg
and 10g/kg GPM based diet recorded the highest total protein (13.66 and 14.13mg/dL) and globulin (4.10
and 4.23mg/dL) values. GP supplementation groups had significantly (P<0.05) higher albumin values
compared with those on D1. It can be concluded that the garlic powder supplemented at 1g/kg in the diet
of broiler chicken gave optimal performance and improved serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken.
Keywords: Broiler, Herbs, Additives, Garlic powdered meal, Antibiotics, Supplement
INTRODUCTION
In pursuit of improved and healthy chicken, coupled with the ban of use of antibiotic in poultry
industryand the food quality must not be compromised. This then triggered the need for natural and safe
feed additives purposely to fulfil consumer expectations. Growth promoters from herbal sources
(phytogenic extracts) are used to achieve better production results (Ortserga et al., 2008), thus ensuring
food quality. Poultry farmers produce more of their birds applying natural feed supplemented with herbs
(Iji et al., 2001). Garlic is considered as a plant with antibiotic (Reuter et al., 1996) and as natural feed
additive in poultry nutrition enhancing broiler production. Feed additives play a significant role in
improving the nutritive values of feed ingredients which will invariably enhance the performance of
poultry birds.Thus, it has also been described as an alternative antibiotic growth promoter (Demir et
al., 2003) in broiler production enhancing feed conversion ratio and decreasing the mortality rate (Horton
et al., 1991). A diet comprising garlic powder has been described having beneficial effects on body
metabolites (Mottaghitalab and Taraz, 2002). Garlic has benefits in lowering total plasma cholesterol and
decreasing platelet aggregation (Sterling and Eagling, 2001). Thus this study is designed to determine the
effect of dietary garlic supplementation on growth performance and serum biochemical indices of broiler
chicken.

Experimental site: This study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Federal College of
Animal Health and Production Technology, Bora, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The garlic used for this study was purchased from a local market in Ibadan, Oyo State. The garlic bulb
was de-segmented, de-skinned, cut into pieces, sun dried and ground into powdery form. The garlic
powder (GP) was incorporated at varying levels of 0, 1, 5, 10g/kg GP to formulate four (4) dietary
treatments as indicated in Table 1.
Experimental Animals
A total of one hundred and fifty (150) day old broiler chicks were used for this study. Initial weight were
taken and they were randomly allotted into four (4) treatment groups with three replicates, each replicate
consisted 12 birds in a completely randomized design.
Page | 200
Data Collection
The birds were subsequently weighed weekly to obtain weight gain per week. Birds were housed in pens
under the deep litter system, Weekly weight gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio were recorded. Feed
and water were supplied ad libitum.
3mL of blood samples was collected at the end of the experiment from nine (9) randomly selected
experimental birds per treatment via the jugular vein using hypodermic needle and syringe. The blood
sample was poured into plain sample bottles, decanted and centrifuged to determine serum biochemical
parameters.
Statistical Analysis: Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (SAS, 2005).While significant
means among variables were separated using Duncan Multiple Range test of the same package
Table 1: Gross Composition of Experimental Diets at Starter and Finisher Phase

Starter Phase (g/kg) Finisher Phase (g/kg)
Ingredients
D1(0) D2(1) D3(5) D4(10) D1(0) D2(1) D3(5) D4(10)
Maize 50.50 50.50 50.50 50.50 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Soya bean meal 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00
Groundnut cake 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fishmeal (72%) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Wheat offal 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Bonemeal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.30
Limestone 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Premix(starter) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Garlic Powder - ++ +++ ++++ - ++ +++ ++++
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
Metabolizable
Energy(Kcal/Kg) 2830.4 2830.4 2830.4 2830.4 2832 2832 2832 2832
Crude Protein(%) 22.50 22.50 22.50 22.50 21.64 21.64 21.64 21.64

Presented in Table 2 is the growth performance of Broiler chicken fed diet containing varying levels of
garlic powder. Garlic powder (GP) based diet did not affect (P>0.05) growth parameters observed in this
study except the feed conversion ratio (FCR). However, feed conversion ratio varied significantly across
the dietary treatments in which birds fed 1g/kg GP based diet recorded the best FCR values (1.64). This
actually pointed to the fact that birds fed at 1g/kg GP inclusion levels met their optimal level on which
they can cope and this invariably improved the FCR values. This can be attributed to the fact that garlic
contains an antibiotic properties (Reuter et al., 1996) and natural feed additives in poultry nutrition thus
enhances the nutritive values of feed ingredients which invariably influenced the performance of poultry
birds. This was similar to the result of Tollba and Hassan (2003) who reported that garlic supplementation
improved broiler‘s growth and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Feed additives have been widely used to
increase animals‘ performance but recently it is used in poultry industry as it brought about increase in
growth and feed efficiency (Khan et al., 2007). The insignificant feed intake values obtained across the
dietary treatments contradicted the observation of Abouelfetouh et al. (2012) who reported garlic
supplementation in broiler‘s diet influenced feed intake. The disparity observed could be attributed to
different methods employed in the usage of garlic powder and different breeds used.
Page | 201
Table 2: Growth Performance of Broiler Birds Fed Diet containing varying levels of Garlic Powder
meal
Parameters Inclusion levels of GPM ( g/kg)
D1(0) D2(1) D3(5) D4(10) SEM
Initial weight(g/b) 38.36 41.08 40.67 37.74 0.74
Final weight (g/b) 1995.00 2200.00 2065.00 1937.00 39.00
Total weight gain (g/b) 1956.64 2158.92 2024.33 1899.26 38.66
Average daily weight gain(g/b/d) 34.94 38.55 36.15 33.92 0.69
Feed intake (g/b) 3695.42 3537.57 3532.68 3787.50 74.88
Average daily feed intake(g/b/d) 65.99 63.17 63.08 67.3 1.34
FCR 1.88b 1.64c 1.75bc 1.99a 0.10
a,b,c,
Means along the same row with different superscripts are significantly (P<0.05) different.FCR: Feed
Conversion ratio
Indicated in Table 3 are the serum biochemical indices of Broiler chicken fed diet containing varying
levels of garlic powder. Garlic powder (GP) based diet significantly influenced the serum biochemical
indices observed in this study except the glucose and cholesterol. The total protein, globulin, albumin and
blood urea nitrogen values of the experimental birds increased across the dietary treatments as the GP
inclusion levels increased. This is a similar to the study reported by Oleforuh-Okoleh et al. (2015), where
increase in total protein, albumin and globulin of broiler birds fed on aqueous garlic extract as compared
to control group. However, the results of the study on biochemical parameters of birds supplemented with
dietary garlic contradicted with the previous study conducted by Onyimonyi et al. (2012), who reported
that garlic supplementation decreased serum cholesterol levels
Table 3: Serum Biochemical Indices of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets containing varying levels of
Garlic Powdered Meal
Parameters Inclusion levels of GPM ( g/kg)
D1(0) D2(1) D3 (5) D4(10) SEM± Range of Values
b ab a a
Total Protein (mg/dL) 8.33 11.33 13.66 14.13 0.79 24.50-45.20
Globulin (mg/dL) 2.50b 3.40ab 4.10a 4.23a 0.24 7.40-13.10
Albumin (mg/dL) 5.83b 7.93a 9.56a 9.90a 0.55 1.45-4.10
Glucose (mmol/L) 61.67 88.00 59.67 75.33 6.08 9.20-31
Cholesterol (mg/dL) 30.00 83.00 30.66 37.53 2.22 100-129
b ab ab a
BUN (mol/dL) 20.10 20.46 30.73 40.03 0.33 25.40-40.70
Month
CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the garlic powder supplemented at 1g/kg in the diet of broiler
chicken gave optimal performance and improved serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken.
REFERENCES
Abouelfetouh, A. Y. and Moussa. N. K. (2012). Enhancement of antimicrobial activity of four classes of
antibiotics combined with garlic. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences. 11: 148- 152.
Demir, E., Sarica, S., Ozcan, M. A. and Suicmez, M. (2003): The use of natural feed additives as
alternatives for an Antibiotic growth promoter in broiler diets. British. Poultry Science. 44: S44–
S45.
Iji, P. A., Saki, A. and Tivey. D. R. (2001). Body and intestinal growth of broiler chicks on a commercial
starter diet. Intestinal weight and Mucosal development. British Poultry Science. 42: 505 - 513.
Khan, H. S., Sardar, R., and Anjum, M. A. (2007). Effects of dietary garlic on performance and serum
and egg yolk cholesterol concentration in laying hens. Asian Journal of Poultry Science. 1: 22 - 27.
Page | 202
Mottaghitalab, M. and Taraz, Z. (2002). Effects of garlic (Allium sativum) on egg yolk and blood serum
cholesterol in Aryan breed laying hens. British Poultry Science. 43: 42-43
Reuter, H. D., Koch, H. P. and Lawson, L. D. (1996). Therapeutic effects and applications of garlic and
its preparations. In: Garlic: The science and therapeutic application of Allium sativum L. and
Related Species, Koch, H. P. and L. D. Lawson (Eds.). Williams and Wilkins, Baltimore, MD, 135
- 213.
Tollba, A. A. H. and Hassan, M. S. H. (2003). Using some natural additives to improve physiological and
productive performance of broiler chicks under high temperature conditions. Black cumin (Niglla
sativa) or Garlic (Allium sativum). Poultry Science. 23: 327 - 340.
Horton, G. M. J., Fennell, M. J. and Prasad, B. M (1991). Effects of dietary garlic (Allium sativum) on
performance, carcass composition and blood chemistry changes in broiler chickens. Canadian
Journal of Animal Science. 71: 939-942.
Oleforuh-Okoleh, V. U., Ndofor-Foleng, H. M., Olorunleke, S. O. and Uguru, J. O. (2015). Evaluation of
growth performance, haematological and serum biochemical response of broiler chickens to
aqueous extract of ginger and garlic. Journal of Agricultural Sciences. 7(4): 167-173.
.Onyimonyi. A. E., Chukwuma, P. C. and Igbokwe, C. (2012). Growth and hypocholesterolemic
properties of dry garlic powder (Allium sativum) on broilers. African Journal of Biotechnology.
11(11): 2666-2671.
Page | 203
CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF GROWING RABBITS (ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS)

FED DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF MEAL
β
Bello, B., βBitrus, G., βBala A. and µUmar, A.M.
β
Department of Agricultural Education, College of Education Waka –Biu, Borno State.
µ
Department of Animal Health and Production, Binyaminu Usman Polytechnic, P.M.B 013, Hadejia,
Jigawa State.
auw.umar@gmail.com 08164727548
ABSTRACT
The study was carried out at the Livestock Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Agricultural
Education, College of Education Waka-Biu, Biu Local Government Area, Borno State. Forty-five cross-
bred bucks (Dutch x New Zealand White) were used to evaluate the effect of inclusion of Moringa
oleifera Leaf Meal (MOLM) on carcass characteristics of grower rabbits. The experiment has five
treatments and each of the treatment has three replicates consisting of three rabbits per replicate making a
total of nine rabbits per each treatment group in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD). The data were
subjected to one way Analysis of Variance using SPSS (17.0) and means were separated using least
Significant Difference. Five diets were formulated at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 % levels designated as T1, T2,
T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Results showed that most of the values did not differ significantly (p˃0.05)
among treatments, except for the shoulder, loin, lungs and tail which differ (p˂0.05) significantly. Highest
values of slaughter weight, dressed weight and dressing percentages were reported at 10% level of
inclusion while shoulder, abdominal fat and feet were highest at 20% level of inclusion. Loin and
abdominal fat reduces with increasing level of Moringa.
Keywords: Carcass Characteristics, Diet, Graded levels, Rabbits, Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal
INTRODUCTION
Rabbit production can be regarded as one of the least developed livestock production practices in Nigeria.
Problems responsible for this include climatic factors occasioned by high temperature which
characterized most parts of the country, diseases and poor markets as well as feeds and feeding. Full
advantages of rabbit nutrition have not been taken into consideration and this limit interest in rabbit
production. Rabbits have a short generation interval with high litter size and can be raised at the backyard
which is well suited to small holder rabbit producers. It is important to note that, feed supply and quality
are the major limiting factors to vibrant rabbit production in Nigeria (Muhammad et al., 2018). To make
rabbit rearing more viable as a small-scale business, there is the need to advocate for the development of
alternative feeding materials that are relatively cheap when compared with commercial feeds or
conventional feedstuffs. Rabbits can be raised on high fibre feeds and materials that are not utilized by
man and since they do not compete with man for grains, they have the advantage over swine and poultry
(Adeyemo et al., 2013). Rabbit meat as reported by Cheek et al. (1987) is fined grained, nutritious and
appetizing. It is ranked best in quality as it is low in fat (10-12%), compared to other meats like poultry
(11-13%), pork (42-48%), and beef (27-29%) but high in protein (20-22%) compared to chicken (19-
21%), pork (10-12%) and beef(15-17%).
Moringa oleifera was reported to be a good source of vitamins and amino acids (Akangbe and Abu,
2018). Its seed was claimed to boost the immune system of broiler chickens (Lilibeth et al., 2010). The
leaves and green fresh pods of Moringa oleifera are rich in carotene and ascorbic acid (Makkar and
Becker, 1999) and also, its inclusion into layers diets induced double yolks, (Akangbe and Abu 2012).
Moringa oleifera seeds extract was reported to have antibacterial properties and the conclusion was made
to investigate it as a phytotherapeutic agent to combat infectious agents (Ewuola, 2009). Most parts of the
plant have been used in folk medicine in Africa and South Asia (Fahey, 2005). The medicinal effects of
the plant were ascribed to their possession of anti-oxidants, which are known to suppress formation of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals (Aja et al., 2014).
Page | 204
The high cost of animal production in terms of feeding, housing, drugs and vaccine has greatly reduced
the number of farmers going into large-scale livestock production. There has been an increased interest in
the utilization of the leaf of Moringa oleifera, (Family Moringaceae) commonly known as horseradish
tree or drumstick tree as a protein source for livestock (Makkar and Becker 1999). The leaves contain
high concentration of crude protein, essential vitamins, calcium, iron and proteins. Consequently, man has
to look for a cheaper source of animal protein, this obviously calls for more research into other non-
competitive feed resources of which Moringa oleifera leaf could be an alternative choice of raw material
as a protein source for animal nutrition.

The study was conducted at the Livestock Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Agricultural
Education, College of Education Waka-Biu, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. Waka-
Biu is located between latitude 100 and 40` North and longitude 120 42` East. The minimum relative
humidity is 15% in March and the maximum is 74% in August (DNMA, 2013). A total of 45 cross-bred
(Dutch and New Zealand White) grower bucks (6 weeks) were purchased from a reputable vendor and
used for the experiment. They were randomly allotted to five experimental diets in groups of nine per
treatment and three rabbits per replicate in a complete randomize design (CRD).
Fresh leaves of Moringa oleifera were harvested before flowering from the College farm. The branches
were threshed carefully to separate leaves from twigs. The separated leaves were air-dried (by spreading
the leaves under a shade) for five (5) days before milling (0.2 mm sieve) to obtain Moringa oleifera Leaf
Meal (MOLM) using a Thomas–Willey milling machine. Ground leaves of MOLM were mixed with the
other experimental diets at varying inclusion levels. Five diets were formulated at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 %
levels designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. The ingredient composition and calculated
analysis of the experimental diets is presented in Table 1.
Table 1: Experimental Diets Composition and Calculated Analysis

Ingredient TREATMENT
T1 (0%) T2 (5%) T3 (10%) T4 (15%) T5 (20%)
Maize 40.00 37.00 31.72 27.35 23.72
Soya Bean Meal 23.00 21.25 21.28 20.65 19.28
MOLM 0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00
Groundnut Haulms 15.95 15.95 15.95 15.95 15.95
Fish Meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Wheat Bran 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Salt (Nacl) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Bone Meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analyses
Crude Protein (%) 18.81 18.82 18.88 18.89 18.81
Crude Fibre (%) 9.15 9.37 9.60 9.78 9.98
Ash (%) 3.98 4.20 4.51 4.81 5.10
ME (Kcal/kg) 2763.00 2700.00 2576.00 2481.00 2392.00
MOLM = Moringaoleifera Leaf Meal; ME = Metabolizable Energy.
Premix supplied the following = Vit. A = 5000iu, Vit D3 = 800,000iu Vit. E = -12,000mg, Vit. K =
1,500mg, Vit. B1 = 1000mg, Vit. B2 = 2000mg, Vit. B6 = 1,500mg, niacin = 12000mg, panthotenbic acid
= 20.00mg, biotin = 10.00mg, Vit B12 = 300.00mg, folic acid = 150,000mg choline = 60,000mg,
manganese 10,000mg, iron = 15,000, zinc = 800.00, copper = 400.000mg, Iodine = 80.00mg, selenium =
8,000mg.
Page | 205
Experimental diets and clean drinking water were provided ad libitum throughout the experimental
period. The experiment lasted for ten weeks. The data collected were subjected to one way Analysis of
Variance using SPSS (17.0) and means were separated using LSD. At the end of the 10th week of the
feeding trial, one (1) buck was randomly selected from each of the replicate for carcass and organ
analyses. The bucks for carcass analyses were starved overnight and slaughtered at 06:00 hours. The
bucks were then dressed and dressing percentages were calculated as follows
Dressing Percentage = x 100
The primal cuts (head, shank, thigh, wings, neck, breast and drumstick) were weighed and expressed as
percentage of live weight. The visceral organs (crop, gizzard, liver, spleen, abdominal part, caeca, heart,
intestine and kidney) of the buck were similarly determined.

The carcass characteristics and organ weights of rabbits fed graded levels of MOLM is presented in Table
2. Most of the values did not differ significantly (p˃0.05) among treatments, except for the shoulder, loin,
lungs and tail which differ (p˂0.05) significantly. Highest values of slaughter weight, dressed weight and
dressing percentages were reported at 10% level of inclusion while shoulder, abdominal fat and feet were
highest at 20% level of inclusion. Loin and abdominal fat reduces with increasing level of Moringa.
Values in this study can be favourably compared to that reported by Nuhu (2010) when MOLM was fed
to growing rabbits and Igwebuike et al. (1995) who fed sorghum waste to growing rabbits.
Table 2: Carcass Characteristicsof Rabbits fed graded levels of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal
Levels of MOLM (%) in the diets
Carcass Component T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM
(0) (5) (10) (15) (20)
Slaughter weight (g) 1154.30 1239.70 1378.30 1332.10 1330.00 51.29NS
Dressed weight (g) 700.00 700.00 733.33 700.00 700.73 37.03NS
Dressing percentage (%) 42.74 42.29 43.40 41.03 39.40 4.71NS
Weight of organs expressed as percentage of slaughter weight
Head (%) 8.91 7.28 8.49 9.25 8.68 0.99NS
a b a a a
Shoulder (%) 18.13 15.09 17.35 17.35 18.30 1.13*
Back (%) 5.19 5.39 5.98 6.62 5.93 0.89NS
a ab ab b b
Loin (%) 14.96 12.81 12.82 12.15 11.95 1.81*
Thigh (%) 13.49 11.42 12.39 13.44 12.70 1.46NS
Heart (%) 0.24 0.20 0.29 0.25 0.18 0.02NS
Liver (%) 3.62 3.17 3.52 3.21 2.76 0.31NS
Kidney (%) 0.75 0.79 0.78 0.80 0.69 0.10NS
b a ab ab b
Lungs (%) 0.56 0.73 0.57 0.72 0.45 0.12*
Abdominal Fat (%) 2.64 1.76 1.45 2.12 1.49 0.62NS
c d cd b a
Tail (%) 0.24 0.20 0.23 0.29 0.34 0.03*
Skin (%) 6.49 7.19 6.46 6.85 7.04 0.80NS
Feet (%) 1.92 2.11 1.98 1.97 2.13 0.36NS
a,b,c = Means on the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (0.05). SEM = Standard
Error of Mans., NS = Not significant (p˃0.05), * = significant (p˂0.05).
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONs

Results obtained in the study revealed that lion and abdominal fat reduces with increasing level of
Moringa. More research should be carried out with different breeds of rabbits to perfect the feeding of
MOLM to rabbits in the tropics.
Page | 206
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Forage Ratio on the Performance and Haematological Parameters of Growing Rabbits. Global
Journal of Biology Agriculture and Health Sciences, 2(2): 90-101.
Aja, P. M., Ibiam, I. O. and Onu, P. N. (2014). Comparative Evaluation of Transaminases and Alkaline
Phosphatase Activities in Albino Rats Administered Aqueous, Ethanolic and Methanolic Extracts
of Moringa oleifera seeds locally grown in Abakaliki, Nigeria.Journal of Biochemistry Research.,
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by the Inclusion of Moringa oleifera,Ocimum gratissimum and Chromolaena odorata leaf meals.
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Akangbe, E.E. and Abu, O.A. (2018). Performance and Histological Responses of Abino Rats Fed
Moringa oleifera Seed Meal. In: I.C. Okoli, I.P. Ogbuewu, O.O. Emanalom and B.O.Esonu (eds).
Exploring Science and Technology Innovations for Sustainable Livestock Development.
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New SAAT Auditorium, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State. 18 th – 22nd March,
2018. Pp.1025-1028.
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Makkar, H.P.S. and Becker, K. (1999). Plant Toxins and Detoxification Methods to Improve Feed Quality
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Mohammed, G., Asheikh, L.G., Abbator, F.I., Kolo, U.M. and Abur, T. (2018). Evaluation of Four
Brands of Commercial Growers Mash on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of
Growing Rabbits in the Semi-Arid Region of Nigeria. In: I.C. Okoli, I.P. Ogbuewu, O.O.
Emanalom and B.O.Esonu (eds). Exploring Science and Technology Innovations for
Sustainable Livestock Development. Proceedings of the 43rd Annual Conference of the Nigerian
Society for Animal Production held at New SAAT Auditorium, Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Imo State. 18th – 22nd March, 2018. Pp. 425-428.
Muhammad, B.M. , Ayanwale, B.A. and Kudu, Y.S.(2018). Effect of Coffee Senna (Senna occidentalis)
Leaf Meal on the Growth Performance of Weaner Rabbits. In: I.C. Okoli, I.P. Ogbuewu, O.O.
Emanalom and B.O.Esonu (eds). Exploring Science and Technology Innovations for
Sustainable Livestock Development. Proceedings of the 43rd Annual Conference of the Nigerian
Society for Animal Production held at New SAAT Auditorium, Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Imo State. 18th – 22nd March, 2018. Pp.400-402.
Nuhu, F. (2010). Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaf Meal on Nutrient Digestibility, Growth, Carcass and
Blood Indices of Weaner Rabbits. M.Sc. Thesis Department of Animal Science, Faculty of
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Kwame Nkrumah, University of Science and Technology,
Kumasi, Ghana pp. 115 – 220.
Page | 207
THE COST EFFECTIVENESS OF USING SUPERNATANT OF FERMENTED MAIZE

(Omidun) AS COMPARED WITH COMMERCIALLY PREPARED PROBIOTICS IN BROILER
PRODUCTION
D. O. Ishola 1, A. Ahmed 1, U. Musa 2, A. Jibril 1, E.B Ibitoye 1, A.A Jimoh1 and M.J Adenrele 3
1.
Department of Theriogenology and Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu
Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria
2.
Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University,
Sokoto, Nigeria
3.
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Sokoto, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
The research aimed to study the cost benefits of using supernatant of fermented maize (SFM) (Omidun) as
a probiotic on productivity of broiler chicken. One hundred- and fifty-day-old Cobb500 broiler chicks
were divided into five groups of 30 birds each in triplicates. Group A served as the negative control,
group B were given commercially prepared probiotics (Beta probiotics), while groups C, D and E were
given standardized Omidun at 10, 5 and 2.5ml/l, respectively on daily basis for six weeks. Body weight
(BW), weight gain (WG) and feed intake (FI) were measured weekly and feed conversion ratio was
calculated. No significant (P>0.05) difference was observed in the growth parameters either weekly or
cumulatively, although, group C had the best performance biologically. The highest mean cumulative FI
was recorded in group B followed by groups E, C, D and A, respectively. Production cost was least in
group A (₦377.38/bird), followed by groups E (₦403.22/bird), D (₦420.30/bird) and C (₦463.22/bird),
while it was highest in group B (₦909.68/bird). Also, groups A and C had the highest gain margin,
followed by those of groups D and E and least in group C. However, the lower production cost and gains
from groups A, D and E were counteracted by higher mortalities recorded in these groups, compared to
group C. Therefore, it was more cost effective to use SFM at 10ml/l than at lower doses of 5 and 2.5ml/l
as well as than using commercially prepared probiotics.
Keywords: Fermented, Maize, Probiotics, Supernatant, Broiler.
INTRODUCTION
Global production of poultry meat is close to 100 million tons (GLEAM, 2016). Recently, the Nigerian
poultry industry has been rapidly expanding and it is one of the most commercialized subsectors of
Nigerian agriculture (United States Department of Agriculture, 2013). Antibiotic residues in poultry
products may be deleterious to human consumers, coupled with the development of microbial resistance
in humans. Probiotics are potential proxies for antibiotics in the food animal industry because they can
reduce enteric diseases and potential foodborne pathogen contamination in poultry or poultry products
(Reid and Friendship, 2002). According to the currently adopted definition by FAO/WHO (2001),
probiotics are: "live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health
benefit on the host". The specific role of lactic acid bacteria as probiotics has been discussed by Juven
and Stern (1991). Lactobacillus and Leuconostoc have been reported as the occurring genera of lactic
acid bacteria (LAB) in the SFM (Omidun) and fermented souring (ogi) (Okeke et al., 2015). Omidun has
been reported by Falanan et al (2011) to contain some microorganisms including L. plantarum, which
have antimicrobial efficacy against some pathogenic microorganisms including Escherichia coli (Falana
et al., 2012). In poultry, improvement in the performance of broilers has been reported by some
researchers (Mountzouris et al., 2007; Rigobelo et al., 2011).
Page | 208

Experiment Design and birds’ management
One hundred and fifty (150) day-old Cobb500 broiler chicks from Olam Hatcheries Limited, Kaduna
State, were divided into five groups (A, B, C, D and E) of 30 birds each having three replicates. The
experimental period of the study was six weeks.
The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the department of Theriogenology and Animal
Production, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Germicide was used to disinfect the pen before the
arrival of the birds and the birds were raised on deep litter management system, feed and water were
supplied ad libitum, and pens were kept clean. The birds were vaccinated against Gumboro and
Newcastle virus diseases as at when due. Commercially prepared feed (Crown Flour Mill Limited) was
used for this study.
Preparation of SFM and Standardization of Pure Isolates of LAB
Yellow maize variety was sourced from a local market within Sokoto metropolis and used for the study.
Two kilograms of the maize was weighed into water four litres of water and steeped for 3 days. The SFM
was prepared using the methods of Ayorinde et al. (2017).
The standardization was achieved by 0.5 McFarland turbidity standards. Preparation of 0.5 McFarland
turbidity standard was done as described by McFarland (1907). The solution was thoroughly mixed. This
is the stock solution of the 0.5 McFarland turbidity standards. The solution was then transferred into
capped tube and stored at 4℃ until ready for use. The accuracy of the density of McFarland standard was
checked using a spectrophotometer at absorbance reading of 0.08 to 0.1 at 630-nm.
Administration of SFM and Commercial Probiotics and data collection
Standardized LAB was administered in drinking water from days 8 to 49 of age. Birds in group A served
as the negative control, those in group B were given commercially prepared probiotics (Beta probiotics)
containing Lactobacillus spp, (2.7 × 106 CFU/ml), Bacillus cereus (6.5 × 106 CFU/ml), Bacillus subtilis
(7.8 × 106 CFU/ml), Protease, (250,000 IU), Lipase (70,000 IU) and Amylase (500,000 IU), while group
C, D and E were given standardized SFM at 10, 5 and 2.5ml/l, respectively on daily basis throughout the
experimental period.
Growth performance parameters were measured as describe by Mountzouris et al. (2007). Parameters
such as body weight (BW), weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), defined as
FI:WG (g:g) were determined on weekly basis. Overall WG, FI and FCR were calculated for the whole
duration of the experiment. Mortality was recorded throughout the period of the experiment.
All data collected on weekly growth performance were subjected to one-way analysis of variance
(ANOVA) using SPSS version 20. Meanwhile the cumulative growth parameters were analyzed using
one-way repeated measure ANOVA. In all the analyses, means were significantly different at 5%
(P<0.05). Turkey Test was used for all pairwise comparison using SPSS version 20.

In this research, the results of cost benefit analysis of birds given graded doses of SFM and a dose of
commercial probiotic is summarized in Table 1. It was observed that the cost of production per live
broiler was highest in the group that were given commercially prepared probiotics (₦909.68/bird),
followed by groups C (₦463.22/bird), D (₦420.30/bird) and E (₦403.22/bird), while it was lowest in the
negative control group (group A) (₦377.38/bird). It was also observed that negative control birds and
those given 10ml/l of SFM yielded the highest profit ((₦628.48/bird and ₦626.79/bird) respectively,
profits of ₦617.47/bird and ₦591.19/bird were recorded in groups D and E respectively, while
commercially prepared probiotics groups yielded the lowest profit margin of ₦124.70/bird. However, the
lower production cost and higher gains obtained in groups A, D and E were rubbed off by higher
mortalities recorded in these groups (25.51, 17.55 and 17.63%), respectively. Group B is undesirable as it
had the highest production cost, the least profit margin and fairly high mortality. However, group C,
although had a fairly high cost of production, had a fairly high profit margin and the lowest mortality rate
(6.78%). Mortality recorded in this study was due to heat stress, this also suggested that SFM at 10ml/l
Page | 209
(group C) ameliorated the effect of heat stress the best. More so, Omidun is a byproduct of Ogi which at
times were discarded as waste. This implies that the administration of Omidun at 10ml/l in the drinking
water of broiler chicken could give more profit for the unit amount of money spent, since it kept mortality
at the lowest.
CONCLUSION
It can be concluded from this study that Omidun at higher dose (10ml/l) is relatively more cost effective
as compared to Omidun at lower doses (5 and 2.5ml/l) and the commercially prepared probiotics. The
mortality observed in this study was caused majorly by heat stress.
RECOMMENDATION
From this study Omidun has proven to be a good antioxidant and as well cheaper as compared to the
commercially prepared probiotics, therefore poultry farmers can be encouraged to use it for their birds.
We therefore recommend further study to evaluate higher inclusion rate of SFM on the productivity and
immune response of broiler chickens.
REFERENCES
Ayorinde, O. A, Funmilola A. A. and Werner R. (2017). Antagonistic and Quantitative Assessment of
Indigenous Lactic acid Bacteria in Different Varieties of Ogi against Gastrointestinal Pathogens.
PAN African Medical Journal; 27:22.
Falana, M.B, Bankole M. O., Omemu A. M. and Oyewole, O. B (2012). Antimicrobial potentials of some
selected Microorganisms associated with supernatant solution of fermented maize mash Omidun
from two varieties of maize grains. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 6:4095-4101.
Falana, M.B, Bankole M. O., Omemu A. M. and Oyewole, O. B (2011) .Microorganisms associated with
supernatant solution of fermented maize mash Omidun from two varieties of maize grains.
Researcher 3(7):1-7
FAO/WHO. (2001). Health and nutritional properties of probiotics in food including powder milk with
live lactic acid bacteria; Report of a Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Evaluation of Health
and Nutritional Properties of Probiotics in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid
Bacteria; Amerian Córdoba Park Hotel, Córdoba, Argentina pp. 1–34.
GLEAM (2016). Global Livestock Environmental Assessment Model. FAO, Rome. Available at
http://www.fao.org/gleam. (Accessed on 20 /6/2019).
Juven, B. J and Stern N. J. (1991). A review: Antagonistic effects of Lactobacilli and Pedococci to control
intestinal colonization by human enteropathogens in live poultry. Journal of Applied Bacteriology,
70: 95-103.
McFarland, J. (1907). Nephelometer: an instrument for estimating the number of bacteria in suspensions
used for calculating the opsonic index and for vaccines. Journal of the American Medical
Association, 14: 1176-1178.
Mountzouris, K C., Tsirtsikos, P., Kalamara, E., Nitsch, S., Schatzmayr, G. and Fegeros K. (2007).
Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic containing Lactobacillus,
Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus,and Pediococcus strains in promoting broiler performance and
modulating cercal microflora composition and metabolic activities. Poultry Science, 86:309–317.
Okeke, C. A., Ezekiel C. N., Nwangburuka C. C., Sulyok M, Ezeamagu C. O., Adeleke R. A., Dike, S. K.
and Krska, R. (2015). Bacterial Diversity and Mycotoxin Reduction During Maize Fermentation
(Steeping) for Ogi Production. Frontier in Microbiology, 15(6):1402.
Reid, G. and Friendship, R. (2002). Alternatives to antibiotic use: Probiotics for the gut. Animal
Biotechnology, 13 :97–112.
Rigobelo, E. C., Maluta, R.P. and Ávila, F.A. (2011). Desempenho de frangos de corte suplementados
com probiótico. Ars Veterinaria, Jaboticabal, 27(2):111-115.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) (2013). International Egg and Poultry Report.
Page | 210
Table 1: Cost benefit analysis of birds given graded doses of supernatant of fermented maize as
compared with the commercially prepared probiotics
Treatments
Parameters
A B C D E
(a) Feed cost/kg (₦) 146 146 146 146 146
(b) Feed intake (kg) 0.53 0.58 0.57 0.55 0.57
(c) Cost of probiotics and SFM/bird (₦) 0.00 525.00 80.00 40.00 20.00
(d) Cost of chick (₦) 300 300 300 300 300
(e) Total cost of feed/bird plus cost of
77.38 609.68 163.22 120.3 103.22
Probiotics and SFM/bird (₦)
(f) Total cost of production (₦) (d + e) 377.38 909.68 463.22 420.30 403.22
(g) Body live weight (g) 1005.86 1034.38 1090.01 1037.77 994.41
(h) Sale price @ ₦1000/kg live weight 1005.86 1034.38 1090.01 1037.77 994.41
(i) Profit from sale of bird/Kg
628.48 124.70 626.79 617.47 591.19
(h – f)
(j) Mortality (%) 25.51 10.23 6.78 17.55 17.63
Key: A: Negative control, B: Positive control given commercially prepared probiotics, C: Omidun at 10ml/l,
D: Omidun at 5ml/l, E: Omidun at 2.5ml/l
Page | 211
EFFECT OF SODIUM BUTYRATE AND ROSEMARY LEAF MEAL ON GROWTH

PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS TRAITS OF BROILER CHICKENS
*
Ogwuegbu, M.C., Ani, A.O, Osita C.O., Dim, C.E., Edeh, H.O, and Ugwoke, J.I
Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria
*Corresponding author‘s email: mercy.ogwuegbu@unn.edu.ng +2347068515325
ABSTRACT
The effect of Sodium butyrate, Rosemary leaf meal and Oxytetracycline supplementation on growth
performance, carcass characteristics, visceral organs sizes and nutrient digestibility of broilers was
investigated. A total of 192 one-day-old mixed sex ―Arbor acre strain‖ broiler chicks were allotted to 6
dietary treatments with 4 replicates of 8 birds each in a completely randomized design (CRD). The study
lasted for eight weeks. The treatments include: T1= Basal diet (BD: Negative control), T2 = BD + 1g/Kg
diet of Oxytetracycline (Positive control), T3= BD + 2g SB /kg diet, T4= BD + 4g SB/Kg diet, T5 = BD
+ 2.5g RM/kg diet and T6= BD +5.0g RM/kg diet. Birds fed T3, T4, and T5 had the highest (p<0.05)
body weight with an improved feed conversion ratio. The dressed weight, breast weight and
drumstick/thigh weight were better (p<0.05) for birds fed T3, T4 and T5. It was concluded that, T3, T4,
and T5 can be safely included for an improved performance and cut yields.
Key words: Butyrate, Rosemary, antibiotics, performance, carcass.
INTRODUCTION
One of the quickest ways of producing a high-quality and quantity protein for human consumption is
through broiler production, because of its low fat content with high protein and amino acid balance
(Sleman et al. 2015). Many synthetic feed additives (antibiotic feed promoter) have been used not only to
improve feed efficiency but also to improve the productive performance and improve the health of
broilers (Hassan et al. 2018). Meanwhile the harmful effects of the use of antibiotic growth promoters
such as, penicillin, tetracycline, macrolide, aminoglycoside and amphenicol have been detected in foods
(Diarra and Malouin, 2014). However, in modern animal production, the removal of antibiotics in animal
diet (due to its effect on the health of both animal and human) has been the primary focus of the scientists
as they research for alternative to antibiotics. The search for synthetic antibiotic replacement involves the
use of natural substances that are safe, increase performance without harmful residue on poultry products,
and some of these natural additives include Sodium butyrate and Rosemary powder. The present study
was designed to investigate the effects of different inclusion levels sodium butyrate and rosemary leaf
meal on growth performance and carcass characteristics in ―Arbor acres strain‖ broilers.

The study was carried out at the Department of Animal Science Teaching and Research Farm, University
of Nigeria, Nsukka. One hundred and Ninety-two (192) day old broilers (Anak strain) were randomly
divided into six groups of thirty-two birds each. The groups were randomly assigned to six experimental
diets containing T1= Basal diet (BD: Negative control) , T2 = BD + 1g/Kg diet of Oxytetracycline
(Positive control), T3= BD +2g SB/kg diet, T4= BD + 4g SB/Kg diet, T5 BD + 2.5g RM/kg diet, T6= BD
+ 5.0g RM/kg diet. The nutrient percentage of Starter and finisher feeds is shown in Table 1. Each
treatment was replicated four times with eight birds per replicate in a 2.6m x 3m length pens. The birds
were housed in cages with fresh wood shavings as litter. Feed and water were offered ad libitum every
morning from 7.00am -8.00am and general flock prophylactic management and routine vaccinations were
administered. The proximate analysis was carried out according to the procedure of to the association of
Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC, 2006) methods. Data collected were subjected to analysis of
variance for Completely Randomized Design as described by Steel and Torrie (1980) using general linear
model Procedure of SAS (2010).
Page | 212

Table 2 shows the growth performance of broiler birds fed diets containing sodium butyrate and rosemary
leaf meal. All the growth parameters considered in this study were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the
treatments at all phases. The result showed that, birds fed T1 consumed less (p<0.05) feed with a poor
body weight gain; while, those fed T3 had the highest feed intake. The body weight gain was highest
(p<0.05) for birds fed T3, though, statistically the same with those that received dietary T2, T4, and T5.
A better (p<0.05) FCR value was seen in birds fed T4 compared with those in other treatments. The
overall phase presents a higher (p<0.05) body weight gain recorded for birds fed T3, T4, T5 and T6 while
a better (p<0.05) feed conversion to meat ratio was seen in birds fed T4, and T5. Birds fed T1 had the
least (p<0.05) feed intake as well as body weight gain. The results of this study is in agreement with the
findings of Panda et al. (2009) and Sikandar et al. (2017) who reported that the inclusion of sodium
butyrate (SB) at 4g/kg in the diet of broiler chicken performed better than antibiotics in improving BWG
of birds with a superior feed efficiency. According to Chamba et al. (2014), sodium butyrate improved
the body weight of broilers, and they attributed it to the beneficial effect of sodium butyrate in promoting
the intestinal epithelium cell development and modulating intestinal symbiotic growth. According to
Zhang et al. (2011) and Chamba et al. (2014), the improved performance of broiler chickens fed dietary
sodium butyrate may be attributed to better feed utilization through improved villus height.
Table 3 shows the carcass characteristics of broiler birds fed different supplemental levels of sodium
butyrate and rosemary leaf meal. Birds fed sodium butyrate and rosemary leaf meal showed significant
differences (p<0.05) in all the carcass traits measured. The result showed that the live weight, dressed
weight, wings and drumstick/thigh were higher (p<0.05) for birds fed T3 compared with those fed other
dietary treatments, while birds fed T1 (Control) had the lowest (p<0.05) live weight, dressed weight,
wings and drumstick/thigh weight values. Birds fed T2 and T3 had the highest (p<0.05) neck weight
values compared with those fed other treatments. Breast-meat, back cut and shank weight was lowest
(p<0.05) for birds fed T1, while birds fed T3 had the highest (p<0.05) breast-meat, back cut and shank
weight. The highest carcass weight was recorded for birds fed 2.5g RM/kg (T5) diet and 5g RM/kg (T6)
diet at single level of inclusion. The improvements in the cut yield could be very important to the poultry
industry because there is a tendency to sell cuts than the whole carcass due to the increase in aggregate
value (Oyeagu et al. 2019). The results of the present study is in line with the findings of Leeson et al.
(2005), Panda et al. (2009) and Raza, et al. (2019) who reported higher carcass yield, dressed weight and
breast-meat in broilers fed 0.2 % butyrate in the diet. They attributed the increase to better feed absorption
and utilization which resulted to an improved performance and increased carcass yield.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, up to 2 g/kg sodium butyrate, 4 g/kg sodium butyrate, or 2.5 g/kg rosemary leaf meal can
be supplemented in the chicken diets for improved absorption of nutrients, growth traits and better cut
yields. It was therefore recommended that up to, 4 g/kg sodium butyrate, or 2.5 g/kg rosemary leaf meal
can be successfully used as a replacement to antibiotics
REFERENCES
AOAC. (2006). Official methods of Analysis. 18th Edn., Association of Official Analytical Chemist
(AOAC). Washington, DC., USA.
Chamba F., Puyalto M., Ortiz A., Torrealba H., Mallo J.J and Riboty R., (2014). Effect of partially
protected sodium butyrate on performance, digestive organs, intestinal villi and E.coli development
in broiler chickens. Int. J of poult Sci. 13(7):390-396.
Diarra M.S and Malouin F. (2014). Antibiotics in Canadian poultry production and anticipated
alternatives. Front Microbiol. 5:282.
Hassan H.M.A, Samy A., Amani., W., Youssef and Mohamed M.A. (2018). Using different feed
additives as alternatives to antibiotics growth promoter to improve growth performance and
Carcass traits of broilers. International Journal of Poultry Science. 17(6):255-261.
Page | 213
Leeson S., Namkung H., Antongiovanni M., and Lee E.H. (2005). Effect of butyric acid on the
performance and carcass yield of broiler chickens. J. of Poult Sci. 84, 1418–1422.
Oyeagu C.E., Ugwuanyi C.L, Onwujiariri E, Osita C.O, Akuru E.A, Ani A.O, Idamokoro E.M, and
Falowo A.B. (2019a). Blood bio-maker, growth traits, carcass characteristics and income over feed
cost of broiler birds fed enzyme fortified dried brewer‘s grain.. Pak. J. of Nutr.,18 (9),834-844.
Panda A. K., Rama Rao S.V., Raju, M.V.L.N and Shyam Sunder G. (2009). Effect of Butyric Acid on
Performance, Gastrointestinal Tract Health and Carcass Characteristics in Broiler Chickens. Asian-
Aust. J. Anim. Sci. 22 (7), 1026 – 1031.
Raza M, Biswas A., Mir N.A., Mandel A.B (2019). Butyric acid as a promising alternative to antibiotic
growth
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Sikandar A., Zaneb H., Younus M., Masood S., Aslam A., Khattak F., Ashraf S., Yousaf M.S. and
Rehman H. (2017). Effect of sodium butyrate on performance, immune status, microarchitecture of
small intestinal mucosa and lymphoid organs in broiler chickens, Asian-Austra. J of Anim Sci. 30,
690–699.
Sleman S.M. BeskiRobert A. and SwickPaul A.I. (2015). Specialized protein products in broiler chicken
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Table 1: Percentage compositions of the experimental diets

Ingredients (%) Diets Starter(kg) Finisher(kg)
Maize 40.00 43.00
Soybean meal 33.6 22.00
Groundnut cake 24.00 16.00
Palm kernel cake 10.40 16.00
Fish meal 3.00 2.00
Fixed ingredients* 13.00 13.00
TOTAL 100 100
Calculated Composition:
Crude protein (%) 23.36 20.12
Energy(Mcal/kg ME) 2.87 2.93
Crude fibre(%) 4.91 4.39
Fixed ingredients: 8% wheat offal, 4% bone meal, 0.25% iodized salt, 0.25% Vit-min Premix, 0.25%
methionine, 0.25 lysine. Vitamin A: 10,000.00 IU., Vitamin D3: 2,000 IU., Vitamin B1: 0.75g., Vitamin
B2: 5g., Nicotinic acid:25g., Vitamin B1: 2-0.015g., K3: 2.5g., E: 25g., Biotin: 0.050g., Folic acid: 1g.,
Calcium pantothenate: 12.5g., Choline chloride: 250g. Manganese: 64g., Cobalt: 0.8g., Copper: 8g.,
Manganese: 64g., Iron: 32g., Zn: 40g., Iodine: 0.8g., Selenium 0.6g., Flavomycin: 100g., Spiramycin: 5g.,
DL-methionie-50g, Lysine 120g.
Page | 214
Table 2: The effect of Sodium butyrate and Rosemary meal on feed intake, body weight gain and feed
conversion ratio of broiler chicks
Treatments* T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 SEM
Parameters
Daily performance
Initail weight (g) 43.75 43.00 43.50 43.50 43.70 43.50 0.07
Daily feed intake (g) 92.52c 106.49ab 113.01a 103.55b 108.86ab 114.11a 1.40
Daily weight gain (g) 39.20c 46.12ab 48.32a 47.24a 48.04a 46.48ab 1.63
Starter phase
Feed intake (g) 1299.90c 1620.00a 1620.10a 1569.90b 1678.50a 1630.00a 19.28
Body weight gain (g) 621.41c 745.19b 826.81ab 809.94ab 883.75a 845.41a 15.09
-1) ab a b b c
FCR (g g 2.09 2.17 1.96 1.94 1.90 1.93b 0.02
Finisher phase
Feed intake (g) 3881.10d 4343.60c 4708.80b 4229.20c 4417.70bc 4760.00b 65.56
d ab a ab
Body weight gain (g) 1573.70 1837.40 1879.20 1835.30 1806.90ab 1757.70b 28.30
-1) bc c bc d
FCR (g g 2.47 2.36 2.51 2.30 2.44bc 2.71ab 0.03
Overall phase
Feed intake (g) 5181.00c 5963.60ab 6328.90a 5799.10b 6096.20ab 6390.00ab 78.60
Body weight gain (g) 2195.11c 2582.59b 2706.01a 2645 24a 2690.65a 2603.11a 34.90
-1) b b b c
FCR (g g 2.36 2.31 2.34 2.19 2.26c 2.45ab 0.02
a,b,c,d
Row means with different superscripts differ significantly. SEM: Standard error of the mean, T1=
Basal diet (BD: Negative control) T2 = BD + 1g/Kg diet of Oxytetracycline (Positive control), T3= BD +
2g SB/kg diet, T4= BD + 4g SB/Kg diet, T5 = BD + 2.5g RM/kg diet, T6= BD + 5.0g RM/kg diet
Table 3: The effect of Sodium butyrate and Rosemary meal on carcass characteristics of broiler chicks
Treatments* T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 SEM
Parameters
Live weight (g) 1930.00d 2725.00bc 3710.00a 2850.00b 2825.00b 2751.11bc 80.40
Dressed weight (g) 1366.00e 2124.00bc 2948.00a 2217.00b 2304.00b 2065.00c 64.53
Wings (g) 169.00e 208.00c 269.00a 211.00c 207.00c 229.00b 4.64
e c a c c bc
Drumstick/thigh (g) 384.00 576.00 816.00 577.00 607.00 610.00 17.84
Neck (g) 52.00d 84.00a 84.00a 76.25b 73.00b 66.00c 1.79
Breast-meat (g) 337.00e 655.00c 929.00a 697.00b 732.25b 558.00d 23.84
Back cut (g) 303.00e 419.00c 584.00a 508.20b 494.00b 409.00c 12.46
Shank (g) 48.00d 57.00c 105.00a 57.00c 59.00c 78.00b 2.85
a,b,c,d,e
Row means with different superscripts differ significantly. SEM: Standard error of the mean, T1=
Basal diet (BD: Negative control) T2 = BD + 1g/Kg diet of Oxytetracycline (Positive control), T3= BD +
2g SB/kg diet, T4= BD + 4g SB/Kg diet, T5 = BD + 2.5g RM/kg diet, T6= BD + 5.0g RM/kg diet
Page | 215
EFFECT OF MISTLETOE LEAF MEAL ON THE HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM

BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS IN THE SEMI-ARID REGION OF
NIGERIA
Makinta, A.A1, Igwebuike, J.U2, Kwari, I.D 2 and Mohammed, G2

1
Department of Animal Production Technology, Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
2
Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: makintaalhajiali@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Feeding trial was conducted to investigate the nutritional value of Mistletoe leaf meal (MLM)
(Tapinanthus bangwensis) as feed resource using two hundred and twenty five (225) day old chicks.
MLM was usedat graded levels of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% . The birds were randomly allotted to the five
diets in groups of forty five (45) each and replicated thrice of fifteen (15) birds. Conventional
management practices were strictly adhered to. A set of 2 ml blood samples were taken from 3 broilers
per treatment into plastic tubes containing the anti-coagulant ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)
and the other bottle without the anticoagulant for the determination of haematological and serum
biochemical parameters respectively. The haematology includes PCV, Hb, RBC, WBC, MCV, MCH and
MCHC while the serum biochemistry includes total protein, albumin, globulin glucose, cholesterol, urea,
creatinine, electrolyte constituents, ALAT and ALAT. Data on haematological and serum biochemical
indices were analysed using completely randomized design and significant means were separated using
least significant difference. The results for the haematology revealed non-significant (P>0.005)
differences among the dietary treatment groups for PCV, Hb concentration, RBC count, and WBC count.
The parameters evaluated are all within the recommended haematological range values for broiler
chickens. The result obtained in this study revealed that there were no significant (P>0.05) differences for
the serum biochemical indices (total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, cholesterol, creatinine, sodium,
calcium and ALAT) among the treatment groups. However there were significant (P<0.005) differences
for urea, potassium and ASAT among the treatment groups. The values however, did not follow any
definite trend.It is concluded that inclusion of MLM in the diets of broiler chickens will support optimum
performance and does not cause deleterious effect on the health status of broiler chickens.
Keywords: Broilers; Mistletoe; Proximate; Haematology; Serum.
INTRODUCTION
Poultry farming plays a major role in bridging the protein and other margin gap in developing countries
where average daily consumption is far below recommended standards. A major constraint to poultry
production in Nigeria is the very high cost of conventional feeding stuffs especially the primary energy
and protein sources. Leaf meals have been incorporated in the diets of poultry as a means of reducing the
high cost of conventional protein sources (Nworgu et al., 2013). There is evidence in the literature of the
beneficial effects of using leaf meal from different sources in poultry production ( Iheukwumere et al.,
2008; Egbenwade and Olorede, 2003; Fasuyi et al., 2005). D‘Mello et al. (1987) observed that leaf meals
do not only serve as protein source but also provide some necessary vitamins, minerals and
oxycaretenoids which cause yellow colour in the skin and shank of Abore Acre breed of broiler chicken.
Mistletoe leaf is not commonly used in the livestock industry and very few documented studies were
found to have evaluated their effects on poultry production. Extracts from the plant contain different
molecules that have intrinsic bioactivities affecting animal physiology and metabolism. Some of these
compounds have been reported to improve animal performance due to their stimulating effect on
salivation and pancreatic enzyme secretions or by having a direct bactericidal effect on gut micro-flora
(Hardy, 2002). The present study was thus designed to investigate the haematological and serum
biochemical indices of broiler chickens fed varying dietary levels of Mistletoe Leaf Meal (MLM).
Page | 216

The study was carried out at the Poultry unit of the Animal Production Technology, Ramat Polytechnic,
Maiduguri, Borno State. The feeding trial lasted for 45 days. Two hundred and twenty five broilers
chickens of the ‗Abore Acre‘ strain were purchased from a reputable hatchery. The birds were brooded
together for two weeks in a deep litter pen measuring 2m x 3m2. Kerosene stoves and lanterns were used
to provide the necessary heat used to maintain the optimum temperature range for the birds at this stage.
Feeding was carried out twice daily between the hours of 07.00-08.00 am and 5.30-6.30 pm. Water was
provided ad libitum. All the necessary vaccines and medication needed by the birds were strictly
administered. At the end of the two weeks of brooding, forty five birds were randomly selected from the
pool on the basis of vigour. The birds were randomly assigned to five treatments with forty five birds per
treatment in a Completely Randomized Design. Each treatment was further replicated thrice with fifteen
birds each. Fresh neem leaves were harvested from neem trees within Polytechnic campus, Maiduguri.
The leaves were dried on bare floor in a well-ventilated room for 7 days and were later ground to fine
particle size using a plate mill. The milled leaves were incorporated into the diets at levels of 0, 5, 10, 15
and 20% in treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Treatment 1 had no MLM and served as the control.
A 23% CP diet (Table 1) was fed to the birds during the finisher phase (29-49 day). All data collected
were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) according to the procedure of Steel and Torrie (1980).
Significantly different means were separated according to Least Significant Difference.
Table 1: Ingredient Composition of the Experimental Broiler Finisher Diet
Levels of Mistletoe leaf Meals (%)

Ingredients 0 05 10
5 15 10 20 15 20
Maize 58.12 56.45 54.00 53.00 47.00
Wheat Offal 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00
Mistletoe leaf meal 0.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Groundnut Cake 11.88 8.55 6.00 4.00 3.00
Soya bean meal 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish Meal 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00
Bone Meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Salt (NaCl) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
ME (Kcal/kg 2905.23 2897.83 2833.48 2932.86 2836.24
Crude protein (%) 19.99 19.33 18.93 18.92 18.86
ME = Metabolizable energy calculated according to the formula of Pauzenga (1985):
ME = 37x% CP+81x%EE+35.5 x %NFE

Haematological Indicesof Broiler Chickens
The results for haematological indices(Table 2) revealed non-significant (P>0.005) differences among the
dietary treatment groups for Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, Red Blood
Cells (RBC) count, and White Blood Cells (WBC) count, respectively. RBC counts recorded in this study
are 5.57, 3.57, 3.57, 3.77 and 3.47 X106/mm3 for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively were within the
normal range (2 – 4 X106/mm3) for broiler chickens reported by Anon (1980). However, the mean RBC
value of the control (0% MLM) is slightly higher (5.57 X103mm3) than the reported value. The results
obtained for WBC in this study were 3.00, 12.43, 13.73, 10.83 and 7.07 X103mm3for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4
and 5, respectively were within the normal range for broiler chickens (9 – 13 X103mm3) reported by
Page | 217
Aiello and Mays (1989) except for diet 5 which was slightly below the recommended value (7.07
X103mm3).The results for haematological indices obtained in this study showed that the test ingredient
did not impede oxygen carrying capacity of the blood in meeting the demand for broilers chickens
(Egbewande et al., 2011). The results obtained for MCV, MCH and MCHC differed (P<0.05)
significantly among the treatment groups. The differential counts of these cells indicated that Neutrophil
and Eosinophil counts did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the dietary treatment groups. However,
Lymphocytes, Basophils and Monocytes counts differed (P<0.05) significantly. Bhatti et al. (2008)
observed neutrophils microphages (monocytes) are components of WBC that are involved both in
oxygen-independent and oxygen-dependent mechanism for combating viral infection and killing and
engulfing bacteria. The Neutrophils appeared to have similar variations between the treatment groups.
The mean values obtained are in line with the findings of Ologhobo et al. (1992). The Lymphocytes
recorded (28.33 – 35.00%) were lower than the 40 – 48% reported by Bhatti et al. (2002). This implied
that, all the treatment groups may have adequate immune status.
Table 2: Haematological Indices of Broiler Chickens Fed Graded Levels of Mistletoe LeafMeal
Level of Mistletoe leaf Meal (%)
Constituents 0 5 10 15 20 SEM
Packed Cell Volume (%) 23.00 25.67 24.00 21.33 24.00 3.38NS
Haemoglobin (g/dl) 7.17 8.53 7.97 7.10 7.00 1.12 NS
6
Red Blood Cell (x 10 ml) 5.57 3.57 3.57 3.77 3.47 1.11 NS
3
White Blood Cell (x 10 ml) 13.00 12.43 13.73 10.83 7.07 3.58 NS
e a c d b
Mean Corpuscular Volume (fl) 41.29 71.90 67.22 56.58 69.16 14.20*
e a b d c
MCH (pg) 12.87 23.89 21.82 18.83 20.17 8.11*
MCHC (%) 31.17c 33.23a 32.46b 33.28a 29.17d 27.74*
Differential counts (%)
Neutrophils 50.33 52.00 52.00 46.33 51.00 2.65 NS
a ab bc c abc
Lymphocyte 35.00 33.67 30.00 28.33 31.67 2.03*
Eosinophils 3.00 2.33 3.00 3.00 3.00 0.43 NS
b a b b a
Basophils 0.00 0.67 0.00 0.00 0.67 0.30*
Monocytes 3.00c 3.33bc 3.67abc 4.67a 4.33ab 0.56*
MCH = Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin, MCHC = Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration.
Serum Biochemical Indicesof Broiler Chickens

The results for serum biochemical indices (Table 3) revealed that there were no significant (P>0.05)
differences for the serum biochemical indices (total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, cholesterol,
creatinine, sodium, calcium and ALAT) among the treatment groups. However there were significant
(P<0.005) differences for urea, potassium and ASAT among the dietary treatment groups. The values
however, did not follow any definite trend. The levels of total blood protein and creatinine contents
usually depend on the quantity and quality of dietary protein fed (Awosanya et al., 1999; Esonu et al.,
2001).The albumin values obtained in this study are within the normal recommended range (1.30 to 2.80
g/dl) for broiler chickens as reported by Aiello and Mays (1998). The slightly higher value recorded for
treatment 5 (20% MLM) may suggest a higher protein intake by the chickens, in order to meet the
demand for physiological body function. The results of the electrolyte constituents obtained were not
significantly (P>0.05) affected except potassium which showed significant (P<0.05) differences among
the various treatment groups. This indicates that MLM can be included up to 20% in the diets of broiler
chickens without any adverse effect on the electrolyte constituents of broiler chickens.
Page | 218
Table 3: Serum Biochemical Indices of Broiler Chickens Fed Graded Levels of Mistletoe Leaf Meal
Level of Mistletoe leaf Meal in the Diets (%)

Parameter 0 5 10 15 20 SEM
Total Protein (g/dl) 4.60 5.41 4.48 5.73 4.65 1.63NS
Albumin (g/dl) 2.64 2.52 2.73 2.21 3.23 1.98NS
Globulin (g/dl) 1.96c 2.89b 1.75d 3.52a 1.42e 0.08*
Glucose (g/dl) 68.80 67.07 68.23 65.90 66.10 34.72NS
Cholesterol (mg/dl) 43.73 43.73 40.10 38.14 21.55 14.40NS
Creatinine (mmol/l) 92.33a 84.33ab 89.67ab 88.00ab 86.41ab 8.41*
Urea (mmol/l) 4.17a 2.50b 5.82a 3.02b 3.77ab 1.13*
Sodium (mmol/l) 141.34 140.53 144.32 141.73 143.52 24.17NS
Potassium (mmol/l) 2.63c 4.60ab 5.80ab 7.40a 4.00bc 1.38*
Chloride (mmol/l) 84.57 87.77 76.80 85.83 88.27 12.92NS
Calcium (mmol/l) 3.93 3.87 3.70 13.40 2.67 6.92NS
ALAT (IU/L) 9.39 10.35 10.37 9.87 10.03 2.23NS
ASAT (IU/L) 16.00a 17.33c 17.00 18.68 19.33 5.29 NS
ALAT= Alanine amino transferase, ASAT = Aspartate amino transferase.

Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the test ingredient did not impede oxygen carrying
capacity of the blood in meeting the demand for broilers chickens. It is recommended that MLM can be
included up to 20% in the diets of broiler chickens without any adverse effect on the health status of
broiler chickens.
REFERENCES
Ailelo, S.E. and Mays, A. (1998). The Merck Veterinary Manual. 8th ed. Merck and Co. Inc: Whitehouse
station, New Jersey pp 321
Anon. (1980).Guide to the Care and Use of Experimental Animals. Vol 1. Canadian Council of Animal
Care.Ontario, Canada. pp: 185–190.
Awosanya, B., Joseph, J.K., Apata, D.F. and Ayoola, M.A. (1999). Performance, blood chemistry and
carcass quality attributes of rabbits. International Tropical Journal of Animal Science. 2:89-96.
Bhatti, J.A., Younas, M., Abdullah, M., Babar, M.E and Nawaz, H. (2002). Feed intake, weight
gain and haematology in Nili Ravi buffalo heifers fed on Mot grass and Barseem fodder
substituted with saltbush (Atriplex amnicola) Pakistan Veterinary Journal, 29(3):133-137.
D‘Mello, J.P.F., Acamovic,T. and Walker, A.G (1987). Evaluation of Leucaena leaf meal for
broiler growth and pigmentation. Tropical Agriculture (Trinidad), 64:33-35.
Egbenwade, O.O. and Olorede, B.R. (2003). Substitutionof groundnut cake with mistletoe
(Loranthusbengwensis) leaf meal in broiler diets. Proceedings of the 8th Annual conference of the
Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN), pp: 1-3.
Egbenwade ,O.O., Jimoh, O.O., E. Ibitoye, E.B., and Olorede, B.R.(2011).Utilization of African mistletoe
(Tapinanthus bangwensis) leaf meal by broiler chickens. Pakistan Journal of
Nutrition. 10 (1):19-22.
Esonu, B.O., Emenalom, O.O., Udedibie, A.B.I., Okoli, T.C., Herbert U and Ekpor, C.F. (2001).
Performance and blood chemistry of weaner pig fed raw mucuna beans (Velvet bean) meal. Tropical
Animal Production Investigation. 4:49-54.
Fasuyi, A.O., Fajemibhin, K.S.O. and Omojola, A.B. (2005). The egg quality characteristics of layers fed
varying dietary inclusions of Siam weed leaf meal (Chromolaena odorata) leaf meal (SWLM).
International Journal of Poultry Science. 4(10):752-757.
Hardy B (2002). The issue of antibiotic use in the livestock industry: What have we learned? Animal
Biotechnology. 13: 129–147.
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Iheukwumere, F.C., Okoli, I.C and Okeudo, N.T. (2008). Preliminary studies on raw Napoleona
imperialia seeds as feed ingredient, hematology and serum biochemistry carcass and organweights
of weaner rabbits. Tropical Animal Production Investigation. 5: 219-227.
Nworgu, F.C, Yekini, B.O. and Oduola, O.A. (2013). Effects of basil leaf (Ocimum gratissimum)
supplement on some blood parameters of growing pullets. International Journal of
Agriculture, 3(3):480-488.
Ologhobo, A.D., Apata, D.F., Oyegide, A, and Akinpelu, R. O. (1992). Toxicity of raw lima
beans (Phaseolus lunatus) and lima bean fractions for growing chicks. British Poultry
Pauzenga, U. (1985). Feeding Parent stock. Zootecnia International pp. 22-25 Science. 34(5):505-522.
Steel, R. G., and Dand, J.H Torrie, (1980). Principles and Procedures of Statistics. McGraw Hill Book
Co Inc. New York, USA.
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GROWTH PERFORMMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED VARIOUS LEVELS OF

AFRICAN LOCUST BEAN (Parkia biglobosa) BASED DIETS
1
Shuaibu, U. S., 1Abubakar, A., 1Abdullahi, U. Mijinyawa, A. and 2Egbo, M. L.
1
Department of Animal Health and Production, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, 2Department of Animal
Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Corresponding author email: umarlutiatbu@gmail.com + 2347065267274
ABSTRACT
This experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth performance of broiler chickens fed various level
of African locust bean (P.biglobosa) based diets. One hundred and twenty day old broiler chicks (marshal
strain) were allotted to four dietary treatment in which African locust bean seed replace soya beans as
protein source at 0, 10, 20 and 30% levels coded as diets 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively, The experiment was in
a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates per treatment and ten birds per replicate.
Feed and water were supplied ad libitum and the trial lasted for eight weeks. At the starter phase, daily
feed intake (58.47-60.87g), daily weight gain (16.19-18.39g) and feed conversion ratio (3.22-4.02) were
not significantly different. At finisher phase the daily feed intake (90.18-102.87g) indicated significant
difference(P<0.01) while the values of the daily weight gain (34.92-40.49g) were significant in birds fed
diet 4 and 3 respectively. However, feed conversion ratio did not show any significant treatment effect,
the values ranged from (2.53-2.95). From these findings African locust bean meal can replaced soya bean
at 20% without any adverse effect on the performance of birds with concomitant reduction in cost.
Keyword: Africa locust bean seed, Soya bean, Performance, Broiler chicken, Feed.
INTRODUCTION
Poultry production is gaining popularity in the developing countries due to its role in bridging the protein
nutrition deficit, resulting to economic empowerment of the resource poor segment of society
(Gebremedhn and Alemu, 2015). Such growth in the poultry industry is having a profound effect on the
demand for feed and raw materials. However, it is also becoming clear that the requirements for the four
traditional feed ingredients (maize, soybean meal, fish meal and meat meal) cannot be met (Adewale et
al., 2016). The gap between local supply and demand for these traditional ingredients are expected to be
widening over the coming decades thus, providing a compelling reason for exploring the usefulness of
locally available alternative feedstuffs in feed formulation (Adewale et al., 2016). The utilization of locust
bean in monogastric nutrition as replacement for a protein source i.e groundnut cake was reported to
improved production performance, nitrogen retention and feed utilization, with varied results (Bridget et
al., 2004; Alabi et al., 2005). Ayanwale and Ari (2002) and Dawodu (2009) found a positive attribute for
fermented locust beans as against the unfermented locust bean which was said to inhibit broiler growth
due to less protein quality and essential vitamins (Fetuga et al., 1974). However, Anti-nutritional factors
(ANFs) such as tannins oxalate and hydrogen cyanide had been reported to limit the utilization of locust
bean as feed ingredient (Apata, 2003). Fermentation has been reported to destroy some natural toxins
which may occur in beans, thereby improving the nutritive-value, digestibility and enhance growth of
chickens (Bridget et al., 2004).
This study was designed to evaluate the growth performance of broiler chickens fed various levels of
African locust bean (P.biglobosa) meal.

Experimental Site:
The experiment was conducted at the Poultry unit of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching and
Research Farm, Bauchi. Bauchi State occupies a total land area of 49,119 km² representing about 5.3% of
Nigeria‘s total land mass and is located between latitudes 9° 3' and 12° 3' North and longitudes 8° 50' and
11° East.
Page | 221
Materials for Experiment

Maize, soya bean, locust bean, groundnut cake, fish meal, wheat offal, bone meal, limestone, lysine,
methionine, salt and vitamin premix were bought from Muda Lawal market in Bauchi town. One hundred
and twenty (120) day old chicks were obtained from Zatech Hatchery.
Management of the Birds
The broiler chickens were brooded on deep litter for a week fed commercial diet containing 23% crude
protein and 2900kcal/kg ME. Heat was provided during the brooding with two charcoal stoves and
200watts electric bulbs as sources of light and heat. After the brooding, birds were randomly assigned to
four dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated three times, vaccine were administered as required,
feed intake was determined by subtracting the left over from the supply of the previous day. The weights
of the birds were measured in groups immediately after the brooding period and weekly thereafter.
Experimental Design
The experimental design used was Completely Randomized Design
Experimental Diets
Four experimental diets for both starter (23% CP) and finisher (20% CP) phase were formulated. Locust
bean meal were included at 0, 10, 20 and 30% level as replacement for soya bean, designated as diets T 1,
T2, T3 and T4 respectively for both starter and finisher phase.
Data Collection
Birds Performance
Records of feed intake and body weight changes were taken daily and weekly respectively, feed
conversion ratio was calculated using the values while mortality was recorded as they occurred.
The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) were significant difference occurred
means, least significant difference (LSD) was used to separate them.

The performance of broiler chickens fed various levels of African locust bean (P.biglobosa) based diets
for starter (1-4 weeks) were presented in Table 3 . There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in the
feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio between birds fed experimental diets implying that the
inclusion levels of African locust bean (P.biglobosa) did not have any effect on these parameters. This is
in line with the finding of Obun (2007) who reported no significant difference in feed intake among
chickens fed graded level of fermented African locust bean (P.biglobosa) meal. Also the performance of
broiler chickens fed various levels of African locust bean (P.biglobosa) based diets for finisher (5-8
weeks) were presented in Table 4. The feed intake were significantly affected by the dietary treatments
(P<0.05) were birds on treatment 1, 2 and 3 were statistically similar and significantly higher than
treatment 4 (30%). The daily weight gains were not significantly influenced by different dietary
treatments. The observed increased feed intake of birds fed African locust bean meal as shown in Table 4
can be attributed to the less odour of locust bean meal due to low inclusion level which is 20%. At the
level of inclusion 100%, the smell of the ALBM masked the smell of other ingredients making the diets
unattractive and possibly unpalatable to the birds, while at 50% ALBM inclusion, birds can still tolerate
the aroma (Aderemi et al. 2017). This result is also similar to the findings of Odunsi (2003) who reported
that feed intake by animal‘s increases if the aroma of their diet is acceptable. However, the better FCR
may be due the low inclusion level of locust bean 20% which make the diet to be more palatable and
acceptable.

It can be concluded that the African locust bean seed can replace soya bean at 20% level as sources of
protein in broiler diets at both starter and finishing phase without any detrimental effect on the
performance of broiler chickens hence the use of African locust bean seed could be well advocated and
recommended to served as an alternative protein source for soya bean at up to 30% level. Thereby
reducing completion and improving consumer access to animal protein.
Page | 222
Table 1: Percentage Composition of Experimental Diets fed to broiler chickens

At the starter phase (1-4weeks)
Diets
Parameters T1 (0%) T2 (10%) T3 (20%) T4 (30%)
Maize 40.25 40.25 40.25 40.25
Soya bean 33.55 30.20 26.87 23.50
Locust bean 0.00 3.35 6.71 10.05
Groundnut cake 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Wheat offal 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Limestone 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total (%) 100 100 100 100
Calculated composition (%)
Crude protein 23.00 23.81 23.77 23.69
crude fiber 4.09 4.06 4.04 4.01
ME (kcal/kg) 2860 2,834 2822 2812
Table 2: Percentage Composition of Experimental Diets fed to broiler chickens

At the finisher phase (5-8weeks). Diets
Parameters T1 (0%) T2 (10%) T3 (20%) T4 (30%)
Maize 51.56 51.56 51.56 51.56
Soya bean 22.24 20.02 17.80 15.50
Locust bean 0.00 2.22 4.44 6.66
Groundnut cake 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Wheat offal 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Limestone 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total (%) 100 100 100 100
Calculated composition (%)
Crude protein 20.00 20.81 20.77 20.69
crude fiber 5.01 5.05 5.07 5.09
ME (kcal/kg) 3,019 3,020 3,024 3,032
Page | 223
Table 3: Performance of broiler chickens fed various level of African locust bean at the starter
phase (1-4weeks)
Dietary treatment
Parameters T1 (0%) T2 (10%) T3 (20%) T4 (30%) SEM LOS
Daily feed intake (g) 59.84 60.00 60.87 58.47 13.7 NS
Daily weight gain (g) 16.79 16.85 16.19 18.47 0.75 NS
Feed conversion ratio 3.66 3.82 4.02 3.22 0.15 NS
Mortality 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
LOS: Level of significance
NS: Non significance difference (P<0.05)
Table 4: Performance of broiler chickens fed various level of African locust bean at the finisher
phase (5-8weeks)
Dietary treatment
Parameters T1 (0%) T2 (10%) T3 (20%) T4 (30%) SEM LOS
Daily feed intake (g) 102.33a 102.37a 102.47a 90.18b 2.74 *
Daily weight gain (g) 36.05 40.46 38.97 34.92 3.62 NS
Mortality(%) 3.33 3.33 6.6 3.33
SEM: Standard Error of Mean
LOS: Level of significance
NS: Non significance difference (P<0.05)
REFERENCES
Adewale, R. T., Adeyinka, O. A., Akinyinka, A. O., Damilola, O. O. and Joseph, A. O. (2016) Response
of Broiler Chicken to Parboiled Mango Seed Kernel Meal (PMKM) Based Diet Fortified with
Vitamins. International Journal of Livestock Research, 6 (11), 25-30
Aderemi, F.A., Ayoola, M.O., Alabi, O.M. and Oyelami L.O. (2017). Evaluation of fermented Locust
bean meal (Parkia biglobosa) as replacement to soybean meal in production performance, blood
profile and gut morphology of broiler chicken, Journal of Livestock Science 8: 28-34
Alabi, D.A., Akinsulire, O.R and Sanyaolu, M.A (2005). Qualitative determination of chemical and
nutritional composition of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq) Benth. African. Journal of Biotechnology, 4:
812-815.
Apata, D.F., (2003). Egg production and haematological profile of laying hens fed dietary raw or
processed proposis African seeds. In proceeding of the 28th Annual Conference of The Nigeria
society for Animal production (NSAP), 16th-20th March 2003, 280 - 282.
Ayanwale, B. A and M.M. Ari, (2002). Replacement value of Parkia filicoidea in broiler. Journal of
Agricultural. Technology, 1: 42-52
Bridget, O.O., S.F. Olumuyiwa, O.A. Bolanie and S.A.A. Adewusi, (2004). Biochemical Changes in
Africa locust beans (Parkia biglobasa) and Melon (Citrullus vulgaris) seeds during fermentation to
condiment. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 3: 140-145.
Dawodu, F.A., (2009). Physico-chemical studies on oil extraction processes from some Nigerian grown
plant seeds. Journal of Environmental Agriculture and. Food Chemistry, 8:102-110
Esono, B. O. And bamgbose, A. M. (2016): evaluation of the nutritive value of wild raw variegated
cocoyam meal (calcium hortilinum). Nigerian poultry of science journal. 7 (1): 149
Fetuga, B.L., G.M. Babatunde and V. A. Oyenuga, (1974). Protein quality of some unusual protein
foodstuffs:Studies of African locust-bean seed (Parkia filicoidea Welw). British Journal of
Nutrition, 32: 27- 36
Gebremedhn, A and Alemu, B (2015). Review of Mango (Mangiferaindica) Seed-Kernel Waste as a
Diet for Poultry. Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare5(11):2224- 3208.
Page | 224
Obun, C. O. (2007). Perfomance and some Haematolological response of Finisher Broilers Fed Graded
level of fermented locust bean (parkia biglobosa seeds meal). Asian journal of agricultural
research, 10: 125-130.
Odunsi A.A (2003). Blend of blood and rumen digesta as replacement for fish meal and groundnut cake
in layers diet. International Journal of poultry science 2 (1):68-61
Page | 225
EVALUATION OF AFLATOXIN B1 CONTENTS OF SELECTED FEED INGREDIENTS FROM

FOUR MAJOR FEED MILLS IN IJEBU ODE AREA OF OGUN STATE
*Oyegunwa A.S., Kassim H.G., and Mako A.A.

Department of Agricultural Science, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun Ijebu Ode, Nigeria;
*Correspondence: E-mail:oyegunwaas@tasued.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to determine the level of aflatoxin B1 in four different poultry feed ingredients
namely maize, wheat offal, soya bean meal and groundnut cake obtained from 4 selected feed mills ( A,
B, C and D ) in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State of Nigeria. Each 0.5g sample of maize, wheat offal, soybean meal
and groundnut cake were divided into four and ran separately with 5g of sodium chloride (Nacl) weighed
and poured in a blender jar to determine the aflatoxin B1 level. Aflatoxin B1 level was determined with
ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) reader at 450nm. The results obtained were analysed
using statistical analysis software (SAS 1999) while the mean were compared using Duncan multiple
range test. The analysed result of aflatoxin B1 levels in all the feed ingredients showed significant
differences across all the feed mills. Aflatoxin B1 concentration in maize for feedmill A, B, C & D were
25.93, 13.10, 15.28 and 15.28ppb respectively. In soybean meal, aflatoxin B1 levels were 30.48, 24.78,
20.63 and 157.85ppb respectively for A, B, C & D respectively. Aflatoxin B1 concentration for
groundnut cake in A, B, C & D were 368.43, 289.28, 288.08 and 157.45ppb respectively. Wheat offal in
A, B, C & D had mean values of 36.63, 49.84, 26.88 and 47.63ppb respectively. It was found from the
study that in most cases, the aflatoxin B1 levels of all feed ingredients determined were above the 20ppb
safe level for animal consumption. Therefore, feed ingredients in Ijebu Ode local government area during
the period of the study were not safe for human or animal feed formulation.
Key words: Aflatoxin, Feed ingredients, Determination, Feed mill, ELISA.
INTRODUCTION
The occurrence of aflatoxins in foods and feed is a problem of major concern all over the world.
Profitability of poultry production can be greatly affected due to the frequency of feed contamination and
the detrimental effects of these toxins on the performance of poultry birds (Hamilton, 1982). Aflatoxins a
group of closely related and biologically active mycotoxins are produced by strains of Aspergillus flavus
and Aspergillus parasiticus. They commonly occur as natural contaminant of poultry feeds (Edds and
Bortell, 1983). A major concern of aflatoxicosis is its interaction with protein, carbohydrate, lipid and
vitamin metabolism. Aflatoxin also inhibits the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins. It causes the
depletion of glycogen by the impairment of the synthetic process in poultry. Aflatoxin B1 not only
affects lipid synthesis and transport, but also interferes with its absorption and degradation in chicken
(Aletor, 1991).
Mycotoxins affect nutritional and economic value of staple foods such as maize, soy bean groundnut,
wheat and so on especially in developing countries including Nigeria due to poor harvesting and storage
conditions occasioned by climate change (Moss, 1991). In Nigeria, groundnut, maize and other cereals
and legumes are sold in open market with less or no regulation of quality. Most of the contaminated feed
raw materials find their ways into the major feed producing companies and popular feed millers in this
countries without being checked. The resultant effect is the sale of feed that are of low quality to farmers
and hence many aflatoxin related diseases are diagnosed in animals that consume such feed (Oyegunwa et
al, 2015). While it has been found that aflatoxin affect a number of feed ingredients, not much
information is available on the extent of prevalence of this mycotoxin in Nigerian feedstuffs.
The objective of this study therefore is to evaluate the levels of aflatoxin in four major poultry feed
ingredients (maize, soybean meal, groundnut cake and wheat offal) purchased from four major feed mills
in Ijebu Ode area of Ogun State of Nigeria.
Page | 226

Experimental site
The field work of this experiment involving 4 major feed mills (A, B, C and D) was carried out in Ijebu
Ode town, Ogun State of Nigeria while the laboratory analysis were carried out at the pathology
laboratory of Animal Care Services Konsult, Ogere Remo, Ogun State of Nigeria.
Sampling of materials
The feed raw materials used for this study were randomly purchased from four major feed milling outlets
in Ijebu Ode. The samples used were collected from different storage facilities of the feed mills and were
thoroughly mixed in the bags before collection. The raw samples were replicated into 4 before analysis
Materials used for sample collection and aflatoxin estimation

Some of the materials used for sample collection and aflatoxin estimation include:
Sealable nylon for storing, Paper tape for labelling, hands gloves, electronic blenders, conical flasks, test
tubes, filter papers, methanol, dilution ware, antibody coated well, burette, kits for aflatoxin and ELISA
machine.
Samples collection and preparation
Raw, dried samples of Maize, wheat offal, soybean meal and groundnut cake were purchased from 4
different feed mills in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State Nigeria during the wet season. Sampling was done
according to the method prescribed by Bainton et al. (1980) to give a representative sample. The
representative samples (4 samples of each raw material) were later put in sealed bags and transported to
the Poultry and Diseases Diagnosis and Aquaculture laboratory of Animal Care Services Konsult Ogere
Remo, Ogun State.
The entire primary samples were ground to powder by milling and homogenized. Thereafter sub samples
were made into different portions for aflatoxin level in the sample.
Procedure for extraction of aflatoxin
 5grams of each feed ingredient is weighed into the conical flask
 25ml of 70% methanol is poured to extract the aflatoxin.
 The resultant sample is filtered
 Pipette 900µl + 100ml of filtrate making a total of 1000µl
 Pipette 100µl of conjugate into dilution well
 Pipette 50µl from the diluets (900µl of 70% methanol + 100µl of filtrate)
 Pipette 100µl from dilution well into antibody coated well and timed for 15 minutes.
 Discard and was 3 times with distilled water
 Aflatoxin level was determined with ELISA reader at 450nm (nanometer). The ELISA machine
read the colour and it gave the result in optical density to determine aflatoxin level. The deeper
the colour the lower the aflatoxin level, the lighter the colour the higher the aflatoxin level.
Reading of the result on spectrophotometer
The optical density of a laboratory sample can be used as an indicator of the concentration of specific
components in the sample. Also optical density serves as a spectrophotometric measurement of light
scattered by a suspension at a particular wavelength. Optical density measurement can be used to
determine the BIOMASS concentration in a suspension, when, for instance, monitoring the growth of a
culture of microorganisms.
Data analysis
The results obtained from this study were analysed using statistical analysis software and means were
compared with Duncan multiple range test.

In all the feed ingredients tested, significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in their aflatoxin levels
across the 4 feed mills in Ijebu Ode (Table 1). From the table, the aflatoxin content of maize in feedmill A
Page | 227
was the highest (25.93ppb) when compared with other feed mills. However, aflatoxin concentration in
feed mill B, C & D were similar. Apart from feed mills B, C & D which had average aflatoxin B1 levels
of 13.1, 15.28 and 15.28ppb respectively, others were clearly above the 20ppb safe level (Coker et al.,
1986). This pose a great danger for the farmers around Ijebu Ode for the fact that maize is the major
energy supplying ingredients which forms more that 50% of the raw materials in poultry feed. An
important factor that probably could be responsible for the high aflatoxin in maize in A is the moisture
level of the maize and the available storage condition in the feed mill coupled with the fact that the study
was carried out during the wet season. Most aflatoxin infection in maize occur in broken and damaged
kernels and seed coat during the wet season (Vincelli et al., 1995).
Table 1: Average aflatoxin B1 levels of 4 major poultry feed ingredients from four major feed mills in
Ijebu Ode, Ogun State Nigeria
Feed ingredients Aflatoxin concentration (ppb)

Feed mill A Feed mill B Feed mill C Feed mill D SEM
a b b b
Maize 25.93 13.10 15.28 15.28 1.39
Soybean meal 30.48 b 24.78 c 20.63 d 157.85 a 0.47
Groudnut cake 368.43 a 289.28 b 288.08 b 157.45 c 1.31
Wheat offal 36.63 d 49.84 a 26.88 d 47.63 b 0.56
values shown on the table are means.
a, b, c, d: means on the same row with different superscripts are significantly different (P<0.05)
SEM = standard error of mean
For soybeanmeal, interestingly there were no similarities (p<0.05) in the concentration of aflatoxin in all
the feed mills. However, the highest value of aflatoxin (157.85ppb) was recorded in feed mill D while the
least value of aflatoxin (20.63ppb) was obtained in feed mill C. From the physical look at the soybean
meal showed a darker colouration which may indicate possible heavy fungal infestation as a result of high
moisture content.
Aflatoxin are a major constraint of groundnut in most producing countries worldwide (Okello et al.,
2010). Economic yield losses may be up to 100% if the aflatoxin levels are beyond stipulated level. In
table 1, the level of aflatoxin obtained in all feed mills sampled were significantly different. While feed
mill A had the highest aflatoxin level for groundnut cake (368.43ppb), feed mill D recorded the lowest
value (157.45ppb). Obviously from the result obtained for groundnut cake, high levels recorded may be
due to high fungi infestation from the field or poor storage condition. Excessive moisture in field and in
storage, temperature extremes, humidity, drought, variation in harvesting practices and insect infestations
are a major environmental factors that determine the severity of mycotoxin contamination (Hussein and
Brassel, 2001).
For wheat offal aflatoxin analysis, significant differences (p<0.05) were also observed in the values. The
highest concentration of aflatoxin (49.84ppb) was obtained from feed mill B while the lowest (26.88ppb)
was obtained from feed mill C. The same problem of storage condition and season of raw materials
collection may be responsible for this unacceptable levels of aflatoxin contamination in poultry feed
ingredients.

In conclusion, all the raw materials obtained from the 4 feed mills in Ijebu Ode during the period of the
research were contaminated with aflatoxin though at different levels except for maize in feed mills B, C
and D whose values were below 20ppb safe limit. Most of the feed mills lack good storage facilities and
the grains were not properly dried before being kept for use above the regulatory limit. This poses a great
threat to farmers around Ijebu Ode and environ. It is recommended that grains should be adequately dried
and timely harvested before it is infested by fungi on the field. Good storage facilities should be put in
Page | 228
place by the feed miller while animal feed regulatory body should inspect the feed mill facilities before
granting operational licences to them.
REFERENCES
Aletor V.A. (1991). Aflatoxin Contamination in some Nigerian feed and feeding stuffs: Highlights on
some nutritional, physiopathological and economic implicants. Worlds review of Anim.
Production. Xxvi (3), 15-20.
Bainton S.J., Coker, R.D., Jones, B.D., Morley, E.M., Nagler, M.J., Turner R.L. (1980). Mycotoxin
training manual; Tropical Product Institute London PP. 1-176.
Coker, R.D., Jewers, K, Jones, B.D., 1986. The treatment of aflatoxin contaminated commodities.
Internat. Biodeterioration, 22S, pp. 103 – 108.
Edds, G. T., and Bortell, R. R. 1983. Biological effects of aflatoxin in poultry. Pages 55–61 in Aflatoxin
and Aspergillus flavus in corn. Diener, U.L, Asquith, R. L. Dickens, J. W. Eds. Southern
Cooperative Services Bulletin 279. Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University,
AL.
Hamilton P.B., and J.D. Garlich (1982) Failure of vitamin supplementation to alter the fatty liver
syndrome by aflatoxin. Poult Sci., 51:688-692.
Hussein, H.S. and Brasel, J.M. 2001. Review: Toxicity, metabolism and impacts of mycotoxins on
humans and animals. Toxicology 167 101-134.
Moss M. O. 1991. Influence of agricultural biocides on mycotoxin formation in cereals. Chelkowski, J.
cereal grain: Mycotoxins, fungi and quality in drying and storage, pp. 281-295.
Oyegunwa, A.S. (2015). Alleviation of the effect of dietary aflatoxin in turkey with yeast or bentonite-
montmorrilonite binder. A Ph.D thesis submitted to department of Animal Science, Faculty of
Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan pp. 7-9.
Okello, D.K., Kaaya, A.N., Bisikwa, J., Were, M., Oloka, H.K, (2010) Management of aflatoxins in
groundnut. Manual for farmers, processors, Traders and Consumerss in Uganda National
Agricultural Research Organization/Makerere University, Entebbe.
Vincelli, P. Parker, G. and McNeill S.1995. Aflatoxin in corn. University of Kentucky, College of
Agiculture P.7. http://www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/id/id59.pdf
Page | 229
EFFECTS OF SOME FACTORS AFFECTING EARLY GROWTH AND BODY WEIGHT OF

MUSCOVY DUCKLINGS (CAIRINA MOSCHATA) IN A SEMI ARID REGION OF NIGERIA
M. J. Yusuf., J. Aliyu. And A. O. Raji

Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: yusufjallaba@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This research was carried out to determine the effects of some factors (Age, Sex and Plumage colour)
affecting early growth performance of Muscovy ducklings, within Maiduguri metropolis. The information
collected were sex, plumage colour (White, Black and White and Multicoloured) and body weight from
0-6 weeks at weekly interval. Data collected were analyzed using the statistical package for social science
(SPSS) and significant means were separated by the Least Significant Difference (LSD). The results
obtained showed that the mean body weight from 0-6 weeks ranged from 37.03 g to 670.02 g,
respectively. The highest body weights among the three plumage colours were recorded for Multicoloured
across all ages measured. The results obtained also revealed that drake ducklings were superior (p<0.05)
to their female counterparts at all ages studied. Body weight of Muscovy ducklings up to six weeks of age
exhibit sexual dimorphism and multicoloured plumage colour can be recommended for selection for
increased body weight.
Key Words: Muscovy Ducklings, Body Weight, Age, Sex and Plumage Colour
INTRODUCTION
Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) is a common household bird among rural dwellers in Nigeria and play
significant role as a source of protein and income to peasant farmers (Oluyemi & Ologbobo, 1997).
Muscovy ducks make up 74% of the ducks in Nigeria, and its meat is lower in fat and hence considered to
be healthier (Adesope & Nodu, 2002). It is known for its hardiness, resistant to environmental stress, very
prolific, resistant to common poultry diseases and less exigent to feed quality (Yakubu et al., 2011). They
lay many and large eggs and have rapid growth rate and high dressed weight of drakes (Duru et al., 2006).
Duck is one of the indigenous poultry species in Nigeria and its production is at the rudimentary stage
(Oguntunji and Ayorinde, 2015). Moreover, duck rearing would increase employment opportunities as
well as provide a source of income to the rural women, landless and marginal farmers (Raji et al., 2009).
Body weight, a high heritability trait, is an important economic factor mainly for poultry birds reflecting
the production level and economic benefits of a farm. The growth rate is related primarily to genetic
factors, expression of which depends on the environmental factors (Gerken et al., 2003). A common
practice in poultry production is to measure the increase in body mass of birds to control and modify the
external conditions that affect their weight gain (Oliveira et al., 2000; Agudelo Gómez et al., 2008;
Aggrey, 2009). There is dearth of information on factors affecting growth rate and body weights in this
specie of poultry in the semi arid region hence the objectives of this research was to ascertain the effects
of sex and plumage affecting early growth and body weight of Muscovy ducklings.

The study was carried out in Maiduguri the capital city of Borno state which is located on longitude
13.15o‘ East and latitude 11.83o‘ north and at an altitude of 345 meters above sea level (Encarta, 2007). It
falls within the Sahel region of West Africa, which is characterized by fluctuating climatic and seasonal
variations. The area has a very short period (3 – 4 months) of rainfall, recording 645.9 mm/annum, with a
long dry season of about 8 – 9 months (Aliyu et al., 2013). The ambient temperature could be as low as
20o C during the dry cold season in December- January and as high as 44o C or more during the dry hot
season in April and May. Relative humidity is 45% in August which usually lowers to about 5% in
December and January. Day length varies from 11 to 12 hours (Raji et al., 2010).
A total of ten (10) sires and thirty (30) dams were used to produce 300 ducklings which were used for the
experiment. All of the sires and dams were managed intensively up to the point of hatching, the
Page | 230
offspring‘s were vaccinated against Gumboro and New castle disease and then allowed to roam freely
during the day to scavenge for food and pastures and their meals are supplemented with kitchen wastes
and agro industrial by-products. In the evening, the ducks were housed in shelters provided for protection
against predators and harsh weather conditions. The ducklings were individually tagged using a
permanent marker under their wings to enhance accuracy of measurements which were closely monitored
and reapplied every time the birds were measured throughout the experiment. The body weight of
ducklings were determined using a top loading weighing scale (g). Their records were taken on weekly
basis from day old to six (6) weeks of age. Plumage colours (White, Black and White and Multicoloured)
and sex were also determined visually and via sexing. The data were analyzed using the general linear
model of SPSS 11.0. Significant means were separated by the Least Significant Difference (LSD).

The means and standard errors of body weights at different ages of Muscovy ducklings are shown in
Table 1. The mean body weights at different ages were 37.03, 77.71, 129.67, 204.86, 347.60, 509.31 and
670.02 at day old, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 weeks of age respectively. There were significant difference
(p<0.05) at all age groups in body weight of Muscovy ducklings. There was a progressive increase in
weight with increase in age and the highest being at week one. The relative growth by age were 52.35 %,
40.07 %, 36.70 %, 33.06 %, 31.75 % and 23.99 % at weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, respectively.
The effect of plumage colour on body weight of Muscovy ducklings at different ages are presented in
Table 2. Three different plumage colours were recorded in the local Muscovy ducklings population
during the period of this study. The colours recorded were; White, Black and White and Multicoloured.
Ducklings with multicoloured plumage were significantly (p<0.05) heavier at all ages, followed by black
and white and then white plumage colours, respectively. The mean body weights ranged from 33.70 g to
635.67 g at day old to six weeks of age for white, 34.59 g to 666.52 g for black and white and 40.77 g to
723.31 g for multicoloured, respectively. The result of the present study is in agreement with those of Raji
et al. (2009) and Oguntunji and Ayorinde (2014) who also reported significantly higher body weight in
multicoloured Muscovy ducks. Similarly, Barnejee (2013) reported mottled Muscovy ducks to have
significantly heavier body weight than their sepia counterparts in West Bengal, India. Contrary to the
present findings Hassan and Mohammed (2003) reported no significant effect of plumage colour on body
weight in northwest Nigeria. Thus, the variation in plumage colour could be as a result of breeding
between populations. The wide variation in plumage colour observed in the Muscovy duckling population
could be as a result of adaptability and a survival feature as reported by Odubote, (1994). Multicoloured
ducklings could be selected for improvement in growth.
The effect of sex on body weight of Muscovy ducklings are presented in Table 3. The Muscovy ducklings
exhibited a high degree of sexual dimorphism. The drake ducklings were heavier (p<0.05) than the duck
ducklings for body weight at all ages studied. The average body weights for ducklings ranged from 34.53
to 708.43 g for male and 33.66 to 602.71 g, respectively. Sexual dimorphism in favour (P<0.05) of drake
ducklings for body weight in these findings are in line with those of Ogah and Kabir (2014) who also
reported Sex differences in almost all traits in all the ages from weeks 3 – 20. Similarly, Etuk et al. (2006)
and Raji et al. (2009) also observed drakes to be heavier than ducks in adults body weights. Tai and
Rouvier (1998) observed that drakes were 50% heavier than ducks while in the present study, the
difference ranged from 2.52 % to 14.92 % from weeks 1 - 6. The significant difference in weight at all
ages by sex could be due to musculinizing effect of the male due to hormonal difference and feed
conversion of the drake ducklings as well as aggressiveness and dominance of males when feeding.
Consequently, drakes should be used to improve body weight of the next generation.
Page | 231
Table: 1 Descriptive statistic of body weight (g) at different ages of Muscovy ducklings
Weeks Mean Std. Error 95% Confidence Interval
Lower Bound Upper Bound
0 37.03 8.82 19.72 54.35
1 77.71 8.90 60.25 95.17
2 129.67 8. 90 112.21 147.13
3 204.86 8. 90 187.40 222.32
4 347.60 8. 90 330.14 365.06
5 509.31 9.01 491.62 527.01
6 670.02 8.98 652.38 687.66
SE= Standard error
Table: 2 Mean ± SE of Body Weights (g) by Plumage Colour at different ages of Muscovy ducklings
Plumage colours
Age (weeks) White Black and white Pied
0 33.70±4.32 b 34.59±3.72b 40.77±3.11a
b b
1 73.35±16.59 74.51±13.05 82.69±16.15 a
b b
2 119.55±22.46 124.37±34.23 154.54±30.90 a
c b
3 183.70±43.25 198.16±47.41 254.00±53.61 a
4 332.00±57.96 b 341.09±68.93 b 387.24±66.08 a
c b
5 471.32±64.34 503.47±107.04 578.15±128.19 a
c b
6 635.67±134.37 666.52±155.72 723.31±91.94 a
abc: Means within rows with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different from each other
Table: 3 Mean ± SE of Body Weights (g) by sex at different ages of Muscovy ducklings
Sex
Age (weeks) Male Female
a
0 34.53±3.70 33.66±3.92b
a
1 76.89±15.64 72.87±14.52b
2 130.02±29.66a 122.97±22.59b
a
3 207.45±43.58 194.59±52.14b
a
4 355.85±65.18 328.33±55.90b
a
5 526.73±80.64 476.21±63.43b
a
6 708.43± 92.12 602.71±77.56b
ab: Means within rows with different superscripts are significantly (p<0.05) different from each other
CONCLUSION
This study reveals that male ducklings are generally heavier to their female counterparts in body weight at
all age studied. The ducklings with multicoloured plumage had the highest body weight than Black and
White and White plumage colours at all ages. Therefore heavier body weights of Muscovy ducklings can
be improved with sex and plumage colours. However, assessment of body weight of this species of bird
beyond 6 weeks of age is recommended.
REFERENCES
Adesope, O.M. and Nodu, M.B. (1997) A note on acceptance of duck as table-meat among
inhabitants of selected communities in the Niger Delta zone, Nigeria. Livestock Research for
Rural Development 14:http://lrrd.org/lrrd14/6/ades146. htm. Accessed September 9, 2012.
Aggrey, S. E. (2009). Comparison of three non-linear and spline regression models for describing
chicken growth curves. Poultry Science 81:1782–1788.
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Agudelo-Gómez, D.A., Cerón-Muñoz, M.F. and Restrepo-Betancur, L.F. (2008). Modelación de las
funciones de crecimiento aplicadas a la producción animal. Revista Colombiana de
Ciencias Pecuarias, 21, 39-51.
Aliyu, J. (2013). Productivity assessment of four strains of indigenous chicken in a semi arid region
of north-eastern Nigeria. Ph.D. thesis, Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri,
Maiduguri, Nigeria.
Barnejee, S. 2013. Morphological traits of duck and geese breeds of West Bengal, India. Animal Genetic
Resources, 52: 1–16.
Duru, S., Akpa, G.N., Sai'du, L., Olugbemi, T.S. and Jokthan, G.E. (2006) A preliminary study on duck
management under peri-urban system. Livestock Research for Rural Development 18:
http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd18/3/duru18036.htm. Accessed December 7, 2012.
Etuk, I.F., Ojewola, G.S. and Abasiekong, S.F. 2006. Performance of Muscovy Ducks under Three
Management Systems in South Eastern Nigeria. International Journal of Poultry Science 5 (5):
474-476.
Hassan W.A. and Mohammed W.S. 2003. Ecotype of the Muscovy Duck in the North West of Nigeria:
Variation in body weight and bill length. In: Proceedings of 8th Annual Conference of Animal
Science Association of Nigeria.
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Nigerian Journal of Animal Production 21: 25-28.
Oliveira, H.R.; Silva, F.F.; Siqueira, O.H.G.B.D.; Souza, N.O.; Junqueira, V.S.; Resende,
M.D.V.; Borquis, R.R.A.; Rodrigues, M.T. (2016). Combining different functions
Oguntunji, A. O. and Ayorinde, K. L. (2015). Duck production in Nigeria: flock characteristics,
management and mortality. Archiva Zootechnica 18:1, 27-40.
Oguntunji A.O. and Ayorinde K.L.( 2014). Phenotypic characterization of the Nigerian Muscovy Ducks
(Cairina moschata) Animal Genetic Resources, page 1 of 9. Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations, doi:10.1017/S2078633614000472.
Oluyemi J. A. and Ologbobo A.D. (1997). The Significance and Management of the Local ducks
in Nigeria. Proceedings of the 2nd Annual Conference of Animal Science Association of Nigeria,
pp. 16-17.
Raji A. O., Igwebuike, J. U and Usman, M.T. (2009). Zoometrical Body Measurements and Their
Relation with Live Weight In Matured Local Muscovy Ducks In Borno State Nigeria. ARPN
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and fat weight and yield of broilers from non-invasive body measurements. Agric. Boil. J. N. Am.
1(4): 15-22
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Avenue, Chicago, IL60611, USA.
Tai C. and Rouvier. R. (1998). Crossbreeding effect on sexual dimorphism of body weightin
intergeneric hybrids obtained between Muscovy and Pekin duck. Genetics of Selection and
Evolution. 30:163-170.
Yakubu, A, Kankuka, F.G. and Ugbo, S.B. (2011). Morphometric traits of Muscovy ducks from agro
ecological zones of Nigeria. Tropicultura, 29: 121-124.
Page | 233
RESPONSE OF RABBITS FED DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF ROASTED DATE

PALM (PHOENIX DACTYLFERA L) SEED MEAL
1
Shuaibu, M. D., 2Aremu, A. and 2Jiya, E.Z.
1
Department Of Animal Health and Production,
College of Agriculture, Mokwa, Niger state.
2
Department Of Animal Production,
Federal University Of Technology, Minna, Niger State
Corresponding autor: mohammedshuaibu73@gmail.com; +2347031577865
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to assess the part replacement of maize with roasted date palm seed meal.
The experimental diet was fed to weaner rabbits at different dietary treatment levels of 0 %, 5 %, 10 %,
15 %, and 20 % respectively. A total 45 rabbits of mixed sexes of ages of 5-6 weeks and average initial
weights of 555.67-600g were used for the experiment for a period of 12 weeks in a CRD. The rabbits
were randomly allocated to five (5) treatments with 9 rabbits. Each treatment was replicated thrice with
three (3) rabbits each. A known quantity of feed and water were provided ad-libitum and record of daily
feed intake and weekly body weights were taken. At the end of the 12 weeks feeding period the result
showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in the final weights, total weight gain, average
daily weight gain, nutrient digestibility, cost analysis of the rabbits across the dietary treatments. Final
weights of rabbits ranged between 1664g to 1738.89g. The result suggests that rabbits have the capacity
to utilize roasted date palm seed meal effectively and could perform better even up to 20 % inclusion in
diet.
Keywords: Date palm seed meal, rabbits, weight gain, digestibility.
INTRODUCTION
Date palm seeds are discarded in tons as waste daily by the date processing industries and individual
consumers leading to environmental pollution (Chandrasekaran and Bahkali, 2013). The authors felt that,
there is the need to find suitable applications for this waste and that there is also an urgent need for
alternative feedstuff that is less competitive to replace the conventional feed to reduce competition
between man and animals The authors observed that this will help in the reduction of reliance on maize
and competition with man for cereals and help in reducing environmental pollution, hence the use of date
palm seeds which is of no use to man but could meet the nutritional requirements of livestock. Date palm
seed is high in carbohydrates and low in protein and fat, and for best feed efficiency, it has to be
supplemented ( Date palm products 2012), and as an energy source of feed, it could become an important
feed resource for rabbits. The high content of Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE) in date seeds (Biglari et al,
2009) has attracted the attention of researchers to evaluate its potential use in animal feed.
The objectives of this research work include to evaluate the growth response of rabbits fed diets
containing graded levels of roasted date palm seed meal and also to determine the nutrient digestibility of
rabbits fed diets containing graded levels of roasted date palm seed meal

This experiment was conducted at the Rabbitry unit, behind Niger State Veterinary Centre, Minna, Niger
State. The date palm seed is a hard coated seed and this makes the seed difficult to be processed and also
makes the seed components difficult to digest. The seeds were roasted in open frying pan with sand at
bottom of the pan to reduce the hardiness and antinutritional content and ground to pass through 0.5mm
wire mesh sieve to remove large particle sizes so that it will bind well when pelleted. A Complete
Randomized Design (CRD) was used in this experiment. The rabbits were randomly allocated to five (5)
treatments. Each treatment was replicated thrice (3) with each replicate having three (3) rabbits and nine
(9) rabbits per treatment. The rabbits were fed with the diets that contained inclusion of different levels of
roasted date palm seed meals. Treatment one (T1), the control, contained 0 % roasted date palm seeds
Page | 234
meal (RDPSM). T2 5 % RDPSM, T3 10 % RDPSM, T4 15 % RDPSM and T5 20 % RDPSM. During the

last week of the feeding trial, digestibility study was carried out. Two rabbits were removed from each of
the replicates and placed in metabolism cages. The rabbits were allowed to acclimatize in the metabolic
cage for a period of 3 days before the collection of the faeces, which lasted for another 4 days. This
involves feeding the animals daily with a known quantity of feed followed by faecal collection for a
period of 4 days. The faeces collected daily were weighed on the wet basis and oven dried at 105oC for 24
hours and then weighed again to determine the moisture content. The Apparent Nutrient Digestibility was
calculated using the formular of (Isikwenu et al. 2010).
Apparent nutrient digestibility:- (Nutrient intake) – (Nutrient in dropping) × 100 %
Nutrient intake
Parameters measured are;-Feed intake, Body Weight, Weight Gain, Digestibility Trial.
The data collected were subjected to one way analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Significant difference
between treatments means were separated using Duncan‘s multiple range test.
Table 1: Composition of the Experimental Diets

Dietary Levels of Roasted Date Palm Seed Meal (%)
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
Ingredient (%)
Maize 51.49 48.92 46.34 43.77 41.19
RDPSM 0.00 2.57 5.15 7.72 10.30
SBM 16.39 16.39 16.39 16.39 16.39
Rice Bran 17.04 17.04 17.04 17.04 17.04
GNC 7.08 7.08 7.08 7.08 7.08
Fish Meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone Meal 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Limestone 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
*Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated Values (%)
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2700.05 2676.96 2653.80 2630.72 2607.55
Crude protein 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.01
Crude fibre 9.66 11.07 12.49 13.90 14.32
Ether extract 6.46 6.59 6.72 6.85 6.99
Methionine 0.32 0.30 0.31 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.85 0.88 0.90 0.91 0.94
Calcium 1.64 1.73 1.82 1.90 2.00
Phosphorus 0.93 1.13 1.33 1.55 1.75
*Premix supplied the following per kg diet: vit. A, 10000 I.U; vit. D, 2000 I.I; vit. E, 25 mg; vit. K, 2 mg;
Thiamine B1, 1.8 mg; Riboflavin B2, 5 mg; Pyridoxine B6, 3.5 mg; Niacin, 28 mg; vit. B12 0.015 mg;
Pantothenic acid, 7.5 mg; Folic acid, 0.75 mg; Biotin, 0.06 mg; chlorine chloride, 300 mg; Manganese, 40
mg; Zinc, 30 mg; Antioxidant 1.25mg Iron, 20 mg; Copper, 3 mg; Iodine, 1 mg; Selenium, 0.2 mg;
Cobalt, 0.2 mg.
Key: RDPSM – Roasted date palm seed meal, SBM - Soya bean meal , GNC- Ground nut cake, ME -
Metabolizable energy
RESULTS
The growth performance result shows that there were significant differences (P<0.05) in final weight, total
weight gain and average daily weight gain among all treatments. No significant differences (P>0.05) were
Page | 235
recorded in the total concentrate intake, total forage intake, total feed intake, average daily feed intake and
feed conversion ratio (FCR) among all treatments. The result of the final weight shows a significant
difference (P<0.05) among treatment means, treatment 2 (5 % RDPSM) recorded the highest final weight
of 1758.89g. This was followed T1 (0 % RDPSM) 1738.89g, T4 (15 % RDPSM) 1685.55g, T3 (10 %
RDPSM) 1671.11g and T5 (20 % RDPSM.
Dry matter and apparent nutrient digestibility coefficient of diets containing varying levels of roasted date
palm seed meal was shown on table 3. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in the digestibility
coefficient values of dry matter, crude protein, Ash, Ether extract and Nitrogen free extract in all
treatments. The RDPSM used in this study improved dry matter digestibility in a linear manner with the
inclusion of roasted date palm seed meal.
Table 2: Performance characteristics of Rabbits fed different levels of varying roasted date palm
seed meal (g)
Parameter Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4 Treatment 5 SEM P/Value L/S

Initial weight 555.56 583.33 600.00. 588.89 588.89 5.26 0.06 NS
Final weight 1738.89ab 1758.89a 1671.11c 1685.55bc 1664c 11.82 0.03 *
Total weight gain 1183.33a 1188.89a 1071.11b 1096.67b 1075.55b 16.22 0.02 *
a a b b b
Avg dly wt gain 13.15 13.21 11.90 12.18 11.95 0.18 0.02 *
Total conc intake 8642 9308 7939 9313 8073 420.96 0.80 NS
Ttl forage intake 2712.2 2689.6 2322.8 2710 2376.4 130.42 0.80 NS
Total fd intake 11354 11998 10263 12024 10443 549.31 0.80 NS
Avg dly fd intake 126.15 133.31 114.03 133.51 116.03 6.10 0.80 NS
FCR 9.58 10.06 9.55 10.93 9.66 0.43 0.87 NS
a, b, c = means on the same row with different superscript differ significantly (P<0.05)
Conc. = Concentrate
Table 3: Dry matter and apparent nutrient digestibility coefficient of diets containing varying levels
of roasted date palm seed meal (%)
Dietary treatments
Parameter Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4 Treatment 5 LS
0%RDPSM ` 5%RDPSM 10%RDPSM 15%RDPSM 20%RDPSM
Dry matter 80.55a 81.68a 78.02b 77.91b 75.44c *

Crude protein 76.46b 79.35a 74.51bc 76.46b 73.03c *
Crude fibre 79.38ab 78.01b 81.19a 72.80c 69.98d *
Ash 42.32ab 35.95b 35.85b 42.42ab 52.52a *
Ether extract 81.62a 79.40b 76.49c 83.20a 77.69bc *
NFE 85.34a 85.64a 82.22b 84.39ab 80.97b *

NFE= Nitrogen Free Extract.
Page | 236
DISCUSSION
The dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and NFE were digested well above 70%
digestibility. The value of dietary crude fibre obtained in this study was 64.5 %. This was in agreement
with (Omowunmi and Ayoade, 2013) who highlighted that high dietary fibre is known to influence
digestion and absorption processes in the small intestine. Therefore, since the crude fibre value of date
palm seed meal is high, if consumed it will aid digestion and absorption processes in rabbits. Cust, Skitton
and Van (2009) evaluated that high crude fibre in diet decreases the absorption of cholesterol from the gut
in addition to delaying the digestion and conversion of starch to simple sugars. The CP percentage was
higher in control treatment and decreased as the level of RDPSM increased within the recommended 15-18
percent (Aduku, 1992). The metabolizable energy of all experimental test diets were within the
recommended 2,500 - 2,700 ME (kcal/kg) for weaners and growers (Aduku, 1992). The growth
performance in this study was in line with (Iyhege-Erakpotobor, 2007) who reported that growth rate does
not exceed 5-10g during grower phase under tropical condition. The average daily feed in take of 114.03 -
133.5g was quite high compared to the values of 77.64 - 87-51g reported by Adejinmi et al, (2013) and
Iyhege-Erakpotobor (2007) had values of 102.6g – 104.8g/day in their research work on effects of
concentrate and forage type on performance of growing rabbits. The RDPSM used in this study improved
dry matter digestibility in a linear manner with the inclusion of roasted date palm seed meal. This was in
agreement with Al-Bowait and Al-Sultan (2007) who reported that the use of sodium hydroxide (NAOH)
in the treatment of date palm seeds improved dry matter and organic matter digestibility of the seeds.
CONCLUSION
The ultimate result of incorporating RDPSM in rabbit diet showed that rabbits on Treatment 2 (5 %
RDPSM) replacement of maize had a better CP digestibility than the control and other treatments which
have also translated to a better final weight gain. Inclusion of roasted date palm seed meal in the diet of
rabbits also showed higher values of nutrient digestibility in all treatments, an indication that the utilization
of RDPSM was well digested.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on this research, I therefore recommended replacement of maize up 5% Roasted date palm seed
meal in the diet of rabbits for optimum growth performance. However further researches can be carried out
using higher levels of inclusion and other processing technics of date palm seed.
REFERENCES
Adejinmi, O, Odetola, O. and Omole, J.(2013), Performance and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits
fed diets containing different fibrous ingredients. Jourrnal of agricultural science vol. 5 No 9
(2013)
Aduku, A.O. & Olukosi, J.O. (1992). Rabbit management in the tropic: Production,
Processing, Utiliization and Marketing economics, Practical Training, Research and Future
prospects. Living Book Series G U publications, Abuja, Nigeria.
Al-Bowait, M., & Al-Sultan, S. I. (2007) The effect of partial replacement of maize by alkali-treated date
pits on broiler growth, survival rate and economic returns. College of Veterinary Medicine and
Animal Resources, King Faisal University, Central Animal Production and veterinary Training in
AL-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia PO Box 11647, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
AOAC, (2000). Official Methods of Analysis (19th Ed) AOAC Inter, Inc. Washington P.C. p 1219.
Biglari, F. (2009). Assessment of Antioxidant Potential of Date (Pheonix dactylifera) Fruits From
Iran, Effect of Cold Storage and Addition to Minced Chicken Meat, (QK495, P17, B593, 2009
February).
Chandrasekaran, M. & Ali H. Bahkali, (2013). Valorization of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) fruit
processing by-products and wastes using bioprocess technology – Review. Saudi Journal of
Page | 237
Biological Sciences. Apr 2013; 20(2): 105–120. Published online Jan 11, 2013. doi:
10.1016/j.sjbs.2012.12.004
Cust, A. E., Skilton, M. R, & Van, B.M.M.E. (2009). Total dietary carbonhydrate, sugar and fibre intake in
the European prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition. European. Journal of Climate
Nutrition, 63, 3760.
Date palm products, (2012). By-products of date palm packing and processing. FAO corporate documents
repository. Agriculture and consumer protection.
Isikwenue, J. O., Akpodiete O. J., Omoye, S. I., & Okagbare, G. O. (2010).The effect of replacing
groundnut cake with urea-Treated and fermented brewers dried grain on nutrient dyentibility,
retention and carcass characteristic of broiler finisher. Nigeria Journal of Animal products,
37(1)1-12.
Iyeghe-Erakpotobor, G. T. (2007). Effect of concentrate and forage type on performance digestibility of
growing Rabbits under sub-humid tropical condition. National Animal production Research
institute Ahmadu Bello University. Shika-Zaria. Asian Journal of Animal and veterinary
Advances 2 (3), 125 – 132, 2007. ISSN 1683- 9919
Omowumi, S. A. & Ayoade, L. A. (2013). Nutritional composition of the fruit of the Nigerian wild date
palm, phoenix daclylifera. World Journal of Dairy & food science, 8(2), 196-200,2013. ISSN
1817-308+ (c) IDOSI publications, 2013.
Page | 238
CARCASS CUTS AND ORGANOLEPTIC PROPERTIES OF RABBIT MEAT FED DIETS

CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF ROASTED DATE PALM SEED MEAL.
Shuaibu, M. D1⃰⃰., Aremu, A2 and Jiya, E.Z.2

1
Department Of Animal Health and Production,
College of Agriculture, Mokwa, Niger state.
2
Department Of Animal Production,
Federal University Of Technology, Minna, Niger State
Corresponding author: mohammedshuaibu73@gmail.com; +2347031577865
ABSTRACT
The objective of this study was to determine the carcass cuts and organoleptic properties of rabbit meat
fed diets containing varying levels of roasted date palm seed meal. The roasted date palm seed meal was
fed to weaner rabbits at different dietary treatment levels of 0 %, 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, and 20 % respectively.
A total of 45 rabbits of mixed sexes of ages of 5-6 weeks and average initial weights of 555.67-600g were
used for the experiment for a period of 12 weeks in a completely randomized design experiment. The
rabbits were randomly allocated to five (5) treatments with each treatment having 9 rabbits, made up of
three replicates with three (3) rabbits per replicate. Final weights of rabbits ranges between 1664g to
1738.89g.The organoleptic characteristics were generally acceptable and rated between the range of 5.30-
6.50 with rabbits on 20 % inclusion of roasted date palm seed meal recording the best values in all
parameters. Amongst the cut parts and organs examined, dressing percent, weight of head, intestine, neck
and lumbosacral region were significantly influenced by dietary treatments.
Rabbit meat, carcass cuts, organoloptic, date palm seed
INTRODUCTION
The use of unconventional feed stuff as substitutes for grains and the search for non-conventional
feedstuffs has been the most active area of animal nutrition research in the tropical world. Ikani and
Adesehinwa, (2000). Most research effort in animal nutrition in Nigeria is geared towards sourcing for
readily available and less competitive feed resources to replace the conventional feed. The search for
cheaper source of animal protein brings rabbit in to focus. The attributes of meat quality is of great
commercial importance, these attributes such as colour, texture, juiciness, and flavor require examining as
consumers consider these attributes as they make cooked meat edible, attractive, appetizing and
nutritious. This research work was conducted to examine the carcass characteristics of rabbits fed diets
containing graded levels of roasted date palm seed meal and also to determine the organoleptic qualities
of meat from rabbits fed diets containing graded levels of roasted date palm seed meal

This experiment was conducted at the Rabbitry unit, behind Niger State Veterinary Centre, Minna, Niger
State. The date palm seed used as a test ingredient is a hard coated seed and this makes the seed difficult
to be processed and also makes the seed components difficult to digest. Therefore, the seeds were roasted
in open frying pan with sand at bottom of the pan to reduce the hardiness and antinutritional content and
grounded to pass through 0.5mm wire mesh seive so that it will bind well when pelleted. 45 weaned
rabbits of 6-7 weeks of age were used for the experiment in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD). The
rabbits were randomly allocated to five (5) treatments. Each treatment was replicated thrice (3) with each
replicate having three (3) rabbits and nine (9) rabbits per treatment. The rabbits were fed with the diets
that contained inclusion of different levels of roasted date palm seed meals. Treatment one (T1), the
control, contained 0 % roasted date palm seeds meal (RDPSM). T2 5 % RDPSM, T3 10 % RDPSM, T4
15 % RDPSM and T5 20 % RDPSM. The rabbits were treated against ectoparasites, dewormed against
endoparasites and given broad spectrum antibiotics against bacteria infection. Groundnut hay was fed
alongside the test experimental diets, test diets were served to the rabbits in the morning and groundnut
hay was served in the late afternoon. At the end of the experiment, one rabbit per replicate (three per
Page | 239
treatment) were randomly selected, weighed and slaughtered for carcass proportion. Muscles of the fore
arm hind legs were used for organoleptic assessment (meat sensory test) was carried out with twenty (20)
member of meat sensory evaluation panel (semi-trained) according to the procedures of (AMSA, 1995)
were used to evaluate meat colour, tenderness, juiciness, flavour and overall acceptability of rabbit meat
raised on different levels of roasted date palm seed meal. Parameters measured were carcass cuts and
organoleptic characteristics. The data collected were subjected to one way analysis of Variance
(ANOVA). Significant difference between treatments means were separated using Duncan‘s multiple
range test as outlined by Lintel (2002).

Dietary Levels of Roasted Date Palm Seed Meal (%)
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
Ingredient (%)
Maize 51.49 48.92 46.34 43.77 41.19
RDPSM 0.00 2.57 5.15 7.72 10.30
SBM 16.39 16.39 16.39 16.39 16.39
Rice Bran 17.04 17.04 17.04 17.04 17.04
GNC 7.08 7.08 7.08 7.08 7.08
Fish Meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone Meal 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Limestone 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
*Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated Values (%)
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2700.05 2676.96 2653.80 2630.72 2607.55
Crude protein 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.01
Crude fibre 9.66 11.07 12.49 13.90 14.32
Ether extract 6.46 6.59 6.72 6.85 6.99
Methionine 0.32 0.30 0.31 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.85 0.88 0.90 0.91 0.94
Calcium 1.64 1.73 1.82 1.90 2.00
Phosphorus 0.93 1.13 1.33 1.55 1.75
*Premix supplied the following per kg diet: vit. A, 10000 I.U; vit. D, 2000 I.I; vit. E, 25 mg; vit. K,
2 mg; Thiamine B1, 1.8 mg; Riboflavin B2, 5 mg; Pyridoxine B6, 3.5 mg; Niacin, 28 mg; vit. B12
0.015 mg; Pantothenic acid, 7.5 mg; Folic acid, 0.75 mg; Biotin, 0.06 mg; chlorine chloride, 300
mg; Manganese, 40 mg; Zinc, 30 mg; Antioxidant 1.25mg Iron, 20 mg; Copper, 3 mg; Iodine, 1 mg;
Selenium, 0.2 mg; Cobalt, 0.2 mg
RESULTS
Table 2 shows that significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in all treatments. Treatment 5 (20 %
RDPSM) was significantly (P<0.05) better than orther treatments in meat colour, tenderness, juiciness,
flavour and overall acceptability of rabbit meat.
Table3 shows the carcass cuts of rabbits fed diets containing varying levels of roasted date palm seed
meal (RDPSM). Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in the live weight of rabbits fed RDPSM.
T1 and T2 were significantly higher than other treatments while treatment 5 recorded the lowest value of
1610g (Table 3). Significant differences (P<0.05) were also recorded in the slaughter weight where
treatment 2 and 1 were statistically similar while other treatments fed RDPSM also recorded statistically
similar values. The cut up parts recorded significant differences in the head, neck and lumbosacral region
Page | 240
The head of the rabbits fed RDPSM recorded significant differences (p<0.05), treatments containing
RDPSM recorded values that were statistically similar to the control experiment. The visceral organs
recorded significant differences in the intestine, spleen, heart, lungs, kidney and liver. Significant
difference (P<0.05) were recorded in the intestine of rabbits fed RDPSM
Table 2: Organoleptic evaluation of rabbits fed diets containing graded levels of roasted date palm
seed meal (RDPSM)
Parameter Diets
Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4 Treatment 5 LS

0%RDPSM 5%RDPSM 10%RDPSM 15%RDPSM 20%RDPSM
Colour 4.90bc 4.75bc 5.60ab 5.20ab 5.90a *
Tenrderness 5.75ab 5.30b 5.85ab 5.40b 6.40a *
Juiciness 5.30ab 5.20ab 5.60ab 5.00b 5.95a *
Flavour 5.50bc 4.95cd 5.75ab 4.55d 6.30a *
Overall
Acceptability 6.00ab 5.40bc 6.35a 5.30c 6.50a *
Discussion
The result of organoleptic evaluation of rabbit meat fed diets containing varying levels of roasted palm
seed meal (RDPSM) is shown in table 3. Significant differences were observed among all treatments on
the physical variables evaluated in this study. The result revealed that treatment 5 with 20 % RDPSM was
generally attested to be better than other treatments in all parameters. Although there was a significant
difference in the colour of the rabbit meat among treatments, treatments with RDPSM inclusion recorded
significantly higher values than the control. The result showed that rabbit meat fed inclusion of RDPSM
recorded values higher than the control diet. A similar report by Nasiru, et. al. (2011) who recorded 2.89
for colour and 2.81 for ternderness, they considered meat tenderness as the most important palatability
attribute of meat and that it is a critical eating quality which determine whether consumers are repeat
buyers. Significant difference was also recorded in the juiciness and flavour of the rabbit meat fed roasted
date palm seed meal (RDPSM). Despite the fact that colour, tenderness, juiciness and flavour were all
within the range of 5-6. The overall acceptability was rated 6.50. The panelist accessed cooked rabbit
meat fed roasted date palm seed meal (RDPSM) from slightly to like moderately. Nasiru, et al. (2011)
opined that colour is the most important criteria in meat assessment and that colour is one of the most
cherished attributes of meat that attracts consumers, that juiciness of meat is made up of two similar
effects, the impression of moisture released during chewing and salivation produced by flavor factors
while Egena and Ocheme (2008) were of the view that increase in temperature during cooking causes
shrinkage of meat tissue leading to the release of juices Significant differences were observed on the live
weight of the rabbits fed RDPSM. Treatment 2 (5 % RDPSM) achieved the heaviest value (1736.67g) but
statistically the same with the control while other treatments fed RDPSM were statistically the same.
Non-significant differences were recorded for blood, fore limb, hind limb, gall bladder, cervicothoracic
region (CTR) and abdominal fat. This showed that the dietary treatments did not influence the weights of
these organs. Significant differences were obtained in the dressing percentage, the values ranged between
65.47 – 67.61 %. The dressing percentages in this study was higher than 58.32 – 63.61 % as reported by
Adama and Ayanwale, (2000) and also higher than 47.8 – 49.6 % and 42.0 – 48.38 as reported by
Olorunsanyan, et. al. (2007) and Omage, et. al. (2009) respectively. Date palm seeds have showed that it
Page | 241
is a waste product that can be converted to wealth. It is also an indication that date palm seed that is
known as a nuisance can now be regarded as a free waste product that can be used to feed livestock,
especially rabbits
Table 3: Mean Carcass Cuts of Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Varying Levels of Roasted date Palm
Seed Meal (RDPSM). Expressed as a Percentage of Live Weight
Dietary Treatments
Parameters Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4 Treatment 5 LS
10% 15% 20 %
0 % RDPSM 5 % RDPSM RDPSM RDPSM RDPSM
a a b b
Live weight 1726.67 1736.67 1640 1616.67 1610.00b *
a a b b b
Slaughter weight 1663.33 1666.67 1571.67 1556.67 1556 *
Blood % 4.09 4.01 3.76 3.71 3.31 NS
b ab ab ab a
Dressing % 65.47 67.14 66.29 66.29 67.97 *
Cut up Parts
Head % 9.72ab 9.91ab 9.60b 10.44a 9.91ab *
bc d b a c
Neck % 2.28 1.97 2.35 2.82 2.16 *
Fore limb % 7.2 7.37 7.59 7.55 7.46 NS
Hind limb % 11.09 11.00 10.81 9.56 9.27 NS
CTR % 9.53 11.38 10.46 10.31 11.09 NS
b ab ab ab a
LSR % 16.14 17.66 17.57 17.85 18.76 *
Viscerals
Intestine % 20.95a 17.84b 17.81b 17.23b 17.83b *
c ab bc abc a
Spleen % 0.05 0.07 0.06 0.05 0.08 *
Gall bladder % 0.53 0.13 0.14 0.16 0.14 NS
bc bc c a ab
Heart % 0.22 0.21 0.18 0.27 0.25 *
ab b a ab a
Lung % 0.45 0.38 0.50 0.46 0.49 *
c c b b a
Kidney % 0.56 0.52 0.75 0.75 1.04 *
bc bc ab a c
Liver % 1.81 1.78 2.08 2.36 1.67 *
Abdominal fat % 1.74 1.58 1.65 1.62 1.63 NS
Offals
Skin % 9.40c 10.85b 11.37a 11.03b 10.84b *
Fore leg % 1.41ab 1.31ab 1.12b 1.17b 1.57a *
a b ab ab ab
Hind leg % 2.60 1.84 1.94 2.41 2.29 *
bc d a ab cd
Tail % 0.23 0.19 0.26 0.25 0.21 *
CONCLUSION
1. On the organoleptic evaluation, the meats of Rabbits on 20 % RDPSM were generally attested,
accepted and even better than other treatments. Non-significant differences recorded for fore limb, hind
limb and cervicothoracic region (CTR), and the same statistical differences of lumbosacral region is a
show that RDPSM does not have any deleterious effect on the meat of rabbits This result of visceral
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organs showed that the dietary treatments did not any abnormal influence the weights of lungs, liver and
intestine.
RECOMMENDATION
Inclusion of up to 20 % of RDPSM in the diet of rabbit gives better result on organoleptic evaluation.
However further researches can be carried out using higher levels of inclusion and other processing
technics of date palm seed and RDPSM have demonstrated a reduced unit cost of feed per kg.
REFERENCES
Adama, T. Z., & Ayanwale, B. A. (2000). The effect of replacing maize with cocoyam (xanthosoms
sagittifoluim and colocasia esculantun) corms of performance of weaned rabbits. Journal of
science technology and mathematics education. 3 (1), 170-178
AMSA (1995). Research guide lines for cookery sensory evaluation and instrument of fresh meat.
Chicago American meat science Association (AMSA) & National livestock and meat and Board
Egena, S. S. A., & Ocheme, O. B. (2008). Effect of hydrocyanic acid intake on sensory properties of
broiler meat. Paksitan Journal of Nutrition.,(7), pp 191-193
Ikani,E. I. and A. O. K. Adesehinwa, (2000) promoting non-convectional feed stuff in livestock feedng.
The need for extension strategy. In;Animal production iin the new millennium and option.
Nasiru, A., Muhammad, B. F., & Abdullahi, Z. (2011). Effects of cooking time and potash concentration
on organoleptic properties of red and white meat. Journal of food technology,Year 2011,Volume
9,Issue 4,Page No:119-12
Olorunsanya, B., Ayoola, M. A., Fayeye, T. R., Olagunju, T. A. & Olorunsanya, E. O. (2007). Effects of
replacing maize with sundried cassava waste meal on growth performance and carcass
characteristic of meat type rabbit. Livestock Research for Development, 19 (4), 2007
Omage, J. J., Agubosi, O. C. P., Bawa, G. S. & Onimisi, P. A. (2009). Evaluation of the Nutritive value of
Quantity protein Maize on the Growth performance and carcass characteristics of weaner Rabbits.
Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 8 (2), 106 – 111
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PERFORMANCE AND EGG QUALITY OF LAYING HENS FED VARYING DIETARY

LEVELS OF CALCIUM SOURCE
*
N. W. ANIZOBA, N. E. IKEH, I. E. UZOCHUKWU, B. C AMAEFULE, S.O.C. UGWU and N. S.
MACHEBE
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria Nsukka, 410001, Nigeria
*
Corresponding Email: nnenna.nnajiofor@unn.edu.ng 08035267075
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to determine the performance and egg quality of hens fed varying levels of
calcium source. A total of seventy- two (72), sixteen (16) weeks old laying hens (weighing 1.2 +_ 2.00kg)
were randomly assorted into six (6) treatments groups: T 1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 with twelve (12) birds per
treatment in a completely randomized experimental design with a 2x3 factorial arrangement .Two calcium
sources (limestone, L and periwinkle shell, PS) were supplemented in the diets at different levels. The
birds in T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 were fed basal diets of varying calcium (Ca) levels namely: 3.0% L,
3.75% L, 4.5% L, 3.0% PS, 3.75% PS and 4.5% PS for a period of twelve weeks. Feed intake, feed
conversion ratio, hen day egg production, haugh unit, albumen height, egg shell weight, egg shell
thickness, shape index, shell percentage, egg shell weight per surface area, specific gravity and albumen
index were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T4, T5 and T6 compared to T1, T2 and T3 . Based on the results
obtained from the present study, it was possible to conclude that 3.75 calcium levels was appropriate for
laying hens and the inclusion of periwinkle shell in layers ration as calcium source is more beneficial than
limestone.
Keywords: Periwinkle shell, Limestone, Egg quality, Performance, Laying hens
INTRODUCTION
Calcium sources in the digestive system are an important factor for formation of eggs with optimum shell
quality (Keshavarz et al., 1993). Due to the high calcium requirements of layers, the knowledge on
calcium sources that can replace or be used in association with calcitic limestone is essential in order to
improve or to maintain performance and egg quality (Wang et al., 2014). Additional sources of calcium
have been introduced and are in practical use with birds, such as egg shell, oyster shell, limestone and
others but there are few studies on the use of periwinkle shell as calcium sources for laying hens which
currently has added to the environmental waste menace (Walk et al., 2012a). For sustainable
development, wastes should be recycled, reused and channeled towards the production of value added
products (Abdulrahman et al., 2014).
The periwinkle shell is very rich in calcium and can be manipulated to yield various calcium compounds.
The shell is the hard, rigid outer calcium carbonate covering of certain animals (Ugoeze and Chukwu,
2015). Roth-Bassell and Clydesdale (1990) found a differential solubility of each calcium source tested at
different pH. The mean values show that calcium carbonate and marble dust are the most soluble, bivalve
shell, periwinkle shell and oyster shell are of medium solubility, while egg shell and snail shell dissolve
more slowly with less than 50% solubility after 1 h in 0.1 N HCl. It was observed that the structures of the
individual calcium sources tested were different. Calcium carbonate is more flaked in appearance,
eggshell particles are in the form of a mesh while oyster shell and periwinkle shell is more of an arranged
layer of rectangular blocks. A slow solubilisation is preferable to very rapid one, because the former more
closely matches the prolonged duration of need for calcium supply to the shell gland in laying hens
(Leeson and Summers, 2005). Therefore, proper sources of calcium and the levels are necessary for diets
of laying hens due to how important the mineral is for not only egg shell synthesis and bone turnover but
also for maintaining calcium homeostasis throughout the body and the circulating blood supply.

Experimental site: The study was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Department of Animal Science
Teaching and Research Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka in Enugu State, South Eastern Nigeria.
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Nsukka lies in the derived Savannah region, and is located at the point of intersection of Longitude 7o
12.5 1N and latitude 6o 451E with a maximum plateau altitude of 443m and a minimum of 207m above
sea level.
Experimental animals and managements: A total of seventy- two (72) laying hens were randomly
assigned to six (6) treatments with twelve (12) birds per treatment. Each treatment was further divided
into three (3) replicate groups with four (4) birds in each pen totaling eighteen (18) experimental units.
Allocation of feeding trial began when they were seventeen (17) week old so as to get them acclimatized
to the environment. Then their initial weight was taken and they were randomly selected and housed in
deep litter pens in separate cells. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum to the birds. They were
provided the same management conditions (Floor space, temperature, light, vaccination programme).
Experimental diets: Two calcium sources (limestone and periwinkle shell) were supplemented in the
diets at different levels as shown in Table 1. The birds in T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 were fed isocaloric-
isonitrogeneous basal diets of varying calcium (Ca) levels namely: 3.0% L, 3.75% L, 4.5% L, 3.0% PS,
3.75% PS and 4.5% PS for a period of twelve weeks. The crude protein level used for the diet formulation
was 16% and 2700cal/kg metabolizable energy according to the recommended requirements of laying
hen.
Table 1: Percentage composition of the experimental diet

Limestone Periwinkle
3.0 3.75 4.5 3.0 3.75 4.5
Feed ingredient (kg) T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Maize 45.96 45.96 45.96 45.96 45.96 45.96
Soybean meal (SBM) 15.44 15.44 15.44 15.44 15.44 15.44
Fish Meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Wheat offal 19.68 13.33 7.64 18.67 12.57 6.45
Palm kernel cake (PKC) 6.64 10.79 14.73 7.38 11.44 15.53
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Dicalcium phosphate 1.39 1.39 1.39 1.39 1.39 1.39
Limestone 7.89 9.87 11.84 0.00 0.00 0.00
Periwinkle shell 0.00 0.00 0.00 8.16 10.20 12.23
Vitamin premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100 100
Data collection: Birds were individually wing-tagged in order to monitor individual body weight as well
as the group body weight at the start (17 wk) to finish (30 wk) post hatch. Body weight was obtained by
weighing hens at the beginning and at the end of the experimental period. Fifty-four (54) eggs (3 eggs per
replicate) were randomly selected at the end of the experiment for egg quality analysis. Each egg was
carefully broken and the shell dried after which the egg shell was weighed in using an electronic balance.
Statistical analysis: The data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in a completely
Randomized Design (CRD) experimental design with a 2x3 factorial arrangement and the significant
differences in means were separated using Duncan New Multiple Range Text (Duncan, 1955).

Productive Performance: The results of the effect of dietary calcium sources and levels on the
performance of laying hens are presented in Table 2. The result reveals no significant (p>0.05)
differences on the initial body weight, final body weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain and
egg weight but feed intake, feed conversion ratio and hen day egg production were significant (p<0.05)
among treatments. The result showed a negative impact T 1> T2> T3> T4> T5 > T6 on increasing dietary
calcium on birds‘intake. This implies that excess calcium has a neutralizing effect in the intestines that
Page | 245
caused a rise of intestinal pH. This caused deficiency by formation of insoluble calcium phosphate in the
digestive tract and impairs metabolic functions (Kheiri and Rahmani, (2006) that caused the birds to
refrain from eating. Feed conversion ratio in this experiment is higher in the treatments (2.98-3.85) than
the results reported by Pelicia et al. (2009) who depicted 2.08-2.19. Feed conversion ratio significantly
improved by incorporating 3.00% and 3.75% calcium in the diet during the overall period as compared to
the group fed diet containing 4.50% calcium. Improved Feed conversion ratio with decreased dietary
calcium was associated with the capacity of the birds to maintain optimal egg production with an increase
in their feed intake. These results proved that in calcium low diets, there is higher calcium utilization due
to higher efficiency of intestinal absorption. So, birds improve the utilization of dietary calcium within
their physiological limits as a form of compensation.
Egg Quality: The results of the effect of dietary calcium sources and levels on the egg qualities of laying
hens are presented in tables 3. However, haugh unit, albumen height, egg shell weight, egg shell
thickness, shape index, shell percentage, egg shell weight per surface area, specific gravity and albumen
index were highly significant (p<0.01) among treatments. Generally, the higher specific gravity value
observed in T6 (1.09±0.01) is related to thicker eggshell and shell weight per unit of surface area which is
a desirable characteristic in the egg industry. The highest eggshell thickness was obtained from eggs of
hens in T6. The increase in eggshell thickness may be because of the presence of the coarse particles of
periwinkle shell. This shows that the larger particles (PS) should remain in the gizzard (an acidic
environment) longer than limestone, thereby having greater calcium retention. Therefore, the acidity
would help to dissociate the CaCo3 into ionic calcium, hence producing more available calcium for
absorption. The more calcium that is available to the shell gland during egg shell synthesis, the thicker the
egg shells would ultimately be. Shell weight was found to be 4.95-5.36g and this is lower than the
estimates reported by Mankpondji et al. (2012) who recorded 6.58-6.05g. Variations in this response
could be due to the type of the diet, breed, and age of the bird or the prevailing environmental conditions.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a Haugh Unit of 72 and above (score
AA) is acceptable and indicates freshness in egg. Thus, the Haugh Unit obtained from all the group is an
indication that eggs produced by hens fed both limestone and periwinkle shells were of standard quality
CONCLUSION
From the results of this study, a slower solubilization of sources of calcium would make calcium available
during the time of the eggshell calcification and diminish bone calcium mobilization. Thus, at the calcium
level 3.75 (T4), the laying hens had the best feed conversion ratio which corresponds to a higher hen day
egg production. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that 3.75 calcium levels was appropriate for laying
hens and that periwinkle shell could be included in the laying diet as a satisfactory calcium source.
Page | 246
TABLE 2: Interactions of Dietary Calcium sources and Levels on the Productive Performance of Laying Hens
Interaction
Limestone Periwinkle shell
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Parameters 3.00 3.75 4.50 3.00 3.75 4.50 P.value
IBW (g) 1210.00 ± 5.00 1250.00±2.88 1240.00 ± 9.40 1233.30 ± 14.24 1235.00 ± 10.10 1236.70 ± 9.27 0.11NS
FBW (g) 1501.70±23.01 1571.71±49.03 1532.70±18.11 1569.00±48.68 1545.70±14.45 1590.00±18.02 0.28NS
TWG (g) 291.67±18.27 321.67±49.92 292.67±27.22 335.67±37.61 310.67±11.55 353.33±27.28 0.49NS
ADWG (g) 4.62±0.28 5.10±0.79 4.64±0.43 5.33±0.59 4.93±0.18 5.60±0.43 0.49NS
a a b ab a c
FI (g) 7688.30±307.24 7498.90±124.76 6868.10±259.48 7089.40±226.86 7555.00±143.79 6091.70±237.91 0.02*
FCR 3.34±0.42b 3.28±0.44b 3.78±0.11a 2.91±0.24bc 2.52±0.05c 3.93±0.09a 0.04*
EggWT (g) 50.81±1.50 50.19±0.91 50.46±1.16 49.20±0.99 49.31±1.18 44.90±1.27 0.11NS
b b d b a c
HDEP (%) 28.02±2.90 24.32±3.85 17.41±0.81 25.76. ±0.94 39.41±1.50 21.42±1.73 0.02*
a,b,c,d– Means in the same row with different superscripts are significant at 5 or 1 % (* P < 0.05; ** P < 0.01), NS- Not significant. IBW: Initial
body weight, FBW: final body weight, TWG: total weight gain, ADWG: average daily weight gain, FI: feed intake, FCR: feed conversion ratio,
Eggwt: egg weight, HDEP: hen day egg production.
.
Page | 247
TABLE 3: Interactions of Dietary Calcium Sources and Levels on the Egg Qualities of Laying Hens
Interaction
Limestone Periwinkle shell
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Parameters 3.00 3.75 4.50 3.00 3.75 4.50 P.value
ESW (g) 4.51 ± 0.11c 4.95 ± 0.05b 5.10 ± 0.01ab 5.13 ± 0.69ab 5.36 ± 0.22a 5.45 ± 0.07a 0.00**
EST (mm) 0.38 ± 0.00b 0.36 ± 0.01b 0.32 ± 0.01c 0.36 ± 0.00b 0.36 ± 0.01b 0.41 ± 0.01a 0.00**
ESI (%) 74.18 ± 0.64c 77.48 ± 0.24b 76.42 ± 0.81b 76.51 ± 0.62b 79.68 ± 0.27a 77.33 ± 0.58b 0.00**
ESA (cm2) 75.83 ± 1.70 75.16 ± 1.02 75.46 ± 1.26 74.04 ± 1.13 74.16 ± 1.34 69.11 ± 1.48 0.11 NS
ab c d bc ab a
SHELL % 10.78 ± 0.18 9.91 ± 0.26 9.02 ± 0.40 10.45 ± 0.14 10.83 ± 0.21 11.44 ± 0.33 0.00**
EWSA (mm/cm2) 60.17 ± 2.39c 66.09 ± 1.51b 69.37 ± 0.71ab 72.08 ± 0.71a 72.10 ± 1.82a 74. 16 ± 1.62a 0.00**
SG 1.06 ± 0.00c 1.06 ± 0.01c 1.05 ± 0.00d 1.08 ± 0.00bc 1.08 ± 0.01bc 1.09 ± 0.01a 0.00**
HU (%) 86.88 ± 3.00cd 86.09 ± 2.30d 94. 73 ± 1.00ab 89.21 ± 1.35bcd 91.99 ± 1.96abc 96.99 ± 0.35a 0.01**
ALB. H (mm) 7.11 ± 0.54cd 6.71 ± 0.18d 8.55 ± 0.22ab 7.44 ± 0.22bcd 8.00 ± 0.44abc 9.00 ± 0.09a 0.01**
ALB. I (%) 5.26 ± 0.42b 5.91 ± 0.43b 7.73 ± 0.30a 5.94 ± 0.22b 6.94 ± 0.37a 7.83 ± 0.19a 0.00**
YOLK. H (cm) 1.47 ± 0.02 1.37 ± 0.02 1.53 ± 0.04 1.54 ± 0.01 1.55 ± 0.02 1.57 ± 0.08 0.27 NS
YOLK. I (%) 39.39 ± 0.71 37.57 ± 0.43 40.42 ± 1.59 40.53 ± 0.40 41.07 ± 0.91 43.16 ± 1.92 0.58 NS
a,b,c,d– Means in the same row with different superscripts are significant at 5 or 1 % (* P < 0.05; ** P < 0.01), NS- Not significant. ESW: egg
shell weight, EST: egg shell thickness, ESI: shape index, ESA: egg surface area, SHELL %: shell percentage, EWSA: egg shell weight per
surface area, SG: specific gravity, HU: haugh unit, ALB.H: albumen height, ALB.I: albumen index, YOLK.H: yolk height and YOLK I: yolk
index.
Page | 248
REFERENCES
Abdulrahman, I., Hamzat, I.T., Bashir, A.M., Haruna, S., Hindatu, Y., Mohammed, N.J., Sulaiman, M.
(2014). From Garbage to Biomaterials: An Overview on Egg Shell Based
Hydroxyapatite.JournalofMaterialAvailableResourceshttp://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2014/802467.pdf
5 March 2015.
Ajakaiye, A., Atteh, J.O and Leeson, S. (2003). Biological availability of calcium in broiler chicks from
different calcium sources found in Nigeria. Animal Feed Science and Technology. 104: 209-214
AOAC (2006). Official Methods of Analysis.18th Ed.,Association of Official Analytical
Chemists,Washington, D. C
Duncan, D.B. (1955) Multiple range and multiple F tests. Biometrics, 11, 1-42.
Keshavarz, K and Nakajima, S (1993). Re-evaluation of calcium and phosphorus requirements of laying
hens for optimum performance and eggshell quality. Poultry Science, 72: 144-153.
Kheiri, F. and Rahmani, H. R. (2006). The Effect of Reducing Calcium and Phosphorus on Broiler
Performance. International Journal of Poultry Science 5 (1): 22-25
Leeson, S. and Summers, J.D. (2005) Commercial poultry production 3rd edition. University Books,
Guelph, Ontario, Canada, pp.: 85-198.
Mankpondji, F. H., Christophe , A. A. M. C., Romaric, C. O., Jean, T. C. C. (2012). Effect of dietary
mode of snail and oyster shells on laying hen‘s performance and eggs quality. International
Journal of applied Poultry research,1(2):55-58.
Pelicia, K., Garcia, E., Mori, C., Faitarone, A.B.G., Silva, A.P., Molino, A.B. and Vercese, F., Berto,
D.A. (2009) Calcium levels and limestone particle size in the diet of commercial layers at the end
of the first production cycle. Brazil. J. Poult. Sci., 11, 87-94.
RothBassell, H.A. and Clydesdale, F.M. (1990). In vitro solubility characteristics of six calcium salts. J.
Food Prot., 55: 1003-1005.
Ugoeze, K.C. and Chukwu, A. (2015). Preliminary evaluation of the properties of biomaterial of
Tympanotonus fuscata shell as pharmaceutical excipient. Int. Res. J. Pharm. 6(2): 104-107.
Walk, C. L., Addo–Chidie, E. K., Bedford, M. R., Adeola, O. (2012a) Evaluation of a highly soluble
calcium source and phytase in the diets of broilers chickens Poult. Sci. 91: 2255-2263.
Wang, S., Chen, W., Zhang, H. X., Ruan, D., Lin, Y. C. (2014). Influence of particle size and calcium
source on productive performance, egg quality and bone parameters in laying ducks Poult. Sci.
93(10), 2560- 25666.
Page | 249
EFFICACY OF SOYA BEAN RESIDUE IN MODIFYING HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM

BIOCHEMISTRY OF BROILER CHICKENS
Lawan, I.1, Marte, U. M.2, Makinta A. A.3, Benishiekh A. A.3, Marte, A. M.3 and Aliyu, A. M.4
1
Department of Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri. Borno State, Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Health and Production, Mohamet Lawan College of Agric, Maiduguri.
3
Department of Animal Health and Production, Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri.
4
National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Service, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Lawan020@gmail.com Tel: +234 8065291101
ABSTRACT
A 28-day feeding trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of soya bean residue (SBR) fed as
replacement for soya bean meal (SBM) as modifiyer of haematology and serum biochemistry of broiler
chickens. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) broiler chicks aged 28 days were randomly assigned to
five dietary treatments with 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% of soya bean meal in the diets being replaced by soya
bean residue meal (SBR). Each treatment was replicated thrice with ten (10) birds per replicate in a
completely randomize design. The results obtained for haematological parameters showed significant
(P<0.05) difference in all treatments indices with the exception of mean corposcular volume (MCV),
mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and
neutrophils. Serum biochemical indices expressed no statistical (P>0.05) differences in terms of direct
bilirubin, conjugate bilirubin, aspartate amino tranferase (ASAT), alanine amino transferase (ALAT),
cholesterol, Na+, Cl- and HCO-3. Total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, creatinine, urea, alkaline
phosphate and K+ on the other hand showed significant (P<0.05) difference compared to control group
and was concluded that, soya bean residue can replace soya bean meal up-to 100% as protein source in
broiler finisher diet.
Key: soya bean residue, haematology, serum biochemistry, broiler finisher
INTRODUCTION
Diets are formulated to provide specific levels of nutrients that are needed for optimum performance.
Blood analysis has been suggested as a readily available and fast means of assessing nutritional health
status of animals on feeding trials because ingestion of dietary components have measurable effects on
blood composition. Several studies conducted by various researchers have indicated in one way or the
other that different diets have different effects on haematological parameters of different species of birds
(Etim et al., 2014). Malnutrition, especially inadequate protein and energy intake lowers the pack cell
volume (PCV) and haemoglobin concentration (Hb). These are microscopic status of the red blood cell
and thus an indication of anemia. Bush (1991), reported that low blood glucose indicate inadequate
energy intake while low blood albumin indicates low protein intake; it has been observed that fast
growing animals especially broiler chickens have high serum albumin, haemoglobin concentration
glucose and low concentration of potassium. However, Adamu et al. (2001) showed that, there is rather
low correlation between blood glucose and energy consumption but that plasma free fatty acid are most
highly related to energy consumption. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of soya
bean residue on the haematological and serum biochemical indices of broiler finisher chickens.

Study site: The study was conducted at the University of Maiduguri Teaching and Research farm of the
Department of Animal Science. Situated on latitude 110 15‘N, longitude 300 05‘E and altitude of 354m
above sea level (Adamu et al., 2001), Maiduguri is a typical Semi arid environment. Diurnal temperature
of >350C is not uncommon for most part of the year.
Experimental Stock and Design: A total of one hundred and fifty (150) straight run Arbor acre strain
broiler chicks were used for the experiment. Five finisher experimental diets was formulated with
different inclusion levels of soya bean residue (SBR) replacing full-fat soya bean meal (SBM) at 0% as
Page | 250
control, 25, 50, 75 and 100% in the five diets (Table 1). Feeding was ad libitum from 4th week up to the
age of 8th weeks.
Blood collection and Response Criteria: At the end of the feeding trial, three birds were randomly
selected from each replicate. The ventral part of the left wing was carefully defeathered to locate the
veins. About 7 ml of blood was collected via the left wing vein of each of the representative birds using a
10ml gauge syringe and scalp vein needle. About 3ml of the blood was fed in to a sterile bottle containing
Ethylene Diethyl Tetra Acetic acid (EDTA), as anticoagulant for haematology Assay. It was placed in an
ice-moist jute material to avoid Haemolysis. The remaining 4ml was fed in to yet another sterile but plain
bottle. Determination of RBC and WBC (along with DLC) were carried out according to Docie and
Lewis, (1991) while MCV, MCH and MCHC were deduced according to Jain (1986) as follows:
Table1. Ingredient Composition and calculated analysis of experimental broiler diets

Dietary Treatments
Ingredients (%) T1 (0%) T2 (25%) T3 (50%) T4 (75%) T5
(100%)
Maize 58.00 58.00 58.00 58.00 58.00
Wheat offal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Soya bean meal 17.00 12.75 8.50 4.25 0.00
Soya bean waste 0.00 4.25 8.50 12.75 17.00
Groundnut cake 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish meal 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50
Bone meal 01.70 01.70 01.70 01.70 01.70
Min-Vit Premix* 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
NaCl 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
Crude protein (%) 21.38 20.44 19.21 18.50 17.28
Crude fibre (%) 3.94 5.59 7.25 8.90 10.55
Ash (%) 3.88 3.76 3.64 3.52 3.40
Ether extract (%) 7.84 7.08 6.32 5.52 4.76
NFE (%) 69.08 68.68 68.08 67.52 66.92
ME (Kcal/kg) 3004.85 2983.88 2962.91 2941.94 2921.18
NFE = Nitrogen free extract ME= Metabolizable energy
* = Bio Mix Broiler Finisher Premix supplying the following per Kg of feed: Vitamin A=3,400,000IU,
VitaminD3= 600,000IU, Vitamin E=4,000mg, VitaminK3 = 600mg, Vitamin B1 = 640mg, Vitamin B2 =
1600mg, Niacin = 8,000mg, Pantothenic=2000mg, Vitamin B6 = 600mg, Vitamin B12 = 4mg, Folic acid
=200mg, BiotinH2 = 300mg, Choline Chioride = 70,000mg, Cobalt = 80mg, Copper = 1200mg, Iodine =
400mg, Iron = 8,000mg, Manganese =16,000mg, selenium=80mg, Zinc=12,000mg and
Antioxidant=500mg.
MCV (fl) = PCVX10/RBCX10; MCH (pg) = HbX10/RBC (106); MCHC (%) = HbX100/PCV.
From the centrifuged blood sample in plain bottles, serum was collected for biochemical assay. Blood
glucose was determined using Hexokinase method. Total protein and albumin were determined by Biuret
method and Bromocresol Green method respectively. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Creatinin as well as
activities of the liver enzymes (ALK-PO4-, AS AT and ALAT) were determined by Standard Enzymatic
method as outlined by Bush (1991). Serum Cholesterol was determined by Burchad reaction.
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Statistical Analysis: Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using Completely Randomized
Design (CRD) (Steel and Torrie, 1980). Significant differences among treatment means were compared
using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (1955).

The results of haematological parameters and differential leukocytes counts are presented in Table 2.
There were no significant (P>0.05) differences among treatment groups for all the haematological
parameters except mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean
corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and neutrophils count compared to control group. The
mean values recorded for MCV, MCH and MCHC in this study were all significantly (P<0.05) different
among all treatment groups. The range of values 11.90 to 16.61 fl, 39.13 to 53.50 pg, and 32.04 to
33.25% for MCV, MCH and MCHC respectively, were lower than the values reported by Wikivet (2013)
and Adamu et al. (2015) except for MCHC value, which was higher than the value reported by (Etim et
al., 2014) and similar to the values reported by Wikivet (2013) as normal ranges for chickens. The
variation in values and significant differences may be link to the treatment diets containing test material
(SBR). However, the values (11.90 to 16.61 Fl, 39.13 to 53.50 Pg, and 32.04 to 33.25%) for MCV, MCH
and MCHC respectively, recorded were within normal range for chickens thus, the birds had normal
physiological status (Anon, 1980). Moreover, PCV, Hb and RBC values in all the treatments showed
normal and adequate nutritional status of the broiler diets which indicated the nutritional status of the
birds. The WBC count and differential leukocytes counts revealed no significant (P>0.05) difference
among all the treatment groups except the neutrophils which differ significantly (P<0.05) among
treatment groups which may be attributed to the test material. This shows that SBW inclusion in poultry
pose no detrimental effect on WBC count. The neutrophils showed significant (P<0.05) difference among
the treatment groups. Treatment 3 was significantly higher (44.0%), followed by treatment 2 while
treatment 4 and 5 were similar compared to the control group (30.67%), despite higher values recorded,
no sign of ill health condition was observed (neutrophilia). Bush (1975) reported that, increase in the
number of neutrophils (neutrophilia) generally indicates the existence of recent (acute) infection, usually
with bacteria such as streptococci and staphylococci especially in septicemia and it may also be due to an
acute loss of RBC particularly in acute haemolytic anaemia, while decrease in the number of neutrophils
(neutropenia) occurs in overwhelming bacterial infection and it may indicate bone marrow damage by
toxins (Bush, 1975), thus too low or too high a value is caused by variety of possible health conditions
with medication effect and bacterial infection responsible for lower values as reported by Merck (2012).
The increase in number of neutrophils indicates that there is no sign of bacterial infection or ill-health
especially as the values fall within the normal physiological limits of chickens (Rastogi, 2007). However,
these values are slightly higher than values (32.67 to 43.67%) reported by Adamu et al. (2015).
Therefore, feeding soya bean residue to broiler finisher chickens posed no detrimental effect on
haematological indices and is in agreement with the report of Etim, (2010).
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Table 2: Haematological parameters of broiler chickens fed varying levels of soya bean residue (SBR)
as replacement for soya bean meal (SBM) diets
Treatments/Diets
Parameters
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM
(0%SBR) (25%SBR) (50%SBR) (75%SBR) (100%SBR)
Packed cell volume (%) 30.67 30.67 29.33 29.33 28.67 1.35NS
Hb (g/dl) 10.20 10.17 9.63 9.63 9.40 0.43NS
6 3
RBC (x10 /mm ) 20.63 20.78 20.67 17.00 20.08 1.67NS
b b ab a ab
MCV (fl) 11.90 12.11 14.20 16.61 14.29 2.69*
MCH (pg) 39.97b 39.13b 46.63ab 53.50a 48.03ab 4.26*
MCHC (%) 33.25ab 33.15ab 32.85b 32.04c 33.01a 0.28*
3 3
WBC (x10 /mm ) 1.82 1.80 1.70 1.57 1.66 0.17NS
Differential Leucocytes
counts (%) 30.67b 39.00ab 44.00a 31.67ab 31.67ab 5.98*
Neutrophils 0.00 0.33 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.18NS
Monocytes 1.33 2.33 1.33 1.67 3.67 1.44NS
Eosinophils 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Basophils 64.67 58.33 54.67 66.67 64.67 6.55NS
Lymphocyte
a,b = Means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05),
NS = Not Significant (P>0.05)
SEM = Standard Error of Means,
*= Significant (P<0.05), **= Values are means of 3 determinations,
WBC= White blood cells counts, Hb= Haemoglobin concentration,
RBC= Red blood cell counts, MCV= Mean corpuscular volume,
MCHC= Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, MCH= Mean corpuscular haemoglobin.
The serum biochemical indices obtained in this study are presented in Table 3. There were no significant
(P>0.05) differences among all treatments with respect to direct bilirubin, conjugate bilirubin, cholesterol,
aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), sodium, chloride, and
hydrogencarbonate (HCO-3) while total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, creatinine, urea,
alkalinephosphatase (PO4) and potassium (K) showed significance (P<0.05) differences among all the
treatment groups. The total blood protein ranged from 48.67 to 69.67 g/dl, treatments 2 and 5 were
significantly higher followed by treatments 3 and 4 compared to the control group. This revealed that
protein content of the diet was adequate and was efficiently utilized and produce adequate amount of
plasma protein (Ochei and Kolhatkar, 2000). The albumin and globulin values ranged from 32.33 to 40.67
g/dl and 16.33 to 29.00 g/dl, respectively. The range (32.33 to 40.67g/dl) for albumin implies that,
osmotic pressure of the blood plasma was maintained indicating normal systemic protein utilization
(Wikivet, 2013). The mean values for creatinine ranged from 52.67 to 82.33 mmol/l. The results showed
significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatment groups. Creatinine values for T4 (75% SBR) was
the highest while T3 (50% SBR) recorded the least value. The values recorded were lower than the values
(71.67 to 98.00 mmol/l) reported Adamu et al. (2015) and falls within normal range (50 to 70 mmol/l)
reported by Jain (1986). Glucose shows significant (P<0.05) difference among all treatment groups. The
values recorded (4.10 to 5.67 mmol/l) were however, within the normal physiological limits (125 to 200
mg/l) for chickens (Jain, 1986). Urea analysis did not follow a definite trend, the 100% replacement group
was significantly (P<0.05) higher than the 0, 25, 50, and 75% replacement groups. Higher blood urea
(4.77 to 10.67mmol/l) than the normal levels (2.34 to 3.12 mmol/l) are associated with protein quality, all
the values observed were above the range of 2.5 to 5.8 mmol/l reported by Dong (2005) who fed soya
Page | 253
bean residue meal as replacement for SBM for ducks. The results of alkaline phosphatase (PO 4) obtained
were significantly (P<0.05) different among all treatment groups. The values (44.33 to 93.00 /l)
observed were lower than the values reported by Kwari et al. (2014) and Adamu et al. (2015). Despite the
fact that some values recorded were significant (P<0.05), there was no negative results on performance,
physiological activities and status, no sign of ill-health was observed and is within the range values
postulated by Anon (2007)
Table 3: Biochemical indices of broiler chickens fed soya bean residue as replacement for soya
bean meal
Treatments/Diets
Parameters * * T1(0%SBR T2 T3 T4 (75%SBR) T5 SEM
) (25%SBR) (50%SBR) (100%SBR)
Total protein (g/dl) 48.67b 69.67a 60.00ab 58.67ab 64.33a 5.46*
b a ab ab
Albumin (g/dl) 32.33 40.67 37.33 36.00 35.33ab 3.45*
Globulin (g/dl) 16.33b 29.00a 22.67ab 22.67ab 29.00a 3.85*
Urea (g/dl) 4.77b 8.33ab 8.07ab 7.27ab 10.67a 1.98*
Glucose (iu/l) 5.30ab 4.10b 4.30ab 5.67a 4.60ab 0.70*
Creatinine (mg/dl) 58.00ab 61.33ab 52.67b 82.33a 53.33b 11.96*
Cholesterol (mmol/l) 3.50 3.20 3.47 3.23 3.60 0.31NS
Sodium (mmol/l) 134.33 137.33 142.00 139.67 141.67 5.56NS
Potassium (mmol/l) 4.90ab 4.60ab 3.90b 1.83ab 5.80a 0.60*
Chloride (mmol/l) 98.67 102.33 98.67 96.67 100.67 2.89NS
HCO-3 (mmol/l) 24.33 24.67 24.33 23.67 26.33 2.96NS
b a ab a a
Alk. Phosphate (iu/l) 44.33 93.00 68.00 73.33 83.00 11.43*
Dir. Biliru. (mmol/l) 3.07 2.37 2.17 3.17 3.57 0.71NS
Conj. Biliru. (mmol/l) 5.27 5.13 5.37 4.67 5.20 0.60NS
ASAL (iu/l) 110.00 107.67 105.67 109.00 119.00 8.27NS
ALAT (iu/l) 54.00 46.00 51.67 48.33 43.33 8.87NS
a,b = means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05), NS= Not Significant (P>0.05),
SEM = Standard Error of Means, *= Significant (P<0.05), ** = Values are means of 3 determinations, HCO-3=
Hydrogencarbonate,
ASAT = Aspartate aminotransferase, ALAT= Alanine aminotransferase, Dir. Biliru= Direct bilirubin,
Conj. Biliru. = Conjugate bilirubin, Alk. Phosphate = Alkalinephosphate
CONCLUSION
This study observed slightly high values of some haematological parameters with no ill health condition.
Therefore, soya bean residue (SBR) can replace soya bean meal (SBM) with no negative effect on
haematology and serum biochemistry of broiler finisher chicken. Further more, it can serve as good
ingredient for poultry feeds manufacturing.
REFERENCES
Adamu, S. B., Mohammed, G., Inuwa, L., Ugwumadu, C. R., Muhammad, A. I. and Muhammad, A. A.
(2015). Studies on haematology and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens finished on varying
levels of baobab (Adansonia digitata) leaf meal as a replacement for soya bean meal.
Researchjournali’s Journal of Agriculture. 2(3): 1-5.
Adamu, S.B., N. yaya and N.K. Alade (2001). Effects of different Energy sources on finishing and
carcass characteristics of broiler chickens under a semi arid condition. Journal of Sustainable
Agriculture andthe Environment. 3(2): 232- 238.
Anon (2007) Serum albumin. Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia
http://enwikipedia.org/wiki/serumalbumin. Bhatti (2002).
Anon, (1980). Guide to the care and use of experimental birds. Canadian council of animal car. Ontario.
Canada. 1:85-90.
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Bush, B. M. (1991). Interpretation of laboratory results from small animal Clinician. Black well
Scientific Publication. U.K. 32 – 37.
Bush, B. M. (1991). Interpretation of laboratory results from small animal Clinician. Black well
Scientific Publication. U.K. 32 – 37.
Docie, J.V and Lewis, S.M. (1991). Practical haematology 7th Edition ELBS Churchill livingstone,
England PP 37- 85.
Dong, N. T. K. (2005). Evaluation of Agro-Industrial By-Products as Protein Sources for Duck
Production in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. Doctoral thesis Swedish University of Agricultural
Sciences Uppsala 2005
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple Range Test. Biometrics, ll: 1 – 42
Etim, N. N. (2010). Physiological and reproductive responses of rabbit does to Aspilia africana. M.Sc.
Thesis. Department of Animal Breeding and Physiology, Michael Okpara University of
Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. 14.
Etim, N. N., Uduak, A., Ruth O. O. and Edem, E. A. O. (2013). Do Diets Affect Haematological
parameters of Poultry. British Journal of Applied Poultry Science and technology. 4(13): 1952-
1965.
Etim, N. N., Williams, M. E., Akpabio, U. and Offiong, E. E. A. (2014) Haematological Parameters and
Factors Affecting Their Values. Journal of Science and Education Centre of North America.
2(1):37-47
Jain, N.C (1986). Schalm Veterinary Haematology. 4th Ed Lea and Febiger Philadelphia, USA.
Kwari, I. D., Igwebuike, J. U., Shuaibu, H., Titima, S. I. and Raji, A. O. (2014). Growth and carcass
characteristics of broiler chickens Fed maize, sorghum, millet and their combinations in the Semi
arid zone of Nigeria. Global Journal of Bioscience and Biotechnology. 5(2): 240-245
Merck Manual (2012). Haematological Reference Ranges. Mareck Veterinary Manual. Retrieved from
http://www.merckmanuals.com/.
Ochei, J. and Kolhatkar, A. (2000). Medical Laboratory Science. 16th Ed. Tata McGraw-Hill Publishers,
New Delhi, India.
Rastogi, S. C. (2007). Essentials of Animal Physiology. 4th. new age international (P) Ltd, Publishers.
Ansuri road, Daryaganj.
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principles and procedures of statistics. A biometrical approach,
2ndEdition. McGraw Hill Books Co. New York. U.S.A.
Wikivet. Haematology; (2013). Available at: en.wikipedia/wiki/haematology
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GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS QUALITY OF BROILER CHICKENS OFFERED

HONEY IN DRINKING WATER DURING HOT-DRY SEASON IN NORTH WESTERN PART
OF NIGERIA
RAJI A.Y and MUHAMMAD B.S

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Bayero University, Kano.
ABSTRACT
The trial investigated the effect of different levels of honey in drinking water on the responses of broiler
chickens during hot-dry season (March-May). Thirty six broiler chicks were used for this study. The day-
old chicks were randomly assigned to three treatment groups with each treatment having three replicates
of four birds. The growing broilers at four weeks were offered either 0 (0H), 10 (10H), or 20mL (20H)
honey per litre of water during the hot-dry season. Records on daily weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI),
water intake (WI) and Feed conversion ratio (FCR) were taken. At the end of the field experiment, data
on the carcass quality parameters were taken which include live weight, plucked weight, carcass weight
and dressing percentage and weights of carcass cuts like head, neck, breast meat, brisket, thigh, wings,
drumstick and shank. Weights of organs were also taken which included heart, lungs, kidney, liver,
gizzard, spleen and Proventriculus. Honey had no significant (P > 0.05) effect on WG, FCR , WI, FI,
dressing percentage (DP %), carcass weight, head, breast meat, wings, thigh, drumstick, brisket and
internal organs but have significant effect (P < 0.05) on live weight, the neck and shank lengths across
treatments. In conclusion, honey has significant effect on live weights of broilers, neck and shank lengths
at 20ml of honey offered during the hot-dry season. Honey can thus be used to improve broilers welfare
against heat stress and improve growth performance when offered at 20 ml in the hot-dry season.
Keywords: Growth, broiler chickens, honey, hot-dry season
INTRODUCTION
It is remarked that poultry industry constitutes an important agricultural enterprise in terms of profitability
and quick economic returns in Nigeria (Goubadia, 1996). The industry also plays a major role in food
production in the livestock sub-sector of the Nigerian economy. This sub-sector produced about 36.5% of
the total protein intake of Nigeria. For the rapidly increasing human population in Nigeria, broiler
production plays a major role in food security. This can be attributed to their short production cycle, and
high feed efficiency and growth rate (Goubadia, 1996). However, compared to other domestic animals,
broiler chickens are more susceptible to changing environmental conditions mostly during growing-
finishing phase (Abioja, 2010). This is because they have rapid metabolism, high body temperature and
no sweat gland. Yahav (2000) reported that success in breeding for high growth rate in broilers has
resulted into inferior development of their cardio-vascular and respiratory systems which predispose them
to heat-stress. These physiological characteristics, in combination with confined housing make it difficult
for broilers to regulate their heat balance (Sobayo, 2005). The deleterious effects heat stress has on food
and nutrition security in any nation needs urgent attention (DeShazer et al. 2009). Honey is a natural
source of vitamin C, a natural antioxidant which has been used by man for several purposes especially as
an anti-bacterial and anti-diarrhoea (Sobayo, 2005). Although, there are few reports on the use of honey
in poultry production (Abioja et al., 2012), there is a possibility that honey can be used to ameliorate heat
stress.

Experimental location
The research was carried out at the Livestock and Research Farm of the Department of Animal Science,
Bayero University Kano. Kano state is located within longitude 9°30‘ and 12°30‘ and latitude 9°30‘ and
8°42‘ North within the Sudan Savannah of Northwestern Nigeria (Olofin, 2008). The annual temperature
and relative humidity ranged between 38°C to 43°C and 40% to 51.3% respectively (Olofin, 2007). The
area is characterized by tropical wet and dry climate, a wet season (May to September) and dry season
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(October to May) with annual rainfall that ranges between 787mm to 960mm (KNARDA, 2001). Using
Geographical Position System (GPS), the coordination of the pens is N-11°58‘35.0 in latitude and E-
008°25‘48.1 in longitude and the elevation is 473m above sea level.
Experimental animals and management
The management of the animals started right from the pre-arrival operations, arrival operations and post-
arrival operations. A total of 36 day old broiler birds were purchased from a commercial selling center
named Aminu Agro-allied farm located along Gwarzo road in Kano state metropolis and stocked. The
general health-status of the birds was examined to avoid any abnormality and they were fed ad libitum.
Each group of the four birds was equipped with plastic drinkers, metal feeding troughs and light source.
Treatments and designs
The treatments include either 0ml level of inclusion of honey per 1 liter of drinking water (control), 10ml
level of inclusion of honey per 1 liter of drinking water and 20ml level of inclusion of honey per 1 liter of
drinking water from week four to week eight and randomly assigned using completely randomized design
(CRD).
Data collection
In the study, 36 broiler birds were used in the experiment for 8 weeks (56 days). Records on daily weight
gain (WG), feed intake (FI) and water intake (WI) were kept. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated
as the ratio of gain to feed. At day 56, three birds per replicate were sacrificed by exsanguinations
(bloodletting). The birds were processed by scalding; carcass weight, plucked weight, dressing percentage
and weight of the cut parts were measured. Cut parts and organs considered include included heart, liver,
kidney, lungs, gizzard, Proventriculus, spleen, head, neck, breast meat, wings, thigh, drumstick, brisket
and shank. The temperature humidity index (THI) was used to assess the potential for heat stress on
broiler birds in the current study. The THI equation used is as shown below:
THI for broilers = 0.85 Tdb + 0.15 Twb (1, Tao and Xin, 2003)
Where: THI = temperature-humidity index, °C, Tdb = dry-bulb temperature, °C, Twb = wet-bulb
temperature, °C
Due to difficulty in obtaining the dry and wet bulb temperature, the maximum temperature was used as
the dry bulb temperature while the minimum temperature served as the wet bulb temperature for the
broilers.
Statistical design and analysis

The data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS (version 16)
with a level of significance taken as P ≤ 0.05 and means observed to be significantly different were
subjected to mean separation using HSD.
Table 1: The climatic conditions during the research

Parameters T db (ºC) RH (%) T wb (ºC) THI (ºC)
Months
March 31.72 09.26-41.01 26.05 26.96
April 34.09 12.31-49.67 28.73 28.97
May 33.58 45.13-74.26 25.51 28.54
THI for broilers = 0.85 Tdb + 0.15 Twb (1, Tao and Xin, 2003), db=dry bulb, wb=wet bulb, RH=relative
humidity, THI=temperature-humidity index

The table 1 above shows that the temperature was recorded to be highest in the months of May (33.54)
and lowest Month in April; with a corresponding increase in the THI from March to May, the THI in the
present study was observed to increase from March to May and differences between the minimum and
maximum temperature ranged from 5.67 to 8.07°C. Combination of temperature and humidity causes the
body temperature to rise above the birds‘ normal body temperature of 41.5°C (Swick, 1998). The relative
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humidity recorded an increasing trend from March to May (Table 1.) and relative humidity is a very
important environmental factor, since high relative humidity reduces the amount of heat loss through
evaporative cooling, hence making it more difficult for regulation of core body temperature (CBT)
(Swick, 1998).
Table 2: Effect of honey on growth performance of broiler chickens during hot-dry season
Parameter 0H 10H 20H
Feed intake (kg/day/day) 0.80±0.52 0.82±0.25 0.87±0.01
Weight gain (kg/day/day) 0.41±0.23 0.46±0.03 0.45±0.06
Feed conversion ratio 2.04±0.52 1.98±0.13 1.98±0.09
Water intake (L/day) 4.89±0.75 4.89±0.77 4.94±0.26
Live weight (kg) 2.09±0.12b 2.25±0.00a 2.28±0.02a
Dressed weight (%) 70.51±2.03 68.33±0.48 67.73±0.13
Carcass weight (%) 1.47±0.05 1.54±0.12 1.54±0.15
Head (%) 2.96±0.11 2.87±0.02 2.88±0.06
Neck (%) 5.34±0.24a 5.02±0.01b 4.99±0.05b
Wings (%) 8.82±0.33 8.36±0.11 8.54±0.09
Breast meat (%) 17.88±0.95 16.82±0.04 16.85±0.02
Gizzard (%) 1.89±0.10 1.81±0.02 1.80±0.04
Drumstick (%) 11.73±0.63 11.38±0.72 10.95±0.09
Shank (%) 5.34±0.25a 5.01±0.02b 4.99±0.03b
Thigh (%) 11.73±0.59 10.94±0.07 10.99±0.14
Brisket 14.31±0.68 13.46±0.01 13.59±0.13
The result on effect of honey on growth performance of broiler chickens did not reveal any significant
effect (P>0.05) on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, water intake, dressed weight, carcass
weight, head, wings, breast meat, izzard, drumstick, thigh and brisket. However, significant result
(P<0.05) was observed in the live weight, neck and shank length across the treatments. The result agrees
with Miraei-Ashtiani et al. (2004) who reported that there was no difference in weight gain, feed intake,
feed conversion ratio but disagrees with them on final live weight of the broilers offered feed
supplemented with or without 200 ppm vitamin C during hot-dry season. Abioja et al. (2012) also
recorded no significant difference in feed intake, water intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio of
broiler birds fed honey in hot-dry season both at 10H and 20H. The higher body weights recorded in the
birds in 20H in the present study are in conformity with the report of Gross (1988) who reported that
dietary vitamin C improved growth performance in broilers. The higher weights of birds associated with
dosage of honey in this study suggest that it contained potent antioxidant which was beneficial to the
birds during stress.
Table3: Effect of honey on relative weight of organs of broiler chickens during hot-dry season.
Parameter 0H 10H 20H
Liver (%) 2.10±0.13 2.05±0.02 2.04±0.01
Kidney (%) 0.02±0.00 0.02±0.00 0.02±0.00
Lung (%) 0.74±0.51 0.77±0.41 0.73±0.45
Spleen (%) 0.12±0.05 0.11±0.05 0.12±0.00
Heart (%) 0.43±0.03 0.40±0.01 0.41±0.01
Proventriculus 0.85±0.04 0.79±0.02 0.78±0.12
No significant result (P>0.05) was obtained on the effect of honey on relative weight of organs of broiler
chickens during the hot-dry season. The relative weight is the ratio between the organ‘s weight and the
live weight of the bird and when the relative weights were determined it showed a decrease in the value
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across the treatments from 0H to 10H and then 20H. The reduced liver relative weights observed in the
birds offered honey in the present study points to the fact that the antioxidant content in the honey used in
this study was potent enough to cause change in stress resistance. Oyegunle et al. (2016) reported
decreased liver weights of broiler birds supplemented with honey during hot-dry season but in this study,
there is increased liver weight from 0ml to 10ml and then 20ml has the highest weight and this variation
may be attributed to differences in the feed intake across the treatments even though difference did not
reach significance.
CONCLUSION
Addition of 20ml H/l of drinking water for broilers may be useful in improving live weight, neck and
shank lengths during the hot dry season.
REFERENCES
Abioja, M.O. (2010). Temperature-Humidity Effects on Egg Fertility and Evaluation of Vitamin C and
Cold Water on Broiler Growth In Hot Season [Ph.D. Thesis], Department of Animal Physiology,
University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Abioja, M.O., Ogundimu, K.B., Akibo, T.E., Odukoya, K.E., Ajiboye, O.O., Abiona, J.A., Williams, T.J.,
Oke, E.O. and Osinowo, O.A. (2012). Growth, Mineral Deposition, and PhysiologicalResponses
of Broiler Chickens Offered Honey in Drinking Water during Hot-Dry Season. International
Journal of Zoology, 2012: 1-6
DeShazer, J.A., Hahn, G.L. and Xin, H. (2009) Chapter 1: Basic Principles of the Thermal Environment
and Livestock Energetic. In: Deshazer, J.A. (Ed) Livestock Energetic and Thermal Environmental
Management. ASABE, MI, USA, pp 1–22
Goubodia, E. E. (1996). An Assessment of the Impact of the Structure Adjustment Programme (SAP) on
Poultry in Nigeria. Vol. 14. 272p.
Gross, W.B. (1988). ―Effect of Ascorbic acid on the Mortality of leghorn-Type Chickens Due to
Overheating,‖Avian Diseases, 32( 3): 561–562
KNARDA (2001): Kano Agricultural and RuralDevelopment Authority. Kano Meteorological Station
Reports. Record Books Management Unit, 11.1-3.
Miraei-Ashtiani, S.R. Zamani, P. Shirazad, M. and Zare-shahned, A. (2004). ― Comparison of the Effect
of Different Diets on Acute Heat Stressed Broilers,‖ In: Proceeding of the 22nd World Poultry
Congress, p. 552, Istanbul, Turkey.
Olofin, E.A. (2008). The Physical Setting. In Olofin, E.A., Nabegu, A.B. and Dambazau (Eds). Kano
City: Adamu Joji Publishers.
Oyegunle, .E.O., Sorungbe, F. O., Abioja, M. O. Oytunji., A.O. and Onabanjo, A.O. (2016). Effect of
Levels of Honey on Physiological Growth and Carcass Traits of Broiler Chickens during Hot Dry
Season. ACTA, Agriculturae Slovenica, 108(1): 45-53
Sobayo, R.A. (2005). Effect of Ascorbic Acid Supplementation on the Performance and Haematological
Profile of Pullets and Layers [Ph.D. thesis], Department of Animal Nutrition, University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, 2005.
Swick, R.A. (1998). Broiler Management in Warm Climates. American Soybean Association Technical
Bulletin, P040:1-5
Tao, X. and Xin. H. (2003). Acute Synergistic Effects of Air Temperature, Humidity, and Velocity on
Homeostasis of Market–Size Broilers. Trans. ASAE, 46(2): 491-497.
Yahav, S. (2000). ―Domestic Fowl: Strategies to Confront Environmental Conditions‖ Avian and Poultry
Biology Reviews, 11(2): 81–95
Page | 259
GROWTH PARAMETERS OF BROILER CHICKS FED GRADED LEVELS OF DIETARY

GARLIC (Allium sativum L.)
Adamu, S. B., Okekenze, E. N. and Mohammed, A. A.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture University of Maiduguri, Borno State.
*Corresponding Author: Adamu, S. B. Mobile – 08039586327, email - bbsaleh@unimaid.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
This study was designed to evaluate the growth indices of broiler chicks fed graded levels of dietary
garlic. A total of two hundred and ten (210) four week-old mixed sex broiler chicks were used for the
experiment that lasted for four weeks. The birds were grouped into five groups with three replicates in a
Complete Randomized design. A broiler starter diet was formulated to which graded levels of garlic meal
was incorporated at 0.0, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, and 10.25 g/kg to give the various treatment groups T1 (Control),
T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Feed intake, body weight, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and
mortality were the response criteria. Feed intake was influenced by dietary garlic during the first week of
the experiment. Chicks fed diet with inclusion of 7.5g.kg had the lowest feed intake (19.68g/bird/day).
Weekly body weight and body weight gain were not influenced (p>0.05) by dietary garlic during the
starter phase. It was concluded that garlic can be included in broiler starter diets up to 10g/kg as a growth
promoter.
Key words: Body weight, feed conversion ratio, garlic, broiler, starter
INTRODUCTION
Garlic (Allium sativum), a spice and medicinal plant of diverse importance are well cultivated in Nigeria
(Miko, 2000). Usually this spice is cultivated under irrigation and mainly for fund generation (Kilgori,
2004). It is widely used in all parts of the world as a spice and herbal medicine for the prevention and
treatment of a variety of diseases (Konjucfca et al., 1997). They further noted that garlic possess
antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral and antifungal properties.
Garlic supplemented to broiler chicks diet has been recognized for its strong stimulating effects on the
immune system in addition to its positive effects on digestion in birds due to the very rich aromatic
essential oil content of garlic (Demir et al., 2005). Findings by Fadlalla et al. (2010) showed that garlic at
0.3% in broiler feed resulted to a significant positive effect on growth performance and carcass yield.
Freitas et al. (2001) and Bampidis et al. (2005) obtained similar results in their studies with broilers
chickens and they concluded that higher concentrations ranging between 1 and 2% were actually more
effective than lower doses. Their observations confirmed the report of Doley et al. (2009), who found that
supplement of garlic and turmeric powder at 0.25% did not influence broiler chickens‘ feed intake and
live weight gain compared to the control.
Although, many studies have been conducted with garlic in broiler chickens diet, the reports obtained
from these studies were not consistent. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the growth indices
of broiler chicks fed graded levels of dietary garlic.

The study was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of
Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Borno state, Nigeria. Maiduguri is located between latitude 11º
15 and 12 º north, longitude 30º 05 and 14º east and at an altitude of 345m above sea level (Ugherughe
and Ekedolum, 1986). A total of two hundred and ten (210) day old mixed sex broiler chicks were
purchased from a reputable hatchery and reared to four weeks of age before they were used for the
experiment. Garlic was purchased from a local market, it was peeled and air dried for 5 – 6 days after
which it was milled and subsequently incorporated into the experimental diets. A broiler starter diet was
formulated as shown in Table 1 to which graded levels of garlic meal was incorporated at 0.0, 5.0, 7.5,
10.0, and 12.5 g/kg to give the various treatment groups T1 (Control), T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively.
The diets were fed to five treatments of 42 birds per treatment each replicated three times. Feed intake,
Page | 260
weekly body weight, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality were the response criteria.
During the four weeks experimental period feed and water were offered ad libitum.
All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) in a completely Randomized Design.
Where means differ, Least Significant Difference (LSD) was used to separate them.

Table 2 shows the effect of inclusion levels of dietary garlic on productive performance of starter broiler
chickens. Feed intake was influenced by dietary garlic during the first week of the experiment. Chicks fed
diet with inclusion of 7.5g.kg had the lowest feed intake although the intake was similar to those on
10g/kg. Birds fed the highest level of dietary garlic had similar intake with the control group. In the
subsequent weeks, however, dietary garlic had no effect on feed intake. This is contrary to the observation
Javandel et al. (2008) who reported a higher feed intake with increased level of inclusion of dietary garlic
during the starter phase of broiler chicken rearing.
Body weight was not influenced by dietary garlic during the starter phase of broiler chicken rearing.
Except in week two where bird in the control and 10g/kg groups had higher weight gain than the other
groups. This confirms the report of Ashayerizadeh et al. (2009) who demonstrated that body weight and
body weight gain did not change when garlic was added in broiler chicken diet. Dietary ginger
significantly influenced feed conversion ratio during the third week while in the other weeks, the means
were all similar among the treatment groups. The improved FCR in T5 although similar (p>0.05) to the
control (T1), agrees with the report of Mahmood et al. (2009) who concluded that a basal diet containing
0.5% garlic improved FCR of broiler chicks.
CONCLUSION
It was concluded that garlic can be included in broiler starter diets as a growth promoter. Farmers can
include up to 10g/kg garlic (Allium sativum L.) in broiler starter diet for improved performance.
REFERENCES
Ashayerizadeh, O., Daster, B. and Shargh, M. S. (2009). Use of garlic (Allium sativum), black cumin
seeds and wild mint (Mentha longifolia) in broiler chickens diet. Journal of Animal and Veterinary
Advances, 8: 1860 – 1863.
Bampidis, V.A., Christodoulou, V., Christaki, E., Florou-Paneri, P. and Spais, A. B. (2005). Effect of
dietary garlic bulb and garlic husk supplementation on performance and carcass characteristics of
growing lambs. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 121: 273 – 283.
Demir, E., Kiline, K. and Yildirim, Y. (2005). Use of antibiotic growth promoter and two herbal natural
feed additives with and without exogenous enzymes in wheat base broiler diets. South Africa
Journal of Animal Science, 35: 61 – 72.
Doley, S., Gupta, J. J. and Reddy, P. B. (2009). Effect of supplementation of ginger, garlic and turmeric
in broiler chicken. Indian Veterinary Journal, 21(8): 21 – 33.
Fadlalla, I. M. T., Mohammed, B. H. and Bakhiet, A. O. (2010). Effect of feeding garlic on the
performance and immunity of broilers. Asian Journal of Poultry Science, 4: 182 – 189.
Freitas, J. B., Fonseca, R. T., Soares, R. N., Rostagno, H. S. and Soares, P. R. (2001). Utilization of garlic
(Allium sativum L.) as growth promoter of broilers. Revistea Brasileira de Zootecnia, 30: 761 –
765.
Javandel, F., Navidshad, B., Seifdavati, J., Pourrahimi, G. H. and Baniyaghoub, S. (2008). The favourite
dosage of garlic meal as a feed additive in broiler chickens ration. Pakistan Journal of Biological
Sciences, 11: 1746 – 1749.
Kilgori, M. J. (2004). Effect of spacing and planting date on the growth and yield of two garlic cultivars.
A PhD Thesis submitted to the postgraduate school, Usman Danfodiyo University Sokoto.
Konjucfca, V. H., Pesti, G. M. and Bakalli, R. I. (1997). Modulation of cholesterol levels in broiler meat
by dietary garlic and copper. Poultry Science, 76: 1264 – 1271.
Page | 261
Mahmood, S., Hassan, M. M., Alam, M. and Ahmad, F. (2009). Comparative efficiency of Nigella sativa
and Allium Sativum as growth promoters in broilers. International Journal of Agricultural and
Biological Sciences, 11: 775 – 778.
Miko, S. (2000). Farmer guide on the production and utilization of garlic (Allium sativum L.).
Agricultural Extension Services. Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University,
Zaria.
Ugherughe, P.O. and P.A. Ekedolum, 1986. Pasture and ange potential of Borno State. Ann. Borno, 31:
179- 192.
Page | 262
Table1: Ingredient composition of experimental diet

Ingredient Percentage
Sorghum 45.00
Maize 10.00
Wheat offal 7.00
Full fat soya bean 12.00
Groundnut cake 18.00
Fish meal 5.00
Bone meal 2.00
Min-Vit Premix 0.50
NaCl 0.30
Methionine 0.20
Total 100.00
Calculated analysis
Crude protein (%) 23.35
Crude fibre (%) 3.20
ME (kcal/kg) 2883.30
ME – Metabolizable Energy
Table 2: Productive performance of broiler chicks fed graded levels of dietary garlic (Allium sativum)
Age (Weeks) T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM
Average Daily Feed Intake
1 22.55ab 22.55ab 19.68c 21.13bc 24.28a 0.71*
2 41.15 40.64 42.86 39.80 41.07 1.78NS
3 50.54 52.41 47.50 50.00 50.27 2.36NS
4 79.22 79.96 78.25 81.00 80.88 3.68NS
Average Weekly Body Weight
1 147.76 140.40 141.62 144.52 142.52 2.79NS
2 281.29 275.74 273.62 268.36 278.05 8.41 NS
3 471.67 433.21 441.79 451.86 444.41 17.40 NS
4 658.99 623.92 632.62 652.90 634.18 18.96 NS
Average Daily Weight Gain
1 9.18 8.45 8.73 6.33 8.79 0.87 NS
a ab ab a b
2 19.87 18.07 18.50 20.35 17.51 0.73*
3 25.99 24.45 24.05 21.99 27.11 1.86 NS
4 27.47 26.30 27.55 28.25 27.56 1.51 NS
Feed conversion ratio
1 2.48 2.66 2.32 3.57 2.80 0.47 NS
2 2.07 2.25 2.34 1.95 2.37 0.13 NS
ab ab ab a b
3 1.96 2.17 1.98 2.29 1.86 0.11*
4 3.00 3.09 2.84 2.86 2.94 0.16 NS
T1 (Control) – 0g/kg, T2 - 5.0 g/kg, T3 - 7.5g/kg, T4 - 10.0g/kg, and T5 – 12.5 g/kg; SEM – Standard
error of mean; a,b,c…..Means in same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly (p<0.05)
Page | 263
SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS AS INFLUENCED BY

DIETARY GINGER SUPPLEMENTATION
Adamu, S. B., Thlala, K. W. and *Saleh, B.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture University of Maiduguri, Borno State.
*Corresponding Author: Saleh, B. Mobile – 08185927245, email - bbsaleh@unimaid.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
A study was designed to evaluate the influence of dietary ginger on serum biochemistry of broiler
chickens. A total of three hundred (300) broiler chickens at four weeks of age were used for the study.
The birds were randomly assigned to five treatment groups with four replications of fifteen (15) birds per
replicate in a Complete Randomized Design. The experiment lasted for four weeks. Ginger replaced
mineral/vitamin premix in the experimental diets (Table 1) as follows; T1 (Control 0% ginger), T2 (20%
ginger), T3 (40% Ginger), T4 (60% Ginger) and T5 (80% Ginger). The serum biochemical indices
measured were total protein, albumin, globulin, urea, glucose, cholesterol, sodium, potassium, calcium,
bilirubin and creatinine. Total protein, albumin and globulin were higher in the control compared to the
other treatments. Aspartate Aminotransferase was dose dependent with birds fed the highest level of
ginger (T5) having the highest mean (82.75IU) while those in the control had the lowest means (43.25IU).
Cholesterol was increased by the inclusion of ginger in the diet reaching a peak at T5. It was concluded
that inclusion of ginger up to 0.4% had no adverse effect on serum biochemistry of finisher broiler
chickens.
Key words: Cholesterol, Ginger, serum protein, Broiler chicks
INTRODUCTION
Various feed additives are used in poultry to maximize net returns and carcass quality of birds. In the past,
growth-promoting antibiotics were used as feed additives; however, these were associated with storage of
undesirable residues in the meat and eggs of poultry products which may be harmful to man when
consumed, and have been banned or limited in many countries due to these suspected residual effects
(Diarra et al., 2011). As a result, natural alternatives to antibiotics such as herbs and medicinal plants
have attracted attention due to their wide range of potential beneficial effects (Manesh, 2012). Thus the
use of plants such as ginger, garlic, onion etc. as alternatives to antibiotic feed additives is becoming more
and more popular (Joke and Susan, 2007).
Ginger is used worldwide as a cooking spice, condiment and herbal remedy. It is used extensively in
Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, to block excessive clothing, reduce cholesterol and fight
arthritis (Kemper, 1999). The use of ginger as a feed additive in poultry diet had received attention of
poultry nutritionist (Kausar et al., 1999; Al-Homidan, 2005; Rehman et al., 2011). Saeid et al. (2010)
found that serum glucose, total, cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and VLDL-cholesterol decreased
significantly in broilers fed with 0.4 and 06% aqueous ginger extract, however, HDL-cholesterol
concentration increased in these birds. Onu (2010) reported that supplementation of ginger (0.25%) in the
basal diet of broiler chicks did not result in any significant difference in terms of total protein, albumin,
globulin, urea and creatinine. However, information on the influence of ginger on serum biochemistry of
broiler chickens is not consistent. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the influence of dietary
ginger on serum biochemistry of broiler chickens.

The study was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of
Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Borno state, Nigeria. Maiduguri is located between latitude 11º
15 and 12 º North, longitude 30º 05 and 14º East and at an altitude of 345m above sea level (Ugherughe
and Ekedolum, 1986).
A total of three hundred (300) broiler chickens at four weeks of age were used for the study. The birds
were randomly assigned to five treatment groups with four replications of fifteen (15) birds per replicate.
Page | 264
The experiment lasted for four weeks. Ginger replaced mineral/vitamin premix in the experimental diets
(Table 1) as follows; T1 (Control 0% ginger), T2 (20% ginger), T3 (40% Ginger), T4 (60% Ginger) and
T5 (80% Ginger). At the end of the four weeks experimental period, one bird was randomly selected from
each replicate and blood samples collected for serum biochemical analysis Blood was collected via the
jugular vein using a 23 gauge needle and the samples were analyzed according to the method described
by Bush (1991). The serum biochemical indices measured were total protein, albumin, globulin, urea,
glucose, cholesterol, sodium, potassium, calcium, bilirubin and creatinine using standard laboratory
procedures.
All data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (Steel and Torrie, 1980) in a
Completely Randomized Design. Where means differed, Least Significant Difference was used to
separate them.

Table 2 shows the result of serum biochemical indices of broiler chickens fed dietary ginger. There were
significant (p<0.05) differences in all parameters measured except Alanine Aminotransferase and urea
which were similar for all the treatments. Total protein, albumin and globulin were higher in the control
compared to the other treatments. This is similar to the observation of Kausar et al. (1999). This is
contrary to the findings of Rehman et al. (2011) who reported that serum protein increased significantly
in ginger treated group. The difference between their observation and that of this study may be as a result
of the route of administration as they offered their ginger via drinking water while the birds in this
experiment were offered in the diet. The means for serum protein however, fall within the normal range
(46 – 78g/dl) reported by Latrimer et al. (2003). Aspartate Aminotransferase was dose dependent with
birds fed the highest level of ginger (T5) having the highest mean (82.75IU) while those in the control
had the lowest means (43.25IU). Alkaline Phosphate also followed similar trend as Aminotransferase.
Glucose was lowest in T3 but highest in T5. The control was however similar to both groups. Cholesterol
was increased by the inclusion of ginger in the diet reaching a peak at T5. This is contrary to the report of
Rehman et al. (2011) who reported a drop in cholesterol levels when broilers were given ginger in
drinking water. Conjugated bilirubin and direct bilirubin were lowest in for birds in T4. All means
observed however, fall within the range for healthy chickens reported by Rehman et al. (2011).
CONCLUSION
It was concluded that inclusion of ginger up to 0.4% had no adverse effect on serum biochemistry of
finisher broiler chickens. Further studies are however required to have a better understanding of the
influence of ginger powder on serum biochemistry of finisher broiler chickens.
REFERENCES
Al-Homidan, A. A. (2005). Efficacy of using different sources and levels of Allium sativum and Zingiber
officinale on broiler chick‘s performance. Saudi Journal of Biological Science, 12: 96 – 102.
Bush, B.M. (1991). Interpretation of Laboratory Results for Small Animal Clinicians. Black Well
Scientific Publications, UK.
Diarra,S.S., Kwari,I.D., Girgiri, Y.A., Saleh, B. and Igwebuike, J.U. (2011). The use of sorrel (Hibiscuss
sabdarifa) seed as a feed ingredient for poultry: A review. Research Opinions in Animal and
Veterinary Sciences, 1(9): 573 – 577.
Joke, S. and Susan, A. (2007). Beverage of Champaign. Accessed from http://www.tune-blog.com
Kausar, R., Rizvi, F. and Anjum, A. D. (1999). Effect of carminative mixture on health of broiler chicks.
Pakistan Journal of Biological Science, 2: 1074 – 1077.
Kemper, K. J. (1999). Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Accessed from Longwood Herbal Task Force:
http://www.mcp.edu/herbal/default.htm on 07/01/2020.
Latrimer, K. S., Mahaffey, E. A., and Prasse, K. W. (2003). Duncan and Prasse Veterinary Laboratory
Medicine and Clinical Pathology, 4th Edition, Wiley and Blackwell.
Page | 265
Manesh, M. K.(2012). Influence of poly germander (Teucrium polium) and water cress (Nasturtium
officinale) extract on performance of, carcass quality and blood metabolites of male broilers.
Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 2 (1): 69 – 71.
Onu, P. N. (2010). Evaluation of two herbal spices as feed additives fpr finisher broilers. Biotechnology in
Animal Husbandry., 26 (5-6): 383 – 392.
Rehman, S., Durrani, F. R., Chand, N., Khan, R. U. and Fawad Ur Rehman (2011). Comparative efficacy
of different schedules of administration of medicinal plants infusion on heamatology and serum
biochemistry of broiler chicks. Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 1: 8 – 14.
Saeid, J. M., Arkan, B. M. and Al-baddy, M. A. (2010). Effect of aqueous extract of ginger (Zingiber
officinale) on blood biochemistry parameters of broilers. International Journal of Poultry Science,
9: 944 – 947.
Steel, R.G.D. and Torrie, J.H. (1980). Principles and Procedures of Statistics. A Biometrical Approach,
2nd edition McGraw Hills Book Co., New York, USA.
Ugherughe, P.O. and P.A. Ekedolum, 1986. Pasture and ange potential of Borno State. Ann. Borno, 31:
179- 192.
Page | 266
Table 1: Ingredient composition of experiment finisher broiler chicken diet containing graded levels of
ginger
Ingredient T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Maize 58.82 58.82 58.82 58.82 58.82
Wheat offal 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Groundnut cake 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Soya Bean Meal 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
Fish Meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Bone Meal 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.68
Premix 0.50 0.40 0.30 0.20 0.10
Ginger powder 0.00 0.10 0.20 0.30 0.40
Methionine 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75
Lysine 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Salt 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
Dry matter (%) 93.70 93.31 92.87 91.46 92.98
Crude protein (%) 21.42 20.19 20.42 21.35 21.68
ME (kcal/kg) 3382.08 3130.48 3203.18 3076.68 3138.64
T1 - (Control 0% ginger), T2 - (20% ginger), T3 - (40% Ginger), T4 - (60% Ginger) and T5 - (80%
Ginger); ME – Metabolizable energy
Table 2: Serum Biochemical indices of broiler chickens fed graded levels of ginger
Parameter T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 SEM
Total protein (g/l) 67.25a 41.25c 43.50c 45.75c 55.75b 2.71*
Albumin (g/l) 42.50a 27.25cd 24.25d 30.75bc 35.75b 2.19*
Globulin (g/l) 24.75a 14.00b 19.25ab 15.00b 20.00ab 2.04*
c bc bc ab a
Aspartate Aminotransferase (IU/L) 43.25 45.75 46.00 77.50 82.75 10.58*
Alanine Aminotransferase (IU/L) 37.50 47.00 57.50 68.25 73.50 9.06NS
c c ab bc a
Alkaline Phosphate (IU/L) 43.50 4150 55.25 47.25 62.00 2.96*
Glucose (mmol/l) 4.75ab 4.35ab 3.85b 4.93ab 5.73a 0.46*
Creatinine (mmol/l) 58.00a 61.50a 58.50a 36.00b 37.00a 5.84*
Cholesterol (mg/dl) 178.75c 187.75b 199.00a 199.00a 205.00a 2.52*
Urea (mmol/l) 7.80 4.35 6.80 5.53 3.65 1.48NS
Conjugate Bilirubin (mmol/l) 3.20b 4.13a 3.95ab 2.33c 3.53ab 0.27*
bc bc a c
Direct Bilirubin (mmol/l) 2.13 2.20 3.13 1.50 2.33b 0.23*
T1 - (Control 0% ginger), T2 - (20% ginger), T3 - (40% Ginger), T4 - (60% Ginger) and T5 - (80%
Ginger); NS – non significant; SEM – Standard Error of Mean; a,b,c…. Means in same row bearing different
superscript differ significantly (p<0.05).
Page | 267
BLOOD CHEMISTRY AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF RABBITS FED

SUPPLEMENTARY WILD SUNFLOWER (Tithonia diversifolia Helms. A.Gray) LEAF MEAL
*AMAO, Emmanuel. Ayodele, **SOKUNBI, Adedamola Olujide and *Tijani, Haulat Temitope
*Department of Animal Production Technology, The Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki.
**Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.
Corresponding author E-mail: amaoemmanuelayodeleamao@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to determine the haematological profile and serum biochemical indices of
rabbits fed graded level of wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia Helms. A.Gray). The study involved
Twenty-four (24) growing rabbits (7 – 8 weeks of age with average weight 181.25 ±0.02g) of mixed
sexes. The rabbits were allotted into four dietary treatments comprising six (6) rabbits per treatment. The
dietary treatments were 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% sunflower leaf meal (SFLM) inclusion levels. The
experimental diet contained 17% crude protein and 2488.68 Kcal/Kg metabolizable energy. The feeding
trial lasted eight weeks, during which period feed and water were provided ad – libitum. Two blood
samples each were collected per rabbit; one set of the blood samples were collected into plastic bottles
containing Ethylene Diamine Tetra acetic acid (EDTA) for haematological studies while the other sample
was collected into plain sterile bottles for the serum biochemical indices determination. Data generated
were subjected to analysis of variance. Results obtained from this study revealed that PCV showed
significant (p<0.05) difference with 20% SFLM having the highest mean value of 39%, while 0%SFLM
had the least mean of 30.60%. The same trend was observed for Hb and RBC. WBC was significantly
influenced with the inclusion of SFLM with 10%SFLM having 5.33X109/L, 20%SFLM (5.18X109) while
0%SFLM had the least mean of 4.68X109/L. ALT was also influenced significantly (p<0.05), 20%SFLM
had similar mean value (66.50) with 0%SFLM (72.00). The study concludes that inclusion of sunflower
leaf meal up to 20% had haematinic potential on weaner rabbits.
Keywords: Hematology, Mean corpuscular haemoglobin, Mean corpuscular volume, Serum
biochemistry, Weaner rabbits
INTRODUCTION
The examination of blood provides the opportunity to clinically investigate the presence of several
metabolites and other constituents in the body and it plays a vital role in the physiological, nutritional and
pathological status of the animal (Doyle, 2006). It also helps to distinguish normal state from state of
stress which can be nutritional. Haematological constituents reflect the physiological responsiveness of
the animal to its internal and external environments which include feed and feeding (Esonu et al., 2001).
Dietary content affect the blood profile of healthy animals (Odunsi et al., 1999; Kortuglu et al., 2005).
Isaac et al. (2013) stated that haematological components, which consists of red blood cells, white blood
cells or leucocytes, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration
are valuable in monitoring feed toxicity, especially, with feed constituents that affect the blood as well as
the health status of farm animals. Many feed products are fed to rabbits usually without recourse to their
health and physiological implications on the animals. The commonest parameter for measuring these
implications is through the haematology of the animals (Aro et al., 2013). Rabbit is a favoured animal
because of its high fecundity, low cost of investment, short generation interval, as well as ability to utilize
diverse forages (Taiwo, et al., 2004). Despite these obvious advantages, improved feed formulation and
strategies for enhancing the production potentials of rabbit especially in the tropical and sub tropical
regions of the world have not been fully exploited. According to M‘cenes et al (1999) such nutritional
strategies would involve feeding of rabbits with agro-industrial by-products together with the use of
inexpensive locally available feed ingredients that will drastically bring down the production cost. Among
the non-conventional feedstuff, that has gained acceptance in animal nutrition is wild sun flower (Odunsi,
et al., 1996; Farinu, 1999). The wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia Helms. A.Gray) is of the family
Asteracea. In Nigeria it grows on road sides and fallow lands in the forest savannah zone (Akinola, et al.,
Page | 268
1999). It grows as annual, biennial or perenial plant depending on the habitat. It has been fed to sheep,
goat and cattle (Thomas, et al., 1982).

The study was carried out at the rabbitary unit of the Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki. Oyo State, Nigeria.
Sunflower leaves were collected from within the premises of The Oke Ogun Polytechnic Saki, Oyo State,
Nigeria. The leaves were air-dried and pulverized into powder and sealed in an air-tight container till the
period of usage.
Experimental Animals and Management
A total of Twenty-four (24) growing rabbits (7 – 8 weeks of age with average weight 181.25 ±0.02g) of
mixed sexes were obtained from a reputable farm in Oyo State, Nigeria for the purpose this study. The
animals were housed in thoroughly washed and disinfected wooden cages raised from the ground level.
Feed and water troughs were provided in each cage, while feed and water were provided ad – libitum. The
rabbits were caged individually in clearly marked cells. The feeding trial lasted eight weeks.
Experimental Diet
Four experimental diets were formulated with the inclusion of 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% Sunflower Leaf
Meal (SFLM)

Parameters 0% (SFLM) 10% (SFLM) 20% (SFLM) 30% (SFLM)
Maize 32.00 32.00 32.00 32.00
SFLM 0.00 2.40 4.80 7.20
Wheat offal 40.00 40.00 40.00 40.00
Soybean meal 24.00 24.00 24.00 24.00
Fish meal 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total (Kg) 100 100 100 100
Blood collection:
Blood collection was done at the end of the 8th week of feeding trial from four rabbits per treatment.
Blood samples were obtained from the prominent ear vein with the aid of a hypodermic needle and
syringe. Two blood samples each were collected per rabbit; one set of the blood samples were collected
into plastic bottles containing Ethylene Diamine Tetra acetic acid (EDTA) for haematological studies
while the other sample was collected into plain sterile bottles for the serum biochemical indices
determination. All haematological parameters were determined by conventional laboratory methods of
Bitto and Gemade (2001), while serum biochemical indices were determined by methods described by
Ochei and Kolhatkar (2007).
All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique using statistical analysis
software.

Table 2 shows the result of haemotological indices of rabbit fed sunflower leaf meal (SFLM). SFLM had
significant (P< 0.05) influence on Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of the animals across the treatment. PCV
values ranged between 30.60 and 39.00, these mean value falls within the referenced range for rabbit‘s
PCV (33.00-050.00) except the value from the control (30.60) which was statistically similar to 37.75 in
10% SFLM and 30% SFLM. 20% SFLM had the highest value of 39.00. The investigation shows that
Page | 269
feeding SFLM to rabbit‘s enhanced feed utilization which resulted in effective blood formation in rabbits
fed 20% SFLM. Significant effect (P<0.05) was observed in the haemoglobin (Hb) and RBC of the
experimental animals. The value ranged between 9.75 and 12.65g/dl which falls within the referenced
range for rabbit 9.40 -17.70 (Medi Rabbit, 2007). The result shows that inclusion of SFLM up 20% had
haematinic effect on rabbits placed on SFLM to enhance effective oxygen transport to the animals‘ tissues
for oxidation of ingested feed to release energy for other body function as well as the transport of CO2
outside the body. RBC showed similar trend as Hb and the values (5.86 -7.33) x106/mm6 were within the
reference range 3.80 -7.90 (MediRabbit, 2007). The result implies that inclusion of SFLM in rabbit feed
pose no threat to RBC synthesis. Sunflower leaf mean in rabbits‘ diet showed significant influence
(P<0.05) on WBC. Values of WBC across the treatments (4.08 -5.33) falls within the reference range of
5.00 -13.00 except 4.68 observed in the control. This suggests normal production of defensive mechanism
to combat infection. MCH, MCV and MCHC showed no significant (P>0.05) effect across the treatments.
MCH, MCV and MCHC values of 0%SFLM manifested anaemic condition. This might result from less
efficient feed utilization. All biochemical parameters evaluated showed no significant difference (P>0.05)
except ALT. All the Parameters were within the normal referenced range. Total protein and albumin
values suggest normal protein metabolism occurred in the experimental animals, since protein synthesis is
related to the amount of protein available in the diet (Iyayi, and Tewe, 1998). This research showed that
inclusion of SFLM in rabbit diet had no deleterious effect on their biochemical response.
Table 2: Haematological indices of rabbit fed Sunflower leaf meal.

Parameters 0%SFLM 10% SFLM 20% 30% SFLM SEM Reference
SFLM range
PCV (%) 30.60b 37.75ab 39.00a 33.75ab 2.40 33.00 – 50.00
Haemoglobin(g/dl) 9.75 b
11.53 ab
12.65 a
11.15ab 0.86 9.40 – 17.40
12
RBC(x10 /l) 5.86 b
6.81 ab
7.33 a
6.48 ab
0.41 3.80 – 7.90
9
WBC(x10 /l) 4.68 b
5.33 a
5.18 a
5.05 ab
0.37 5.00 – 13.00
MCH 16.64 16.93 17.26 17.21 1.17 18.00 – 24.00
MCV 52.22 52.50 53.21 52.08 0.42 58.50 – 66.50
MCHC 3.19 3.23 3.24 3.30 0.44 27.00 -34.00
KEY: Packed cell volume (PCV), White blood cell (WBC), Red blood cell (RBC), Mean Corpuscular
Haemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin
Concentration (MCHC)
Table 3: Biochemical indices of rabbit fed Sunflower leaf meal.

Parameters 0%SFLM 10% SFLM 20% SFLM 30% SFLM SEM Reference range
ALP (IU/L) 10.25 10.25 10.75 10.50 0.22 10.00 – 96.00

AST (IU/L) 67.25 71.25 67.75 63.50 2.58 10.00 – 98.00
ALT (IU/L) 72.00a 59.50b 66.50ab 59.25b 2.94 10.00 – 96.00
Total protein (g/l) 6.13 5.88 6.40 5.87 0.40 50.00 – 75.00
Albumin (g/l) 3.05 2.88 3.28 2.90 0.40 25.00 – 40.00
Globulin (g/l) 3.08 3.00 3.12 2.98 0.26 25.00 – 40.00
Key: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP),

Results obtained in this study have shown that SFLM can had haematinic potential on weaner rabbits fed
20%SFLM without adverse effects on their haematological profile and serum biochemical indices.
Page | 270
REFERENCES
Akinola, J.O., A. Larbi, G.O. Farinu and A.A. Odunsi, (1999). Seed treatment methods and duration
effects on germination of wild sunflower. Expl. Agric., 36: 63-69.
Aro, S.O., Ogunwale, F.F. and Falade, O.A.(2013). Blood viscosity of finisher cockerel fed dietary
inclusions of fermented cassava tuber wastes. Proc. of the 18th Annual Conf. of Anim. Sci.
Assoc. of Nig., pp. 74-77.
Bitto II, Gemade M, (2001) Afri. J. Biomed. Res, 9:199-209
Doyle, D. (2006). William Hewson (1739-74). The father of haematology. Br. J. Haematol., 133:375-381.
Esonu, B.O., Emenalon, O .O., Udedibie, A. B. I., Herbert, U., Ekpor, C. F., Okoli, I. C. and Ihekwumere,
F. C. (2001). Performance and blood chemistry of weaner pig fed raw Mucuna (Velvet bean)
meal. Tropical Animal Production Investigation., 4, 49 – 54.
Farinu, G.O., A.A. Odunsi, J.O. Akinola and V.A Togun, (1999). Yield and chemical composition of wild
sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia Helms. A. Gray) and feeding value of wild sunflower forage
meal in broiler chicken diets. Trop. J. Anim. Sci., 2: 31-37.
Isaac, L.J. Abah, G., Akpan, B. and Ekaette, I.U. (2013) Haematological properties of different breeds
and sexes of rabbits, Proc. of the 18th Annual Conf. of Anim. Sci. Assoc. of Nig., pp. 24-27.
Kurtoglu, F., Kurtoglu, V., Celik, I., Kececi, I. and Nizamlioglu, M. (2005). Effect of dietary boron
supplementation on some biochemical parameters, peripheral blood lymphocytes, splenic plasma
cells and bone characteristics of broiler chicks given diets with adequate or inadequate
cholecalferol (Vitamin D) content. Br. Poult. Sci., vol.46 pp.87-96.
M‘cene, W.B., J.K. Tuitoek and H.K. Muirui, (1999). Nitrogen utilization and performance of pigs given
diets containing a dried or un-dried fermented blood/molasses mixture. Anim. Feed Sci. and
Technol., 78: 239-247.
Medirabbit, (2007). www.medirabbit.com/EN/Hematology/blood_chemistry.htm
Ochei, J and Kolhatkar, A (2007). Medical laboratory science: theory and practice 6th edition, Tata
McGraw-Hill Publishers Company Limited. Pp 282 – 286
Odunsi, A.A., G.O. Farinu and J.O. Akinola (1996). Influence of dietary wild sunflower (Tithonia
diversifolia Helms. A Gray) leaf meal on layers performance and egg quality. Nig. J. Anim.
Prod., 23: 28-32.
Odunsi, A.A., Onifade, A.A. and Babatunde, G.M. (1999).Response of broiler chicks to virginmycin and
dietary protein concentration in the humid tropics. Arch. Zoot. Vol. 48 no. 183 pp. 317-325.
Rafiu, T.A., Aderinola, O.A., Akinwumi, A.O., Alabi, T.A. and Shittu, M.D.(2013). Performance and
blood chemistry of broiler chickens fed Moringa oleifera leaf meal.Proc. of the 18th Annual
Conf. of Anim. Sci. Assoc. of Nig., pp. 294.
Taiwo, A.A., A.D. Adejuyigbe, E.A. Adebowale, J.S. Oshotan and O.O. David, (2004). Effect of Tridax
procumbens, panicum maximum and pawpaw leaves (Carica papaya) supplemented with
concentrate on the performance and nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits. Proc. 29th Ann.
Conf. Nig. Soc. For Anim. Prod. (NSAP) March. 20-25, Usmanu Danfodio University Sokoto,
Nigeria.
Thomas, V.M., D.N. Snedon, R.E. Raftert and C.A. Murray, (1982). Digestibility and feeding value of
Sunflower silage for beef Steer. J. Anim. Sci., 12: 40-49.
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GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER FINISHER CHICKENS FED DIETS

SUPPLEMENTED WITH NIACIN AND YEAST
*. EDEH, H. O, ILO S.U, OGWUEGBU, M.C, ANI, A.O. ONODUGO M.O and UCHE, S.O
Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria
*Corresponding author; Email:henry.edeh@unn.edu.ng. Phone no :( +2348064645061)
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of niacin and yeast dietary supplementation on the
growth performance of broiler chickens. A total of one hundred and twenty broiler chickens at (28) days
of age of mixed sexes of the Anak strain were used for the study. The birds were randomly allotted to four
dietary treatments, having thirty birds per treatment. They were further divided into three replicates with
ten birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Niacin and yeast were supplemented in
the feed of the birds and fed to them ad libitum. The amount of niacin and yeast that were supplemented
in the various treatments is as listed below: T1 (Control diet) = No Niacin and Yeast. T2= 32.5g of Yeast
+ 1.5g of Niacin. T3= 32.5g of Yeast + 3g of Niacin. T4= 32.5g of Yeast + 4.5g of Niacin. The results
indicated that T2 value was significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1 in final body weight gain (FBW), Total
feed intake(TFI), Daily feed intake(DFI) and Feed cost(FC) but statistically similar to T3 and T4 values
of FBW, TFI, DFI and FC. However, from the results shown in this study, T3 and T4 had a better feed
conversion ratio of 5.52 and 5.66 respectively. It is therefore recommended that a synergic effect of
32.5g of Yeast + 3g of Niacin or 32.5g of Yeast + 4.5g of Niacin will yield a good result.
Key words: Growth, Broiler, diets, niacin and yeast
INTRODUCTION
The growing requirements for safe and good quality poultry products have led to an increased interest in
growth-promoting feed additives for animal nutrition (Ruiz et al.2015). Among these feed additives are
niacin and yeast. Chemically, niacin is one of the simplest vitamins, having the empirical formula
C6H3O2N. Both nicotinic acid and nicotinamide are white, odorless, crystalline solids soluble in water and
alcohol. Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide are rapidly absorbed from the stomach and the intestine
(Nabokina et al., 2005; Jacob, 2006). Corn-based feeds provide limited levels of tryptophan and niacin.
Niacin is important in energy production and storage and in tissue growth (El-Husseiny et al., 2008).
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), one of the most widely commercialized types of yeast, rich in crude
protein (40-45%) and its biological values were high and also rich in vitamin B complex, biotin,
niacin, pentothenic acid and thiamin (Reed and Nagodawithana,1999) has long been fed to animals
and poultry. Considering the importance of niacin and yeast, the present study was designed to evaluate
the potential effect of supplementation of niacin and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as natural growth
promoters on growth performance of commercial broiler chicken.

Location and duration of study
The study was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Department of Animal Science Teaching and
Research Farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Nsukka lies in the Derived Savanna region, and is located
on longitude 60 25□N and latitude 70 24□ E (Ofomata1975) and at an altitude of 430m above the sea level
(Breinholt et al., 1981). The climate of the study area is a typical humid tropical type, with a relative
humidity range of 56.01 - 103.83%. Average diurnal minimum temperature ranges from 220C - 24.70C
while the average maximum temperature ranges from 330C - 370C (Okonkwo and Akubuo, 2007, Energy
Center, UNN, 2008). Annual rainfall ranges from 1567.05mm to 1846.98mm (Meteorological Center,
Crop Science Department, University of Nigeria Nsukka, 2009 unpublished). The study lasted for a
period of four weeks.
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Experimental materials
Niacin and yeast were used for the study. Niacin was purchased from Joechem Agrochemicals in Nsukka,
Enugu state while commercial yeast was purchased from a reputable dealer in Ogige market in Nsukka.
Experimental animal and management
One hundred and twenty (120) broiler birds of a (28) day old commercial broiler chicks of mixed sexes of
the Anak strain were purchased from a reputable source in Nsukka, Enugu state at day old. They were
given the same niacin and yeast during starter phase and thereafter were and were used for the study at
28day. The finisher broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four (4) dietary treatments with thirty (30)
birds per treatment in each pen. They were further divided into three replicates with ten birds per replicate
in a completely randomized design (CRD). Yeast and Niacin were included in the feed of the broiler
birds. The treatments were as follows: T1= Control (no Niacin, no Yeast included), T 2=32.5g of Yeast +
1.5g of Niacin, T3=32.5g of Yeast + 3g of Niacin and T4=32.5g of Yeast + 4.5g of Niacin. Feed and
water were supplied ad libitum to the birds. Vaccinations and other management practices were strictly
followed.
Table 1: Percentage ingredient composition of broiler finisher diet

INGREDIENTS (%) FINISHER DIET
Maize 40.00
Soybean cake 33.6
Palm kernel cake 10.40
Wheat Offal 8.00
Bone meal 4.00
Fish meal 3.00
Salt 0.25
Premix* 0.25
Lysine 0.25
Methionine 0.25
TOTAL 100
Parameters measured
The following parameters were measured and determined:
Weekly body weight: the weights of the birds were taken on a weekly basis with the aid of a top
weighing balance of at least 10kg. Weight gain: this was calculated by difference between two
consecutive weighing. Daily feed intake: this was obtained from the difference between the quantity of
feed offered and that of the leftover from the previous day divided by the number of birds per treatment.
Feed conversion ratio: this was calculated as the ratio of feed intake per bird to that of weight gain per
bird
Statistical analyses
Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) for completely randomized design
(CRD) using a statistics package for social sciences (SPSS 2015) model. Significantly different means
were separated using Duncan‘s New Multiple Range Test (SPSS, 2015)
Table 2: Proximate composition of broiler finisher diets containing supplementation of niacin and
yeast
MOISTURE PROTEIN ASH FIBRE FAT/OIL
T1 15.01 21.45 16.50 6.33 1.50
T2 15.00 20.88 16.00 7.05 1.04
T3 14.63 21.01 14.01 8.00 1.02
T4 15.00 20.76 13.44 8.50 1.60
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Table 3: Effect of niacin and yeast on supplementation on growth performance of broiler finisher
chickens
PARAMETERS T1 T2 T3 T4 SIGNIFICANCE
MEASURED
IBW (g) 1713.33±46.31 1750.00±23.09 1723.33±12.01 1716.67±12.01 N.S
FBW (g) 2590.00±17.32b 2676.67±14.53a 2643.33±29.06ab 2656.67±24.04ab *
TWG (g) 876.67±63.60 b 926.67±33.83 a 960.00±17.32 a 940.00±20.82 a *
b a a
ADWG (g) 31.31±2.27 33.09±1.21 34.29±0.62 33.57±0.74a *
b a ab ab
TFI (g) 5190.70±36.77 5391.59±57.36 5303.88±59.14 5320.49±51.26 *
DFI (g) 185.38±1.31b 192.56±2.05a 189.43±2.11ab 190.02±1.83ab *
FCR 5.98±0.39 a 5.83±0.18 a 5.52±0.04 b 5.66±0.08 b *
PER 0.80±0.09 0.87±0.05 0.86±0.01 0.84±0.02 N.S
FEED COST (₦) 788.99±5.59b 819.52±8.72a 809.19±6.19ab 808.71±7.79ab *
IBW= Initial body weight, FBW= Final body weight, TWG= Total weight gain, ADWG= Average daily
weight gain, TFI= Total feed intake, DFI= Daily feed intake, FCR= Feed conversion ratio and PER=
protein efficiency ratio.

Table 3 indicates that T2 value obtained from the chickens was significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1 in
final body weight gain (FBW), Total feed intake(TFI), Daily feed intake(DFI) and Feed cost(FC) but
statistically similar to T3 and T4 values of FBW, TFI, DFI and FC. The niacin and yeast control group
were significantly (P<0.05) higher than T1 in Total weight gain (TWG) and Average daily weight gain
(ADWG). T3 and T4 had better feed conversion ratio than the control group (T1).
The significant increase observed in final body weight in T2 agrees with NRC (1994) which
recommended low inclusion of niacin and yeast in broiler production. NRC recommends 10 to 65 mg of
niacin per kg of feed for various classes of poultry. This is lower than the recommendation of Whitehead
(2000) who reported that the inclusion level of niacin in broiler feed should be 80 mg per kg feed. El-
Husseiny et al. (2008) stated that Niacin is important in energy production and storage for tissue growth
.The positive effects seen in final body weight gain, total weight gain and average daily weight gain are in
agreement with the findings of Priya and Babu, (2013); Onwurah et al., (2014); Hana et al., (2015), who
reported that feeding yeast to chicks improves body weight gain and feed/gain ratio.

However, from the results shown in this study, T3 and T4 had a better feed conversion ratio of 5.52 and
5.66 respectively. It is therefore recommended that a synergic effect of 32.5g of Yeast + 3g of Niacin or
32.5g of Yeast + 4.5g of Niacin will yield a good result.
REFERENCES
Breinholt, K.A., Gowen, F.A.Y. and Nwosu, C.C. (1981). Influence of environmental and animal factors
on day and night grazing activity of imported Holstein-Friesian cows in the humid lowland tropics
of Nigeria. Tropical Animal Production 6 (4):328-336.
El- Husseiny, O.M., G.M. Abdul-Aziz, E.R. ElHaroun, and A.M.A.S. Goda. (2008). ―Fish Meal Replacer
Studies with Nile Tilapia and Mullet under Polyculture Conditions in Egypt‖. International Aqua
feed., 9(1):20-29.
Jacob, R.A. (2006). Niacin. In Bowman, B.A. and Russell, R.M. (Editors) ―Present Knowledge in
Nutrition‖, ninth edition, International Life Sciences Institute, Washington, D.C. Pp.261-268.
Hana, S.E., Tyfor, M.H., Tabidi, I.M.El Nasri and Mukhtar, M.A. (2015) Study of different levels of
yeast on performance values and immune response in broiler chicken. Research Journal of Animal
and Veterinary Sciences., 8(1): 1-5.
Page | 274
Nabokina, S.M., M.I. Kashyap and H.M. Said. (2005). Mechanism and regulation of human intestinal
niacin uptake. American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology. 289: C97-C103.
NRC (1994). Nutrient Requirement of Poultry (9th Ed.). National Academy Press, Washington, DC.,
USA., ISBN-13:9780309048927, Pages:155.
Ofomata, G.E.K. (1975). Soil Erosion. In: Nigeria in maps. Eastern States. Benin, Ethopia Pub. House.43-
45.√
Okonkwo, W.I. and Akubuo, C.O. (2007) Trombe wall system for poultry Brooding. Int .J. Poultry
sci.6:125-130
Onwurah, F.B., Amaefule, K.U. and Ahamefule, F.O. (2014) Effect of baker‘s yeast (Saccharomyces
cerevisiae) inclusion in feed and in drinking water on performance of broiler birds. British Journal
of Applied Science and Technology, 4(1): 144-151.S
Priya, S.B. and Babu, S.S. (2013) Effect of different levels of supplemental probiotics (Saccharomyces
cerevisiae) on performance, haematology, biochemistry, microbiology, histopathology, storage
stability and carcass yield of broiler chicken. International Journal of Pharmaceutical & Biological
Archives, 4(1): 201-207.
Reed, G. and Nagodawithana, T.W. (1999). Yeast technology (2nd Edn.), VanNo strand Reinhold
New York.
. Ruiz, R., Peinado, M.J., Aranda-Olmedo, I., Abecia, L., Suarez-Pereira, E., Ortiz Mellet, C..
Garcia Fernandez, J.M. and Rubio, L.A. E_(2015). Effects of feed additives on ileal mucosa-associated
microbiota
composition of broiler chickens. Journal of Animal Science. 93, 3410–3420
SPSS.Com.(2015).IBM(R)SPSS(R) Advantage for Microsoft (R)IBM.Corporation 2010,IBM Corporation
Route,100,Somers,N4. 10589.
Whitehead, C.( 2000). Vitamin Nutrition for Broilers. Roche Tech. Sem. RCD 9543: 21.
Page | 275
INFLUENCE OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF AIDAN (TETRAPLEURA

TETRAPTERA) AND OR TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA) ON PERFORMANCE AND BIO-
ECONOMICS OF BROILER CHICKENS
*1Ingweye, J.N., 2Kalio, G.A. and 1Thomas E.S.

1
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt, PMB 5323, Choba,
Port Harcourt, Nigeria
2
Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Vocational and Technical Education, Ignatius Ajuru University of
Education, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
*Corresponding author: email: jiningweye@gmail.com; Phone: +2348032573003
ABSTRACT
Effect of supplementation of aidan powder alone or in combination with turmeric as feed additives on the
performance and economics of production of broiler chickens was studied. A total of 180-day old broiler
chicks, were assigned into six groups of 30 chicks each and three replicates of 10 chicks per replicate. The
chicks were allotted to six diets labelled T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6. T1 (control) diet had no aidan and
turmeric. Diets T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 contained 0.5% aidan, 1.0% aidan, 0.5% aidan + 0.5% turmeric,
1.0% turmeric and 0.5% turmeric, respectively. The study lasted for 56 days. Starter diets had 23.0 %
crude protein and 2,800.0 kcal (ME)/kg energy while finisher diets had 20.0 % crude protein and 3,200.0
kcal (ME)/kg energy. The birds were fed and supplied water ad libitum. The research used a Completely
Randomized Design (CRD) format, one-way analysis of variance. Results indicate that adding 0.5% aidan
+ 0.5% turmeric powders (T4) to broiler chicken diet improve final weight and weight gain while
reducing feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cost of feed per weight gain than adding any of the two
spices alone. We conclude that diet T4 is the best and should be added to broiler diets for better
performance.
Key words: Phyto-additives, spices, gross margin, weight gain
INTRODUCTION
Globally, commercial broiler chicken farmers aim for better birds‘ performance and economics of
production (TPS, 2019; Karaskova et al., 2015). Achieving that goal may involve adding growth–
enhancing antibiotics to poultry feeds (Puvaca et al., 2013). However, many farmers abuse the use of
antibiotics, causing antibiotic resistance and environmental pollution (EC, 2005). Hence, the European
Union and other countries banned antibiotics use in poultry production beginning 2006 (USGAO, 2011;
EC, 2005; Puvaca et al., 2013). This created opportunity for using natural spices to replace growth-
promoting antibiotics (Ingweye et al., 2019). Such commonly used spices in Nigeria include ginger,
garlic and turmeric (Khan et al., 2012; Karangiya et al., 2016). Consequently, their demand for use in
food and pharmaceuticals is huge (Mani and Kabiraj, 2019), making them unaffordable to smallholder
farmers. Thus, research shifted to the use of locally available and cheaper Nigerian spices to reduce or
replace conventional antibiotic growth–promoters in animal feed (Ingweye et al., 2019). One indigenous
Nigerian spice that could replace conventional spices in livestock diets is aidan. Ingweye et al (2019)
assessed the effect of co-administered aidan and turmeric powders as feed additives on blood chemistry,
proximate composition and organoleptic indices of broiler chickens. This study intends to provide more
information, thus the study examined the effect of lone supplementation of aidan and its combination with
turmeric powders on the growth performance and bioeconomics of broiler chickens.

Research site location
The experiment was carried out in the Teaching and Research Farm, University of Port Harcourt, Choba,
Rivers State, located at latitude 4o52‘11.26‖ N, longitude 6o54‘31.82‖ E, 16 m above sea level and 28oC
average annual temperature (Oyegun and Adeyemo, 1999).
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Research animals, feed materials and diets

Day-old broiler chicks of Cobb-500 strain, were used for the study. The feed ingredients were sourced
from Obo market, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. Aidan pods and turmeric
rhizomes were chopped into small pieces, sun-dried and milled to powder. Starter diets were formulated
to 23 % crude protein and 2,800 kcal (ME)/kg energy while finisher diets were compounded to yield 21
% crude protein and 3,200 kcal (ME)/kg energy. The composition of the diets is shown in Table 1.
Feeding and other management procedures

The chicks were raised in an open-sided deep litter house. Equipment and house were washed and
disinfected two weeks before arrival of the chicks. Wood shavings as litter material, was spread on the
floor to 5.0 cm depth. Adequate heat was provided using kerosene lanterns and stoves. Initial brooding
temperature for the first week was maintained at 35oC but reduced by 2.8oC each week till end of 3-week.
Experimental diets and drinking water were offered ad libitum. The chicks were vaccinated against
Newcastle and Gumboro diseases as well prophylactically treated against avian Coccidiosis according to
methods described by Ingweye et al. (2008).
Experimental design
One hundred and eighty (180) day-old broiler chicks were used for the 56-day study. The chicks were
divided into six groups of 30 chicks each. Groups were further shared into three replicates of 10 chicks
each. Average initial weights of the chicks across groups were balanced. Groups of chicks were randomly
allotted to six dietary treatments. Treatment 1 (T1) diet was the control, having neither aidan nor turmeric.
Treatments T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 diets contained 0.5% aidan, 1.0% aidan, 0.5% aidan plus 0.5%
turmeric, 1.0% turmeric and 0.5% turmeric, respectively. The research was set up in a Completely
Randomized Design (CRD), one-way analysis of variance.
Data collection procedure
Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), mortality rate and economics of production were
assessed. Feed offered and leftover were recorded once a day while live weights were recorded once a
week. Feed intake was calculated by subtracting the quantity of feed left over from feed offered after 24
hours. Weight gain was calculated by subtracting the present weight from the previous week weight. Feed
conversion ratio was calculated by dividing the feed intake by weight gain. Economics of production was
calculated using market cost of ingredients (N), feed intake and weight gain to compute cost of feed (N),
cost of feed consumed (N/kg) and cost of weight gain (N/kg).
Data analysis
The data collected were subjected to One-Way ANOVA using the procedure of SPSS software.
Significant treatment means were separated using the Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test and statistical
differences declared at 5% (P<0.05).
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Table 1: Composition of broiler chicken experimental diets containing supplementation of either or both aidan and tumeric
Treatment groups
Chicken starter diets Chicken finisher diets
Ingredients T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Aidan - 0.5 1.0 0.5 - - - 0.5 1.0 0.5 - -
Turmeric - - - 0.5 1.0 0.5 - - - 0.5 1.0 0.5
Maize 48.0 47.5 47.0 47.0 47.0 47.5 52.0 51.5 51.0 51.0 51.0 51.5
Soybean meal 36.0 36.0 36.0 36.0 36.0 36.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0 28.0
Fish meal 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.00 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0
Wheat offal 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
Bone meal 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
Salt 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vitamin premix 0.5 0.5 0.50 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Palm oil 1.0 1.0 1.00 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5
Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100. 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
Crude protein (%) 23.1 23.0 23.0 23.0 23.0 23.0 20.9 21.0 21.0 21.0 21.0 21.0
Energy(ME Kcal/kg) 2,828.0 2,811.0 2,794.0 2,794.0 2,794.0 2,811.0 3,215.0 3,210.0 3,270.0 3,200.0 3,210.0 3,195.0
Table 2: Performance of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with either or both aidan and turmeric
Treatment groups
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
NS NS NS NS
Initial weight (g) 48.40±0.02 48.0±0.01 48.30±0.00 48.0±0.03 48.30±0.02NS 48.40±0.02NS
b b ab a
Final weight (g) 2456.11±42.11 2458.50±45.65 2585.66±53.00 2778.67±56.12 2460.90±43.55b 2365.55±30.12b
c c b a
Weight gain (g) 2407.71±27.00 2410.50±29.01 2537.36±23.33 2730.67±28.10 2412.60±29.43c 2317.15±24.22d
a a a c
Feed intake (g) 6979.55±65.23 6902.20±60.76 6846.50±62.88 6366.30±64.69 6789.93±60.08a 6548.28±65.01b
a a b c
Feed conversion ratio 2.90±0.03 2.86±0.05 2.70±0.03 2.33±0.13 2.81±0.09a 2.83±0.03a
NS NS NS NS
Mortality rate (%) 6.70±0.02 6.00±0.00 6.00±0.02 5.50±0.00 6.00±0.00NS 6.00±0.01NS
a,b,c,d
Means in same row with different superscript are significantly different (p<0.05); NSNot significantly different (P>0.05)
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Table 2 shows the performance of broiler chickens fed diets containing supplementation of either or both
aidan and turmeric. Chickens in T4 showed the highest (p<0.05) final live weight (2778.67±56.12 g) and
weight gain (2730.67±28.10 g) followed by those in T3. These values were higher than those reported for
birds fed diets containing garlic, ginger and their combination (Karangiya et al., 2016). Differences could
be due to duration of the studies as present study was 14 days longer. Nevertheless, the highest final
weight and weight gain observed in T4 implied that combining turmeric with aidan at 0.5% each could
improve feed utilization in broiler chickens. Similarly, chickens in T4 (6366.30±64.69 g) consumed the
least (p<0.05) feed, further supporting the assertion that supplementation of both aidan and turmeric each
at 0.5%, improved nutrient utilization. Thus, the chickens ate less feed because they satisfied their
nutrient requirement. This is consistent with the report of Karaskova et al. (2015) who stated that
combination of phyto-additives could improve feed efficiency in chickens. Feed intake increased among
chickens in T6 (6548.28±65.01 g) while those in T1, T2, T3 and T5 consumed the highest. Chickens in
T4 (2.33±0.13) showed the best (p<0.05) feed conversion ratio, followed by those in T3 (2.70±0.03),
while chickens in T1, T2, T5 and T6 showed the poorest (p<0.05) results. Also, that T4 group had the
least feed intake and feed conversion ratio values than others indicate that the birds were more efficient in
converting their lower feed intake to meat. This agrees with reports that phyto-additives could increase
feed efficiency of birds (Karaskova et al., 2015) and that additive effect is better felt when two or more
spices are combined in diets. Mortality rate of the birds was not affected (p>0.05) by inclusion of turmeric
and aidan in feed either alone or in combination.
Table 3: Economics of production of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with either or both
aidan and turmeric in diets
Treatment groups
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Cost of feed (N/kg) 94.98±3.11 105.56±3.0 115.90±2.9 113.34±2.2 110.77±3.0 100.23±2.5
NS
1NS 0NS 2NS 1NS 1NS
Cost of feed 662.92±10. 728.60±12. 793.51±13. 721.56±12. 752.12±31. 656.33±11.
consumed (N) 00c 56b 04a 57b 90ab 11c
Feed cost/weight 275.44±5.9 301.90±6.7 312.93±7.0 264.08±5.9 311.26±6.6 283.65±5.9
gain (N/kg) 0b 6a 0a 9b 6a 8ab
a,b,c NS
Means in same row with different superscript are significantly different (p<0.05); Not significantly
different (P>0.05)
Economics of producing broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with either or both aidan and turmeric is
presented in Table 3. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the costs of the six experimental
diets. Chickens in group T3 (N793.51±13.04) recorded the highest (p<0.05) cost of feed consumed, which
was not different (p>0.05) from that of T5 (N752.12±31.90), while groups T1 and T6 had the least values
(p<0.05). The cost of feed per weight gain values (N/kg) showed that weight gained by chickens fed T4
(264.08±5.99) and T1 (275.44±5.90) diets were the least, though not different (p>0.05) from that of T6
(283.65±5.98). The cost of feed was within the range reported for broiler chickens by Odoemelam et al.,
(2013), however, the feed cost per weight gain was higher in this study is higher than that reported for
broiler chickens by Odoemelam et al. (2013). Differences could be due to the higher cost of the spices,
especially aidan. T3 had the highest aidan inclusion level of 1.0% and the highest cost of feed consumed
and feed cost per weight gain.
CONCLUSION
Influence of aidan and turmeric powders supplemented singly or mixed in diets of broiler chickens was
evaluated for growth performance and bio-econmics in this study. The study concluded that
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supplementation of 0.5% aidan and 0.5% turmeric powders (T4) in broiler diet could improve weight
gain while reducing feed intake, improving feed conversion ratio and lowering feed cost per weight gain .
REFERENCES
Ali, S., Mukhtar, M., Manzoor, S., Hssain, Z., Ali, A. (2014). Effect of garlic, black seed and turmeric on
the growth of broiler chicken. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 13 (4): 204-210.
EC, (2005). Ban on antibiotics as growth promoters in animal feed enters into effect. European
Commission (EC) Press Release.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_05_1687.
Ingweye, J. N., Egbo, G. O. and Kalio, G. A. (2019). Influence of aidan and turmeric as additives on
blood chemistry, proximate composition and organoleptic indices of broiler chickens. Journal of
Agricultural Research and Development, 18: 90-106.
Ingweye, J. N., Okon, B. I., Ubua, J. A. and Essien, A. I. (2008). Performance of broiler chickens fed fish
and shrimp wastes. Asian Journal of Animal Sciences, 2 (2): 58-63.
Karangiya, V. K., Savsani, H. H., Patil, S. S., Garg, D. D., Murthy, K. S., Ribadiya, N. K., Vekariya, S. J.
(2016). Effect of dietary supplementation of garlic, ginger and their combination on feed intake,
growth performance and economics in commercial broilers. Veterinary World, 9 (3): 245–250.
Karaskova, K., Suchy, P. and Strakova, E. (2015). Current use of phytogenic feed additives in animal
nutrition: a review. Czech Journal of Animal Science, 60 (12): 521–530.
Mani, A. and Kabiraj, A. (2019). Export potential of spices and its value added products. Agriculture and
Food: E-Newsletter, 1 (8): 338-347.
Odoemelam, V. U., Nwaogu, K. O., Ukachukwu, S. N., Etuk, E. B., Etuk, I. F., Aladi, N. O. and
Ogbuewu, I. P. (2013). Growth response, carcass quality and organoleptic assessment of broiler
chickens fed Ocimum gratissimum L. supplemented diets. International Journal of Agriculture and
Rural Development, 16 (2): 1521-1528.
Oyegun, C. U. and Adeyemo, A. M. (1999). Port Harcourt Region. Department of Geography and
Environmental Science, University of Port Harcourt, Publication Series Number One, Paragraphics,
Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Puvaca, N., Stanacev, V., Glamocic, D., Levic, J., Peric, L., Stanacev, V., Milic, D. (2013). Beneficial
effects of phytoadditives in broiler nutrition. World's Poultry Science Journal, 69: 27-34.
TPS, (2019). Broiler performance objectives and nutrition specifications - Aviagen. The Poultry Site.
https://www.thepoultrysite.com/news/2019/05/new-2019-broiler-performance-objectives-and-
nutrition-specifications-aviagen [Accessed 19 10 2020].
USGAO, (2011). Antibiotic Resistance: Agencies Have Made Little Progress Addressing Antibiotic Use
in Animals. Report to the Ranking Member, Committee on Rules, House of Representatives,
Washington DC, USA: US Government Accountability Office (USGAO).
http://www.gao.gov/assets/330/323090.pdf.
Page | 280
USE OF MILK BY-PRODUCT AS ADDITIVE IN DIET OF WEANER PIGS
*Ogunyemi, D. J.1, Boladuro, B. A., Sorunke, A. O., Onarinde, O. E.2, Adesehinwa, O. A3. and
Adesehinwa, A. O. K.
Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ibadan
1
Department of Animal Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
2
Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan
3
Ak Research Farms, Eleyele, Ibadan, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: djohnsonogunyemi@gmail.com +2347039727464
ABSTRACT
The study assessed effect of solid milk waste (SMW) on the performance of weaner pigs. A basal diet
that met the nutrient requirements of weaner pigs was formulated, which served as the control diet (Diet
1). Solid milk waste was added to the basal diet at 0.5 and 1 % to make diets 2 and 3 respectively. Fifty-
four (54) weaned pigs (Largewhite × Landrace), average 11.8 ± 1.21 kg body weight (BW), were
apportioned to three treatments by BW in three replications with 6 pigs per pen in a completely
randomized design. Pigs were fed each treatment diet throughout the experimental period using concrete
drinker and semi-automatic feeders. Feeds and water were supplied ad libitum. Weekly feed intake and
body weight gain were obtained and feed conversion ratio was calculated. The experimental period was
28 days. The performance indices had no significant (p>0.05) difference among dietary treatments. There
was no treatment effect on daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. However, pig
fed diet with 1% SMW had improved daily weight gain (0.423 kg), better feed conversion ratio (2.64) and
higher daily feed intake (1.114 kg). It was therefore concluded that addition of solid milk waste in the
diets of weaner pigs had no deleterious effect on the performance of the animals.
Keywords: Milk by-product, milk composition, weaner pigs, performance
INTRODUCTION
The use of more digestible protein from animal source is preferred to those from plant origin in starter
diets. This has been shown to improve gut health and result in improved growth performance. Protein
from animal sources such as milk powder in piglet diets have been reported to be beneficial for intestinal
development and health, especially after weaning (Le Huërou-Luron et al., 2018).
According to Wellock et al. (2006), pigs offered diets based on dried skimmed milk powder had higher
feed intake, greater rates of gain and improved feed conversion ratio than those offered soya based diets.
Many studies have also shown that the use of protein from animal sources such as milk powder in piglet
diets prevented behavioral disorders (manipulative, agonistic and abnormal behavior) and led to better
performance (Araújo et al., 2010; Bouzerzour et al., 2012; Pluske et al., 2018).
Milk and animal-based products are included in early nursery pig diets to help weaned pigs transition
from a milk-based liquid diet to a plant-based solid diet. Previous research has demonstrated that
increasing the levels of lactose (milk by-product) in nursery pig diets using dried whey resulted in an
improvement in pig performance (Mahan et al., 2004).
Milk powder has been reported to have a good amino acid profile and high digestibility. Its ability to
improve the acceptance of the diet and promote the development of the digestive tract makes it an optimal
feed component for piglets (Le Huërou-Luron et al., 2018). Supplementation of animal feed with the
suitable feed additive is controlled with its economic benefits. Therefore, the use of industrial by-products
which were usually discarded is an advantage (Juan et al., 2016). At present, a relatively large proportion
of the produced powder milk is discarded which may have a negative environmental effect. There is a
need for their alternative use in order to address the environmental issues. Therefore, it was hypothesized
that use of solid milk waste as feed additive in weaner‘s diets could improve growth performance of the
animals.
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Experimental location, diets, animals, design and management
The experiment was carried out at AK Research Farms, Eleyele, Ibadan and lasted for 28 days. A basal
diet that met nutrient requirement for wearner pig (NRC, 2012) was prepared using common feed
components (soybean meal, maize, palm kernel cake, wheat bran, maize bran and fishmeal). Different
levels (0.5 and 1%) of solid milk waste (SMW) were added to this basal diet, representing three different
dietary treatments: diet 1 as a purely vegetable ration without any other high-quality protein sources. In
the diet 2, the use of 0.5% solid milk waste was added to the basal diet while diet 3 contained 1% solid
milk waste (Table 1). Fifty-four (54) weaner pigs of average weight of 11.8±1.21 kg were randomly
apportioned to the three dietary treatments with each treatment having eighteen (18) pigs and three
replicates with six (6) pigs per replicate. The animals were randomized to the experimental treatments
using completely randomized design. The feeders were refilled twice daily (morning and evening) to
provide ad libitum feed supply. Feed leftovers were weighed at the end of every week to determine the
weekly feed consumption on pen basis and thus the average daily feed intake per day and animal.

The performance indices of the weaner pigs fed with the experimental diets are presented in Table 2
below. The weaner pigs were uniformly distributed at the onset of the experiment. This was evident by
insignificant probability value (p=0.9075) of their initial weights across the treatments. The final body
weight of the pigs across the treatments were similar and not statistically different (p>0.05) from one
another. The highest but non-significant value (24.156 kg) was observed in pig fed with 0.5 % solid milk
waste (SMW) while the lowest final body weight (20.933 kg) was noticed in pig placed on control diet
(T1=0% SMW). At 0.5% inclusion of SMW, the pig had improved body weight gain and feed conversion
ratio compared with those fed with diets that contained 0 and 1% SMW. There was about 12.4%
increment in the final body weight of the pig placed on diet contained 0.5% SMW when compared with
others. Negligible difference was observed between pig fed diet without SMW and those on diet with 1%
SMW. The body weight gains of the pigs across the treatments were not significantly (p>0.05) different
and followed similar pattern with their final body weights. The pig on diet with 1% SMW had 16.8 and
22.9% improvement in body weight gain when compared with those fed with 0 and 1% SWM
respectively. Again, the daily weight gains were comparable and the highest (0.432 kg) was observed in
pigs placed on diets with 0.5% SWM while the lowest daily weight gain (0.326 kg) was noticed in pigs
fed diet with highest SMW inclusion level (1%). The daily feed intakes were not significantly different
from one another across the treatment with the value ranged from 0.911 to 1.114 kg with the highest and
lowest obtained in pigs placed on diets with 0.5 and 1% SWM respectively. Among the feed conversion
ratios (FCR), the difference was negligible (p>0.05) with best FCR (2.638) found in pigs fed diet with
0.5% SMW and the worst (2.791) was observed in pigs placed on diet without SMW supplementation.
Most diets have been found to be inadequate according to organic production standards or ecological
targets (Quander‐Stoll et al., 2020). The use of animal-sourced proteins such as milk powder in piglet
diets has been reported to prevent behavioral disorders such as manipulative, antagonist and other
abnormal behaviours with a consequent better performance (Bouzerzour et al., 2012; Pluske et al., 2018).
The observation agreed with the findings of this study in which there was improvement (non-significant)
in the body weight and daily weight gain of pigs fed diet with solid milk waste at 0.5% inclusion level.
The improvement in the body weight gain as mentioned above may be because of the influence of the
type of protein source (solid milk waste) on both the development of the digestive tract and its microflora
as reported by Poulsen et al. (2017). While lack of improvement in pigs fed 1% SMW may be ascribed to
higher inclusion of the solid milk waste in the diet which might cause diarrhea for the animals, hence poor
growth performance. Lack of significant effect of the solid waste milk on the performance of the weaner
pigs may be an indication that use of solid waste milk in the weaner‘s diet as an additive may not be
necessary using ‗over the top approach‘ rather than adjusting the diet formulation to reduce nutrients.
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CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The use of solid milk waste in the diets of weaner pigs has no demerit on the performance of the animals.
Therefore, 0.5% inclusion of solid milk waste in the diets of weaner pig is acceptable for optimum growth
performance.
REFERENCES
Araújo, W. A. G., Ferreira, A. S., Renaudeau D., Brustolini, P. C. and Silva, B. A. N. (2010). Effects of
diet protein source on the behavior of piglets after weaning. Livestock Science 132: 35–40.
Bouzerzour, K., Morgan, F., Cuinet, I., Bonhomme, C., Jardin, J., Le Huërou-Luron, I and Dupont, D.
(2012). In vivo digestion of infant formula in piglets: protein digestion kinetics and release of
bioactive peptides. British Journal of Nutrition 108: 1–10.
Juan C. S. A., Hugo C. V., El_Sayed A, Kamel M, Carlos B. C, Martha A. C. V and Alvarez M. C.
(2016). The use of sweet whey in for weaning pigs, Global Veterinaria 16 (1): 52-56
Le Huërou-Luron, I., Bouzerzour, K., Ferret-Bernard, S., Ménard, O., Le Normand, L., Perrier, C., Le
Bourgot, C., Jardin, J., Bourlieu, C., Carton, T., Le Ruyet, P., Cuinet, I., Bonhomme, C. and
Dupont, D. (2018) A mixture of milk and vegetable lipids in infant formula changes gut digestion,
mucosal immunity and microbiota composition in neonatal piglets. European Journal of Nutrition
57 :463–476.
Mahan, D. C., Fastinger, N. D. and Peters. J. C. ( 2004). Effects of diet complexity and dietary lactose
levels during three starter phases on postweaning pig performance, Journal of Animal Science
82:2790–2797.
National Research Council (2012). Nutrient requirement of swine. Tenth revised edition. National
Academy Press, Washington, DC.
Pluske, J. R., Turpin, D. L. and Kim, J. C. (2018). Gastrointestinal tract (gut) health in the young pig.
Animal Nutrition 4 :187–196.
Poulsen, A. S. R., Jonge de, N., Sugiharto, S., Nielsen, J. L., Lauridsen, C. and Canibe, N. (2017). The
microbial community of the gut differs between piglets fed sow milk, milk replacer or bovine
colostrum. British Journal of Nutrition 117: 964–978
Quander-Stoll, N., Holinger, M.,Früh, B., Zollitsch, W. and Leiber, F. (2020). Comparison of different
piglet diets in organicagriculture using milk powder, enriched lysine, conventional potato protein or
high soybeancake content. Renewable Agriculture and FoodSystems 1–10.
Wellock, I. J., Fortomaris, P. D., Houdijk, J. G. M. and Kyriazakis, I. (2006).The effect of dietary protein
supply on the performance and risk of post-weaning enteric disorders in newly weaned pigs.
Journal of Animal Science, 82: 327–335
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Table 1. Gross Composition of the Experimental Diets

INGREDIENTS Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3
Maize 45.00 45.00 45.00
Soybean meal 24.00 24.00 24.00
Fishmeal 3.00 3.00 3.00
Palm kernel cake 7.34 7.34 7.34
Maize bran 5.00 5.00 5.00
Wheat bran 10.00 10.00 10.00
Palm oil 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 1.60 1.60 1.60
Limestone 0.80 0.80 0.80
Lysine 0.45 0.45 0.45
Threonine 0.03 0.03 0.03
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.50 0.50 0.50
Solid Milk waste - 0.50 1.00
Total 100.00 100.50 101.00
Calculated values
Metabolizable energy (Kcal/kg) 2908 2922.54 2937.08
Crude protein (%) 20.21 20.34 20.47
Crude fibre (%) 4.62 4.62 4.62
Lysine (%) 1.48 1.49 1.51
Methionine (%) 0.39 0.40 0.40
Table 2. Performance of the weaner pigs fed with the experimental diets
Parameters T1 T2 T3 SEM P-value
Initial weight (Kg) 11.083 12.322 12.038 1.0501 0.9075
Final Weight (Kg) 20.933 24.156 21.167 1.9513 0.8026
Body weight gain (Kg) 9.850 11.833 9.128 0.9897 0.5781
Daily weight gain (Kg) 0.352 0.423 0.326 0.0353 0.5781
Daily feed intake (Kg) 0.976 1.114 0.911 0.1022 0.7650
Feed conversion ratio 2.791 2.638 2.740 0.0565 0.5962
SEM; standard error of means
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PERFORMANCE OF LAYING HENS FED DIETS CONTAINING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF

BIOTRONIC ® TOP FORTE (39-74 WEEK)
Agbai, K. N., Omage, J. J., Sekoni, A. A., Afolayan, M.

Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, PMB 1046, Zaria
Corresponding authors: nellyhelen89@gmail.com; +2348038685777
ABSTRACT
Study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of combined organic acids and their salts with a phytochemical
(Biotronic® Top Forte) as an alternative to the conventional antibiotics used in poultry production on the
performance of laying hens. Five hundred and sixty seven (567) layers were used and were intensively
managed. The layer hens were randomly assigned into seven treatment groups in a complete randomized
design, with Biotronic® Top Forte included at 0, 100, 200, 300,400,500g and oxytetracycline at 0.8g/100kg
in the diets representing T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7, Performance parameters were studied. Results from the
study showed a significant (p<0.05) influence of Biotronic® Top Forte on FCR, total egg number, total egg
weight, %HHEP, %HDEP, feed cost/crate of eggs, feed cost/dozen eggs and egg quality characteristics.
Birds on 500g Biotronic® Top Forte inclusion had better FCR (1.35), total egg number (251.79), total egg
weight (17264.4g), %HHEP (99.91), %HDEP (99.91), feed cost/crate of eggs ( 282.98), feed cost/dozen
eggs ( 113.19), egg weight (67.83g), yolk weight (16.81g), yolk height (18.63mm), yolk diameter
(75.66mm) and haugh unit (78.50) when compared with birds on 0 inclusion, oxytetracycline and birds on
lower levels of Biotronic® Top Forte.. Birds on diets containing 500g of Biotronic® top Forte inclusion
reduced cost of egg production by 9.11% and had higher egg production (13.02%) when compared with
birds on 0 inclusion diets, birds on diets containing oxytetracycline and birds on lower levels of Biotronic®
Top Forte. It was concluded that 500g/100kg inclusion of Biotronic® top Forte could be used to replace
antibiotics in diets of laying birds, to achieve better bird performance, reduced production cost and produce
healthier poultry products for human safe consumption.
Keyword: Growth Promoter, Performance, layers, Organic acids and Phytochemical
INTRODUCTION
High levels of production and efficient feed conversion are the need of the modern poultry industry, which to
a certain extent could be achieved by the use of specific feed additives. (Agbai et al., 2020) Antibiotic feed
additives as growth promoters have long been supplemented to poultry feed to stabilize the intestinal
microbial flora, improve the general performances and prevent some specific intestinal pathology (Hassan et
al., 2010). However, due to the emergence of microbes resistant to antibiotics which are used to treat human
and animal infections, the European Commission (EC) decided to phase out, and ultimately ban the
marketing and use of antibiotics as growth promoters in feed (EFSA, 2015). Antibiotics removal has led to
poultry performance problems, feed conversion increases and a rise in the incidence of certain animal
diseases, such as (subclinical) necrotic enteritis (Castano, 2007). Such a situation has compelled the
researchers to explore the utility of other non-therapeutic alternatives like organic acids, enzymes, probiotics,
prebiotics, herbs, essential oils and immune stimulants as feed additives in poultry production. There have
been a significantly increased number of studies focused on searching for alternatives to antibiotics with
similar antimicrobial and growth-promoting effects without inducing bacterial resistance and potential side
effects to animals. Dietary organic acids have gained greater attention because of their antimicrobial activity
against pathogenic bacteria and the fact that these compounds can induce a pH reduction in the
gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which can improve nutrient utilization in poultry diets (Eckel et al., 1992).
Organic acid treatments composed of individual acids and blends of several acids have been found to
perform antimicrobial activities similar to those of antibiotics ( Boling et al., 2002). The European Union
allowed the use of organic acids and their salts in poultry production because these are generally considered
safe (Adil et al., 2010). The Biotronic® Top Forte combines selected organic acids and their salts with a
phytochemical and the unique Biomin® Permeabilizing Complex fully utilizing a unique synergism in their
mode of action. The Biomin® Permeabilizing Complex boosts the activity of the active ingredients (the
Page | 285
organic acids and the phytochemical) and facilitates their entry by permeating the outer membrane of Gram-
negative bacteria (Biomin, 2018). The study was carried out to determine the effect of diets containing
different levels of Biotronic® Top Forte on performance of laying hens 39-74 weeks of age

The study was carried out at the Poultry Laying Unit, Teaching and Research Farm, Department of
Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Zaria is located within the
Northern Guinea Savanna Zone on latitude 110 11‘ 06‖ N and longitude 70 38‘ 55‖ E, at an altitude of
706m above sea level. The maximum temperature ranges from 26-320C depending on the season while
the mean relative humidity during the dry and wet seasons are 21 and 72%, respectively. (Meteorological
Unit, Institute of Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, 2016). This study was carried
out to determine the effect of diets containing different levels of Biotronic® Top Forte on performance of
laying hens 39-74 weeks of age. Five hundred and sixty seven (567) young layers were randomly
assigned into seven treatment groups in a complete randomized design, with Biotronic® Top Forte
included at 0, 100, 200, 300,400,500g and oxtetracycline as a positive control (oxytetracycline at
0.8g/100kg) in the diets representing T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7 with 3 replicates of 27 birds each. The
birds were intensively managed with all necessary routine management practices. Feed and water were
provided ad libitum for the 36 weeks period of the study. Proximate analysis of the sample of
experimental diets was done at the Biochemical Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of
Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria according to methods described by (A.O.A.C, 2005) as
presented on Table 2. Body weight of birds were taken at the beginning, end of the study and change in
body weight was calculated. Feed intake was determined by obtaining the differences between the
quantity of feed offered and the left over on 28-day period. Egg production was recorded daily and pooled
on 28 - day period to calculate hen-day egg production and hen house egg production. Cost per crate eggs
was calculated based on the prevailing market prices of the feed ingredients. Mortality was recorded as it
occurred. Birds were cared for according to guidelines established by the University Animal Care
Committee.

Effect of diets containing different levels of Biotronic® Top Forte on laying performance of hens (39-
74 weeks)
Table 1 shows the effect of diets containing different levels of Biotronic® Top Forte on laying performance
of hens (39-74weeks). There were significant (P<0.05) differences in all parameters measured except for
total feed intake and mortality. Birds on diets containing 500g inclusion of Biotronic® Top Forte had
significantly (P<0.05) lower final weight (1849.00g), better FCR (1.34), higher egg number (251.79), had
heavier egg weight (17264.40g), better %HDEP (99.91) and %HHEP (99.91) when compared with birds on
diets containing 0g inclusion (1935g, 1.71, 219.02, 13915.12g, 89.03% and 89.03% respectively) of
Biotronic® Top Forte, birds on diets containing Oxytetracycline (1974.33g, 1.53, 223.92, 14972.50, 88.87%
and 88.87% respectively) and other treatments. Birds on diets containing 500g inclusion of Biotronic® Top
Forte had significantly (P<0.05) better cost of total feed intake ( 2350.56), feed cost per crate of eggs (
282.98) and feed cost per dozen eggs ( 112.18) when compared with birds on diets containing 0% inclusion
( 2268.72, 311.33 and 124.53 respectively) of Biotronic® Top Forte, birds on diets containing
Oxytetracycline ( 2198.72, 294.66 and 117.86 respectively) and other treatments. Mortality of 1.19% was
recorded at the last week of the experiment in birds on diets containing 400g inclusion of Biotronic® Top
Forte. In this study, birds on higher supplementation of Biotronic® Top Forte (organic acid) showed the best
results in FCR and egg production. This agreed with the report of Park et al. (2009) that higher organic acid
inclusion in the diet of laying birds showed best result in egg production, decreased soft shell and FCR. The
birds on higher Biotronic® Top Forte inclusion had reduced feed intake, such effect happened due to the
antimicrobial activity of the Biotronic® Top Forte which brought about good feed absorption thereby
resulted in improved feed conversion ratio and better laying performance. This agreed with the report of
Page | 286
Wang et al. (2009) that higher organic acid inclusion improved egg production when compared with hens on
the control diet. Wang et al. (2009) suggested that such effect may have occurred because of the
antimicrobial activity of the organic acid. It also agreed with the report of Dibner and Buttin, (2002) and
Esmaeilipour et al. (2011) that high levels of organic acids added to the diets of laying hens also reduced the
feed intake. The mortalities recorded in this study were not as a result of experimental diets but occurred as a
result of cannibalism.

The addition of the balanced acidifier product Biotronic® Top Forte, containing an organic acid blend of
formic acid, propionic acid and their salts based on an inorganic carrier, increased in the absence of anti-
biotic growth promoters the performance of laying hen at 500g inclusion level. Farmers could use
Biotronic® Top Forte feed additives as replacement for antibiotic in laying hen for egg production at
500g/100kg diets to improve laying performance, egg quality characteristics and profitability.
REFERENCES
Agbai, K. N., Omage, J. J., Sekoni, A. A. and Afolayan, M. (2020). Effect of diets containing different
levels of Biotronic® Top Forte (commercial blended organic acids) fed during grower phase on
subsequent performance of laying hens (19-38weeks). 9th ASAN-NIAS joint annual meeting
Proceedings. p: 330-332.
Hassan, H.M.A., Mohamed, M.A., Youssef, A.W. and Hassan, E.R. (2010). Effect of using organic acids
to substitute antibiotic growth promoters on performance and intestinal microflora of broilers.
Asian-Australian Journal of Animal Science, 23(10):1348– 1353.
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) (2015). Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of citric
acid when used as a technological additive (acidity regulator) for all animal species. EFSA Journal,
13(2):4010.
Castanon, J. I. (2007). History of the use of antibiotic growth promoters in European poultry feeds.
Journal of Poultry Science, 86:2466–2471.
Eckel, B., Kirchgessner M. and Roth F.X. (1992). Influence of formic acid on daily weight gain, feed
intake, feed conversion rate and digestibility. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition,
67:93–100. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.1992.tb00588.x.
Boling, S. D., Douglas, M. W., Snow, J. L., Parsons, C. and Baker, D. H. (2000). Citric acid does not
improve phosphorus utilization in laying hens fed a corn-soybean meal diet. Journal of Poultry
Science, 79:1335–1337.
Adil, S., Tufail, B., Gulam, A. B., Masood, S. and Manzoor, R. (2010). Effect of dietary supplementation
of organic acids on performance, intestinal histomorphology, and serum biochemistry of broiler
chicken. Veterinary Medicine International, 2010:1–7. Article ID 479485.
Biomin, (2018). Biomin GmbH. Erber campus 1, 3131 Getzersdorf, Austria.
A.O.A.C (2005). Official methods of analysis, Association of official analytical chemists 17th edition.
Dibner, J.J. and Buttin, P. (2002). Use of organic acids as a model to study the impact of gut microflora
on nutrition and metabolism. Journal of Applied Poultry Research, 11:453-463.
Esmaeilipour, O., Shivazad, M., Moravej, H. Aminzadeh, S., Rezaian, M. and van Krimpen, M. M.
(2011). Effects of xylanase and citric acid on the performance, nutrient retention, and
characteristrics of gastrointestinal tract of broilers fed loew-phosphorus wheat-based diets. Journal
of Poultry Science, 90:1975-1982.
Meteorological Unit, (2016). Institute of Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria,
Wang, J.P., Yoo, J.S., Lee, J.H., Zhou, T.X, Jang, H.D., Kim, H.J. and Kim, I.H. (2009). Effects of
phenyllactic acid on production performance, egg quality parameters, and blood characteristics in
laying hens. Journal of Applied Poultry Research, 18:203–209.
Park, K. W, Rhee, A. R, Um, J. S. and Paik, I. K. (2009). Effect of dietary available phosphorus and
organic acids on the performance and egg quality of laying hens. Journal of Applied Poultry
Research, 18:598–604.
Page | 287
Table 1: Performance of Laying Hens Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Biotronic ® Top Forte (39-74 Week)
Levels of inclusion of Biotronic ® Top Forte (g)
Parameters 0 100 200 300 400 500 Oxytet SEM
Initial weight(g/b) 1818.30 1819.97 1971.80 1830.67 1851.00 1857.43 1814.90 70.28
Final weight (g/b) 1935.00a 1932.33a 1906.33ab 1957.67a 1941.00a 1849.00b 1974.33a 30.60
Change in weight (g/b) 116.70ab 112.37ab -65.47b 127.00ab 90.00ab -8.43ab 159.43a 72.74
Total feed intake (g/b) 23688.00 23688.00 23277.40 23244.60 23328.80 23004.10 22956.90 310.87
d c b bc bc a c
FCR(feed intake/egg M) 1.71 1.53 1.44 1.48 1.46 1.34 1.53 0.05
Total egg weight (/b) 13915.12d 15526.00bc 16220.70b 15570.3bc 16047.60bc 17264.40a 14972.50c 403.54
Total egg number (b) 219.02d 236.41abc 244.68ab 233.79bcd 238.86abc 251.77a 223.92cd 6.05
Daily egg weight (b) 63.01b 65.75ab 66.31ab 66.60ab 67.21ab 68.57a 66.87ab 6.05
Cost / Kg feed 95.78a 97.05c 98.34d 99.62e 100.89f 102.18g 95.78b 4.51
Cost of total feed intake 2268.72c 2299.04b 2288.98bc 2291.56b 2353.64cd 2350.56d 2198.72a 30.37
(kg)
Feed/dozen egg 1300.24a 1205.36b 1142.35bc 1180.77bc 1172.01bc 1096.43c 1230.61ab 37.12
a abc bc bc bc c
Feed/ crate egg 3250.60 3013.40 2855.90 2951.90 2930.02 2741.09 3076.50ab 92.78
Feed cost/ dozen egg 124.53a 116.99ab 112.33ab 117.62ab 118.24ab 112.18b 117.86ab 3.61
Feed cost/crate egg 311.33a 292.47b 280.83ab 294.06b 280.08ab 282.98ab 294.66b 9.02
%HDEP 89.03c 93.81bc 97.10b 92.77bc 95.92ab 99.91a 88.87c 2.24
c bc ab bc ab a c
%HHEP 89.03 93.811 97.10 92.77 94.79 99.92 88.87 2.35
Mortality (%) - - - - 1.19 - - 0.55
abbcd
means within same row with different letter superscript are significantly different (P<0.05), SEM= Standard error of means, oxytet=
Oxytetacycline, g/b= gram per bird, (/b)= per bird, FCR= feed conversion ratio, M= mass, %HDEP= Hen day egg production and
HHEP= Hen house egg production
Table 2: Proximate Composition of Experimental Diets

Parameters % Dry matter Crude protein Ash Crude fibre Ether Extract Nitrogen free
Extract
Composition 94.61 15.02 4.67 4.44 2.16 73.71
Page | 288
UTILISATION OF MAIZE OFFAL ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEANER RABBITS

1@
Ajimohun, F.F, 2Oshibanjo D.O, 3Nwamo, A. C, 4Adelowo V.O., 4Emennaa C.I, 2Akwashiki M.A
and 2Izang A. I
1
Rabbitary Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau state.
2
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jos, Plateau State.
3
Livestock Services Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau state
4
@
ajumohunfelicia@gmail.com
08036708169
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the proximate analysis of maize offal and growth performance
of weaner rabbits fed varying levels of maize offal as replacement for wheat offal in a completely
randomized design. A total of sixty weaner rabbits of both sexes average weight of 535g were randomly
allocated to five dietary treatments in which groundnut haulms formed 20% of the diet. Five iso-
nitrogenous diets were formulated to meet 16% crude protein nutritional requirements of the weaner
rabbits and similar levels of crude fibre by varying the levels of maize offal respectively in which
groundnut haulms constituted 20% of each diet. The diets were designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. T1
contained wheat offal which served as the control, while treatment (T2-T5) contained maize offal at 25,
50, 75, and 100% respectively. Data were collected on feed intake and weight gain. The proximate
analysis obtained for maize offals is crude protein (8.26%), crude fibre (16.99%), ether extract (4.28%),
ash (4.26%), Nitrogen free extract (66.21%) and metabolisable energy (2970.25Kcal/kg). Results revealed
there were no significant difference (p>0.05) between treatment means for the average weight gain of
rabbits. Mortality was less than 5% throughout the study. The results show that rabbits have the capacity
to utilise agro industrial by-product of maize which is maize offal in diet.
Keywords: Rabbits, maize offal, groundnut haulms, performance.
INTRODUCTION
The ever-increasing population growth in the developing countries means a greater demand for animal
protein which is already in short supply in this region. The animal shortage is due largely to low level of
animal productivity. The cost of conventional feed ingredient such as maize, soyabean, wheat among
others has been on the increase from year to year leading to increase in the price of animal protein source
(Adejinmi et al., 2007). The utilization of agro-industrial by–product in animal feed has increased so as to
reduce the cost of feed ingredients. Due to economic situation of the Nation, which indicates drought,
famine, scarcity and limited resources, there is inadequate supply of protein from the traditional livestock
such as cattle, sheep, goats, dogs and poultry. There is therefore a protein deficiency in Nigeria resulting
in malnutrition whose effect can be deteriorating especially on children (NRC, 1991). Therefore, the key
to abundant animal production is the availability of feed stuff sources that are cheap and reaching
available, posing minimal competition to man (Akinmutimi, 2007). Feed dictates how many animals you
can grow and how fast they can mature for market (Aduku, 1990). Faced with the shortage of grains and
the competition between humans and livestock sector there is a need to bridge the gap of animal protein
consumption by accepting the use of non-conventional feed stuff and fast growing animals as rabbit over
the conventional ones. Some of the advantages of keeping rabbits includes its short generation interval,
high fecundity rate low cost of investment and small body size which makes it suitable for backyard
rearing and easily consumable by a family (Taiwo et al., 2005). Rabbits produce healthy meat that is
suitable for producing healthy people, because of its low salt and fat content, being a white meat like
poultry. (Oyawoye, 1989; NRC, 1991, Mclean et al., 1994; Aderemi and Wuraola, 2010; Njidda and
Isidahomen, 2011). It has a dressing percentage of 74% (Aduku, 1990; Etchu et al., 2013). The recent
Page | 289
understanding of the usefulness of the meat for diabetics, hypertensive and middle aged people has further
raised awareness on the production of rabbits, thus increasing the demand for rabbit meat (Iyeghe-
Erakpotobor et al., 2012).

The experiment was carried out at the rabbitry unit of National Veterinary Research Institute Vom,
Plateau state Nigeria. The maize offal obtained from a local milling factory in Bukuru Town, Jos south
Local Government of Plateau State, While the groundnut haulms were purchased from a cattle market in
Bukuru, Jos South both were obtained wet and sun dried to reduce the moisture content. Sixty, 5-6 weeks
old cross breed weaned rabbits of both sexes were used for the experiment. Five iso-nitrogenous diets
were formulated to meet 16% crude protein nutritional requirements of the weaner rabbits and similar
levels of crude fibre by varying the levels of maize offal respectively in which groundnut haulms
constituted 20% of each diet. The diets were designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. T1 contained wheat offal
which served as the control, while treatment (T2-T5) contained maize offal at 25, 50, 75, and 100%
respectively. The test ingredients and five diets were analysed for their proximate composition. The
composition of the diet is shown in Table 1.
Table 1: percentage composition of diet

Ingredient/diet
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Maize 31.87 30.54 29.22 27.90 26.58
Soya beans 14.88 16.21 17.53 18.85 20.17
Wheat Offal 30 22.5 15 7.5 0
Maize Offal 0 7.5 15 22.5 30
Groundnut haulms 20 20 20 20 20
Bone meal 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5
Limestone 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.13
Methionine 0.12 0.12 0.12 0.12 0.12
Total (%) 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated analysis
Crude Protein (CP) 15.999% 16.001% 16.000% 15.999% 15.997%
Metabolisable 2619.7058 2657.1936 26904.7548 2723.316 2769.871
Energy(ME Kcal/Kg)
Crude fibre (CF) 8.8066 9.1289 9.4508 9.7727 10.0946
Either Extract (EE) 4.6316 4.5724 4.5133 4.4542 4.3951
Calcium 1.1219 1.1177 1.1269 1.1092 1.1319
Phosphorus 0.4963 0.4849 0.4025 0.4621 0.4507
Lysine 1.3885 1.3670 1.3453 1.3236 1.3019
Methionine 0.5397 0.5289 0.5382 0.5374 0.5367
Ash 4.7571 4.4221 4.0866 3.7512 4.1574
Bio-premix supplied per kg of diet: Vitamin A, 12500I.U; Vit. D3, 2500 I.U;Vit E, 50mg; Vit K3, 2.5mg;
Vit B3.0mg; VitB6 6.0mg; Niacin, 40.0mg; Calcium pantothenate 10.0mg; Biotin 0.8mg; VitB 12
0.25mg; Folic acid 1.0mg; Choline chloride 300mg; Manganese 100mg; Iron 100mg; Zinc,50mg;Iodine
1.55I.U; Selenium 0.1mg
Page | 290
Proximate Analysis
The proximate composition of the test ingredients and experimental diets were carried out as outline by
AOAC (2007).
All the data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS statistical package
version 23(SPSS 2015) were, applicable, significant difference between mean were separated using
Duncan New Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955).
Result and discussion

The proximate composition of the maize offal is as shown in Table 2, while the diet is presented in Table
1. Table 3 shows the performance characteristics of the experimental animals. There was no significant
(p<0.05) differences in live weight, initial weight, final weight, weight gained average daily weight gain,
feed conversion ratio and carcass dressing percentage.
Table 2: Chemical composition of maize offal

Ingrediets Chemical composition
Ether extract (%) 4.28
Ash (%) 4.26
Nitrogen free extract (%) 66.21
Metabolisable energy (kcal/kg) (%) 2970.25
Table 3: Growth performance of rabbit fed maize offals

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Parameters SEM
maize maize maize maize maize
offals offals offals offals offals
Live weight (g) 1080.00 1490.00 1260.00 1430.00 1470.00 70.00
Daily Feed intake (/g) 79.45 76.53 76.55 73.97 80.78 2.07
Initial weight (g) 554.17 550.00 541.33 529.00 574.67 7.60
Final weight (g) 1230.00 1281.33 1424.67 1280.67 1263.33 31.93
Weight gained (g) 675.83 731.33 883.33 751.67 688.67 35.30
Daily weight gain (/g) 12.07 13.06 15.77 13.42 12.30 0.63
FCR 6.89 5.85 4.85 5.76 6.71 0.36
FCR= Feed conversion ratio
SEM = Standard Error of Mean
Discussion
The non-Significant (P>0.05) variation observed in all the parameters evaluated in rabbit fed maize offal
(MO) probably suggest the attainment of the delicate balance in the nutrient of the feed (Cheek et al.,
1997), who documented that optional growth rabbits are obtained when adequate nutrient is containing in
the feed ingredient. Rabbit fed treatment three attained the highest weight gain followed by those fed
treatment four and treatment one had the least body weight gain. The values recorded for feed intake was
comparable among the treatment groups. This present finding was in line with the previous finding of
(Onifade and Abu, 1998). The poor growth performance on the control diet may have been due to
inadequate fibre in the diet was always in agreement with the report of Osakwe and Nwose (2008).
According to Champe and Maurice (1983) rabbit require crude fibre in excess of 9 % for normal growth.
Page | 291
Reduced growth rates as observed in diets 1 may be due to decrease in dietary fibre (Bamgbose et. al.,
2002). The mean weight gain recorded in this study compared favourably with the reports of Agunbiade
et. al. (1999) and Schiere (1999). The increased mean weight gain of rabbits fed diets 3, 4 and 5 over
those fed diets 1 and 2, respectively, could be attributed to the favourable effect of fibre, termed a
―ballast‖ effect (Colin et al., 1976). The daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio obtained in our study
was in line with the values reported by other workers (Onifade and Tewe, 1993; Agunbiade et al., 2002)
who fed diets containing about 30 % of maize offal to growing rabbits. The low feed intake (73.97 –
80.78) g/day as per the value 131 g/d reported by Cheeke (1984) for rabbits reared in temperate countries
may be due to the variation in ambient temperature. Felding (1991) reported that high ambient
temperature has adverse effect on feed intake.
CONCLUSION
From the result above, it can be concluded that rabbits fed with maize offal at all levels performed well.
Therefore, maize offal could be used as fibre sources in the diet of weaner rabbits without any side effects
on performance.
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Aderemi, F. and Wuraola, A. (2010).Effect of dietry replacement of maize with malted and unmalted
sorghum on the performance of weaner rabbits. African journal of food, Agriculture, Nutrition
and Development, 2010:10 (9): 4032- 4046.
Aduku, A.O and Olukosi, J.O (1990).Rabbit Management in the Tropics Abuja, G.U. publishers.
Agunbiade, J. A., Adeyemi, O. A., Fasina, O.E., Ashorobi, B.O., Adebanjo, M. O. and Waide, O. A.
(1999). Cassava peels and leaves meal as the diet of rabbits: Effect on performance and carcass
characteristics. Nigeria Journal Animal Science Production, 26: 29
Agunbiade, J. A., Bello, R. and Adeyemi, O. A. (2002). Performance characteristics of weaner rabbits on
cassava peels based diets. Nigerian Journal Animal Production, 29(2): 171 – 175.
Anonymous, (2015).A Quick Guide to Domestic Rabbit Keeping. Ghana Farmer 16(12): 56-60.
AOAC, (2007). Association of Official Analytical Chemists,. Official Methods of Analysis of the
Association of Official Analytical Chemists, Vols. I and II, Association of Analytical Chemists,
Arlington, 2000; 1298pp.
Bamgbose, A. M., Abimbola, M., Olayemi, W. A., Osofowora, A. O., Oso, A. O. and Ojo, O. T. (2002).
Performance of weaner rabbits fed supplemented Tridax procumbens diets: Pages 69 – 70.
Champe, K. A. and Maurice, D. V. (1983). Effect of different levels of fibre on performance of growing
rabbits. Journal Applied Rabbit Research, 6(2): 64 - 67.
Cheeke, P. R. (1984). Rabbit nutrition and feeding: Recent advances and future perspectives. Journal of
Applied Rabbit Research. 7(1): 31 – 37.
Fielding, D. (1991). Rabbits. The Macmillan Press Limited, London, 106 pp.
Iyeghe-Erakpotobor, G. T. and Adeyegun, E. (2012). Evaluation of growing rabbits fed diets containing
varying levels of groundnut forage meal (Arachis hypogea). Journal of Applied Agricultural
Research.4(2).41-51.
Mclean- Meyinsse, P.E., Hui, J. and Meyinsse, J. (1994).Consumer perception of and attitudes rabbit
meat. Journal of Agribusiness, 1994; 12(1): 55- 67.
Njidda, A.A, Isidahomen C.E. (2011). Hematological parameters and carcass characteristics of weaner
rabbits fed sesame seed meal (Sesamum indicum) in a semi-arid region, Pak. Vet. J., 31 (1): 35-
39.
Onifade, A. A. and Tewe, O. O. (1993). Alternative tropical feed resources in rabbit diets: growth
performance, diet digestibility and blood composition. World Rabbit Science, 1:17 –24
Osakwe, Isaac Ikechukwu and Nwose, Roseline Nwuguru (2008). Feed intake and nutrient digestibility of
weaner rabbits fed cassava peel as replacement for maize. Animal Research International (2008)
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Oyawoye E.O (1989). Rabbit production as a means of supplying cheap Animal Protein in Nigeria.
Nigerian Livestock farmer 9:11-14
Schiere, J. B. (1999). Backyard rabbit farming in the Tropics. Third Edition, Agrodok Publications,
Wageningen, 70 pp.
Taiwo A.A, A.D, Adejuyigbe, E.A. Adebowale, J.S Oshotan and David, O.O. (2005) Performance and
nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits feed forages supplemented with concentrates. Nigeria
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GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS

ON ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF Lagenaria breviflora (SPOTTED PUMPKIN) FRUIT
EXTRACT
*Egbeyale, L. T., Adeleye, O. O., Olorunsogbon, B. F., Ayo-Ajasa, O. Y., 1Adewole, F. A. and
Banjo, E. O.
Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240, Abeokuta,
Nigeria.
1Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, Federal University of
Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Corresponding author: *egbeyalelt@funaab.edu.ng. Phone No: 08060743664
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract on growth
performance of broiler chickens. A total of one hundred and twenty fourteen-day old broiler chicks were
divided into three treatments with four replicates and ten birds per replicate. The fresh fruits of Lagenaria
breviflora were chopped and added at the rate of 75 g/L and 125 g/L of hot water in for 72 hours. At the
end of 72 hours, the chopped Lagenaria breviflora fruits were removed. Treatment one served as the
control while birds in treatment two and three were served 75 g/L and 125 g/L of Lagenaria breviflora
fruit extract solution respectively for three days/week throughout the study period. Data collected were
subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in a complete randomized design (CRD). The
results showed that there was no significant (P>0.05) effect on growth indices at starter phase except
water intake where birds on 75 g/L group recorded the highest intake. Feed conversion ratio was the only
growth parameter significantly (P<0.05) affected at finisher phase and the best FCR (2.07±0.06) was
recorded from birds on 75 g/L. The study concluded that oral administration of Lagenaria breviflora fruit
extract up to 75 g/L concentration improved the feed conversion ratio and water intake.
Key words: growth, broiler, Lagenaria breviflora, extract
INTRODUCTION
Poultry has been said to possess all the potentials required to be a sustainable enterprise in a rural set-up
(Ja‘afar-Furo and Gabdo, 2010). As a result of the ever-increasing need for meat, it was reported that
poultry meat increased by 2.90% between 2010 and 2011 as against the 1.30% increase in pork and
0.10% increase in beef (USDA, 2011). However, various disease has been limiting the efficiency of this
sector with combats made with antibiotics developed over the years. Diaz-Sanchez (2015) reported that
the development of antibiotic resistant pathogens has resulted from the use of sub-therapeutic
concentrations of antibiotics delivered in poultry feed. Studies have proven that the activities of
phytobiotics in animal nutrition includes but not limited to stimulation of feed intake, antimicrobial,
coccidiostatic, antihelmintic and immunostimulating (Panda et al., 2006). Lagenaria breviflora (wild
colocynth) is one of those numerous plants with characteristic antibacterial and antiviral herbal remedies
in local communities such as Nigeria (El-Mahmood et al, 2008). This study was designed to evaluate the
effect of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract on growth performance of broiler chicken.

Experimental site: The experiment was carried out at the poultry unit of the Teaching and Research
Farms, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. This area is situated in the
rainforest vegetation zone of Southwestern Nigeria at 7°13′49.46″N, 3°26′11.98″E, and an elevation of
98 m above sea level.
Preparation of test ingredient: The fresh fruits of Lagenaria breviflora were chopped into smaller pieces
with the aid of cutlass and added at the rate of 75 g/L and 125 g/L of hot water in separate drums. This
was soaked for a period of 72 hours (3 days). At the end of 72 hours, the chopped Lagenaria breviflora
Page | 294
fruits were removed from the drum. The solution was sieved using a plastic sieve to remove seeds and
smaller particles.
Management of the experimental birds: A total of one hundred and twenty two-week old broiler chicks
was divided into three (3) treatments which was replicated four times with ten birds per replicate.
Treatment one served as the control; conventional where birds had access to ordinary water and
antibiotics was administered for 5days in the first week of experiment. Birds in treatment two (2) and
treatment three (3) were served 75 g/L and 125 g/L Lagenaria breviflora extract solution respectively 3
days/week throughout the study period. Commercial starter diet containing 23% CP and 2900-3100
Kcal/kg Energy was fed the first fourteen days and 20% CP and 2850 Kcal/kg Energy for the last twenty-
one days. Water was given ad-libitum.
Data Collection: feed intake and water intake were carried out on daily basis, weight gain on weekly by
subtracting leftover feed and water from the quantity supplied using digital sensitive scale of 2decimal
places and feed conversion ratio was calculated by the ration of feed : weight gain.
Data analysis: Data collected were subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Significant
differences among treatment means were separated using Tukey‘s test as contained in the SAS program
(SAS Institute Inc. 2010).

The effects of different aqueous Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract concentration on growth performance
of broiler chicken at starter phase is presented in Table 1. All the growth performance indices were not
significantly influenced (P>0.05) except water intake which was significantly (P<0.05) affected by
Lagenaria breviflora administration with birds on 75 g/L group having the highest value while the least
value was recorded from the group on 125g/L level of extract concentration.
At finisher phase, growth parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced except feed conversion
ratio (Table 2). Chicken on 75 g/L Lagenaria breviflora administration had the best (P<0.05) FCR
compared while the birds on 125g/L of the extract concentration had the poorest FCR. The birds in the
control (Antibiotics) had a value which is similar to the birds on the two different concentration of the
extract.
Table 1: Effects of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract on growth performance of broiler chicken at
starter phase
Level (g/L) of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract

Parameters 0 75 125
Initial weight (g) 184.91±4.61 184.78±4.64 185.13±5.39
Final weight (g) 692.19±12.60 679.69±17.93 675.00±11.41
Weight gain (g) 507.28±15.16 494.91±18.24 489.88±15.01
Weight gain/day (g) 36.23±1.08 35.35±1.30 34.99±1.07
Total feed intake (g) 864.06±19.16 882.81±12.07 881.25±8.07
Feed intake/day (g) 61.72±1.37 63.06±0.86 62.95±0.58
Feed conversion ratio 1.71±0.03 1.79±0.07 1.80±0.05
Water intake/day (ml) 116.88±4.18b 134.20±1.18a 103.67±2.18c
abc
Means with different superscripts on the same row are significantly (P<0.05) different.
Page | 295
Table 2: Effects of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract on growth performance of broiler chicken at
finisher phase
Level (g/L) of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract
Parameters 0 75 125
Initial weight (g) 692.19±12.60 679.69±17.93 675.00±11.41
Final weight (g) 1955.58±24.85 2032.74±44.25 1956.03±9.51
Weight gain (g) 1263.39±24.63 1353.05±47.33 1281.03±10.53
Weight gain/day (g) 60.16±1.17 64.43±2.25 61.00±0.50
Total feed intake (g) 2832.81±26.68 2794.42±72.57 2981.56±39.71
Feed intake/day (g) 134.90±1.27 133.07±3.46 141.98±1.89
Feed conversion ratio 2.24±0.02ab 2.07±0.06b 2.33±0.04a
Water intake/day (ml) 360.39±4.53 353.35±6.68 338.10±7.09
ab
Means with different superscripts on the same row are significantly (P<0.05) different
At starter phase, all parameters on growth performance of broiler birds across all treatment groups except
water intake were not affected by Lagenaria breviflora inclusion. This was also reported by Oduwole
(2014) who reported that supplementation of Lagenaria breviflora do not influence feed intake and
weight gain of broiler birds early in life. Lee et al. (2004) verified that the bitter-tasting essential oils
adversely affect water intake in broiler flocks. The significantly higher value obtained from birds placed
on 75 g/L as compared to the significantly lower value recorded from birds on 125g/L may be as a result
of the high concentration which might have induced a bitter taste. The water intake value recorded in this
experiment is in agreement with the normal range of water consumption according to Fairchild and Ritz
(2009) who reported that normal water consumption for chickens ranges from 1.6 to 2.0 times that of feed
intake.
At finisher phase, best feed conversion ratio (FCR) was obtained from the group placed on 75 g/L
Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract. This result is consistent with the findings of Al-Kassie and Jameel
(2009) and Toghyani et al. (2011) who reported improved feed conversion ratio in their different studies
on Thymus vulgaris (thyme) and Cinnamomuim zeylanicum (cinnamon).
The improved performance of 75 g/L Lagenaria breviflora groups in terms of FCR may be due to the
presence of active constituents like Pyrazolo1, 5-c] pyrimidin-7-amine, 2, 5-dimethyl-, a class of
pyrimidine which has been considered an effective antioxidant (Prasenjit et. al., 2010), phytochemicals
such as saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, etc.; which have been reported to show anti-inflammatory
effects (Lui, 2003), exhibit analgesic properties (Malairajan et al., 2006) and its antimicrobial and anti-
diarrhea effect has been well documented (Kumar et al., 2010). Adeyemi et al., (2017) reported that the
fruit of Lagenaria breviflora can positively contribute to the immune system of an organism which by
extension improves performance.
CONCLUSION
The study concluded that supplementation of Lagenaria breviflora fruit extract at 75 g/L in drinking
water of broiler birds improved water intake at starter phase but feed to gain ratio at finisher phase of
broiler chicken.
REFERENCES
Adeyemi M. A., Ekunseitan D. A., Abiola S. S., Dipeolu M. A., Egbeyale L. T., Sogunle O. M. (2017).
Phytochemical Analysis and GC-MS Determination of Lagenaria breviflora R. Fruit International
Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research, 9(7): 1045-1050
Page | 296
Al-Kassie G. A. M. and Jameel Y. J. (2009). The effect of adding Thyme vulgaris and Cinnamomuim
zeylanicum on productive performance in broilers. Proceeding of 9th Veterinary Scientific
Conference, College Vet. Med., Univ. Baghdad, Iraq.
Diaz-Sanchez S., D‘Souza D., Biswas D., Hanning I., (2015). ―Botanical alternatives to antibiotics for use
in organic poultry production‖ Poultry Science 94(6): 1419-1430.
El-Mahmood, A. M., Doughari, J. H. and Ladan N. (2008). Antimicrobial screening of stem bark extracts
of Vitellaria paradoxa against some enteric pathogenic microorganisms. African Journal of
Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2(5): 089-094
Fairchild, B. D. and Ritz, C. W. (2009). Poultry drinking water primer.
http://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.cfm
Ja‘afar-Furo M. R. and Gabdo B. H. (2010). Identifying major factors of poultry production as sustainable
enterprise among farmers using improved methods in rural Nigeria. International Journal of Poultry
Science 9 (5): 459-463
Kumar, R., Sharma, R.J., Bairwa, K., Roy, R.K. and Kumar, A. (2010). Pharmacological review on
natural anti-diarrhoea agents. Der Pharma Chemica 2(2): 66-93.
Lee, K. W., Everts, H. and Beynen, A. C. (2004). Essential oils in broiler nutrition. International Journal
of Poultry Science, 3: 738-752.
Lui, R.H. (2003). Health benefits of fruit and vegetables are from additive and Synergistic Combinations
of Phytochemicals. American Journal of clinical Nutrition, 78:5175-5205
Malairajan P, Geetha G, Narasimham S and Jessi kala veni K. (2006). Analgesic Activity of some Indian
Medicinal Plants. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 19:425-428
Oduwole, O. B. (2014). Effects of Lagenaria breviflora (Tagiri) fruit extract on growth performance,
faecal oocyst count and egg worm count of broiler chickens. A project submitted to the department of
Animal production and heath; Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Not published).
Panda K., Rama Rao S.V and Raju M.V.L.N. (2006). Natural growth promoters have
potential in poultry feeding systems. Feed Technology 10 (8): 23-25
Prasenjit, M., Soma, J. and Lakshim, K. K. (2010). Synthesis of Novel Mercapto-pyrimidine and
Aminopyrimidine Derivatives of indoline-2- 0ne as a potential antioxidant and antibacterial Agents.
The Pharma Research Journal. 3: 17-26.
SAS (2010). SAS/STAT program. SAS Institute International, Cary, NC.
Toghyani, M., Toghyani, M., Gheisari, A., Ghalamkari, G., and Eghbalsaied, S. (2011). Evaluation of
cinnamon and garlic as antibiotic growth promoter substitutions on performance, immune responses,
serum biochemical and haematological parameters in broilers chicks. Livestock Science, 138: 167-173
USDA, (2011). https://www.nass.usda.gov/ Retrieved on May 28, 2019.
Page | 297
EFFECT OF LEVELS OF NIACIN SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE HAEMATOLOGICAL

\AND SERUM PARAMETERS OF LAYING HENS.
Olorunsola, R.A.
Animal Production and Health, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology,
Okitipupa.
ABSTRACT
A study was carried out to investigate the effect of niacin supplementation in layers diets on
haematological and serum parameters of laying hens. Four dietary treatment with niacin at 0ppm, 30ppm,
40ppm, and 50ppm were fed to the bird for a period of 20 weeks. Each treatment had 18 birds comprising
of 3 replicate of six birds each. Data were collected at the end of the experiment on the blood serum and
haematological parameters. Levels of niacin supplementation had significant effects (p<0.05) on most of
the haematological and blood serum parameters considered except in red blood cell, Triglyceride,
Cholesterol, Uric acid and LDL. At 50ppm packed cell volume (PVC), haemoglobin, white blood cell,
serum protein, serum albumin and globulin were 33.0%, 12.5g/dl, 19873.3, 60.50g/dl 32.2g/dl and
28.8g/dl respectively, while creatine, and HDL were 0.90 and 22.6 mg/dl. The triglyceride, cholesterol,
LDL and uric acid were not significantly affected by the level of niacin supplementation and the PCV,
Hb, Serum albumin, Globulin, cholesterol, HDL and Uric acid were significantly higher at 20 th weeks of
the experiment.
Keywords: Niacin, Layers diet, PCV, Hb, Serum albumin, Globulin
INTRODUCTION
Poultry requirement for vitamin and mineral is a function of series of variations because of the
uncertainty of the factors that influence the absolute needs of the animals. Factors such as breed, sex and
strain ranked high among the factors that affect the response of birds to exogenous source of vitamins and
minerals. Environmental stress is another factor that alters the vitamin and mineral requirement of poultry
birds. Nochels (1990) reported an increase in the physiological demand for vitamins during stress and
disease condition. A key factor that alter the requirement of poultry birds for vitamin and minerals is their
interactions with themselves and other nutrients in the diets.
Vitamins are required by birds in small quatities but they are higly essential as certain deficiency
conditions like diarrhoea, loss of appetite, sore red tongue, gastrointestinal disturbance and emotional
dementia have been recognized when vitamins are inadequate in poultry diets.
Niacin also known as nicotinic acid or vitamin B3 is a water soluble vitamin which decreases
triglycerides level in the body by limiting the ability of liver to produce low density lipoprotein (LDL)
cholesterol. Niacin is used to promote healthy cholesterol levels, support circulation problems, and
maintain skin health. Niacin has antioxidant properties, and is involved in the energy production,
cholesterol and carbohydrate metabolism, regulation of blood sugar, and detoxification. Niacin can
reduce LDL cholesterol levels by 10-20%, reduce triglycerides by 20-50% (Sullivan 2006). Oloyo (2002)
reported a remarkable improvement in the utilization of nitrogen, metabolizable energy, calcium and
phosphorus when higher deitary niacin levels were used in broiler chicken.
Niacin at extreamely high doses can have life-threatening acute toxic reaction, and at doses used in
lowering cholesterol has been associated with birth defects in laboratory animals (Encyclopedia, 2007).
Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate on the effect of different levels of niacin on the
haematological and blood serum parameters in laying hens.

This study was carried out at the Poultry Unit of Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, (70100N and (320E) in Odeda Local Government Area Ogun State. Four
Experimental diets were formulated such that the niacin was added to the basal diet at 0, 30, 40, 50mg/kg
Page | 298
of feed respectively.
A total of 72 laying birds were randomly allocated to the four dietary teatments of 18 birds each in a
comlpetely randomized desgn. Each treatment group were further divided into three replicates of 6 birds
each. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum, the experiment lasted for 20 weeks.
Data collection
At 20th weeks blood samples were drawn from the wing (brachial vien) of birds. About 2ml of blood was
collected from 3 birds per replicate group into the tube containing ethylene diamine tetra acetate (EDTA)
to obtain plasma and another 2ml was collected into hypodermic syringes for serum. The EDTA
anticoagulated whole blood was used to determine haematological parameters (red blood cell, white
blood cell, packed cell, heamoglobin while serum was used to determine serum parameters (cholesterol,
creatinine, HDL, LDL, blood globulin, serum total protein, uric acid, cholesterol and tryglyceride.
Data obtained for blood parameters were subjected to general linear model in analysis of variance (Steel
and Torrie, 1980 ), and significant means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (Duncan
1955).
The model used was as follows:
Xij = μ + Ti + Eij
Where Xij = observation in the ith treatment
μ = Population mean
Ti = Effect of niacin level
Eij = random error
RESULTS
Table 1 shows effect of level of niacin supplementation on the haematological parameters of laying hens
fed niacin based diets. The result showed that the PCV, HB, and white blood cell were significantly
(P<0.05) affected. The birds fed 50ppm level of niacin had the highest values for PCV and HB (33.0%
and 12.5g/dl) respectively and were significantly different from the values for control group. So also as
the level of niacin increased in the diets WBC values also increased and were similar at 30-50ppm levels
of niacin inclusion with values from 19893.3 to 22566.7, while the RBC values were not significantly
(P>0.05) influenced across the level of inclusion.
Table 1: Effect of levels of niacin supplementation on the haematological parameters of laying hens.
Levels of Niacin supplementation
Parameters 0ppm 30ppm 40ppm 50ppm SEM
PCV % 24.6c 28.9b 31.2ab 33.0a 1.81
Haemoglobin g/dl 9.7b 11.2ab 11.7ab 12.5a 0.59
White blood cell (Nomm/3) 16915.0b 22566.7a 21110.0a 19873.3ab 1200.67
Red blood cell (mµmm/3) 3.1 3.3 3.4 3.6 0.10
abc
means on the same row having different superscripts are significantly different (p<0.05)
Table 2 shows the effect of niacin level on the blood serum parameters of laying hens fed niacin based
diets. The result showed that the serum total protein, albumen, globulin, creatinine and HDL were
significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the level of niacin supplementation. The triglyceride, cholesterol,
LDL and uric acid values were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the level of niacin in the diets.
The albumin and creatinine had the highest value at 30ppm level of niacin inclusion which was
significantly higher than the control group. Birds fed 50ppm level of niacin based diets recorded the
highest value of 60.5g/dl and 28.80g/dl for serum total protein and globulin levels respectively. Blood
serum HDL had the highest value of 31.8mg/g when the birds were fed 40ppm inclusion level of niacin,
while the group on 30ppm and 50ppm niacin respectively had the lowest values that were significantly
different from that of the control group.
Page | 299
Table 2 Effect of level of niacin supplementation on the blood serum parameters of laying hens.
Levels of niacin supplementation
Parameters 0ppm 30ppm 40ppm 50ppm SEM
Serum protein (g/dl) 51.90c 59.00b 54.30ab 60.50a 2.00
Serum albumin (g/dl) 30.90b 32.90a 31.50b 32.20ab 0.43
Globulin (g/dl) 21.00b 26.10ab 22.80b 28.80a 1.51
b a b
Creatinine (mg/dl) 0.90 1.00 0.90 0.90b 0.03
Triglyceride (mg/dl) 198.50 192.00 195.80 180.00 4.08
Cholesterol (mg/dl) 231.00 231.00 245.20 222.80 4.65
HDL (mg/dl) 27.30ab 26.80b 31.80a 22.60c 1.88
LDL (mg/dl) 79.90 81.00 79.40 82.20 0.62
Uric acid (mg/dl) 11.70 12.00 12.40 13.60 0.42
abc
means on the same row having different superscripts are significantly different (p<0.05)
Discussion
The result of the study showed a significant effect of niacin level on the PCV, HB, and RBC while the
RBC was not significant, Similar observations were made by Olufisibe (1995) and Eruvbetine and
Oguntona (1997). Birds fed 50ppm niacin based diets had high significant values for PCV and HB 33.0%
and 12.5g/l. The trend observed was that there was an increase in the values as the level of niacin
increased; this trend was similar to RBC though not at a significant level. There was a variation in the
value recorded for WBC which might be due to diet effect.
Serum total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine and HDL were significantly affected by the level of
niacin in the diets , this is similar to the report of Mckenney et al, (1994). Birds fed 50ppm niacin had
high significant values of 60.5g/dl and 28.8g/dl for serum protein and globulin and there was a
corresponding increase across the level of niacin whereby albumin and creatinine had higher values with
32.9g/dl and 1.0mg/dl at 30ppm level this point to the fact that protein was better utilized. The
triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL and uric acid were not significantly affected by the level of niacin
supplementation and the PCV, Hb, Serum albumin, Globulin, cholesterol, HDL and Uric acid were
significantly higher at 20th weeks of the experiment.
REFERENCES
Encyclopedia. 2007. www.wikipedia.org/wiki/niacin
Eruvbetine, D and Oguntona, E.B. 1997. Unpeeled cassava root meal in diets for laying hens. Trop.Agric.
J. (Trinidad) Vol. 74 Pp. 299-302.
McKenney, J.M, Proctor, J.D, Harris, S, Chinchili, V.M. 1994. A comparison of the efficiency and toxic
effects of sustained-vs immediate-release of niacin in hypercholesterolemic patients.271: 672-
677.
Olufisibe, M. 1995. Effects of unpeeled cassava root meal based diets on egg qualities. B.Agric. Project
Submitted to the Dept. Of Animal Nutrition, UNAAB.
Oloyo, R.A. 2002. Niacin requirement of broilers fed maize-palm kernel meal based diets. Nig. Journ.
Anim. Prod. 29(1):27-33.
Steel, R.G.D and Torrie, J.H. 1980. Principle and Procedures of Statistics. McGraw-Hill Book Company,
New York.
Sullivan, W.T. 2006. Behavioural changes in rats and guinea pigs induced by the administration of indole
3-acetic acid and 6-aminocotinamide. Journal of Nutriton, pp199-206.
Page | 300
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF LAYING

GUINEA FOWL (NUMIDAMELEAGRIS) FED OYSTER SHELL AND BONE MEAL
MIXTURES
¥Sekiwa, A.Y., ¥Idris, A.A., βDairo, F.A.S., £Umar, A.M. and µBello, B.
¥Agricultural Education Department, Kwara State College of Education (Tech), Lafiagi
βDept. of Animal Science, Ekiti State University, Ado- Ekiti, Nigeria
£Department of Animal Health and Production, Binyaminu Usman Polytechnic, Hadejia, Jigawa State.
µDepartment of Animal Science, Bayero University, Kano
Corresponding author: auw.umar@gmail.com +2348164727548 and +2348027374654
ABSTRACT
A total of 75 Pearl laying guinea fowls, aged 32 weeks old were used to determine the growth and egg
production quality performance when fed oyster shell and bone meal mixture. The research was carried
out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti.
The birds were divided into 5 treatment groups with 15 birds each of 3 birds per replication, in a
completely randomized design. The birds were fed iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous experimental diets and
water ad libitum for 84 days. Bone meal and oyster shell were mixed in ratio 1:1 w/w and included in the
diets to supply calcium at 2.5%, 3.0%, 3.5%, 4.0%, and 4.5%, designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5,
respectively. Data collected were subjected to one-way ANOVA statistical analysis at 5% probability
(p<0.05) using SAS. Results showed that the average daily feed intake, egg weight and hen day included
production significantly influenced the growth performance. However, egg quality indices affected
significantly egg length, egg width, albumen height, albumen width and yolk height. Best hen day
production was observed for birds fed diet T3 while those on T1 had the highest values for egg length,
egg shell weight, egg shell thickness, albumen height, yolk height and yolk width. It is concluded that
birds fed diet T3 have the highest hen day production. Further research should be carried out to come up
with diet that can provide a combination of better growth performance and egg quality.
Key words: Calcium Source, Feed Intake, Egg quality, Hen Day Production and Laying Guinea Fowl
INTRODUCTION
Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) originated within Africa and can still be found in their wild form,
representing a source of protein and income in rural communities (Dei and Karbo, 2004). Moreover,
guinea fowl plays an important role in the socio-cultural livelihood of many tribes (Teye and Adam,
2000). In addition to high protein, guinea fowl meat is also characterized by low fat content, thus it is
highly prized compared to chicken meat (Abdullahi et al.,2018). The birds are free from most poultry
diseases (Moreki and Seabo, 2012). Other advantages of rearing guinea fowl include low production
costs, greater capacity for utilization of green feeds, easy control of pests, better ability to protect itself
against predators and lower requirements for labour and management (Sayila, 2009).
The use of mineral metabolites in the diets of domestic chicken has received a wide range of acceptance
among potential farmers. Because of the peculiarity of Guinea fowl eggshell thickness, it is assumed to
require more calcium in the diet than other domestic chickens (Nahashon et al., 2006). Recent studies
revealed that 3.25%-3.75% dietary calcium and 0.35% - 0.40% of available phosphorus will be adequate
for Pearl grey guinea fowl. Oyster shell and bone meal are known to be good sources of calcium and
phosphorus for feeding farm animals (Ajakaiye et al., 2003)). Therefore, this study was designed to
evaluate the influence of oyster shell and bone meal on performance and egg quality characteristics of
laying guinea fowl (N. meleagris).

A total of 75pearl laying guinea fowls, aged 32 weeks old from the Teaching and Research Farm of the
Faculty of Agriculture, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti were used for the study. The birds were raised on
Page | 301
floor pen (2x4x4m) constructed using wire mesh. The birds were divided into 5 treatment groups with 15
birds each of 3 birds per replication, in a completely randomized design. The birds were fed with iso-
caloric and iso-nitrogenous experimental diets as presented in Table 1.Feeds and water were given ad-
libitum throughout the duration of the study.
Table 1: Experimental Diets Composition and Calculated Analysis

Ingredient TREATMENT
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
Maize 51.57 51.66 51.75 51.84 51.93
wheat offal 12.00 11.76 11.48 11.22 10.96
soybean meal 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00
groundnut cake 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00 9.00
fish meal 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00
palm kernel meal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Lysine 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Premix 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Salt (Nacl) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Oyster shell + Bone meal mixture 0.88 1.05 1.22 1.39 1.56
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analyses
Crude Protein (%) 17.98 17.99 17.96 17.98 17.99
Crude Fibre (%) 9.15 9.37 9.60 9.78 9.98
Ash (%) 3.98 4.20 4.51 4.81 5.10
ME (Kcal/kg) 2626.52 2626.22 2626.57 2626.32 2626.12
ME = Metabolizable Energy.
Premix supplied the following = Vit. A = 5000iu, Vit D3 = 800,000iu Vit. E = -12,000mg, Vit. K =
1,500mg, Vit. B1 = 1000mg, Vit. B2 = 2000mg, Vit. B6 = 1,500mg, niacin = 12000mg, panthotenbic acid
= 20.00mg, biotin = 10.00mg, Vit B12 = 300.00mg, folic acid = 150,000mg choline = 60,000mg,
manganese 10,000mg, iron = 15,000, zinc = 800.00, copper = 400.000mg, Iodine = 80.00mg, selenium =
8,000mg.
Oyster shell and bone meal were the main sources of calcium which were mixed at 50:50 or 1:1 ratio
weight for weight included in the diets at 2.5%, 3.0%, 3.5%, 4.0%, and 4.5%, designated as T1, T2, T3,
T4 and T5, respectively and fed to the experimental animals for a period of 84 days. The following
parameters were measured:
DATA COLLECTION
The birds‘ initial weights were determined and the following parameters were also calculated:
Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI)
A known quantity of feed offered in the morning and the left over measured the next morning, the
differences were determined to compute ADFI.
( )– ( )
ADFI =
Body Weight Gain (BWG)
The actual body weight was subtracted from the weight of the previous week.
BWG = actual body weight (g) – Previous weight (week)
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
This is defined as the quantity of feed consumed to affect a unit weight gain
FCR = Feed Intake ÷ Body Weight Gain
Hen Day Production = Total Number of Eggs Laid by Flock/Product of the number of days and the
Number and of hens alive
Page | 302
Hen Day Production =
Protein Efficiency Ratio =
Egg internal and external qualities were measured every week throughout the experimental period. With
the aid of a scalpel, the eggs were broken and the content emptied into a petri-dish. Egg Weight, Egg
Shell Weight, Albumen Weight and Yolk Weight were determined using a sensitive top loading Mettler
balance. Egg Length, Egg Width, Albumen Height, Albumen Width, Yolk Height and Yolk Width were
measured using a micrometre -screw gauge while the Egg Shell Thickness was determined using a vernier
calliper. All the data collected were subjected to one-way ANOVA statistical analysis at 5% probability
(p<0.05) using SAS (1987).

The performance of laying guinea fowl fed oyster shell and bone meal is presented in Table2.Significant
difference in (p<0.05) Average Daily Feed Intake and Hen Day Production were recorded, however,
Body Weight Gain, Feed Conversion Ratio and Protein Efficiency Ratio were not (p>0.05).Birds on T3
produced highest (p<0.05) number of eggs (76.00±2.33%) which was similar to values obtained from
birds fed T1and T5 with 66.20±2.37% and 65.90±2.41%, respectively. ADFI was highest (p<0.05) for
birds on T4 with 72.20±4.46g, which did not differ significantly (p>0.05) from the values obtained from
birds on T2 and T3 with62.70±4.56g and 62.50±4.0g respectively. Birds on T1 and T5 had lowest
(p>0.05) ADFI with 56.12±4.66g and 52,00±4.46g, respectively.
Table 2: Performance of Laying Guinea Fowl Fed Oyster Shell and Bone Meal
Initial Body 1269.30±1.11 1305.6±1.11 1100.0±0.09 1261.0±1.02 1261.0±0.08 205.6
Weight (g)
Final Body 1333±0.47 1366.70±0.31 1166.70±0.05 1335.00±0.50 1333.30±0.04 200.0

Weight (g)
Hen Day 66.20±2.37ab 61.10±2.30 b 76.00±2.33a 61.13±0.50b 65.90±2.41ab 15.3
Production (%)
Average Daily 56.12±4.66 b 62.70±4.56ab 62.50±4.0ab 72.20±4.46 a 52,00±4.46b 12.4
Feed Intake (g)
Body Weight 64.10±6.75 61.11±5.55 66.71±6.70 72.21±4.81 72.20±5.73 13,6
Gain
Feed Conversion 0.94±0.10 1.03±0.09 0.94±0.99 1.02± 0.10 0.73±0.08 0.03
Ratio
Protein Efficiency 3.40±0.39 3.38±0.28 3.71±0.22 4.02±0.29 4.02±0.29 0.46
Ratio
Egg quality characteristics of laying guinea fowl fed oyster shell and bone meal mixture as calcium
source is shown in Table 3. The dietary treatments showed significant (p<0.05) effects on egg length, egg
weight, egg shell weight, egg shell thickness, albumen weight, albumen height and albumen width, while,
the egg width and haugh unit were not influenced (p>0.05). The egg length, egg shell weight, egg shell
thickness, albumen height, yolk height and yolk width values were all significantly (p<0.05) higher in
birds fed T1.Egg weight was high for birds on T1, T2 and T4 with 37.00±0.60g, 36.30±0.55g and
36.30±0.50g, respectively and lowest on birds fed diet T3 (34.00±0.61). Better mineralization of calcium
Page | 303
were reported from birds onT1 and T2 as the egg shell weight and egg shell thickness were of higher
values, while that of T3 correspondingly recorded the least values.
Table 3: Egg Quality Characteristics of Laying Guinea Fowl fed Oyster Shell and Bone Meal
Mixture
Egg Length(mm) 4.63±0.78a 4.42±0.78ab 4.21±0.78b 4.54±0.78a 4.44±0.78ab 0.02
Egg Width (mm) 3.48±0.08 3.49±0.08 3.31±0.08 3.57±0.08 4.43±0.08 0.03
a a b ab
Egg Weight (g) 37.00±0.60 36.30±0.55 34.00±0.61 36.30±0.50 35.0±0.50ab 0.24
a ab b ab
Egg Shell Weight 6.47±0.24 5.70±0.24 4.53±0.24 5.50±0.24 5.07±0.24b 0.23
(g)
Egg Shell Thickness 0.46±0.01a 0.44±0.01a 0.39±0.01b 0.43±0.01ab 0.43±0.01ab 0.04
(mm)
Haugh Unit 83.40±0.22 83.50±0.22 83.50±0.22 83.70±0.22 83.50±0.22 0.00
b a a a
Albumen Weight (g) 16.40±0.30 16.70±0.30 17.10±30 16.00 ±0.30 17.40±0.30a 0.27
a a b a
Albumen Height 0.60±030 0.60±0.03 0.45±0.30 0.60±0.03 0.50±0.30ab 0.24
(cm)
Albumen Width 5.31±0.24a 5.23±0.24a 4.55±0.24b 5.28±0.24a 4.95±0.24b 0.17
(cm)
Yolk Width (g) 14.10±0.40a 14.00±0.40a 12.20±0.40b 13.90±0.40a 12.50±0.40b 0.49
a b a a
Yolk Height (cm) 1.53±0.70 1.24±0.70 1.53±0.70 1.50±0.70 1.49±0.70a 0.01
CONCLUSION
Birds fed diet T3 have the highest hen day production, while those on T1 have higher values of egg
length, egg shell weight, egg shell thickness, albumen height, yolk height and yolk width value.
REFERENCES
Abdullahi, J., M.Kabir, A.O. Iyiola-Tunji, M. Abubakarand P.A. John (2018).Comparison of Body
Weight and Linear Measurements of Pearland Belgy Strains of Guinea Fowls in Northern Guinea
Savanna Zone of Nigeria. Proceedings of the 43rd Annual Conference of the Nigerian Society for
Animal Production held at New SAAT Auditorium, Federal University of Technology Owerri,
Imo State. 18th – 22nd March, 2018. Pp. 121-123.
Ajakaiye A., Atteh, J. O. and Leeson, S. (2003) Biological availability of calcium in broiler chicks from
different sources found in Nigeria. Animal Feed Science & Technology.104 (1): 209 – 214
Dei, H.K. and Karbo, N. (2004). Improving smallholder guinea fowl production in Ghana: A training
Manual Cyber Systems, Tamale, Ghana.
Moreki, J.C. and Seabo, D. (2012). Guinea fowl production in Botswana. Journal of World’s Poultry
Research, 2: 01-04.
Nahashon, S.N., N.A. Adefope, A. Amenyenu, and D. Wright (2006). Laying performance of gray guinea
fowl hens as affected by caging density. JournalPoultry Science Association. pp 1682-1689.
SAS (1987). SAS/STASt. Guide for personal computers. Version 6.Ed. pp. 697- 978.
Sayila, A. (2009). Guinea fowl farming becomes popular in Botswana. J. World’s Poultry Science, 2(5):
10.
Teye, G.A. and Adam, M. (2000). Constraints to guinea fowl production in northern Ghana: A case study
of the Damongo area. Ghana Journal of Agricultural Science, 33: 153-157.
Page | 304
CARCASS TRAITS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED WHITE (PIPER NIGRUM) AND

CAYENNE PEPPER (CAPSICUM FRUTESCENS) POWDERS AS ADDITIVES
A.V. Adegoke*, K.A. Sanwo*, L.T. Egbeyale*, Shobukola O. P**and O. R. Williams*

*Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240
Abeokuta, Nigeria;
**
Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240
Abeokuta, Nigeria;
ABSTRACT
An investigation was carried out to evaluate carcass traits of chickens fed white pepper (wp) and cayenne
pepper (cp) powders fed as additives. 360-day old broiler (Cobb) chicks were sourced while three
hundred and thirty-six 2-weeks old broiler chicks were randomly assigned into 7 treatment groups. Each
consists of 48 randomly selected birds and four replicates of twelve birds each. Additives were formulated
into 7 treatment diets as experimental diets were assigned after two weeks of collective brooding as
treatment diets were fed for 28 days. At day-28, carcass indices were measured data obtained were
subjected to a one - way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in a completely randomized design. Dressed
weight, neck, head, back, breast and thigh percentages were influenced (P<0.05) by treatment diets.
Group fed Basal diet+200wp had best (P<0.05) value for carcass parts except back part that was heaviest
(%) in groups offered Basal diet+100wp+100cp. The study concluded that inclusion of cayenne pepper
powder singly at 200 g/100kg of basal feed best improved carcass characteristics of broiler chicken meat.
Key words: Broiler chickens, carcass yield, feed additives, white pepper powder, cayenne pepper powder
INTRODUCTION
Rapid conversion of feed to meat and increased rearing of meat type chickens is the trend in modern
commercial poultry with special emphasis laid on high yield and quality meat. Nutritional compositions
have been adjusted with significant impact on poultry meat yield and safety. Published findings abound
on the effect of probiotics, vitamin and mineral mixture mix on carcass characteristics of broiler chicken
in harmony with the economics of broiler production (Singh et al., 2018). Trend of purchase of poultry
products necessitates augmenting improved breed of poultry birds by diet to achieve significant economic
yields. Fluctuations in price of chicken meat owing to the continuous increase in cost of quality feed
ingredients necessitates the search for botanicals that can influence yield without quality compromise.
Mondal et al. (2015) referred to feed additives as all products excluding commonly known feedstuffs that
can be incorporated into ration to obtain desired outcomes. White pepper (Piper nigrum) powder has been
acclaimed with a wide range of applications, like ―spices‖ and ―antioxidant‖ (Heerasing et al., 2019).
Notable examples include the incorporation of Piper nigrum in the diet of chickens detailed in the report
of Tazi-Safa et al., (2014) and Ndelekwute et al. (2015). Dietary trials have been conducted to examine
the effect of red peppers on performance of broiler chickens (Galib et al., 2011; Adegoke et al., 2018).
Hence, an investigation on the effect of white and cayenne pepper powders as additives on carcass traits
of broiler chickens was investigated.

This experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS),
Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, Nigeria.
Experimental birds and management: 360-day old broiler (Cobb) chicks were sourced from a reputable
hatchery in Ibadan. Birds were floor-brooded collectively for the first two weeks in a deep litter pen prior
to the random allotment of three hundred and thirty-six (336) birds into seven treatment groups that
consists of 48 birds per treatment. Each group was subdivided into 4 replicates containing 12 birds each.
Treatments were – Basal, B+200wp, B+250wp, B+200cp, B+250cp, B+100wp+100cp and
B+125wp+125cp groups.
Page | 305
Table 1. Composition of basal diets at the starter and finisher phases of the experiment
Ingredients Composition (%) Starter Finisher
Maize 50.000 54.000
Wheat offal 5.500 10.500
Soybean Meal 25.000 14.000
Groundnut cake 13.000 16.000
Fishmeal (72%) 1.000 0.000
Bonemeal 3.000 3.000
Limestone 1.500 1.500
Salt 0.250 0.250
*Mineral and Vitamin Premix 0.250 0.250
Lysine 0.200 0.250
Cayenne Pepper 0.000 0.000
White Pepper 0.000 0.000
Total 100.000 100.000
Procedure for carcass evaluation: Upon expiration of feeding dietary additives at day-28, one bird with
weight close to the average weight of each replicate was selected and fasted for 10 hours to empty gut
content. Live weight was documented prior to slaughter. Dressing of carcass and evaluation of cutup parts
were modelled towards procedure described by Choo et al. (2014) and Diarra et al. (2014). Abdominal fat
at sites described by Cahaner et al. (1986) was measured and the meat to bone ratio calculated.
Additionally, the right drumstick of each carcass was used for meat to bone evaluation. Two drumsticks
from two carcasses were selected from the four replicates randomly to estimate the ratio of meat to bone
conformation.
Statistical analysis: Carcass data were analysed by one-way ANOVA to determine significant effect of
treatments on response and significant means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test of SPSS
(2012) version 21.

Analysed carcass result is presented in Table 2. Dressed percentage range between 70.43 and 75.52 %
among birds offered the Basal and B+200cp diets. The highest (P<0.05) dress percentage in groups fed
B+200 was similar as groups fed B+250wp, B+250cp and B+100cp+100wp diets. The shank, wings,
thigh and drumstick were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by dietary additives. The head, neck, back
and breast were significant (P<0.05) among the carcass cut-up parts. The head and neck of chickens fed
no pepper additive had the highest (P<0.05) weight with the neck weight being the same (P<0.05) as
groups given B+200cp diet. Back weight ranged from 14.54 – 16.98 %. Carcass percentage back weight
was heaviest among birds fed B+100wp+100cp diet, though comparable statistically as weight obtained
from animals given white pepper powder singly at 200 and 250 g/100kg; as well as B+250cp and
B+125wp+125cp diets. Larger (P<0.05) breast parts of 26.70 and 26.81 % among broiler chickens fed
B+200cp and B+250cp diets vary significantly (P<0.05) from the 23.53% of the basal group. Meat: bone
ratio was best in carcass of chickens fed B+200cp diet but comparable statistically with other treatment
groups excluding B+250 group with least (P<0.05) value. The internal organs (heart, kidney, gizzard,
spleen and liver), abdominal fat and intestine + ceca weight were not influenced (P>0.05) by additives.
The positive effect of herbal ingredients or phyto-additives on carcass and meat quality have been
reported. In this study, chickens fed dietary treatments had significantly improved content per weight
basis in groups supplied B+200cp powder. Hot red pepper according to Puvaca et al. (2015) plays an
important role in regulating cholesterol and fat deposition, suppresses triglycerides levels as well as
supports the vascular system in the body which supports the aggregation of muscle that results in limited
adipose tissue for fat deposition. This possibly translates into better dressed percentage. Ogbuewu et al.
(2018) pointed to concentrations (100: 100 of each pepper) of active ingredients (principally piperine and
Page | 306
capsaicin) and their interactions (B+100wp+100cp diet) with other active components in feed as potent
when additives exert influence on energy and fat levels, resulting in increased intestinal movements,
turnover and yield. Notable high yield for breast meat and meat: bone ratio conforms with the pattern
observed in the group with the highest dressed percentage. Though Puvaca et al. (2019) reported
significant impact of dietary additives on carcass yield at 1.0 g/100g of feed, this study demonstrates
highest dressed percentage at 0.2 g/100g inclusion of cayenne pepper powder which corroborates
outcome declared by Adegoke et al. (2016), that dietary cayenne pepper at 0.2 g/100g of feed resulted in
best dressed percentage. Best yield value from birds supplied B+100wp+100cp diet suggests interaction
of peppers at optimum concentration and combinations resulted in heaviest back weight.
Table 2. Carcass yield of broiler chickens fed dietary peppers (Capsicum frutescens and Piper nigrum) as
additives
Parameters Basal B+200wp B+250w B+200c B+250c B+100w B+125w SEM
(B) p p p p p
+100cp +125cp
Live weight (wt) 2041.50 2003.75 2022.50 2026.25 2087.75 2024.00 2066.25 11.08
Carcass Yield
Eviscerated wt 1671.25 1660.25 1695.50 1719.75 1730.75 1691.00 1675.50 10.91
Dressed wt 1437.50 1445.75 1470.00 1530.50 1517.50 1490.25 1470.00 11.83
Dressed (%) 70.43c 72.13bc 72.69abc 75.52a 72.66abc 73.62ab 71.15bc 0.43
Cut-up parts
(%)
Head 2.69a 2.36ab 2.30ab 2.06b 2.47ab 2.41ab 2.28ab 0.06
Shank 3.95 3.77 4.03 3.49 3.71 3.67 3.88 0.06
Neck 4.62a 4.15abc 4.27ab 4.68a 3.34c 3.64bc 4.38ab 0.13
Wings 8.13 8.18 8.12 8.11 7.50 7.77 7.31 0.16
Back 14.57b 14.89ab 16.52ab 14.54b 14.87ab 16.98a 16.06ab 0.30
b ab ab a a ab ab
Breast 23.53 25.16 24.09 26.81 26.70 25.71 24.45 0.38
Thigh 10.90 11.71 11.71 11.91 11.20 11.03 10.75 0.19
Drumstick 11.65 11.50 11.69 11.39 11.08 11.36 10.94 0.15
Meat: Bone 4.96ab 4.56ab 5.08ab 5.71a 4.21b 5.10ab 5.47ab 0.17
ratio
Internal
Organs (%)
Heart 0.42 0.35 0.47 0.41 0.48 0.41 0.41 0.03
Kidney 0.27 0.36 0.41 0.35 0.36 0.35 0.41 0.02
Gizzard 1.72 1.65 1.69 1.53 1.47 1.66 1.63 0.04
Spleen 0.05 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.03 0.03 0.04 0.00
Liver 1.38 1.46 1.46 1.38 1.40 1.46 1.45 0.04
Abdominal fat 0.81 0.69 1.10 0.70 0.67 0.77 0.85 0.07
Intestine + 3.12 2.65 2.92 2.99 2.71 2.89 3.15 0.07
Caeca
a, b
- Means on the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (p <0.05).
cp – Cayenne pepper powder; wp- white pepper powder; wt – weight

Chickens offered cayenne pepper powder at 200 g/100kg of basal had best carcass traits among treatment
groups with no deleterious effect on the birds
Page | 307
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Adegoke, A. V., Abanikanda, I. A., Sanwo, K. A., Egbeyale, L. T., and J. A Abiona. 2016. Dietary
addition of turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome powder and cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
powder as antioxidants on carcass traits of broiler chickens. In: New technology for Enhanced
Animal Production in Nigeria. Proceedings of the 41stAnnual Conference of the Nigerian Society
for Animal production (NSAP). O. O. Oluwatosin, O. S. Sowande, O. O. Olowofeso, L. T.
Egbeyale, O. O. Adeleye, C. P. Njoku, A. O. Osofowora and J. Sanda (eds) 371-374 Published by
NSAP
Adegoke, A. V., Abimbola, M. A., Sanwo, K. A., Egbeyale, L. T., Abiona, J. A., Oso, A. O., and Iposu,
S. O. 2018. Performance and blood biochemistry profile of broiler chickens fed dietary turmeric
(Curcuma longa) powder and cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens) powders as antioxidants.
Veterinary and Animal Science, 6: 95–102.
Cahaner, A., Nitsan, Z., and Ni, I. 1986. Weight and fat content of adipose and on adipose tissue in
broilers selected for and against abdominal adipose tissue. Poultry Science Journal 65: 215-222.
Choo, W. C., Nina, F., Mohd, J., and Norazwina, Z. 2015. Optimization of biogas production from
poultry manure wastewater in 250 ml flasks. Jurnal Teknologi, 75 (1): 275–285.
Diarra, S. S., D. Sandakabatu, D. Perera, P. Tabuaciri and U. Mohammed, 2014. Growth performance,
carcass measurements and organs weight of broiler chickens fed cassava copra meal based or
commercial finisher diets in Samoa. Asian Journal of Poultry Science, 8: 16-22.
Galib, A., Al-Kassie, M., Mamdooh, A., Al-Nasrawi, M., and Saba, J. A. 2011. The effects of using hot
red pepper as a diet supplement on some performance traits in broiler. Pakistan Journal of
Nutrition, 10 (9): 842–845.
Heerasing, T., Muhammad, Z. A., Kannan R. R. Rengasamy, Katharigatta, N. V., Rajesh J., Gokhan Z.,
and Mohamad F. M. 2019. REVIEW: A systematic review on black pepper (Piper nigrum L.): from
folk uses to pharmacological applications. Critical Reviews In Food Science And Nutrition
https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2019.1565489
Mondal, M. A., Yeasmin, T., Karim, R., Nurealam Siddiqui, M., Raihanum-Nabi S. M., and M. Sayed.
2015. Powder on growth performance and carcass traits of broiler chicks. South Asian Association
for Regional Cooperation Journal of Agriculture, 13 (1): 188 – 199.
Ndelekwute, E. K., Afolabi, K. D., Uzegbu, H. D., Unah, U. L., and K. U Amaefule. 2015. Effect of
dietary Black pepper (Piper nigrum) on the performance of broiler Chickens. Bangladesh Journal
of Animal Science, 44 (2): 120-127
Ogbuewu, I. P., Okoro, V. M., Mbajiorgu, E. F., and Mbajiorgu, C. A. 2018. Beneficial Effects of Garlic
in Livestock and Poultry Nutrition: A Review. Agricultural Research, 1–16,
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40003-018-0390-y, 2018.
Puvaca, N., Stanacev, V., Beukovic, M., Ljubojevic, D., Kostadinovi L., and Džinic. N. 2015. Effect of
phytogenic feed additive (Allium sativum L.) in broiler chicken nutrition on breast meat quality and
tissues cholesterol content, in: 7th International Scientific/Professional Conference, Agriculture in
Nature and Environment Protection, Vukovar, Croatia, 28–30 May 2014, Croatian Soil Tillage
Research Organization, 75–80
Puvaca, N., Pelic, D. L., Cabarkapa, I., Popovic, S., Tomicic, Z., Nikolova, N., Levic, I. 2019. Quality of
broiler chickens carcass fed dietary addition of garlic, black pepper and hot red pepper. Journal of
Agronomy, Technology and Engineering Management; 2(1): 218-227
Tazi-Safa, M. A., El Tazi., Mukhtar A. M., Mohamed, K. A., and Tabidi, M. H. 2014. Effect of using
black pepper as natural feed additive on performance and carcass quality of broiler chickens.
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Analysis, 4 (2): 108-113
Singh, S. K., S. P. Sahu and P. Kumar. 2018. Influence of supplementation of feed additives on carcass
characteristics, mortality and economics of broiler production. International Journal of Current
Microbiological Applied Science, 7: 4810-4817
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Page | 308
PATTERN OF GROWTH OF ROSS 308 STRAIN OF BROILERS IN OWERRI, IMO STATE

1*
S. I. Ahamba, 2C.U. Ekugba, 3O.E. Kadurumba 4U. E. Ogundu, and 5J.C. Ekeh
1
Department of Animal Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology,
Federal University of Technology PMB 1526 Owerri, Nigeria.
2
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra
State, Nigeria.
Corresponding author: ahambaifeanyi@futo.edu.ng/ahambaifeanyi@gmail.com
Telephone number: (+234)7037261316
ABSTRACT
Ross 308strain of broiler is one of the most prevalent strain of broilers raised by farmers in Nigeria.
Therefore, growth curved modelling of this animal becomes necessary to optimize its management and
efficient of its production. This study is aimed at determining the growth rate of Ross 308 strain of broiler
chicken. A total of 100 chicks were raised from day-old to 8weeks. Data collected were subjected to
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and simple linear regression of each of the measured parameters on age
was performed. The findings of this study revealed that there was a proportional increase in body weight
with linear body measurements, hence the linear traits of ROSS 308 can be predicted if the animal‘s age
is known. The allometric growth equation relating body weight and drum stick was highest (92.8%),
whereas body weight and body length was least (76.9%). This study concluded that there is a concordance
increase in body parameters of ROSS 308 chicken with age and that the Drum stick and Shank Length of
Ross308 grow faster than other linear body parts. Hence, the study recommends Drum stick length as the
best tool for selection of Ross 308 strain of broiler chicken.
Key words: Ross 308, broilers, allometric, strain
INTRODUCTION
Animal growth is as a result of an increase in size and change in functional capabilities of various tissues
and organs of the animal that occurs from conception to maturity (Peters et al., 2005). Growth of fowl is
however, similar to the growth of other animals and it consists of 3 or 4 cycles, with 2 occurring after
hatching (Grossman, 1988). Different body parts may not show a similar growth pattern in living
organisms. Hence, Alkan et al. (2009) opined that the growth curves should be presented based on
species, genotypes, environmental factors and the growth characteristics.
Growth curve modellings of animals is necessary for optimizing the management and efficiency of animal
production (Kohn et al., 2007). Many researchers (Sengul and Kiraz (2005); Nahashon et al., 2006;
Ogundu et al., 2009), have tried to model the growth characteristics of poultry, but little or no work has
been done in modelling the growth pattern of ROSS 308, especially in Imo state.
The existence of functional relationships of live body weights, body conformation and yield to production
traits reported by Ogundu et al. (2009) are important in broiler production, since this information would
reflect on the feed efficiency and performance of broilers. In support of this report, Medes (2008)
concluded that defining growth with respect to each feature of the animal will not give sufficient
information on its growth performances. Hence, supporting the earlier report of Alkan et al. (2011), that it
is necessary to determine the growth performances of each features with respect to the whole body,
relative to each other as well as the growth of left side organ relative to right side organs.
Therefore, to ascertain data for growth performance of different body parts of an animal with respect to
each other and the whole body, prediction of allometric growth parameter could serve as a vital tool.
Hence, the study tends to determine the pattern of growth of Ross 308 strain of broilers in Owerri, Imo
state. Specifically, the work tries to
1. determine the growth characteristics of Ross308 strains of broiler chicken
2. determine the growth rate of Ross 308 strain of broiler chicken and
3. Establish the allometric growth pattern of ROSS 308 strain of broilers
Page | 309

Study Site
The experiment was carried out in poultry unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of
Animal Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal University
of Technology Owerri. Owerri is located at the rainforest agro-ecological zone of Nigeria (5o29N latitude
and 7o02E longitude), elevation of 90.91m, annual rainfall of 2641mm, temperature of 27.4oC and relative
humidity of 86%. The experiment was conducted between the months of July and August.
Experimental Birds and management
Total of one hundred (100) day-old broiler chicks of Ross 308 were purchased from a reputable hatchery
and were randomly allocated to five treatments of 20 chicks each, with each treatment having four
replicates of five birds each, in a deep litter housing system. The chicks were brooded using coal pot for
heat supply within the first 3 weeks of life. Antibiotics and vitamins were administered as when due and
vaccines were also administered as recommended for the strain by the producer. Bedding material used is
wood shavings, which was always kept dried to prevent coccidiosis outbreak and strict biosecurity
measures were adhered to with other management system during the experimental period to ensure a
healthy environment for growth and reduce mortality.
Feed and feeding
Commercial starter mash purchased from a reputable feed vendor in Owerri, Imo state was used during
the starter phase of the birds, and commercial finisher mash was used at the finisher phase. Water and
feed were provided ad lib. throughout the experimental period.
Data Collection
Prior to the commencement of the experiment the birds were weighed to obtain their initial body weight
and thereafter on weekly basis. Subsequently, Data were collected on weekly basis on the body weight,
body length, shank length, keel length, wing length, breast width, drumstick length and circumference of
drumstick. The body weight was measured using a 5.0kg sensitive digital scale (Escali Mercado series),
whereas other measurements of length, width and circumferences were done using a rope and 30cm rule.
Measurements of the weighing scales and the meter rule were expressed in grams and centimeters,
respectively.
Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model
procedure of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS, 2006). Means were separated using the Least
Significance Difference (LSD). Simple linear regression of each of the measured parameters on age was
carried out to determine the rates of growth of the body and each of the component parts.
The regression model is given in the expression;
Yi = a + biXi where;
Yi = response (dependent) variable e.g. Body weight…
a = Y-intercept
bi = slope
Xi = ith independent variable i.e. age

Table1 shows the mean body weight and linear body measurements from week 2 to week 8 of age for
Ross 308 strain of broilers. There was a proportionate increase in body weight with the linear body
measurements. The significant (P<0.05) increase in mean body weight with linear body measurements is
directly proportional with the age from week 2 to 8, although there was a slight deviation in the means of
weeks 3 and 4of the body length. The highest values (2511.10±10.81, 34.08±0.1,13.82±0.0,
25.66±0.1,23.77±0.1, 17.00±0.0, 27.81±0.0 and 20.06±0.0) for body weight, body length, shank length,
keel length, wing length, drumstick, breast width and circumference of drumstick respectively, were
recorded in week 8. While the least value (296.05±6.64, 19.39±0.12, 3.17±0.04, 8.28±0.02, 7.00±0.00,
5.57±0.09, 10.63±0.10 and 6.42±0.06) for body weight, body length, shank length, keel length, wing
length, drumstick, breast width and circumference of drumstick respectively, were recorded in week 2.
Page | 310
The progressive increase in mean body weight with linear body parameters is an indication that as the
chicken increase in age, body weight and linear body parameters increase as well. The value for the final
body weight obtained from the result falls within the range the range of value (1.5 – 2.0kg) report by
Alann et al. (2007), as market weight of broilers attained at 8-10 weeks of age. the increase in body
weight and linear body parameters with advancement in age as observed in this study is an indication that
the Ross 308 strain of broiler is an efficient strain, since the rapid increase in body weight of the broilers
from week 6 to week 8 is in line with the observation of Oluyemi and Roberts (1999), who stated that
efficient broiler strains gain more live weight at maturity because they are genetically designed to be meat
producers.
The attainment of market weight at above 2kg in 8 weeks, gives the impression that Ross 308 strain has a
relatively greater potential for growth in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
Table 1 weekly mean body weight and linear body parameters of Ross 308 strain of Broiler
Traits Mean ± SE (N)
WK2 (100) WK3 (100) WK4 (100) WK5 (100) WK6 (100) WK7 (100) WK8 (100)
a b c d e
BW 296.05±6.64 600±8.45 993.65±3.97 1370.5±15.89 1651.66±31.31 2328.80±21.47 2511±10.81 f
a b b c d
BL 19.39±0.12 24.55±0.12 19.57±0.05 23.24±0.08 27.59±0.07 29.06±0.08 34.08±0.08 e
SL 3.17±0.04 4.40±0.08 a 8.00±0.00 b 11.04±0.05 c 11.57±0.05 d 13.23±0.04 e 13.82±0.02 f
a b c d e
KL 8.28±0.02 9.27±0.21 10.49±0.08 14.64±0.05 20.00±0.00 22.40±0.05 25.66±0.05 f
a b c d e
WL 7.00±0.00 9.91±0.27 12.45±0.04 15.00±0.0 17.81±0.04 19.92±0.04 23.77±0.08 f
a b c d e
DS 5.57±0.09 7.92±0.11 9.00±0.00 11.00±0.00 13.00±0.00 15.00±0.00 17.00±0.00 f
a b c d e
BR 10.63±0.10 12.21±0.03 12.55±0.05 14.72±0.03 19.75±0.05 23.35±0.05 27.81±0.04 f
a b c d e
CD 6.42±0.06 8.00±0.00 9.00±0.00 12.47±0.06 14.00±0.00 17.38±0.05 10.06±0.02 f
Abbreviations: BW- Body weight, BL- Body Length, BR – Breast Width, CD- Circumference of
Drumstick, DS- Drum stick, KL- Keel Length, SL-Shank Length, WL- Wing Length, S.E- Standard
Error of estimates, N= Total number of chicken per week, WK2- WK8 = Age in weeks. NB: a-f means
with different superscripts in each row are significantly different at P <0.05; SEM = Standard error of the
mean.
Table 2 shows the regression of body parameters on age in ROSS308 strain of broilers. The result showed
that all the regression equations were highly significant (P < 0.01). considering the comparative goodness
of fit, judging from criteria like R2 values, levels of significant, errors of estimate and signs and size of
regression coefficient, the model used fits the equation. High R2 value ranging between 81.9% and 99.3%
were obtained for BL and WL respectively.
The linear regression of the age on body parameters in Ross 308 strains of broilers showed a highly
significant difference (P< 0.01) for all the traits except the body length and the body weight that showed
no significant difference (P > 0.05) across various ages. The high R2 value obtained in the relationships
shows that the linear traits of Ross 308 can be predicted if the animal‘s age is known. This will save the
farmer additional cost of buying a scale. This is as opined by Chineke et al. (2006) that the difference in
linear traits reveals useful measures that depict the size and shape of an animal. It also suggests that a high
proportion of variation in body parameters at various weeks are explained by the variation in the weekly
body parameters. This agrees with the discovery of Peters et al. (2005), that the linear regression
functions best describe body measurements at early stages of growth probably because growth in some
body part in chicken is linear until it reaches full maturity. Hence, the F-value obtained shows that the
data fit in very well in the model.
The use of age to readily predict body weight and linear parameters in broiler chicken without slaughter is
therefore highly desirable as it will ensure selection of animals that will reach market weight and size at
relatively faster rate (Egena et al., 2012).
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Table 2 Linear Regression of Age on Body Parameters in Ross 308 Strain of Broiler
Traits Equations R2 (%) S.E Significance
BW BW = -557.22 + .610 Age 37.2 901.076 **
BL BL = 11.871 + .905 Age 81.9 2.148 **
BR BR = .864 + .960 Age 92.2 1.657 **
CD CC = .109 + .985 Age 97.1 .752 **
DS DS = 1.519 + .996 Age 99.3 .292 **
KL BL = -1.175 + .976 Age 95.3 1.317 **
SL SL = .845 + .953 Age 90.7 .994 **
WL WL = 1.497 + .990 Age 98.0 .689 **
Abbreviations: BW- Body weight, BL- Body Length, BR – Breast Width, CD- Circumference of
Drumstick, DS- Drum stick, KL- Keel Length, SL-Shank Length, WL- Wing Length, S.E- Standard
Error of estimates, ** = Highly significance (P < 0.01).
Table 3 shows the loglinear and allometric growth equations and distribution growth equations and
distribution coefficient for linear growth parameters for 7- week period inRoss308 strain of broilers. The
degree of reliability of the allometric equation was measured by R2 values. Very high (92.8%, 92.5% and
91.5%) R2 values were obtained for the allometric equations relating body weight and drum stick, body
weight and circumference of drumstick, and body weight and shank length respectively. Whereas, a
relatively high (80.8%, 80.0% and 76.9%) were obtained for body weight and wing length, body weight
and breast width and body weight and body length respectively. The very high R2 values reviewed that
the equations are highly reliable whereas the relatively high R2 values showed a relatively high reliability
of the allometric equation. As reported by Koop and Grossman (1991), the different components of the
body weight have a different growth rate which explains the differential growth patterns observed
between body weight and different body components. Hence, different body parts develop at varying rates
and these changes determine the shape, conformation and body proportion of the animal at a given time
(Olutogu et al., 2003).
Table 3 Log Linear and Allometric Growth Equation and Distribution Coefficient for Linear
Growth for 7 weeks.
Linear parameters Log linear R2 (%) SEM Allometric
Shank Length (SL) Y = 0.144 + 91.5 0.176 SL = 0.31W0.957
0.957BW
Drum stick (DS) Y = 0.49 + 0.96BW 92.8 0.115 DS = 1.63W0.96
Cir. of Drum stick (CD) Y = 0.187 + 0.96BW 92.5 0.157 CD = 121W0.96
Breast width (BR) Y = 1.246 + 0.90BW 80.6 0.171 BR = 3.48W0.90
Body length (BL) Y = 5.001 + 0.88BW 76.9 0.118 BL= 148.56W0.88
Wing length (WL) Y = 0.986 + 0.90BW 80.8 0.177 WL = 2.68W0.90
Abbreviation: BW- Body weight, BL- Body Length, BR – Breast Width, CD- Circumference of
Drumstick, DS- Drum stick, KL- Keel Length, SL-Shank Length, WL- Wing Length, SEM = Standard
Error Mean
CONCLUSION
The quest for efficient broiler production in Nigeria cannot be maximally achieved without strategizing
the possible breeding pattern for improvement of the various strains of broilers that are peculiar to the
environment.
However, to ensure sustainability of the poultry industry (especially the broilers), the productive capacity
of the animal must be improved. This cannot be totally achieved without considering the pattern of
growth of various strains of broilers, measurements of correlations among body parameters (traits) and
age of the birds for development of selection programs for effective planning.
Page | 312
This study therefore tried to estimate the linear regression of age on body parameters in Ross308 strain of
broilers and increase the base line knowledge of the relationship between some linear body parameters
and age of Ross 308 strain of broilers. Hence, predict the linear body parameters using regression
analysis.
A marked difference (P<0.05) was observed for the body weight of broilers across the various weeks.
This reveals that as chicken increase in age, there is a concordance increase in its body parameters. Also,
the linear regression of age on body parameters showed a highly significant difference (P<0.05) for all the
traits, except for body weight that was not significant (P>0.05). Finally, the various coefficient of
allometry when compare with coefficient of isometric growth (0.33), indicate that Drum stick and Shank
Length grow faster than other component of the body.
Hence, the study recommends DL as the best tools for selection of Ross 308 strains of broilers, due to the
high R2 values obtained for the both predictors. They are nice predictors for the linear body parameters.
REFERENCES
Alkan, S., Mendes, M., Karabag, K., Balcioglu, M.S. (2009). Effects of short-term divergent selection for
5-week bodyweight on growth characteristics of Japanese quail. Arch.Geflukgelk., 73(2). 124-
131.
Grossman, M. (1988). Multiphasic analysis of growth curves in chicken. Poultry science 67: 33-42.
kohn, F., Sharifi A. R. and Simianer, H. (2007). Modelling the growth of the Goettingen minipig. J. Anim.
Sci. 85: 84-92.
Mendes, M. (2008). Asymmetry measures and allometric growth parameter estimates for investigate
effect of early feed restriction on deviation from bilateral symmetry in broiler chickens. Arch.
Tiez. 51: 611 – 619.
Nahashon, S.N., Adefope N., Amenyenu, A. and Wright, D. (2006). Effect of varying metabolisable
energy to crude protein concentrations in diets of pearl gray guinea fowl pullets I. growth
performance. Poult. Sci. J. 63: 1237 – 1242.
Ogundu, U.E., Okpala, O.O. and Iloeje, M.U. (2009). Predictive ability of Broiler production models.
Ani. prod. Research advances, 5(2); 79-82.
Peters, S.O. Ikeobi, C.O., Ozoje, M.O. and Adebambo, A.O. (2005). Modelling growth in seven chicken
genotype. Nig. Poultry sci. J., 4: 1-6.
Sengul, T. and Kiraz S. (2005). Nonlinear models for growth curves in large white turkeys. Turk. J.
Vet.Anim. Sci. 29: 331- 337.
Page | 313
SUPPLEMENTAL VALUE OF MANGO LEAF MEAL (Magnifera indica L) ON GROWTH

PERFORMANCE AND HAEMO-BIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF RABBITS
M.H. Ogunsipe and I. Ibidapo

Department of Agricultural Science, Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Nigeria
Corresponding author: moogunsipe2009@yahoo.com moogunsipe2009@gmail.com
ogunsipemh@aceondo.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The study was carried out to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of mango leaf meal on the
growth performance, carcass traits and haemo-biochemical parameters of growing rabbits. In total, sixty
four weaned rabbits were randomly distributed to four dietary treatments of 16 rabbits to a treatment of 8
replicates of 2 rabbits per replicate. The diets were formulated in such that mango leaf meal was
supplemented in the diets at 0 g/kg (control; diet 1), 0.5 g/kg (diet 2), 1.00 g/kg (diet 3) and 1.50 g/kg
(diet 4). Results showed that growth rate, carcass traits, blood formation and health status of rabbits were
superior in rabbits fed mango leaf meal supplemented diets compared with those on diet without mango
leaf meal supplementation (control diet). It could be concluded that supplementation of mango leaf meal
up to 1.50 g/kg in rabbit diet significantly improved growth rate and health status of rabbits.
Keywords: Haemo-biochemical, mango leaf, phytochemical properties, rabbits
INTRODUCTION
Commercial rabbit production is fast gaining attention in livestock industry, possibly owing to its
attributes such as high prolificacy, fast growth rate, short generation interval, good converter of feeds to
flesh, high meat quality, low cholesterol and low sodium contents (Akinfala et al., 2003). However,
livestock industry in general has been challenged due to use of antibiotics as growth promoting additive.
The residual effect of antibiotics on livestock products such as meal and egg is detrimental to human life
as consumers of these animal products are liable to degenerative and cardiovascular diseases. Hence, the
European Union came up with a ban on the use of antibiotics as growth promoters. Consequent upon this,
researchers have continued to aggressively source for natural antibiotics as alternatives to the synthetic
antibiotics. Several leaves, spices, herbs and other botanicals had been identified to possess
phytochemical and pharmacological properties and growth promoting bioactive components useful in
livestock nutrition and production (Laullo et al., 2018).
Mango leaves have been reported to contain bioactive compounds such as 3-monosides of delphinidin,
paeonidin, cyaniding, leucoanthocyanins, magniferin, kaempferol and quercitin that are vital in health
promotion, disease prevention and drug production Okwu and Ezenagu, 2008) and phytochemicals which
possess antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties against tissue oxidation and free
radicals. This study aimed to explore the nutritional and pharmacological potential of mango leaf meal in
rabbit production.

The study was carried out at the Rabbit Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of Adeyemi College of
Education, Ondo.
Mango leaves were collected fresh, washed under running water, air dried under shade, crushed to reduce
the particle size to about 1.5 mm. Samples (fine powder) were taken for proximate and phytochemical
analysis (Table 1). Samples were analyzed in triplicate
Page | 314
Table 1. Feed ingredients composition (%) and chemical analysis of mango leaf
Ingredients % Proximate (%) and Phytochemical Properties of mango leaf
Maize 51.37 Crude protein 14.05
GNC 15.33 Crude fibre 2.61
SBM 8.05 Crude fat 0.53
Wheat offal 7.12 Ash 11.89
Rice bran 6.84 Total Phenolic Content 0.25 mg/100g
PKC 8.74 Total Flavonoid Content 12.05 mg/100g
Di-calcium phosphate 1.00 Total Tannins Content 0.51 mg/100g
Limestone 1.00 Total Saponin Content 3.18 mg/100g
Vitamin & Mineral Premix* 0.30 Total Phenolic Content 0.25 mg/100g
DL-Methionine 0.25 Total Flavonoid Content 12.05 mg/100g
*Supplied per kg of diet: Vit A, 6000 IU; Vit D3, 9000 IU; Vit E, 40 mg; Vit K, 2 mg; Vit B1, 2 mg; Vit
B2, 3mg; Vit B12, 0.01 mg; Niacin, 50 mg; Pantothenic acid, 10 mg; Folic acid, 2 mg; Biotin, 0.05 mg;
Choline, 250 mg; Fe, 50 mg; Mn, 80 mg; Cu, 5 mg; Co, 0.1 mg; Se, 0.1 mg and Zn, 50 mg
Sixty four weaned rabbits (average live body weight of 563±2.18 g) were randomly assigned to 4
experimental groups. Each treatment group was replicated 8 times of 2 rabbits to a replicate. Rabbits in
group 1 (Diet 1) were fed the reference diet (basal diet) without any leaf supplement (Diet 1, control
group). Those on diets 2, 3 and 4 were fed the same diet supplemented with mango leaf meal at 0.5, 1.00
and 1.50 g/kg diet, respectively. The diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements for growing
rabbits (Table 1). Feeds and water were supplied ad libitum throughout the experimental period (5-13
weeks experimental duration).
Rabbits were kept under the same management conditions. Data were collected on feed intake and weight
gain while feed conversion ratio was calculated as the ratio of feed intake to weight gain. Relative growth
rate and performance index were calculated
[( ) ] [ ( )]
Where: W1 = initial weight and W2 = final body weight
( ( ) ) )
At 13 weeks of age, 5 rabbits were taken randomly from each treatment group, fasted for 12 h, weighed,
tagged and slaughtered for carcass evaluation and organ determination. Blood samples collected during
slaughtering were used for haematological and biochemical constituents determination.
Data collected were statistically analyzed using SAS (2002) and significant differences where observed
were separated using Duncan option of the software.

Table 1 shows the proximate and phytochemical constituents of mango leaf. The proximate and
phytochemical values obtained in the present study were similar to the values reported by Laullo et al.,
2018) and within the range of major fodder leaves. While the crude protein was lower, the phytochemical
properties were higher than those reported for unripe mango fruit (Maldonado-Celis et al., 2019). Table 2
shows a significantly (P < 0.05) higher body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, relative growth rate and
performance index of rabbits on mango leaf meal supplement than those fed without mango leaf meal
(control). Carcass yield, giblets, total edible parts were significantly P < 0.05) heavier while liver and
abdominal weights were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in rabbits fed mango leaf meal supplement
compared with those fed without mango leaf meal supplement (Table 3). On haemo-biochemical
parameters, the white blood counts, neutrophils, total serum protein, triglycerides, total cholesterol, high
density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein and creatine were significantly P < 0.05) influenced by
dietary supplementation of mango leaf meal. The superior performance of rabbits on mango leaf
supplemented diets could be attributed to the phytonutrients and pharmacological properties of mango
leaf to enhance growth, promote blood syntheses and improve the health status of the rabbits.
Page | 315
Table 2. Dietary effect of mango leaf meal on the growth performance of rabbits
Parameters Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 4 SEM P value
No. of rabbits 24 24 24 24 - -
Initial body weight (g) 563 561 563 562 2.18 0.65
Final body weight (g) 2002c 2059b 2111a 2119a 9.29 0.001
Weight gain (g/d)
5-9 weeks 25.96b 27.21a 28.14a 28.29a 1.06 0.001
b ab a
9-13 weeks 25.43 26.28 27.14 27.32a 0.71 0.001
b ab a a
5-13 weeks 25.70 26.75 27.64 27.80 0.99 0.001
Feed intake (g/d)
5-9 weeks 71.07 70.25 70.88 70.61 0.37 0.47
9-13 weeks 98.75 99.05 98.71 98.91 0.48 0.21
5-13 weeks 84.91 84.65 84.80 84.76 0.15 0.19
FCR
5-9 weeks 2.74b 2.58a 2.52a 2.50a 0.09 0.001
b ab a
9-13 weeks 3.88 3.77 3.64 3.62a 0.13 0.001
5-13 weeks 3.30b 3.16ab 3.07a 3.05a 0.35 0.002
Relative growth rate 112.20b 114.35a 115.78a 116.42a 3.01 0.002
% Growth rate - 1.92 3.19 3.76 - -
Performance index (%) 60.67c 65.16b 68.76a 69.48a 2.76 0.42
Mortality rate (%) 8.33 0 0 0 - -
abc
Means with different superscripts are significantly different at (P < 0.05)
Page | 316
Table 3. Dietary effect of mango leaf meal on carcass attributes, organ description (g/kg body
weight) and haemo-biochemical properties of growing rabbits
Parameters Diet 1 Diet 2 Diet 3 Diet 4 SEM P value
Carcass yield 51.09b 53.15a 53.72a 54.03a 1.47 0.002
Liver 3.22a 3.15ab 2.96b 2.74b 0.25 0.001
Kidney 0.83 0.84 0.85 0.91 0.10 0.32
Heart 0.57 0.58 0.60 0.61 0.15 0.16
c b a a
Giblets 4.48 4.71 5.29 5.31 0.21 0.001
Abdominal fat 1.11a 0.73bc 0.69c 0.62c 0.03 0.002
Total edible parts (TEP) 55.18c 57.83ab 58.91a 59.42a 1.28 0.001
Blood profile
PCV (%) 36.47 36.62 37.03 37.25 0.42 0.29
RBC (x106/μl) 5.21 5.26 5.29 5.34 0.11 0.15
Haemoglobin (g/dl) 11.25 11.41 11.47 11.50 0.07 0.09
Platelets (x103/μl) 419.65 423.13 439.87 441.74 9.35 0.17
WBCs (x103/μl) 7.24a 6.21b 6.14b 5.98b 0.68 0.001
WBCs fractionation (%)
Neutrophils 36.58a 35.13ab 34.21b 34.06b 0.18 0.001
Eosinophils 1.76 1.73 1.71 1.54 0.21 0.09
Lymphocytes 55.09 54.67 54.20 53.83 0.37 0.12
Monocytes 4.11 4.07 4.12 4.02 0.05 0.08
Basophils 3.26 3.19 3.07 3.01 0.07 0.18
Biochemical indices
Total serum protein (g/dl) 3.45b 3.61a 3.69a 3.72a 0.13 0.001
a b b
Triglycerides (mg/dl) 89.64 85.03 84.79 84.17b 2.15 0.001
Total cholesterol (mg/dl) 83.91a 81.14ab 78.76b 77.38b 1.02 0.002
b ab a a
HDL (mg/dl) 30.79 32.06 33.82 33.97 0.87 0.001
LDL (mg/dl) 45.47a 43.38b 41.93c 40.74c 0.93 0.001
Creatine (mg/dl) 2.46a 2.35b 2.32b 2.31b 0.09 0.002
abc
Means with different superscripts are significantly different at (P< 0.05)

The result of this study showed that dietary supplementation of mango leaf meal at 1.50 g/kg diet
promoted better weight gain and improved the health status of growing rabbits. Rabbit farmers are
encouraged to utilize this abundant fodder leaf as dietary supplement in rabbit diet.
REFERENCES
Akinfala, E.O., Matami, O. and Aderibigbe, A.O. (2003). Preliminary studies on the response of weaner
rabbits to whole cassava plant meal basal diets in the humid tropics. Livestock Research for Rural
Development, 15, 4
Laullo, S.J., Bhowon, S.S. and Chua, L.S. (2018). Nutritional and Biological Evaluation of Leaves of
Magnifera indica from Mauritius. Journal of Chemistry, https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/6869294
Maldonado-Celis, M.E., Yahis, E.M., Bedova, R., Landazuri, P., Loango, N., Aguillon, J., Restrepo, B
and Ospine, J.C.G. (2019). Chemical composition of Mango (Magnifera indica L.) fruit:
Nutritional and phytochemical compunds. Front. Plant Sci.,
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2019.01073
Okwu, D.E. and Ezenagu, V. (2008). Evaluation of the phytochemical composition of mango (Magnifera
indica Linn) stem bark and leaves. International Journal of Chemistry, 6(2): 705-716
SAS 2002 Statistical Analysis System version 9.1 SAS Institute Inc., Cary https://www.scirp.org
Page | 317
EFFECT OF BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum) ON GROWTH PARAMETERS OF BROILERS
Yahaya M.A., Salisu U.S.* and Muhammed N.

Department of Animal Science, Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina State
* Corresponding Author Email – usalisu@fudutsinma.edu.ng
Corresponding Author Phone No - +2348099446287
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to test the effect of black pepper (BP) on growth parameters of broilers. One
hundred and sixty day-old chicks were randomly allotted into four (4) dietary treatments of 40 chickens
per treatment in four replicates of 10 chicks. The treatment groups were designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4
subjected to the following experimental diets: 0.5g/kg, 0.75g/kg, 0.0g/kg and 1g/kg BP in feed
respectively. Data was collected on initial body weight (g/bird), final body weight, gain (g/bird), total
body weight gain (g/bird), average daily body weight gain (g/bird), daily feed intake (g/bird), total feed
intake (g/bird) and feed conversion ratio. Data was analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) on the
Statistical analysis software (SAS). The result revealed that birds exposed to the inclusion of BP as feed
additive recorded significantly (P<0.05) higher body weight gain, high feed intake and positive feed
conversion ratio than the birds fed the control diet free of the additive. It was thus concluded that BP at
1g/kg (0.1%) improved the growth performance of the broiler chickens and it was recommended to
farmers and poultry feed producers as an additive in the diet of their birds.
Key Words – Black Pepper, Growth parameters, broilers, diet
INTRODUCTION
The sub-therapeutic use of antibiotics in poultry production has become undesirable in recent times due to
its residual effect leading to the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria (Burgat, 1999; Botsoglou et
al., 2002). Feed additives that promote growth have been recommended as one of the strategic options to
replace antibiotics in broiler industries. Generally, spices are reported to have positive effect on nutrient
absorptive capacity of the villi and digester viscosity (Lee et al. 2004a; Lee et al. 2004b; Sirinivasan
2007). These positive properties could be explored for better broiler productivity. Herbs and spices have
received an increasing attention as possible growth promoters in form of feed additives (Khalaf, 2008).
Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is classified as a spice due to its pungent quality (Hassan, 2007). Black
pepper is a flowering vine on the family Piperaceae, genus Piper and species nigrum. Black pepper
improves digestibility (Moorthy et al., 2009). Efficiency compounds of black pepper consist of piperine,
cupsaeesin, cupsisin and cupsantine. Black pepper was found to be rich in glutathione peroxidase and
glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. It has been shown that piperine can dramatically increase absorption
of selenium, vitamin B complex, beta carotene and curcumin as well as other nutrients (Khalaf, 2008).
Black pepper is a spice which is reported to have antibacterial and antioxidant properties in addition to its
ability to enhance secretions of gastric and pancreatic enzymes thereby improving digestibility and offer
additional health benefits (Orav et al. 2004). Piperine enhances the thermogenesis of lipid and accelerates
energy metabolism in the body and also increases the serotonin and beta-endorphin production in the
brain (Maliniet al., 1999). On the other hand, black pepper causes the stomach to increase the flow of
digestive juice (Sahin et al., 2002). Thus, the objective of this study was intended to provide information
on the effect of utilizing black pepper as a natural feed additive on growth performance of broilers.

Experimental site
The experiment was conducted in the Teaching and Research Livestock Farm of the Department of
Animal Science, Federal University Dutsin-ma, Katsina State. Dutsinma lies on longitude 07ᴼ29‘29‘‘E
and latitude 12ᴼ26‘18‘‘N at an elevation of 605m with an average temperature of 25.2ᴼC to 28.6ᴼC
(Jamilu et al., 2018).
Page | 318
Experimental design and diets

One hundred and sixty (160) day-old chicks sourced from a reputable hatchery (Chikun®) in Kaduna
State, Nigeria were used for this experiment. The birds were randomly partitioned into four (4) dietary
treatments of 40 chickens per treatment in four replicates of 10 chicks in a completely randomized design
(CRD). On arrival, the birds were weighed to obtain their initial body weight.
The treatments groups were designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4, the birds were subjected to the following
experimental diets:
 T1 was served black pepper mixed with the feed at inclusion level of 0.5g/kg
 T2 was served black pepper mixed with the feed at inclusion level of 0.75g/kg
 T3 served as control group and were served diets free of additives
 T4 was served black pepper mixed with the feed at inclusion level of 1g/kg
Black pepper used in this study was sourced directly from Wednesday weekly market of Dutsinma Local
Government Area, dried and grounded into powder before being incorporated into the basal diets
accordingly.
All the birds were housed on deep litter system with pen compartments measuring 2*3m² dimensions
demarcated with wire mesh and wooden frame. The birds were provided with clean water and feed ad-
libitum on daily basis, while all management practices were strictly adhered to throughout the
experiment.
Data Collection
Data were collected on the following growth parameters - Initial body weight (g/bird), final body weight,
gain (g/bird), total body weight gain (g/bird), average daily body weight gain (g/bird), daily feed intake
(g/bird), total feed intake (g/bird), feed conversion ratio and mortality as it occurred.
Data Analysis
All data obtain were subjected to the analysis of Variance (ANOVA) according to steel and Torrie (1980)
and the means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) according to Duncan (1995)
using the Statistical analysis software (SAS).
The performance of broiler chickens fed diets containing graded levels of black pepper supplementation is
presented in Table 1. The result revealed that birds exposed to the inclusion of BP as feed additive
recorded significant higher body weight gain, high feed intake and positive feed conversion ratio than the
birds fed the control diet free of the additive. Table 1 showed that the initial weights of the broilers were
homogenous amongst the entire treatment groups. However, there was a significant differences in the
average daily weight, final weight and total weight gains with the treatment 2 (0.75g/kg BP) recording the
highest weight gain followed by treatment 4 (1g/kg BP) and 1 (0.5g/kg BP), while birds on the control
group recorded the lowest weight gain. There was significant difference (P<0.05) observed for Final
weight gain, daily weight gain and average daily weight gain. This result is in consonance with the work
of Al-Kassie et al. (2011) who carried out a study to determine the performance of broilers fed diets with
black pepper (Piper nigrum) at inclusion levels of 0.00%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% and 1% incorporated into
the basal diet of broilers for six weeks, the results revealed that the inclusion of black pepper at the levels
of 0.50%, 0.75% and 1% in the diets improved body weight gain (2704±42.32b, 2784±33.44a, and
2799±31.40a), feed intake (4867±8.12a, 4900±9.13a and 4870±7.26a) and conversion ratio (1.80±0.07b,
1.76±0.06b and 1.74±0.51b) with the highest weight gain recorded at 1% level showed best results.
The body weight gain was found to be significantly (p<0.01) higher in T2 (0.75g/kg BP) among the
treated groups while the control T3 recorded the least weight gain. Mansoub (2011) also incorporated
0.5%, 0.75% and 1% level of black pepper and had significant effects at 0.75% inclusion rate on body
weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the broilers. Myandoab and Mansoub (2011) in a study using
black pepper in Japanese quails diet and recorded significant (P < 0.05) effects on the broilers growth
performance, daily feed intake and body weight gain observed in the diet incorporated with 2% Black
pepper.
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Al-Kassie et al, (2012) investigated the efficiency of inclusion of a mixture of Black pepper (Piper
nigrum) and hot red pepper (Capsicum Annum) to broiler diets on their productive performance and they
found that diet incorporated with 0.75% Black pepper and diet incorporated with a 1% the mixture of
Black pepper and Hot red pepper recorded a significant (P>0.05) increase in live weight gain, feed
consumption and feed conversion ratio.
Table 1: Performance of Finisher Chickens Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Black Pepper
Supplementation
Parameter Treatment SEM
T1 T2 T3 T4
Initial weight (kg) 0.4800 0.4700 0.4600 0.4700 0.00
Final weight (kg) 2.0233 2.1533 1.9833 2.1400 0.11
b a b ab
Total weight (kg) 2.3267 2.6167 2.2200 2.3900 0.12
ADWG (kg) 0.00962 0.01442 0.00861 0.00897 0.00
Means with the same superscripts letters are not significantly different (P>0.0001)
SEM- Standard Error of Mean
T1 contain 0.50g/BP/kg
T2 contain 0.75g/BP/kg
T3 control 0.00gBP/kg
T4 contain 1%g/BP/kg
ADWG- Average daily weight gain
Feed Intake
There was significant (p<0.05) difference observed in daily and total feed intake during starter phase as
well as feed conversion ratio of the experimental birds. Table 2 shows that, T2 had the highest feed
intake, T1 and T4 were statistically the same while T3 has the lowest feed intake. This study is in line
with Safa et al. (2014) studied the effect of feeding broiler chicks on diets containing different levels of
black pepper as natural feed additive on their performance, they observed that the diet supplemented with
(1%) black pepper had significantly (P<0.05) higher body weight gain, feed intake, dressed weight and
better feed conversion ratio.
The result of this study shows significance difference (P<0.05) in the total feed intake (TFI) for starter
phase with T2 recording the highest followed by T1 and T4, while T3 had the least. This work agrees
with the work of Al-Kassie et al. (2012) who investigated the efficiency of utilization of supplemented
mixture of Black pepper (BP) Piper nigrumand hot red pepper (Hrp) Capsicum Annum to broiler on their
productive performance. They showed that diet incorporated with 0.75% Black pepper and Hot red
pepper and diet incorporated the mixture of 1% Black pepper and Hot red pepper indicated a significant
(P<0.05) results in live weight gain, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio.
This result is similar with Shahverdi et al. (2013) who assessed the effect of red pepper, black pepper and
their mixture powder on performance of broiler chicks, the chicks were fed by basal diet as control,
0.02% red pepper (T1), 0.02% black pepper (T2) and 0.01% red pepper + 0.01 %black pepper powder
(T3). The result revealed that the inclusion of red and black pepper in broilers diet improved body weight
gain (37.26, 38.33 and 38.83 g/day), feed intake and conversion ratio (1.85, 1.83 and 1.85).
Feed conversion ratio result revealed that T2 had the highest value followed by T1 and T4 where T3
recorded the least value. This result is in agreement with the work of Tripathi et al. (2013) who reported
that, there was a significant (P<0.05) improvement in FCR and body weight gain in Japanese quail fed
diet containing 0.5% hot red pepper followed by 0.25% black pepper treated group in comparison with
0.5% Ajwain supplemented group and control group only on basal diet. They concluded that feeding of
hot red pepper and black pepper significantly (P<0.05) improved the performance of broilers. It is also
similar to the investigation by Ghaedi et al. (2013) on the effect of black pepper extract on the
performance of broiler chicks, chicks were fed by T1 diet as control; T2 diet with virginiamycin powder
Page | 320
200 (gr/ton); T3 diet with using black pepper extract on their water of 2 (mg/ml). The results showed that
body weight gain (43.06a and 41.27a g/day) and feed to gain ratio were improved significantly (P<0.05)
in the treatment groups when compared with control. This study is also similar to the work of Puvaca et
al. (2015) who concluded that the addition of garlic, black pepper and hot red pepper in the diet of broiler
chicken had positive effect on productive performances. Hot red pepper at 0.5 g/100g inclusion level
indicated highest final body weight, lower feed conversion ratio and higher feed utilization, with the
highest percentage of European broiler index.
Table 2: Feed Intake of Broilers at Starter Phase Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Black
Pepper Supplementation
Parameter T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM
DFI (kg/bird) 0.0366b 0.0497a 0.0294c 0.0357b 0.0015
TFI (kg/bird) 1.7940b 2.4367a 1.4390c 1.7500b 0.0738
b a c b
FCR 4.0749 5.8037 2.4879 3.0545 0.1689
Total Feed Cost 259.825b 363.221a 212.477c 265.959b 6.2669
Feed cost/kg gain 450.05c 867.19a 369.22c 605.23b 31.0356
Means with different superscripts along rows are significantly different (P>0.05)
FCR – Feed Conversion Ratio
DFI – Daily Feed Intake
TFI – Total Feed Intake
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONs

At the end of this study, significant (P<0.001) difference was observed in T4 when compared with T1 and
T2, while T3 performed poorly in comparison with the treated groups. It was therefore concluded that
Black pepper at 1g/kg improved the performance of the broiler chickens, thus farmers are encouraged to
incorporate black pepper as an additive in the diet of their poultry birds at rate of 1%g/kg of feed.
REFERENCES
Al-Kassie G. A.M., G.Y. Butris and S.J. Ajeena (2012) the potency of feed supplemented mixture of hot
red pepper and black pepper on the performance and some hematological blood traits in broiler
diet. International Journal of Advanced Biological Research 2(1): 53-57.
Al-Kassie G.A.M., M.A.M. Al-Nasrawi, S.J. Ajeena (2011) Use of black pepper (Piper nigrum) as feed
additive in broilers diet. Research options in Animal and Veterinary Sciences 1(3): 169-173.
Burgat, V. (1999) Residues of drugs of veterinary use in food. Rev. Prat 41: 985-990.
Ghaedi H., J. Nasr, F. Kheiri, Y. Rahimian and Y.Miri (2013) Effect of use virginiamycin as probiotic,
black pepper extract as phytogenic feed additive on performance of broiler chicks. Scholarly
Journal of Agricultural Science 3 (12): 521-525.
Hassan M.S.H., T.A.M. Abo, M. Wakwak and B.A Yousef (2007) Productive, physiological and
immunological effects of using some natural feed additives in Japanese quail diets. Egyptian
Poultry Science Journal 27(11): 557-588.
Jamilu R.Y., Salisu U.S. and Jacinta N.I. (2018) Prevalence and Host Related Risk Factors of
Ectoparasites on Domestic Chicken in Dutsin-ma Local Government Area, Katsina State.
FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology 4 (2): 200-206
Mansoub N. H (2011) Comparison of using different level of black pepper with probiotic on performance
and serum composition of broiler chickens. Journal of Basic and Applied Science Research 1
(11): 2425-2428.
Moorthy M., S. Ravi. M. Ravikumar, K. Vishwanathan and S.C Edwin (2009) Ginger, pepper and curry
leaf powder as feed additives in broiler diet. International Journal of poultry science 8 (8): 779-
782.
Myandoab M.P and N.H. Mansoub (2011) Black pepper improve performance, characteristics and effect
on some blood parameters of japanese quails. Annals of Biological Research (6):389-393.
Page | 321
Puvaca N., L. Kostadinovic, D. Ljubojevi, D. Luka, J. Levi, S. Popovi, N. Novakov, B. Vidovi and O.
Duragic (2015) Effect of garlic, black pepper and hot red pepper on productive performances and
blood lipid profile of broiler chickens. Egyptian Poultry Science Journal 79: 1612- 9199.
Shahverdi A., F. Kheiri, M. Faghani, Y. Rahimian and A. Rafiee (2013) The effect of use red pepper
(Capsicum annum L) and black pepper (Piper nigrum L) on performance and hematological
parameters of broiler chicks. European Journal of Zoological Research 2 (6): 44-48.
Tripathi D., A. Kumar, B.C. Mondal, R. Anshu and P. Jyoti (2013) Effect of ajwain, hot red pepper and
black pepper on the Performance of Japanese quail. Indian Journal of Animal Nutrition 30 (4):
431-433.
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GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED TIGERNUT (CYPERUS

ESCULENTUS) MEAL AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MAIZE
Titima, S. I.1, Adamu, S. B.1, Abbator, F. I.1, Igwebuike, J. U.1 and Aminu, S.H.1
1
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maiduguri.
Corresponding author: Titima, S.I., Mobile: +234 8033168874,E-mail:titimasabi@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
A 6-week feeding trial was conducted to assess the effect of substituting maize with Tigernut (Cyperus
esculentus) TNM on the performance of 150 day-old Abor acre broiler chicks. Five experimental broiler
starter and finisher diets were formulated with diet T 1 formulated to contain 0 % Tigernut while diet T2,
T3, T4 and T5 were formulated to contain Tigernut meal at 10, 15, and 20 and 25% substituting for maize,
respectively. Thirty (30) chicks were randomly assigned to the five dietary treatments in a completely
randomized designed (CRD). Each treatment consisted of three replicates of ten (10) chicks. The results of
final live weight and daily feed intake shows significant (P<0.05), daily weight gain, protein and feed
conversion ratio efficiency ratio shows significant did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the
treatment groups. The highest final live weight, daily feed intake and daily weight gain of 2025.69g/bird,
101.95g/day and 43.10g/bird, respectively were obtained in T5. Therefore, substitution level of Tigernut
meal for maize at 25% gives a final live weight of 2025.67 g. It can be concluded that Tigernut meal can
substitute maize up to 25% in broiler diets without adverse effects on performance.
Keywords: Broiler Chickens, Tigernut meal (TNM), Maize, Growth, Performance.
INTRODUCTION
A major challenge facing most developing countries like Nigeria in Africa is food insecurity. Due to the
high population growth in Africa and growing income, the demand for eggs and poultry meat has
significantly increased in recent years across large parts of the continent (Abeke et al., 2013). Maize is
one of the premium energy feed in poultry diets and it is responsible for between 50 and 60 % of the total
cost of production (Abeke et al., 2013). Maize as a major component of livestock feed in Nigeria is
expensive and inadequate due to its use for human food, livestock feed and industrial purposes. The
scarcity and high cost of maize has forced many farmers to explore alternative sources of energy
feedstuffs for poultry feeding, Tigernut is an example of such alternatives. Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus)
is a perennial grass-like plant (Adel et al., 2015). The metabolizable energy value of Tigernut is 3654.59
Kcal/kg which is higher than that of Maize (3526.42 Kcal/Kg) as reported by (Apel et al., 2016). Crude
protein content of Tigernut is 4.33 % (Adel et al., 2015) which is lower than 8.75 % for maize but
Oderinde and Tahir (1988) reported a value of 7.00 % which is close to maize. However, Tigernut has
high fibre content. The objective of this study was to investigate the productive performance of broiler
chickens fed Tigernut meal as a substitute for maize.

Study Area
The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Department of
Animal Science, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State for a period of six (6) weeks.
Maiduguri lies between latitude 110 5‘ and 120 North and between longitude 13005‘ and 140 East and an
altitude of 354 m above the sea level. The area is characterized by a short rainy season (June to
September) with a long dry period of seven (7) to eight (8) months. The hottest month are April and May
with a temperature range of 39.40c to 41.10c under shade. Mean relative humidity ranges from 51.3 to
72% in August but usually low (5%) in December and January (Biu et al., 2012).
Source of Test Materials and Feed Sample Preparation
Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) was purchased from a Market in Gujungu Local Government Area Jigawa
State, Nigeria. The Tigernut was visually inspected and bad ones were manually removed and discarded.
Tigernut was thoroughly washed with clean water, drained and dried for seven (7) days before grinding
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and diet formulation. The drying process was to reduce excess moisture so as to prevent rancidity of the
Tigernut. The nut was ground to produce Tigernut meal with size of 2.00mm. All processing was done by
the method described by Umar et al., (2007).The Tigernut contained 6.91% crude protein, 14.65% crude
fibre and 3916.56kcal/kg metabolizable energy.
Experimental diets, design and Dietary Treatments
The experimental diet contained Tigernut which was dried and ground into meal. The Tigernut meals
(TNM) were used to substitute maize at 0, 10, 15, 20 and 25% levels in the diets. Complete randomized
design (CRD) was used. Different diets with Tigernut at 0% (control), 10, 15, 20 and 25% were
designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. They were formulated to contain 21.43 to 23.37% and
19.88 to 20.88% crude protein and metabolizable energy of 2869.16 to 2979.01 Kcal/Kg and 3039.47 to
3108.46 Kcal/Kg for both broiler starter and finisher diets, respectively. The ingredients composition and
calculated analysis of the experimental diets (Starter and Finisher) are presented in (Tables 1 and 2). The
diets and clean drinking water were provided ad-libitum throughout the six (6) weeks of the experiment.
The data measured were initial weight, final weight, weight gain and feed intake while the feed
conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio were calculated accordingly.
Experimental Stocks and Management
One hundred and fifty (150) day old Abor acre strain were bought from Amor hatchery Jos, Plateau State
and used for the study. The chicks were brooded for fourteen days and allotted to commercial broiler
starter mash during the period. Later, the chicks were divided into five (5) groups of thirty (30) chicks
containing three (3) replicates of ten (10) chicks each, fed the experimental starter diet for two weeks and
switched to experimental finisher diets throughout the finishing phase of four weeks. The chickens were
housed in cemented floor pens with wood shavings as litter material. The birds were vaccinated against
Gumboro at 2nd and 4th weeks and Newcastle at 3 weeks of age.
All data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) appropriate to Completely
Randomized Design (CRD) (Steel and Torrie 1980). Differences between treatment means were
determined using the least significant difference (LSD), using statistical package (Statistix 9.0 version).

Productive Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Different Levels of Tigernut Meal in their Diets
The productive performances of broiler chickens fed different levels of Tigernut meal (TNM) as a
substitute for maize are presented in Table 3. The parameters are final live weight, daily weight gain, feed
conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio. The result showed significant (P<0.05) difference in the
final live weight and daily feed intake. Daily weight gains, protein efficiency ratio and feed conversion
ratio did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the treatment. Broiler chickens fed T 5 (25% TNM)
recorded the highest final live weight but were similar to those fed T 4 (20% TNM) but superior to those
fed T1 (control) and T3 (15% TNM) which recorded the least values. The final live weight (1889.87 to
2025.67 g) obtained in this study were higher than the values (1350 to 1720 g) reported by Agbabiaka et
al. (2012) for broiler chickens fed similar diets. These differences may be attributed to environmental
difference, variety of test material or the substitution levels of the test material. The broiler chickens fed
T1, T2, T4 and T5 consumed more feed than those fed T3. However, the daily feed intake obtained in this
study (95.81 to 101.95 g/day) were higher than the values (67 to 95 g/day) reported by Agbabiaka et al.
(2012) for broiler chickens fed Tigernut meal at varying inclusion levels. Higher feed intake observed in
this study may be attributed to the fibre fraction of the TNM which bind nutrients in the feed. Hence, the
chickens will eat more to meet their nutrient requirement which is in line with the findings of Chen et al.
(1992) who reported that an increase in fibre content of the diets could probably stimulate higher feed
intake due to the lower energy level of such diets, hence increased feed intake of the birds. The broiler
chickens fed T2, T4 and T5 gained more weight compare to those fed T1 and T3, the differences in weight
gain may be attributed to feed intake. Feed conversion ratios of 2.30 to 2.40 obtained in this study were
similar to the values (1.90 to 2.30) reported by Aduku et al. (1994) who fed brewers‘ dried grain to broiler
chickens. The protein efficiency ratio obtained in this study revealed that utilization of protein was better
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in T2, T4 and T5 than those fed T1 and T3. This is confirmed by the superior weight gains of chickens on
the diets (T2, T4 and T5). The values (1.98 to 2.17) were higher than the values (1.26 to 1.99) reported by
Agbabiaka et al. (2012). Generally, the results obtained in this study agreed with the findings of
Agbabiaka et al. (2012) who fed similar diets to broiler chickens, thus indicating that TNM is a good
source of energy in broiler diets and can replace maize. The study shows no negative effect on
performance which is in line with the findings of Agbabiaka et al. (2013). Jimenez et al. (2009) reported
that if the diets are carefully balanced, fibre components of diets may not affect performance. Therefore,
substituting maize with dietary levels of TNM in the diets of broiler chickens had no adverse effects on
the productive performance of the birds.
Table 1: Ingredient composition and calculated analysis of experimental broiler starter diets (%)
Tigernut levels substituting maize (%)
Maize 51.50 46.35 43.76 41.20 38.62
Tigernut meal - 05.15 07.74 10.30 12.88
Wheat offal 08.00 08.00 08.00 08.00 08.00
Soya bean meal 22.30 22.30 22.30 22.30 22.30
Groundnut cake 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish meal 5.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Premix* 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Salt (NaCl) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Crude protein 23.43 22.79 22.23 21.68 21.22
Crude fibre 3.09 3.73 4.07 4.39 4.67
Ash 3.13 3.30 3.48 3.65 3.65
Ether extract 4.55 6.89 9.22 11.56 13.89
NFE 68.46 67.81 66.37 65.32 64.43
ME (Kcal/Kg)** 2810.06 2852.00 2856.00 2910.00 3005.00
NFE =Nitrogen free extract ME =Metabolizable energy, *Composition of broiler premix supplying the
following per kg of feed: Vitamin A = 3,400IU, Vitamin D3= 600IU, Vitamin E = 4,000IU, Vitamin K3
600mg, Vitamin B1 = 640mg, Vitamin B2 = 1,600mg, Niacin = 8,000mg, Vitamin B6 = 600, VitaminB12 =
4mg, Choline + Chloride = 7,0000mg, Cobalt = 80mg, Copper = 1,200mg, Iodine = 400mg, Iron =
8000mg, Manganese = 1,6000mg, Selenium = 80mg, Zinc = 1,2000mg and Antioxidant = 500mg
**Calculated according to Pauzenga (1985)
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Table 2: Ingredient composition and calculated analysis of experimental broiler finisher diets (%)
Tigernut levels substituting maize (%)
Maize 61.80 55.62 52.53 49.44 46.35
Tigernut meal - 06.18 09.27 12.36 15.45
Wheat offal 06.00 06.00 06.00 06.00 06.00
Soya bean meal 21.70 21.70 21.70 21.70 21.70
Groundnut cake 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00 02.00
Fish meal 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00 05.00
Bone meal 02.50 02.50 02.50 02.50 02.50
Premix* 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Salt (NaCl) 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Crude protein 20.68 20.43 20.22 19.84 19.53
Crude protein 3.80 4.01 4.52 5.42 7.17
Crude fibre 3.58 4.07 4.25 4.42 5.02
Ash 3.08 3.97 4.15 4.32 4.63
Ether extract 3.76 5.58 6.24 7.66 9.37
NFE 68.68 66.01 64.87 62.76 59.30
ME (Kcal/Kg)** 2916.18 2950.56 2984.96 3019.34 3053.74
* Same as in Table 1, ** Same as in Table 1
Table 3: Growth Performance of Broiler Chickens fed Different Levels of Tigernut Meal in their
Diets
Tigernut levels substituting Maize (%)
Parameters T1 (0) T2 (10) T3 (15) T4 (20) T5 (25) SEM
Final live weight (g) 1992.46b 1889.87c 1998.43ab 2025.67a 49.45*
1908.00b
Daily feed intake
98.72a 101.58a 95.81b 97.84a 101.95a 1.00*
(g/bird)
Daily weight gain
40.17b 42.33a 40.07b 42.58a 43.10a 10.62NS
(g/bird)
Feed Conversion ratio 2.40 2.40 2.39 2.30 2.37 0.03NS
Protein efficiency
1.97b 2.06a 1.98b 2.11a 2.17a 5.20NS
ratio
Initial Number of Bird 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 NTS
Mortality (Number) 2.00 1.00 2.00 0.00 0.00 NTS
a, b, and c = Means in the same row bearing different superscripts differ significantly * = Significant (P<0.05)
NS = Not significant (P>0.05),
NTS = Not Tested Statistically, SEM = Standard error of means (P<0.05)
CONCLUSION
The result of this study revealed that Tigernut meal at 25% substitution level for maize it gives final live
weight of 2025.67 g and improved the productive performance of broiler chickens without any adverse
effects.
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RECOMMENDATION
Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) is recommended as good substitute for maize to enhance optimum growth
performance of broiler chickens especially in areas where it is cheaper than maize, and should be
exploited in other species of poultry and monogastric animals.
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Abeke, F.O., Bawa, G.S. and Bot, M.H. (2013). Response of broiler chickens fed graded levels of locust
beans (Parkia biglobosa) pulp meal. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production. 40(1): 57-66.
Adel, A.A., Awad, A.M., Mohammed, H.H. and Iryna, S. (2015). Chemical composition physicochemical
properties and fatty acid profile of Tigernut (Cypernus esculentus) seed oil as affected by
different preparation method. International Food Research Journal 22(5): 1931-1938.
Aduku, A.O., Olorunju, S.A.S., Tegbe, T.S.B., and Yaakugh, I.D.I. (1994). Replacement value of
brewers‘ dried grain for maize on performance of pigs. Journal of the Science of Food and
Agriculture. 66: 4-10.
Agbabaika, L.A., Madubuike, F.N., and Esonu, B.O., (2012). Performance carcass and organ weights
characteristic of broiler finisher fed varying levels of Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L.) meal as
dietary supplement. British Journal of Poultry Science. 1 (2): 11 – 17.
Apel, D., Nwogu, N.A., Uwakwe, E., and Chinelo, I. (2016). Comparative proximate analysis of maize
and sorghum bought from Ogbete Main Market of Enugu State, Nigeria. Greener Journal of
Agricultural Science. 6(9): 272-275.
Biu, A. A., Abdulkarim, M. A. and Isade, O. (2012). Effect of temperature and relative humidity on egg
laying pattern of Rhicephelus sangismusis.(Koch, 1884) infesting sheep in semi-arid region of
Nigeria. Sokoto Journal of Veterinary Science, 10(2):18-20
Chen, Y.H., Hsu, J.C. and Yu, B. (1992). Effects of dietary fibre levels on growth performance, Intestinal
morphology, and caecal carbohyrases of chickens. British Poultry Science. 39(4): 560 – 567.
Jimenez-Moreno, E., Lazaro, R. and Mateos, G.G. (2009). Effect of source of fibre on the development
and pH of the gastrointestinal tract of broilers. Animal Feed Science and Technology 154: 93-101.
Oderinde, R.A. and Tahir, O.A. (1988). Evaluation of the properties of yellow nutsedge (Cyperus
esculentus) tuber oil. Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. 28:233-237.
Pauzenga, U. (1985). Feeding parent stock. Zootecnia International. Pp. 22-24.
Steel, R. G. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principles and Procedure of Statistics. A Biometrical Approach 2nd
edition Mc Graw Hill Book. Co. New York, U.S.A. 479-489.
Umar, H.A., Adamu, R., Dahiru, D. and Nadro, M.S. (2007). Levels of anti-nutritional factors in some
wild edible fruits of Northern Nigeria. African Journal of Biotechnology, 6(16):1935-1938.
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ADMINISTRATION OF AQEOUS Moringa olerifera LEAF AND SEED EXTRACTS: EFFECTS

ON THE SERUM GLUCOSE AND PROTEIN OF MALE HERITAGE TURKEYS.
Ogbu, O. C
Department of Agricultural Technology,
Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra state Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: ogbuonyinyeac@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study examined the effects of Moringa olerifera leaf and seed extracts on the serum glucose as well
as total protein levels of male heritage turkey. A total of 36 male turkeys were used for the study which
was assigned into four treatment groups. The treatment groups were administered 0 gram of Moringa
(T1), 1 gram of Moringa seed alone (T2) combination of 0.5g of Moringa seed and 0.5gram of Moringa
leaf (T3) and lastly 1 gram of Moringa leaf alone (T4) . Blood samples were collected at 36 weeks of age.
The result showed that the glucose level was significantly (p<0.05) high in T 1 (control) 144.33+ 2.03, T2
(147.67± 4.63), T3 (151.00 ±1.16) than T4 (leaf extracts) 130.66 ± 4.48. The total protein levels differed
significantly (p<0.05) among the treatments. T4 3.933 + 0.090 was highest (p< 0.05) when compared to
T2 3.10 ± 0.20 and T3 3.26 ± 0.14 and then T1 2.34 ± 0.09. This shows that the Moringa leaf and seed
extracts had effects on the male turkey serum glucose and total protein levels. The leaf extract lowered the
serum glucose level most, while improving the protein quality of the blood at the same time.
Thus,confirming that the plant Moringa has the ability to lower glucose levels in the blood.
Keywords. Blood, glucose, protein, extracts, turkeys.
INTRODUCTION
Examination of blood gives the opportunity to investigate the presence of several metabolites and other
constituents in the body of animals and it plays a vital role in the physiological, nutrition and pathological
status of an organism (Aderemi, 2004; Doyle, 2006). Quality of blood is influenced by so many factors
such as gene, environment and nutrition. Various plant materials can aid in improving the quality of
animal life. Such plants includeMoringa olerifera which is believed to be good source of minerals
(phosphorous, chloride and calcium) and vitamins C (Abdukarim et al.2015). It is also rich in antioxidant
properties like lutein, alphaorotine, beta-carotene, xanthine and chlorophyll (Fugile, 1999). Itstimulates
the immune system and develops the gastrointestinal tract to improve the overall production performance
of the body system (Amad et al., 2011). The phyto - chemical anaylsis of Moringa reveals that the plant is
rich in simple sugar compounds (Rhamnose) high amount of polyphenols (antioxidant compound)
(Bennett et al., 2003). The leaf extract is capable of reducing hyper glycaemia and lowering cholesterol
(Mehta, et al., 2003). All the parts are cardiac and circulatory stimulants as well as anti –tumor agents
(Pfaffet al., 2015). Therefore exploring its effect on the heritage male turkeys‘ serum glucose and total
protein is apt.

The experiment lasted for 154 days. It was approved and supervised by the Michael Okpara University of
Agriculture Umudike (College of Animal Science and Animal Production CASAP) Research and
Experiment committee and was carried out at the Poultry unit of Chirex Agro Services Limited in
Abakuru, Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State Nigeria.
Collection and Preparation of experimental material
The freshly harvested leaves and seeds were sorted to remove contaminants sand particles and dead
matter. They were shade dried in an open well ventilated room for about one week at room temperature.
The seeds and the foliage were ground separately into power and stored in separate clean dry containers.
Treatment one (T1) was the control group with no Moringa powder. One gram of the seed powder was
diluted in 1000mls of clean water, sieved with cheese cloth and served as drinking water for treatment
two (T2). Treatment three (T3) had 0.5g of leaf powder and 0.5g seed powder diluted with 1000mls of
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clean water sieved with cheese cloth and served as drinking water. One gram of the leaf powder was
diluted in 1000mls of clean water, sieved with cheese cloth and served as drinking water for treatment
four (T4).
Experimental animals and their management
Thirty six (36) local male strains of turkeys of white, black and lavender plumage averagely eight (8)
weeks old were used for the study. The local turkeys were procured from a reputable farm, in
Ikenga,Aguata Local Government Area in Anambra State. Before commencement of the experiment, the
local turkeys were quarantined and allowed toacclimatize for 14 days in the Poultry unit. During the
acclimatization period, the turkeys were given routine management practices which included deworming
with Ivermectin solution (1%w/v) against endo and ecto parasites. Suitable vaccinations for their age
were also given prior to the commencement of the experiment. The 36 male turkeys were randomly
assigned into treatments. There were four (4) treatments in all with nine (9) turkeys per treatment. Each
treatment group was replicated three times to contain three (3) turkeys per replicate.
The treatment groups were administered 0 gram of Moringa(T1), 1 gram of Moringaseed alone (T2)
combination of 0.5g of Moringaseed and 0.5gram of Moringaleaf (T3) and lastly 1 gram of Moringaleaf
alone (T4) . Experimental material was given to the male turkeys at 10 weeks of age. The treatment was
administered to the turkeys via drinking water between hours of 7am to 10am after which they were given
clean drinking water throughout the rest of the day. The turkeys were given commercial feed during the
first 14weeks of the experiment. From 24 weeks of age formulated ration in Table 1 was used. The feed
sample was determined to ensure quality assessment in Table 1 by livestock feeds Plc with the aid of the
apparatus; DA1650 near infra-red Spectrophotometer.
Table 1: Feed Formula for the Experimental Diet

Ingredients (%)
Groundnut 21.00
Fish meal 2.00
Maize 35.00
Wheat offal 37.00
Bone meal 2.50
Oyster shell 1.50
Methionine 0.25
Lysine 0.25
Salt 0.25
Vitamin Mineral Premix 0.25
Total 100
Determined values
Crude protein - 19.85
Crude fibre - 7.44
Fat - 5.01
Moisture - 8.28
Ash - 6.99
Energy - 3018.8 kcal/kg
Vitamins and trace mineral declaration: 2.5kg of premix contains.
Vitamin A (Iµ) 12,500.00, Vitamin D3 (iµ) 2,500,000.00, vitamin E (mcg) 40,000.00, Vitamin K3 (mg)
2,000.00, vitamin B (mg) 3,000.00, vitamin B2 (mg) 5,500, vitamin B6 (mg) 5,000, Nicocin (mg)
55,000.00, calcium pantothenate (mg) 11,500.00, Vitamin B12 (mg) 25,000, Chlorine Chloride (mg)
500,000.00, Folic acid (mg) 1,000.00, Biotin (mg) 80.00, Manganese (mg) 120,000.00, Iran (g)
100,000.00, Zinc (mg) 80,000.00. Copper (mg) 8,500.00, Iodine (mg) 1,500.00, Cobalt (mg) 300.00,
Selenium (mg) 120.00, Antioxidant (mg) 120,000.00.
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Data collection
Blood for serum glucose and total protein biochemistry was collected through the wing vein of the male
local turkeys using sterile needles and syringes and were analyzed within 2hours of collection.The blood
serum level of total protein (TP) was determined following standard procedures (Evans, 1996). Blood
glucose level was determined using ACCU-CHEK(R) glucometer (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Germany).
Data analysis
This was performed using one way ANOVA (SAS, 2015) with dietary treatments (T 1, T2, T3, T4) as
independent variables, while all data obtained on serum glucose and total protein levels were regarded as
dependent variables. Duncan HSD test was used for testing difference of means. The treatment effect was
considered significant if P- values were less than 0.05.

Table 2: mean values of serum glucose and total protein of male turkeys administered aqueous
Moringa olerifera seed and leaf extracts.
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4
Glucose (mg/dl) 144.33±2.03a 147.67±4.61a 151.00±1.16a 130.67±4.48b

Total Protein (g/dl) 2.34±0.09c 3.10±0.20b 3.26±0.14b 3.93±0.09 a
Means with different superscripts a, b, c on the same row are significantly different (P<0.05).
The glucose level was significantly (p<0.05) highest in T 1 (control) 144.33+ 2.03, T2 (147.67± 4.63), T3
(151.00 ±1.16) than T4 (leaf extracts) 130.66 ± 4.48. The total protein levels differed significantly
(p<0.05) among the treatments. T4 3.933 + 0.090 was highest (p< 0.05) when compared to T2 3.10 ± 0.20
and T3 3.26 ± 0.14 and then T1 2.34 ± 0.09.
The glucose levels were significantly higher in treatments T 1, T2 and T3. T4 (130.667 ± 4.484) had the
least level of glucose in the study. The result in this study was however similar with Reece and Swason
(2004) reported range of 130 – 270 mg/dl on avian. The observed result from the study was in line with
the general finding of Priya and Gomathy (2008) but lower than Grey (2014), Sonawane et al. (2017)
reports. Serum glucose has been observed by Sonawane et al. (2017) and Priya and Gomathy (2008) to
increase in turkey with advancement in age. The predominantly lower (P<0.05) level noticed in T4 goes
to affirm that Moringa leaves have effect on the glucose level of the turkeys thus confirming the anti-
diabetic properties (Sahooet al., 2014) of the Moringa leaves.
The total protein level of male turkeys fed Moringa oleifera extract differed significantly among the
treatment groups. Total protein levels were higher (P<0.05) among the Moringa treated groups. The
serum protein levels are usually affected by the presence of severe liver damage or prolonged dietary
protein deficiency (Johnson et al., 2001) or even dehydration (Ashraf, 2017). These abnormalities were
not witnessed in this study. Rather Moringa extract boosted the serum protein levels of the turkeys, with
the leaf extracts group being the best. The protein levels of turkeys in the Moringa administered group
were close to the reported ranges of 30.2 – 37.8g/l as was reported by Damaziak et al. (2017) and 3.60 –
3.80g/dl on turkeys by Etuk et al. (2012) on turkeys. All the treatment groups were in conformity with the
reported range of 2.4 -5.2g/dl of Grey (2014) and Miesle (2018) on avian and 2.32 – 4.68g/dl (Priya and
Gomathy 2008) on turkeys. The findings from the study corroborate the observations of Abdulkarim et al.
(2015) that Moringa reduces glucose levels in the blood. Therefore Moringa extracts especially the leaf
extract reduced the glucose level of male turkeys while improving the total protein quality of the blood
samples.
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REFERENCES
Abdulkarim S.M, Long K.S, Lai O.M. Muhamad S.K, Gahzali H.M (2015) Some physio chemical
properties of Moringa Oleifera seed oil extracted using solvent and aqueous enzymatic methods.
Food chemistry 93(2) 253-263.
Aderemi, F. A. (2004). Effects of replacement of wheat bran with cassava root sieviate supplemented or
unsupplemented with enzyme on the haematology and serum biochemistry of pullet chicks.
Tropical Journal of Animal Science, 7, 147-153.
Amad, A. A., Manner, K., Wendler, K. R., Neumann, K. and Zentek, J. (2011). Effect of a photogenic
feed additive on growth performance and ideal nutrient digestibility in boiler chicken. Poultry
ScienceJournal,90: 2011 – 2816.
Ashraf, M. (2017). How to increase protein levels in your blood. www.livestrong.com.
Bennett, R.N., Mellon,F.A., Foidl,N., Pratt,J.H., Dupont,M. S., Perkins,L. and Kroon,P.A. (2003).
Profiling glucosinolates and phenolics in vegetative tissue of the multi-purpose tree Moringa
olerifera L. (Horseradish tree) and Moringa stenopetala L. Journal of Agricultural and Food
Chemistry,51:3546-3553.
Damaziak K, Michalezuk M, Zdanowska-Sasiadel, Z. Jozwik A., Gozdowski D., Siennieka A and
Niemiee J. (2017). Effect of genotype on hematological and serum biochemical response of
turkey hens to stress.Arch Animal Breed J. 60:9-17
Doyle, D. (2006). William Hewson (1739-74). The father of haematology. British Journal of
Haematology, 133(4), 375-381.
Etuk, E.B., Opara, M.N., Okeudo, N.J., Esonu, B.O. and Udedibie, A.B.I. (2012). Haematological and
serum biochemical parameters of local turkey poults fed diets containing two varieties of
Sorghum. Journal of World’s Poultry Research,2(4): 81-89.
Evans, G. O. (1996). Animal Clinical Chemistry: A Primer for technologists. Taylor and Francis, London.
Fugile, L.J. (1999). Natural Nutrition for the tropic.. The miracle tree Moringa oleifera: The multiple
attributes of Moringa. Pg 68 Revised 2001. Pub Church world service, Dakar.
Grey, A. F. (2014). Avian Reference ranges: chemistry cpl.med.miami.edu.
Johnson, Q., Veith, W.J. and Mouton, T. (2001). The impact of dietary protein intake on serum
biochemical and haematological profiles in vervet monkeys.Journal of Medical
Primatology,30(1):61- 69.
Mehta, L.K., Balaraman, R., Amin, A.H., Bafaa, P.A. and Gulatio, D.O. (2003). Effect of fruits of
Moringa oleifera on the lipid profile of normal and hypercholesterolaemic rabbit. Journal of
Ethnopharmacology,86: 191-195.
Pfaff, O., Fausto-Solis, S., Fernado, F., Idelvi, R. and Barbara, A. (2015). Effect of a liquid extract of
Moringa oleifera on body weight gain and overall body weight of weaning pigs International
Journal of Livestock Production,6(5): 69-73.
Priya, M. and Gomathy, V.S. (2008). Haematological and blood biochemical in male and female Turkeys
of different age group. Tamilnadu Journal of Veterinary and Animal Science,4(2): 60-68.
Reece, W.O. and Swenson, M.J. (2004). The composition and functions of blood. In Duke’sphysiology of
domestic animal 12thed pg 26-52.
Sahoo, S., Raghavendra, K.M. and Biswas, S. (2014). Identification of a proteinaceous component in the
leaf of Moringa oleifera lam with effects on high serum creatinine. Indian Journal of
Pharmacological Science,76(1): 78-81.
SAS, (2015) SAS/STAT user‘s guide. Proprietary software version 9.00 statistical analysis system
institute Inc., Cary, NC.
Sonawane N.D, Patodkar UK Sardor V.M, Kadom A. S Mohore P.V, Lonker V.n (2017) Influence of sex
on Blood biochemical parameters in turkey birds Animal Sci J. 8 (5) 239-245
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CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF WEANER RABBITS FED GRADED LEVELS OF

ROASTED VIGNA SUBTERRANEA MEAL
K.E. Akande
Department of Animal Production, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal
University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria.
Email: kemi777akande@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
A five-week feeding trial was carried out to determine the dietary effect of varying levels of roasted
Vigna subterranea (bambara) meal on the carcass characteristics of weaner rabbits. Forty male and
female New Zealand White x California rabbits with an average initial weight of 700g and between 5 and
7 weeks old were allocated to four dietary treatments with five replications in a completely randomized
design (CRD). The Vigna subterranea seeds were roasted and milled to produce the Vigna subterranea
meal (VSM) which was included in the experimental diets at 0 (which served as the control), 10, 20 and
30% VSM. The carcass weight was in the range of 548.50 - 688.50g and the dressing percentage 49.14 -
51.42%, both were not significantly influenced by dietary treatments. Likewise, the relative organ weights
expressed as a percentage of live weight showed no significant variation among dietary treatments. At the
end of the five-week feeding trial, four out of ten rabbits were randomly selected for carcass and organ
measurements. The following range of values were observed: large intestine, 1.31 - 1.51%; caecum, 5.20
- 5.96%; stomach, 3.38 - 5.52%; kidney, 0.59 - 0.72%; heart, 0.19 - 0.26%; pelt, 7.02 - 7.97% and head
8.54 - 9.04%. It was concluded from this research that roasted Vigna subterranea meal can be included up
to 30 percent in the diets of weaner rabbits without negatively affecting carcass characteristics.
Keywords: Rabbits, Vigna subterranea, carcass characteristics
INTRODUCTION
There exist numerous legume grains in Nigeria, however, only soybean, cotton seed cake and groundnut
cake are mainly used for feeding livestock. Quite a lot of other locally available species that exhibit
remarkable adaptation to tropical conditions still exist and one of such is bambara groundnut (Vigna
subterranea (L.) Verdcourt) which is considered to have been under-utilized and under-exploited for
livestock feeding. Vigna subterranea is a legume plant that is drought tolerant and easy to cultivate, it is
an important source of protein and energy with medicinal value (Udeh et al., 2020). Vigna subterranea is
indigenous to Africa and it possesses great potential for inclusion in livestock diets (Bbebe, 2020). This
group of legumes is often classified as minor legumes, resulting from a lack of adequate information on
their nutritional qualities, uses and cultivations. The need arises for the exploitation of the full potential of
these relatively neglected legumes for livestock feeding (Apata and Ologhobo, 1994).

The experimental rabbits were obtained from the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom,
Plateau State. The experiment was conducted at the Rabbit Research House of the Abubakar Tafawa
Balewa University, Bauchi. Bauchi town is located at latitude 13o 30'N and longitude 11o 50'E. Bauchi
State is located in the Northern Guinea and Sudan Savanna zones of Nigeria. The wet season is usually
about five months (May to September) and seven months of dry season (October to April).
Forty New Zealand White x California male and female rabbits with an average initial weight of 700g and
between 5 and 7 weeks old were allocated to four dietary treatments with each treatment having five
replicates in a completely randomized design (CRD). The Vigna subterranea seeds were roasted and
milled to produce the Vigna subterranea meal (VSM) which was incorporated in the experimental diets at
0 (control), 10, 20 and 30% VSM.
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Feed and water were provided ad libitum to the rabbits. At the end of the five-week feeding trial, four out
of ten rabbits were randomly selected for carcass and organ measurements. Data obtained from the
carcass and organ measurements were subjected to the analysis of variance (Steel and Torrie, 1980).

Carcass characteristics of rabbits fed graded levels of roasted VSM are shown in Table 1. Organ weights
were expressed as a percentage of live weight and they all showed no significant variation (P>0.05)
among dietary treatments. Carcass weights ranged from 548.50 to 688.50g for rabbits on the 30 and 10%
VSM based diets respectively.
The dressing percentage did not significantly differ (P>0.05) among treatments and ranged from 49.14%
for rabbits on 20% dietary level of VSM to 51.42% for those on 10% dietary level of VSM. Percent live
weights for small intestine values were 4.19, 4.41, 5.02 and 5.38% and values for the liver were 2.42,
2.45, 2.65 and 2.68% for rabbits on 0, 10, 20 and 30% dietary levels of VSM respectively. The values for
the small intestine and the liver showed slight increases with an increase in dietary levels of VSM
although the effects were not statistically significant (P>0.05). For the other organs, however, no
consistent trend was observed. The following range of values were observed: large intestine, 1.31 -
1.51%; caecum, 5.20 - 5.96%; stomach, 3.38 - 5.52%; kidney, 0.59 - 0.72%; heart, 0.19 - 0.26%; head,
8.54 - 9.04% and pelt, 7.02 - 7.97%.
Carcass weights obtained in this study also did not show any significant effect of dietary treatments.
Carcass weights were within the range of 548.50 to 688.50g and dressing percent ranged from 49.14 to
51.42%. These values were higher than the values reported by Joseph et al. (2000) who obtained carcass
weights in the range of 288.70 - 501.60g and dressing percentage in the range of 35.30 - 48.20%. Organ
weights (expressed as a percentage of live weight) were also not significantly influenced by dietary
treatments. These results agree with the findings of Ehebha et al. (2008). Amaefule et al. (2011) reported
no significant difference in carcass and organ characteristics of rabbits fed raw Vigna subterranea offal.
However, Usman et al. (2019) fed rabbits with cooked Vigna subterranea, had a slightly different
observation from their study, in that all the carcass parameters measured showed no significant difference
among the treatments, except the dressed weight and dressing percentage.
Table 1: Effect of graded dietary levels of roasted Vigna subterranea meal on carcass characteristics
of rabbits
Parameters Dietary levels of Vigna subterranea meal (%)
0 10 20 30 SEM
Carcass weight (g) 602.67 688.50 646.33 548.50 44.65 NS
Dressing % 49.79 51.42 49.14 49.76 1.06 NS
Organ weights (% LW)
Large intestine 1.50 1.31 1.38 1.51 0.12 NS
Small intestine 4.19 4.41 5.02 5.38 0.25 NS
Caecum 5.96 5.52 5.82 5.20 0.47 NS
Liver 2.42 2.45 2.65 2.68 0.18 NS
Stomach 5.15 3.38 4.25 5.52 0.52 NS
Kidney 0.69 0.59 0.63 0.72 0.04 NS
Heart 0.25 0.26 0.19 0.21 0.02 NS
Pelt 7.79 7.07 7.50 7.02 0.27 NS
Head 9.04 9.01 8.54 8.70 0.11 NS
SEM = Standard error of mean

NS = Not significant
LW = Live weight
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Vigna subterranea a nonconventional feed resource could replace part of maize and soybean in the diets
of rabbits without compromising the dressing percentage, carcass and organ weights of the animals. In
conclusion, since there was no statistical significant difference (P>0.05) among dietary treatments in this
study, it is suggested that roasted Vigna subterranea meal can be included up to 30 percent in the diets of
weaner rabbits without negative effect on their carcass characteristics.
REFERENCES
Amaefule, K.U., Mbonu, U.E. and Amaka, V. (2011). Performance and nutrient utilization of growing
rabbits fed graded levels of raw Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc] offal diets.
Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 10:463-469
Apata, D. F. and Ologhobo, A. D. (1994). Biochemical evaluation of some Nigerian legume seeds. Food
Chemistry, 49: 333 - 338.
Bbebe, N. (2020). The Potential of Bambara groundnuts as an ingredient in Animal Feed Formulations.
Advances in Agriculture, Horticulture and Entomology. 2019(1): 1-5
Ehebha, E. T. E., Bamgbose, A. M., Oboh, S. O., Igene, U. F., Omoikhoje, S. O. and Aruna, M. B.
(2008). Carcass yield and organ weights of weaned rabbits as influenced by processed bambara
groundnut meal. In: Repositioning Animal Agriculture for Realization of National Vision 2020
(Editors: Bawa, G. S., Akpa, G. N., Jokthan, G. E., Kabir, M. and Abdu, S. B.). Proceedings of the
13th Annual Conference of the Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN), 15 - 19 September,
Zaria, pp. 488 - 490
Joseph, J. K., Awosanya, B., Adeoye, P. C. and Okekunle, M. R. (2000). Influence of graded levels of
toasted bambara groundnut meal on rabbit carcass charteristics. Nigerian Journal of Animal
Production, 27 (1): 86 - 89.
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principles and procedure of statistics. A biometrical approach.
Second edition. McGraw-Hill book company.
Udeh, E.L, Nyila, M.A., Kanu, S.A. (2020). Nutraceutical and antimicrobial potentials of Bambara
groundnut (Vigna subterranean): A review. Heliyon 6:1-5.
Usman, Y., Husa, H., Yusuf, S.Z., Dunya, A.M. and Njiti, M.M. (2019). Carcass and nutrient digestibility
trial of growing rabbits fed cooked Bambara nut meal as replacement for groundnut cake in a semi-
arid zone of Nigeria. International Journal of Environment, Agriculture and Biotechnology 4(4):
1147-1152.
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SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS FED MANGO LEAF

MEAL
1
Aka-Tanimo, H. A. 2Oshibanjo, D. O., 1Adelowo, V. O., 3Ajimohun F.F.A, 2, Ugwu B. K4
Akwashiki, M. A., 1Oguche C. J., 1Sani H. and 1Afiniki, Y. S.
1@
2
Department of Animal Production, University of Jos, Jos Plateau state, Nigeria
3
Rabbitary Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom Jos Plateau State Nigeria
4
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Bayero University Kano, Kano
@
Corresponding author: author: akatanimo12@gmail.com
(08036071583)
ABSTRACT
A total of three hundred Arbor Acer breed day old broiler chicks were obtained from a commercial
hatchery with an average (40±0.12g body weight), weighted individually and randomly divided into five
(5) Dietary Treatment (Treatment 1: control; Treatment 2: 2.5% Mango Leaf Meal (MLM); Treatment 3:
5.0% MLM; Treatment 4: 7.5% MLM and Treatment 5: 10.0% MLM) with six replicate per treatment
and ten birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. The experiment was conducted for the
period of eight weeks. Serum biochemistry was measured. Data was analyzed using ANOVA at P>0.05.
The alkaline phosphate and alamine transanase show no significant difference (P>0.05. There was
significant different in aspartate transaminase (P<0.05). Broiler chicken fed 10.0% MLM (28.33 iu/L) had
the highest value. Total protein and glucose shows no significant different. Albumin has significant
different (P>0.05) with broiler chickens on 7.5% MLM having the highest value. There are no significant
different in total cholesterol and triglyceride. High density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein show
significant different. Broiler chicken fed control diet had the highest LDL (1.33 mmol/L) with the least
low density lipoprotein in the treated groups. There is significant different in creatinine. Chicken fed
7.5% MLM (0.83 mg/L) had the highest creatinine followed by control and 2.5% respectively (0.57 and
0.40 mg/L). It could be concluded that 5.0% and 7.5% MLM could be added to broiler chicken diet
without any advert effect on the health status of the chicken.
Key words: Serum biochemistry, Mango leaf meal, High density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein
INTRODUCTION
Some unconventional ingredients have been investigated as partial or total substitute for maize, they
include Africa locust bean meal (Parkia ficoideawelw), avocado seed meal (Persia americana), and
mango seed kernel meal (mangifera indica) (Aregheore 1998). The use of leguminous multipurpose trees
and shrub has been suggested to be a viable alternative source of proteins, vitamins and minerals for
poultry feeding plant leaves are commonly processed into leaf meals which have been widely used in
feeding non-ruminant animals which include Leucaena leucocephala, Gliricidia sepium, sesbania sesban
and mangifera indica (Gadzirayi et al., 2012).
However, most of these feeds contain anti-nutrients and toxic components such as saponins, lectin,
tannins, trypsin inhibitors and cyanogenic glycosides which make them unsafe as protein and
carbohydrates sources in livestock production (Aregheore, 1992).
Serum biochemistry indices and haematology has been designed as the study of blood and an important
part of clinical pathology as well as diagnostic process (Lute and pryluski, 2008). Serum includes all
proteins not used in blood clotting and all the electrolytes, antibodies, antigens, hormones and any
exogenous substances (Martin, 2007). The result of haematological and serum analysis is usually used to
assess the health status of an animal. Hematological and serum indices have been observed as good
indicators of the physiological status of animal and their changes are important in assessing the response
of such animal to various physiological situation (Khan and Zafen, 2005).
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Therefore, this study evaluate the effect of feeding mango leaf meal on serum biochemistry of broiler
chickens

Experimental site: The experiment was conducted at Poultry Unit Division in Livestock Investigation
Department of National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom Plateau State, Nigeria.
Experimental animal and management: A total of three hundred Arbor Acer breed day old broiler
chicks were obtained from a commercial hatchery was used for the trial. An average (40±0.12g body
weight) were weighted individually and randomly divided into five (5) Treatments with six replicate per
treatment and ten birds per replicate. The brooding temperature was kept at an average of 26.50C from the
first to second week of age. Thereafter, the temperature was lowered to 220C for the rest of experimental
period. Wood shaving was used as litter material. At day old, antibiotic and anti-stress were given to the
birds for three days. From week two to three, first and second Infectious Bursal Disease Vaccine (IBDV)
was administered. Then, at week four and five Newcastle Disease Vaccine Lasota were given to the birds
respectively.
Table 1: Starter Feed ingredients

Ingredients 0% 2.50% 5.00% 7.50% 10.00%
Maize 51.50 49.00 47.60 47.10 48.60
Wheat offals 10.00 10.00 10.00 9.00 8.00
Soybean cake 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 16.00
Groundnut cake 17.10 16.60 16.00 15.00 14.00
Mango leaf meal 0.00 2.50 5.00 7.50 10.00
Bone meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Limestone 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total
Calculated nutrient
Crude protein 21.68 21.94 21.82 21.66 20.86
Enery 2877.15 2842.15 2815.40 2803.20 2805.00
Calcium 1.00 1.03 1.07 1.12 1.16
Phosphotus 0.60 0.62 0.64 0.65 0.65
Lysine 1.16 1.15 1.13 1.11 1.04
Methionine 0.51 0.51 0.50 0.49 0.48
Fibre 3.91 3.87 3.80 3.66 3.44
Page | 336
Table 2: Finisher Feed ingredients

Ingredients 0% 2.50% 5.00% 7.50% 10.00%
Maize 50.00 49.00 47.00 45.00 44.00
Wheat offals 11.05 11.55 11.05 10.55 9.05
Soybean cake 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00
Groundnut cake 15.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
Mango leaf meal 0.00 2.50 5.00 7.50 10.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vegetable 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Total
Calculated nutrient
Crude protein 20.71 20.24 20.17 20.21 20.21
Enery 2871.10 2850.90 2817.94 2796.20 2793.50
Calcium 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.69 1.75
Phosphotus 0.76 0.79 0.80 0.82 0.83
Lysine 1.13 1.10 1.09 1.08 1.07
Methionine 0.50 0.54 0.54 0.53 0.52
Fibre 3.86 3.80 3.70 3.69 3.60
Blood sample collection

Blood samples was collected into labeled tubes without anticoagulant for serum biochemical evaluation.
2mls of blood was collected from the jugular vein.
Experiment design
A completely randomized design was used.
Data Analysis
Data obtained was subjected to analyses of variance using SPSS statistical package version 25.
Significant differences between treatment means were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test.
RESULTS
Table 2 shows the serum biochemical parameter of broiler chicken fed (MLM) mango leaf meal. The
alkaline phosphate and alamine aminotransanase show no significant difference (P>0.05). But aspartate
transaminase shows significant (P<0.05) different in broiler chicken fed 10.0% MLM (28.33 ui/L)
followed by 7.5% and 2.5% (26.67 U/L and 27.33 U/L) respectively which falls within the reference
normal range.
Total protein and glucose shows no significant different. Albumin has significant different (P>0.05) with
broiler chickens on 7.5% MLM having the highest value followed by 10% MLM (36.00 and 27.37%)
respectively.
Table 3 shows the lipid profile of broiler chicken fed mango leaf meal (MLM). There are no significant
different in total cholesterol and triglyceride. High density lipoprotein show significant different in broiler
chicken fed 7.5% MLM (2.43 mmol/L) followed by control and 5% (1.77 and 1.30 mmol/L) respectively.
Also, there are significant different in low density lipoprotein (LDL). Broiler chicken fed control diet had
the highest LDL (1.33 mmol/L) with the least low density lipoprotein in the treated groups. There is
significant different in creatinine. Chicken fed 7.5% MLM (0.83 mg/L) had the highest creatinine
followed by control and 2.5% respectively (0.57 and 0.40 mg/L).
Page | 337
Table 2: Serum biochemistry indices

Treatment
Parameters 0% 2.5% 5% 7.5% 10% SEM
Alkaline Phosphate (Iµ/L) 14.33 13.00 9.33 10.00 11.33 0.97
Alanine aminotransaminase (U/L) 23.33 26.67 20.67 21.67 23.33 0.99
Aspatate Aminotransaminase (U/L) 19.67b 27.33a 18.33b 23.67ab 28.33a 1.31
Total protein (g/L) 42.10 42.23 34.13 41.33 41.83 1.31
Albumin (g/L) 20.63b 19.47b 22.43b 36.00a 27.37a 1.84
Glucose (mmol/L) 2.60 3.00 3.13 2.77 2.37 0.16
a, b, c
means with different superscripts on the same row differ significantly (P<0.05).
Table 3: Lipid profit of broiler chickens fed mango leaf meal

Treatment
Parameters 0% 2.5% 5% 7.5% 10% SEM
Total cholesterol 2.60 3.00 3.13 2.77 2.37 0.16
Triglyceride (mmol/L) 0.83 1.03 0.93 1.70 1.27 0.40
High density lipoprotein (mmol/L) 1.77ab 1.77ab 1.30b 2.43a 1.70ab 0.13
a ab b
Low density lipoprotein (mmol/L) 1.33 0.67 0.60 0.87ab 0.90ab 0.10
ab b ab
Creatinine (mg/L) 0.57 0.40 0.57 0.83a 0.37b
a, b, c
means with different superscripts on the same row differ significantly (P<0.05).
DISCUSSION
The physiological status and health of farm animals depends on the nutrition fed to the animal aside
genetic and environment influence. The result obtained in this study was in agreement with the findings
of Oloruntola, et al. 1999; Oloruntola, et al. 2016; Adeyeye et al., 2017. The present result obtained in
this study fall within the normal serum biochemistry indices range (Brunett et al., 2003). The result
obtained could be due to the present of saponin and some flavonoids which promote the health status of
those broiler chickens.
The result of haematological and serum analysis is usually used to assess the health status of an animal.
Hematological and serum have been observed as good indicators of the physiological status of animal and
their changes are important in assessing the response of such animal to various physiological situation
(Khan and Zafen, 2005). The results obtained in this study as shown in Table 3 and 4 was in line with the
report of Burk. J. (1994). The results obtained in this study is an indicator of high immunity and good
resistance to disease which could be due to the present of the bioactive compound found in mango.
CONCLUSION
It could be concluded that 5.0% and 7.5% MLM could be added to broiler chicken diet without any advert
effect on the health status of the chicken.
REFERENCES
Adeyeye S.A, Agbede J.O, Aletor V. A, Oloruntola O.D. (2017). Processed cocoa (Theobroma cacao)
pod husks in rabbit diet: Effect on haematological and serum biochemical indices. Asian J Adv
Agric Res.;2(4):1–9. Available:https://doi.org/10.9734/AJAAR/2017/36141
Aregneore EM. (1992) ―A review of toxicity factors on some food and feeding stuff in the nutrition of
man and livestock in Nigeria,‖ Vet Hum Toxicology; 34 (1): 71-3.
Aregneore EM. (1998) ―A review of implication of anti-quality and toxic components in unconventional
feedstuffs advocated for use in intensive animal production in Nigeria,‖ Vet hum Toxicology‖, 40
(1)‘. 35-9Available:https://doi.org/10.9734/AJAAR/2017/36309.
Page | 338
Brunett N, Mathura K, Metivier K.S, Holder R.B, Brown G, Campbell M.(2003). An investigation into
haematological and serum chemistry parameters of rabbits in Trinidad. World Rabbit Sci.
2003;14:175–87
Gadzirayi, C.T Masamha, B., Mupangwa, O.F. and Washaya, S. (2012) performance of broiler chicken
fed in matmu moringa olifera leaf meal as a protein supplement to soyabean meal. International
journel of poutry science 11 (1); 5-10
Martin, E.A. (2007). Concise medical dictionary (7th Ed) Oxford, England, oxford University press.
Martin, L. P (2007). The Moringa tree. Echo. North fort myers, FL 33917, USA Available at:
http://www.echonet.org.
Oloruntola O D, Ayodele S. O (1999). Pawpaw leaf meal and exo-enzyme in rabbit diet: effect on
haematological and serum biochemical indices. Asian J Adv Agric Res.; 2(4):1–8.
Oloruntola O.D, Ayodele S.O, Agbede J.O, Oloruntola D.A, Ogunsipe M.H, Omoniyi I.S.(2016). Effect
of Alchornea cordifolia leaf meal and enzyme supplementation on growth, haematological,
immune-stimulatory and serum biochemical response of rabbits. Asian J Bio Life Sci; 5(2):190–5.
Page | 339
UTILIZATION OF FIG (Ficus thonningii) AND MANGO(Mangifera indica)

LEAVES BY WEANER RABBITS
I. AJIJI, *S.D. Sudik, S.A.Ashom and H. Machido
Department of Animal Production Technology, Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa,

Mikang, Nigeria.
*Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Gashua, Nigeria.
E-mail: iajiji@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A study lasting 42 days was carried out to determine the intake and utilization of Fig (Ficus thonningii )
and Mango (Mangifera indica) leaves by rabbits. Ten weaner rabbits of average weight 700g were
randomly assigned to two treatment groups in a completely randomized design. The results of the study
showed that the intake of Ficus thonningii leaves was significantly (P>0.01) higher than that of
Mangifera indica leaves. Both treatments however, showed consistent increase in dry matter intake
throughout the experimental period. Rabbit fed Ficus thonningii leaves had significantly (P>0.01)
higher average daily weight gain and feed efficiency. Based on the result of this study, it is concluded
that Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica leaves have feeding value as fodder for rabbits. These plants
can be used as standing feed reserve for rabbits during critical periods of feed scarcity especially the dry
season.
Key words: Rabbits, Ficus thonningii, Mangifera indica, leaves, utilization, Weaner
INTRODUCTION
Browse plants play Significant role in animal production primarily by providing animals with feed
resources rich in protein, energy, vitamins and minerals at a time when food is scarce or of low quality
(Obi and Tuley, 1993). Browses either in form of fodder trees, shrubs from an integral part of tropical
farming systems (Smith, 1993). Browse forms an important component of the diets of goats, camel and,
to a lesser extent, sheep and cattle (Devendra and Bums, 1983). Rabbits can convert green crops and
browse to meat more efficiently than most animals (Aduku,2004; Field and Taylor,2018). In Northern
Africa, browse forms 60 - 70% of rangeland production and 40% of total available animal feed in the
region (Le Hoverou, 1980). The use of browse as sole feed for goats have been reported by Ademosun et
a/. (1988). Although the nutritional potential of tropical forages are enormous for rabbits, many producers
do not know the right type of forages to use and their nutritional contents. It has been reported that some
forages such as Leuceene leucepha/a and Zomie glochideato can impair the growth rate of rabbits
(Agishi, 1985).
The basic forage resources at present come from the natural vegetation. The arid and semi-arid zones are
characterized by long dry season, and forage during this season is dry and of low quality (Devendra,
1990). In order to sustain growth rate and reproduction throughout the year, alternative sources of green
forages must be sought, particularly in the dry season. The fluctuation in feed supply with attendant
shortages in dry season can be alleviated by proper conversion of excess forages and crop residues during
the wet and harvest periods, respectively (Otaru, 1998). In the dry season, primary attention is diverted to
forages that remain green and succulent, and are competed for by other animals like sheep, goats and
cattle .This study was carried out to determine the feed intake, growth rate and feed efficiency of rabbits
fed Ficus thonning and Mangifera indica leaves.

This experiment was conducted at the rabbitry unit of the Department of Animal Production Technology,
College of Agriculture, Garkawa, Mikang, Nigeria. Ten rabbits weighing an average of 700g were used
for this study, which lasted 42 days. A completely randomized design was used comprising of two
dietary treatment groups to which the animals were assigned to give five rabbits per treatment. The
Page | 340
experimental diets consisted of Ficus thonning and Mangifera indica leaves cut the previous day and
given to animals at 8:00h daily. This was provided ad libitum. A concentrated supplement (16% CP) was
also provided at the rate of 2% body weight per rabbit per day. During each feeding time, the animals
were first given the concentrate ration and subsequently Ficus and Mango leaves. Water was provided ad
libitum. Feed intake was determined by the difference between the amount of feed offered and that, which
was left over the next day. Rabbits were weighed weekly. The data was analyzed using t-test analysis of
variance (ANOVA).
RESULTS
Table 1 gives the ingredient and proximate composition of supplemental diet. Proximate composition of
Ficus thonningii and Mangifers indica leaves is shown in Table 2. Ficus thronningii had a higher
percentage of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and ash values. Values for nitrogen free extract( NFE)
and ether extract (EE) were similar while crude fibre (CF) was higher in Mangifera indica leaves. The
mean weekly DM intake of Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica leaves(Table3) was significantly
higher (P>0.01) in Ficus thonningii treatment than Mangifera indica through out the period of the study
even though both treatments showed consistent increase in DM intake as the period of the study
progressed. All concentrate supplement offered were consumed daily.
Table 1: Ingredient and Proximate Composition of Supplemental Diet
Ingredient %
Maize 69.23
Soybean 21.00
Rice offal 5.00
Bone meal 2.00
Limestone 2.00
Vit/min premix 0.20
Salt 0.50
Proximate analysis
Dry matter 75.01
Crude protein 16.02
Crude fibre 5.12
Nitrogen free extract 65.24
Elher extract 4.59
Ash 6.42
Page | 341
Table 2: Proximate Composition of Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica leaves

Composition Ficus thonningii Mangifera indica

Nitrogen free extract 42.40 42.85
Ether extract 5.54 5.84
Ash 17.34 11.29

Table 3: Mean Weekly Dry Matter Intake (g) of Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica Leaves by
Rabbits
Week Ficus thonningii Mangifera incica SEM

1 639.67a 287.24b 31.83
2 694.66a 292.56b 140.22
3 887.26a 418.44 b 128.08
4 950.71a 409.00b 12.55
5 959.18a 433.16b 13.69
6 962.76a 447.36b 9.36
Total feed intake 5094.24a 2285.76b 48.26
Average Daily
Feed intake 121.23a 54.42b 12.81
a,b mean values on the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.01)
Table 4: Live Weight Changes (g) and Feed Efficiency of Rabbits Fed Ficus thonningii and
Mangifera indica Leaves by Rabbits
Parameters Ficus thonningii Mangifera indica SEM
Initial weight 700 700 -
Final weight 1020a 820b 0.26
Total weight gain 320a 120b 212
Average daily
weight gain 7.62a 2.86b 6.48
a b
Feed efficiency 15.9 19.05 12.6
a,b mean values on the same row with different superscripts differ Significantly (P<0.01)
Table shows the live weight changes and feed efficiency of rabbits fed Ficus thonningii and
Mangifera indica leaves. The average daily weight gain and feed efficiency of rabbits fed the Ficus
thonningii leaves was significantly (P>0.01) higher than those of the Manifera indica leaves.
DISCUSSION
The proximate composition of Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica show that except for the values
of CF, which is lower (16.22%) in Ficus thonningii than in Mangifera indica leaves (22.58%) and
ash where the content was also lower in Mangifera indica leaves (11.29%) than in Ficus thonningii
leaves, the two experimental diets were similar and comparable in their content of DM, CP, NFE
Page | 342
and EE.
The high crude fibre content of the Mangifera indica leaves might have accounted for the lower
intake. Aduku et al. (1989) also observed that it was poorly accepted by rabbits. This was attributed
to the fibrous nature and hard texture (Milligan and Sule, 1992). The increase in DMI over time
also indicates the adaptability of the rabbits to these browse plants over time. This was reported by
Otaru (1998).
The average daily DMI obtained in this study was higher than values (71.3g/day) obtained by Pote
et a/. (1980), and Aduku et el. (1989). Rabbits on the Ficus thonningii treatment had a significantly
(P<0.05) higher average daily weight gain compared to those on Mangifera indica leaves. The
results obtained in this study was however, below the value obtained by Otaru(1994) and Pote et al
(1980).
The feed conversion efficiency was also high when compared to what was reported by Abdulmalik
et al. (1994) where rabbits were fed mucuna forage. Based on the results of this study, it was
concluded that Ficus thonningii and Mangofera indica have feeding value as fodder for rabbits.
These browse plants can be used as standing feed reserve so that rabbits can survive critical
periods of feed scarcity during the dry season without weight losses.
CONCLUSION
Based on the result of this study, it is concluded that Ficus thonningii and Mangifera indica leaves have
feeding value as fodder for rabbits. These plants can be used as standing feed reserve for rabbits during
critical periods of feed scarcity especially the dry season.
REFERENCES
Abdulmalik, M.E.; Aduku, A.O. ; Balogun, T.F. ; Ogundipe,S.O. and Adeyinka,I.A.( 1994). Evaluation of
Mucuna as a Feed Ingredient in Rabbit Diets. Paper Presented at the 19th Annual Conference of
Nigeria Soc. Anim. Prod. University of Benin , 20th - 24th March.
Ademosun, A.A.; Bosman, H.G. and Jansen, H.J.( 1988). Goat Management Research at the University of
Ife. In: Sumberg, J.E. and Cassaday, K. (Eds.) Sheep and Goats in Humid West Africa. ILCA,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Pp. 1-6.
Aduku, A.O.; Dim,N.I. and Hassan,W. (1989). Evaluation of Tropical Forages Top Dry Season Feeding of
Rabbits. J. Appl. Rabbit Res., 12: 113-116.
Aduku, A.O.(2004). Animal Nutrition in the Tropics. Feeds and Feeding, Pasture, Management,
Monogastric and Ruminant Nutrition. Davcon Computers and Business Bureau, Samaru, Nigeria.
143pp.
Aduku,A.O.(1990). Rabbit Management in the Tropics: Production,Processing, Utilization, Marketing,

Economics, Practical Training, Research and Future Prospects. Living Books Series, Abuja,
Nigeria. 111pp.
Agishi, E.C., 1985. Forage Resources of Nigerian Rangeland. In: Adu, I.F., Osinowo, O.A., Taiwo, B.BA,
Alhassan, W.S. (eds.). Small Ruminant Production in Nigeria. Proceedings of National Conference
on Small Ruminant Production, Zaria, Nigeria, 6-10 October, 1985. NAPRI, Shika, Zaria, Nigeria,
pp: 115-140.
Devendra, C., 1990. Forage Supplemenls: Nutritional Significance and Utilization for Drought, Meat and
Milk Production in Buffaloes. Ind. J. Agri. Res., 2: W09-423.
Devendra, C. and M. Bums, 1983. Goat Production in the Tropics. Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux,
Famham Royal, UK, p: 183
Page | 343
Field, T.G. and Taylor R.E.(2018). Scientific Animal Production: An Introduction to Animal Science.
Tenth Edition. PHI Delhi. Pp.620-625.
Le Hoverou, H.N., 1980. Browse in Northem Africa. In: Le Houerou, H.N. (ed.). Browse in Africa: The
Current State of Knowledge. ILCA, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, pp: 55-82.
Milligan, K. and B. Sule, 1982. Natural Forage Resources and Their Dairy Value in Nigeria Savanna.
Proceedings of Man and Biosphere
Workshop, New Bussa, Nigeria, 20th - 24th April. Obi, J.K. and P. Tuley, 1973. The Bush Fallow and
Alley Farming in the Oil Palm Belt of South-Eastem Nigeria, Land Resources Division. Foreign
and Commonwealth Office, Overseas Development Administration, Surbiton, Surrey, U.K.
Miscellaneous Report.
Obi, J.K. and P. Tuley, 1993. The Bush Fallow and Alley Farming in the Oil Palm Belt of South-Eastern
Nigeria. Land Resources devision. Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Overseas Development
Administration, Surbition, Surrey, U. K. Miscellaneous Report.
Otaru, S.M., 1998. Growth Performance of Red Sokoto Bucks Fed Varying Proportions of Fig. (Ficus
thonningil) Leaves in a Basal Gamba (Andropogon gaynus Kunth) Grass Diets, M.Sc. Thesis
Submitted to the Department of Animal Science, ABU., Zaria.
Otaru, S.M., 1994. Determination of Forage (Mucuna) Diets on Growth Performance of Weaner Rabbits.
B.Sc. Thesis Submitted to the Department of Animal Science, ABU., Zaria.
Pote, L.M., P.R. Cheeke and N.M. Patton, 1980. Utilization of Diets High in Alfalfa Meat by Weaning
Rabbits. J. Appl. Rabbit Res., 3: 5-10.
Smith, O.B., 1993. Feed Resources for Intensive Small Holder Systems in the Tropics: Role of Crop
Residues. In: Baker, M.J., Crush, J. R., Humphreys, L. R. (eds.). Proceedings of the 17th
Intemational Grassland Congress. Australia/New Zealand, 8-21 February, Vol. III: 1969-1976.
Snedecor, G.W. and Cochran, 1997. Statistical Method. 6th Ed. Iowa State University, Ames, pp: 317-321.
Page | 344
COMPLEMENTARY INFLUENCE OF CHICK SIZE AND PROTEIN LEVEL ON THE

POST-HATCH GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAIL (COTURNIX
COTURNIX JAPONICA) CHICKS
S.O. AJIDE1*, G.S. BAWA2, T.S. OLUGBEMI2, J.O. MAKINDE3 AND E.S. INAPE1
1
Department of Animal Science, Landmark University, OmuAran, Kwara State.
2
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria.
3
Department of Animal Science, Federal University, Gashua, Yobe State.
*Correspondence:ajidesolomon@gmail.com, 08038905602
ABSTRACT
The differences in chick weights at hatch causes inequalities in their growth and could be compensated by
the diets given. The experiment was aimed at determining the complementary effect of chick sizes (CS)
and protein levels (PL) on the post-hatch growth performance of quails. 810-day old unsexed Japanese
quail chicks were used for a six week growth study. At hatch, the quail chicks were grouped according to
the various egg sizes of small (<9.00g), medium (9.00-9.99g) and large (10.00-13.00g). The initial
weights (INWT) of the chicks were 5.80, 6.16 and 7.59g, respectively. They were raised in wooden cages
with feed and water provided ad lib. Chicks from a particular egg size constituted a treatment and each
placed on three dietary PL of 24, 26 and 28%. The birds were randomly assigned into 9 treatment
combinations with an average of 90 chicks per treatment combination involving 3 replicates of 30 quails
each. The experiment was a completely randomized design in a 3x3 factorial arrangement. The best
interaction effects of CS x PL on the final live weights (FWT) were recorded in the large and small chicks
fed 28% PL. The same trend was observed for the feed intake (FI) and the average daily weight gain
(ADWG). The growth indices were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by the CS and PL, this implies that,
the differences in the initial weight of the small chicks in relation to their counterpart were compensated
by very high PL.
Keywords: Japanese quails, chick size and protein level.
INTRODUCTION
The emphasis on other poultry birds has gained tremendous attention over the years meanwhile there
could be nutritional values and economic returns from quail production since quails grow very fast and
resistant to diseases in relation to other domestic birds (Oluyemi and Roberts, 2000). Quails require less
space for keeping them and the required space for raising 8 -10 adult quails can only be used to raise a
matured chicken (Haruna et al., 1997). The level of cholesterol in the eggs is low and the meat is equally
high in protein thereby making the products suitable for individuals prone to high blood pressure
(Olubamiwa et al., 1999). It has remained unresolved, the extent in which chick size influences the
subsequent growth performance of growing Japanese quail chicks. There is a linear regression of egg size
on the post hatch body weights of guinea fowl keets up to 4 weeks of age, thereafter, the egg size cannot
be reliably used for determining the subsequent body weight (Ayorinde et al., 1994). In contrast, Wyatt et
al. (1985) had earlier reported that, the influence of large eggs on the body weight diminishes while the
feed consumed by the birds determines the subsequent body weight of the animal.
Nutrition is the most important factor required to maintain chicks hatched from different egg sizes.
Generally, information on protein requirements of quails in Nigeria is limited. Protein values found
suitable for raising quails in temperate countries may not be appropriate for quails in the tropical
environments. In quail production, for the growth performance to be improved, certain base line
information/data are needed. The experiment was aimed at determining the complementary effect of chick
sizes and protein levels on the post-hatch growth performance of quail chicks.
Page | 345

The experiment was conducted in the poultry unit, Teaching and Research Farm of Ahmadu Bello
University, Samaru, Zaria and the hatchery unit, College of Agriculture, Mando, Kaduna respectively. The
National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom, Plateau state, Nigeria supplied the fertile quail eggs
that were used for this study. A total of 1,000 quail eggs graded into small (<9.00g), medium (9.00-9.99g)
and large (10.00-13.00g) sizes using a digital electronic scale were set in the incubator for 15 days and
subsequently transferred to the hatcher. The quail chicks were hatched on the 18th day from which 810-
day old unsexed healthy Japanese quail chicks were selected for a six week trial. At hatch, the quail chicks
were grouped according to the various egg sizes of small (<9.00g), medium (9.00-9.99g), large (10.00-
13.00g) and the average weights were 8.49, 9.54 and 10.77g, respectively. The initial weights of the chicks
were 5.80, 6.16 and 7.59g, respectively. They were raised in wooden cages with feed and water provided
ad lib. Chicks from a particular egg size constituted a treatment and each placed on three dietary protein
level of 24, 26 and 28% making nine treatment combinations. The birds were randomly assigned into 9
treatment combinations with an average of 90 chicks per treatment combination involving 3 replicates of
30 chicks each. The experiment was a completely randomized design in a 3x3 factorial arrangement.
Experimental Diet
Table 1: Composition of dietary protein levels for Japanese quail chicks (Day 1-6 weeks)
Dietary Protein Levels, %
Ingredient 24 26 28
Maize 47.88 42.23 36.59
Soya beans full-fat 23.68 27.45 35.21
Groundnut cake 11.84 13.72 15.60
Wheat offal 9.50 9.50 9.50
Fishmeal 3.50 3.50 3.50
Bone meal 2.25 2.25 2.25
Limestone 0.50 0.50 0.50
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vitamin-mineral premix 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100 100 100
Calculated analysis
Feed cost/Kg N 132.16 134.42 136.68
Crude protein % 24.00 26.00 28.00
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2,871.02 2,837.40 2,803.82
Crude fibre (%) 3.92 4.03 4.13
Ether extract (%) 8.01 8.64 9.26
Ash 4.01 4.29 4.57
Calcium 1.21 1.22 1.23
Phosphorus (%) 0.91 0.93 0.95
Lysine (%) 1.49 1.64 1.79
Methionine (%) 0.57 0.59 0.61
The generated data from the experiment was analyzed using the General Linear Model Procedure of SAS
(2014). The Duncan‘s New Multiple Range Test was used to separate the means in the treatment groups
where significant differences were observed.
RESULTS
Table 2 presents the effects of chick size and protein level on the growth performance of Japanese quails.
The initial live weights for the small, medium and large sized chicks were 5.80 g, 6.16 g and 7.59 g,
Page | 346
respectively. The size of the chicks and protein levels significantly (P < 0.01) affected the final live weight
(FWT) of the birds. The pattern revealed that the FWT of the quail chicks were enhanced by an increase
in chick size together with increasing protein levels in the diet. The same trend was also observed for the
average daily weight gain (ADWG), feed intake (FI) and cost per kilogram weight gain (CKGWTG) of the
birds. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was better in the quails on lower crude protein of 24%. The effects
of the protein levels and chick sizes were not significant (P > 0.05) on the percent mortality.
The FWT was significantly (P < 0.01) affected by the interaction effect of chick size and dietary protein
levels. The pattern revealed that the growth of chicks with small initial size were compensated for by very
high protein level while chicks with initial bigger size could tolerate lower protein levels without adverse
effect on the final live weights as they maintained relative comparative advantage of their initial and bigger
sizes. The same trend (P < 0.05) was recorded for the ADWG and FI respectively. The percent mortality
did not reveal any significant (P > 0.05) effect by the interaction of chick size and dietary protein level.
Table 2: Effect of chick sizes and dietary protein levels on the growth performance indices
of Japanese quails (1-6weeks)
CS Inwt Fwt Adwg Fi Fcr Ckgwtg Mort
Small 5.80 139.5c 3.19b 12.49c 3.96b 532.57b 1.39
Medium 6.16 142.1b 3.26a 13.01b 3.98b 535.00b 1.80
Large 7.59 146.5a 3.34a 13.83a 4.24a 570.90a 0.00
SEM - 1.17 0.04 0.20 0.08 10.40 0.94
P values - 0.0018 0.0296 0.0006 0.0306 0.0306 0.3800
PL, %
24 5.80 138.54b 3.14b 11.77c 3.78b 499.96c 0.65
b b b a
26 6.16 139.57 3.22 13.10 4.12 553.41b 1.53
28 7.59 150.14a 3.42a 14.45a 4.28a 585.10a 1.01
SEM - 1.17 0.04 0.20 0.08 10.40 0.94
P values - 0.0001 0.0001 0.0001 0.0009 0.0001 0.8013
Interaction
CS*PL
Sx24 5.80 132.11e 3.01d 10.52e 3.54 468.25 0.00
d cd
Sx26 5.80 136.29 3.12 12.44c 4.14 556.86 2.22
Sx28 5.80 150.20b 3.43ab 14.50a 4.24 579.88 1.96
Mx24 6.16 139.42cd 3.24c 13.10bc 4.01 529.52 0.00
c c ab
Mx26 6.16 143.45 3.27 14.01 4.28 575.02 2.38
Mx28 6.16 143.71c 3.28bc 14.38a 4.45 608.17 3.03
Lx24 7.59 139.80cd 3.15cd 11.70d 3.80 502.12 0.00
Lx26 7.59 143.01c 3.32b 12.86c 3.93 528.34 0.00
Lx28 7.59 156.77a 3.55a 14.45a 4.15 567.25 0.00
SEM - 2.02 0.06 0.34 0.13 18.02 1.62
P values - 0.0020 0.0191 0.0161 0.5003 0.5117 0.6320
CS=Chick size;PL=Protein level;S=Small;M=Medium;L=Large;SE=Standard error;a,b,c,d,eMeans with
different superscript in the same column are significantly (P< 0.05) different;NS=Non Significant(P>
0.05);Inwt=Initial weight(g/bird);Fwt=Final weight(g/bird);Adwg=Average daily weight
gain(g/bird/day);Fi=Feed intake(g/bird/day);Fcr=Feed conversion ratio;Ckgwtg = Cost per Kg weight
gain;Mort=Mortality.
DISCUSSION
The superiority in the FWT of the large chicks over its medium and small sized counterparts may be
attributed to differences in the initial sizes of the chicks. The large quails at hatch grew faster due to their
comparative weight advantage which was sustained through the six week study period. This corroborates
with the reports of Ayorinde et al. (1994) that keets after 12 weeks of age increased in weight in relation to
Page | 347
the various grades of eggs (large, medium and small) from which the chicks were hatched. The increase in
the FWT of the quail chicks fed higher level of 28% CP over those fed 26% and 24% crude protein level
could be supported by the works of Bawa et al., 2011.
The interaction effects of different sizes of chick and protein levels on the FI, FWT and ADWG of
Japanese quails were enhanced and could be due to the increasing level of dietary protein. This may have
influenced the initial weight differential of the chicks. However, the low initial weight was compensated
for in the medium and small sized chicks on high protein diet (28% CP). The lower feed intake, final live
weights and average daily weight gains observed in the medium and small sized chicks on low protein diet
compared with the large sized chicks suggest that the nutrient requirement of the small and medium sized
chicks in Japanese quails cannot be met by 24 and 26% CP, hence the need for the chicks to be fed higher
protein level (28%). Quail chicks hatched from small and medium eggs should be fed 28% PL to enhance
their growth whereas those from the large eggs can be sustained on 24-26% PL as a result of their
comparative weight advantage at hatch.

It can be concluded that dietary protein level of 24% is adequate for the large chicks without
compromising their growth while 28% crude protein diet should be fed to the small and medium sized
chicks in order to enhance their growth. The interaction effect of chick size and protein level on the growth
performance were complementary, mostly favoring the large sized chicks on high dietary protein level of
28% while the low initial weights of the medium and small sized chicks were enhanced with high dietary
protein level (28%).
Acknowledgement
We thank the Management of Landmark University OmuAran, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and
College of Agriculture, Mando, Kaduna for providing sponsorship to this conference and the facilities used
for this study respectively.
REFERENCES
Ayorinde, K. L., Atteh, J. O. and Joseph, K. (1994). Pre and Post Hatch Growth of Nigerian
Indigenous Guinea Fowl as influenced by egg size and hatch weight. Nigerian Journal of
Animal Production, 21:59-65.
Bawa, G.S., Lombin, L.H., Karsin, P., Musa, U., Payi, E. and Shamaki, D. (2011). Response of
Japanese Breeder Quails to varying dietary protein levels in the tropics. Nigerian Journal of
Animal Production, 38:43-54.
Haruna, E. S., Musa, U., Okewole, P. A., Shemaki, D., Lombin, L.H., Molokwu, J.U., Edache,
J.A. and Karsin P. D. (1997). Protein requirement of quail chicks in Plateau State, Nigeria.
Nigerian Veterinary Journal, 18:108-113.
Olubamiwa, O., Haruna, E.S., Musa, U., Akinwale, T.O., Combin, L.H. and Longe, G.O. (1999).
Effects of different energy levels of cocoa based diets on the productive performance of
Japanese quail. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 26:88-92.
Oluyemi, J.A. and Roberts, F.A. (2000). Poultry production in warm, wet climate. 2nd edition.
Macmillan Press Ltd. London: 29-31.
SAS (2014). Statistical Analysis System Procedure guide for Personal computers. SAS Institute
Inc. Cavy, North Carolina.
Wyatt, C.L., Weaver, W.D. and Beane, W.L. (1985). Influence of egg size, egg shell quality and
post hatch holding time on broiler performance. Poultry Science, 64: 2049 - 2055.
Page | 348
SURVEY ON INFLUENCING FACTORS LIMITING DUCK PRODUCTION IN

KAZAURE LGA, JIGAWA STATE
A.Y. Abdullahi, A.G. Khaleel, M.H. Zango, S. Madaki, M. Nasir, I. Saleh and H.G. Baraya+
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Kano University of
Science and Technology Wudil, PMB 3244, Kano 20027, Nigeria
+
Savanna Forestry Research Station, Samaru Zaria.

Corresponding author. Tel: +234 8085999191
Email address: aabdullahi1@yahoo.co.uk
ABSTRACT
A total of 150 residents were surveyed to gather information responsible for declining duck farming in
Kazaure Local Government Area. A well-structured questionnaire and verbal interview were administered
at random to the respondents. The data collected were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. The
socio-economic activities of the respondents are mainly farming (61.06%) including livestock (29.20%),
crop (25.66%) and mixed (45.14%) production systems. In poultry production, the respondents engaged
more into chicken production (50.45%) compared to the duck production (35.40%). Majority of the duck
farmers are keeping 6 – 10 ducks (60.10%) within a range of 6 – 10 years (33.63%) of farming
experience. Extensive system is the main management practice in the area (84.08%) with no provision of
supplementary feeding and housing. The main reasons responsible for rapid decline of duck production
includes production of exotic chicken (45.14%), disease outbreak (35.39%), lack of adequate water
(10.62%) and allergy for consuming duck meat (5.31%). In conclusion, duck population is still decreasing
with no sight of ducks in many areas with the history of production. To prevent further damage on duck
species, it is highly recommended that population genetic study must be conducted. Also, extension
agents work must be intensified on general public awareness and new innovations concerning duck
production.
Key words: Conservation, Duck production, Genetic resource, Nigeria
INTRODUCTION
Ducks were first domesticated in Southeast Asia at least 4000 years ago during the Neolithic Age, and
commonly raised by Romans in Europe and the Malays in Asia (Cherry & Morris, 2008). The world
production of duck meat has steadily increased during last few years. The total production was 3.78
million tons in 2008 and will continue to grow at a rate of 3.0% per annum (FOA, 2010). In most tropical
countries, there are local duck breeds that have been selected to suit local conditions. They may not
perform well as improved breeds, but they do have ability to survive and produce well under local
extensive and semi-intensive systems. Different breeds of ducks are usually grouped into meat or general
purpose, egg production and ornamental (Ngapongora et al., 2004).
The continued decline in duck production and duck meat consumption in Nigeria is a matter of great
concern (RIM, 1992). Duck is the prominent among poultry species neglected by the established poultry
operators and local farmers in Nigeria. The neglect is probably arising from uncertainty and fear
concerning the demand and sale of duct meat products. There is a compelling need to integrate duck
production into Nigerian agricultural systems as they are source of nutritious meat and egg for human
consumption .Raising ducks requires unskilled labor, it is successful under poor feed and ability to
produce high quality protein. There is alarming and continuous decrease in duck production because of
the certain elements and negligence from both farmers and government. Therefore, the aim of this study
was to survey the influencing factors limiting duck production as a base for genetic conservation of this
species.
Page | 349

Study Area
Kazaure Local Government Area in Jigawa State of Nigeria lies between the longitude of 12 0 39‘10‗‘N
and latitude 8024‘43‗‘E. It has a total land area of 1780 Km2 with population 161,494 (NPC, 2006). The
daily maximum and minimum temperature are 33.10C and 15.880C respectively. The annual average
rainfall is about 608mm per annum. The land area is covered by shrubs and trees with dense population of
mango trees along Fadama areas. The land is relatively flat with scattered rocks especially around the
metropolis area. Their main occupation is crop and animal production.
Method of data collection
The data were obtained using structured questionnaires and verbal interviews. One hundred and fifty
(150) structured questionnaires were randomly administered to farmers. However, one hundred and
thirteen (113) were retrieved and analyzed. The research was conducted from June to August 2019.
The primary data collected were analyzed using Microsoft excel (2016) for simple descriptive statistics
(frequency and percentages).
Demography is the statistical study of changes such as the number of births, deaths, marriages and
illnesses that occur over a period of time in human populations. The demographic and socio-economic of
the respondents (Table 1) shows that 69.1% were males; while 30.9% were females and mostly young
(62.7%) and married (80.6%). The household size of 1–5 recorded high percentage (53.99%). This result
implies that majority of the respondent are in active years and should be capable of being involved in
poultry and duck production. The finding is similar with work of Abdullahi et al. (2016) on personal and
socio-economic characteristics of respondent in Katsina State. The result further revealed that
approximately 40% engaged in farming, whereby chicken (50.45%) and duck (35.40%) dominated the
entire poultry enterprise respectively. Mostly, duck farmers had 6–10 years of farming experience and can
keep up to 6–10 ducks. While the management system adopted by the respondents was extensive system
(84.08%) which is characterized by non-provision of supplementary feeding and housing to the birds.
Page | 350
Table 1. Demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the respondents

Categories Variables Frequency Percentage(%)
Gender Male 78 69.10
Female 35 30.90
Age 16 – 25 11 09.70
26 – 35 31 27.40
36 – 45 29 25.60
46 – 55 21 18.50
56 – 65 15 13.20
66 and above 06 05.60
Marital Status Married 91 80.60

Single 13 11.50
Divorced 09 07.90
Household size 1–5 61 53.99

6 – 10 38 33.63
Above 10 14 12.38
Farming 69 61.06
Civil Servant 20 17.70
Occupation
Business 24 21.24
Type of farming Crop production 29 25.66

Livestock production 33 29.20
Mixed 51 45.14
Type of poultry Duck 40 35.40
Chicken 57 50.45
Guinea fowl 10 08.85
Turkey 06 05.30
Capacity of duck 1–5 31 27.44
6 – 10 38 33.63
11 – 15 26 23.00
16 – 20 10 08.85
Above 20 08 07.08
Farming experience 1–5 45 39.83
6 – 10 52 46.01
Above 10 16 14.16
Intensive 0 00.00
Management system Semi intensive 18 15.92
Extensive 95 84.08
The responses on specific reasons for the declining of duck farming has been presented in Table 2.
Introduction of exotic chicken (broilers and layers) for meat and egg production (51%) is the major factor
that forces farmers to migrate from other poultry species. This is because, exotic chickens are easier to
raise, faster to attain market size with higher profits compared to ducks. On the other side, disease also
plays a significant role in down grading the duck production (35.39%). Ducks are naturally connected to
water for bathing and feeding purposes. Lack of water sources (10.62%) such as small ponds and lakes
cause ducks to feeds on dirty gutters and drainages especially during dry season. Such dirty feeding
nature resulted in duck meat rejection (verbal interview) by some individual consumers (5.31%). Other
Page | 351
factors affecting duck production includes major diseases such as DVH (53.99%) which resulted to
sudden death, opisthotonus, paresis and paralysis. Moreover, 62.83% of the respondent preferred
traditional method of controlling disease than consulting veterinary personnel. This might be due to lack
of proper extension services in the area. John et al. (2003) and Farrell and Stapleton (1985) have reported
that isolation and vaccination of breeder ducks with attenuated live duck hepatitis and duck virus enteritis
vaccines provide adequate protection. while Umeh et al. (1999) reported Colibacillosis required good
sanitation and antibiotics in feeds are helpful in controlling the disease; likewise, to prevent Aspergillosis
is to avoid using moldy straw and preventing feed from getting wet (Timmler & Rodehutscord, 2013).
Table 2 Responses on specific reasons for decline in duck production
Categories Variables Frequency Percentage(%)
Reason for decline of duck Disease 40 35.39

production Lack of capital 04 03.54
In adequate water 12 10.62
Production of exotic chicks 51 45.14
Non consumption of duck 06 05.31
Diseases Aspergillosis 08 07.07

Colibacillosis 06 05.31
Duck plague 31 33.63
Duck virus hepatitis 61 53.99
Control of disease Veterinary method 42 37.17

Traditional method 71 62.83
Extension officer visit Yes 18 15.93

No 95 84.07

Duck population is under threat because of the above-mentioned factors. The extensive system of
management adopted by the farmers help in exposing the ducks to the external risk and danger of
predators and diseases. Hence, it is recommended that future study on population genetics will help in
understanding duck population for better genetic resource management and conservation. General public
awareness and development of new innovations concerning duck production through extension workers
must be intensified. This could also be achieved by introducing courses related to threatening species such
as ducks into the university and other institutions.
REFERENCES
Abdullahi, A.Y., U. Ibrahim, M.S. Tamburawa, R.M. Ashiru, M.H. Zango, S. Madaki, S.S. Saidu, M.
Nasir, A.G. Khaleel, M.I. Abdu, A.M. Hassan, & A.S. Soja (2016) Evaluation of elements
influencing duck meat acceptability in Katsina State, Nigeria. Techno Science Africana Journal
Volume 13, Number 2.
Cherry, P. & Morris T. (2008) Domestic duck production: Science and Practice CABI Publication, UK
(ISBN 9781845934415
Farrell, D. J. & Stapleton, P. (1985) Duck production, science and world practice University of New
England, Press. Armidale Australia, pp 557
Page | 352
FOA (2010) Poultry meat and eggs: Agri-business handbook. VialedelleTerme di Caracalla, 001553
Rome, Italy. pp 5 – 75
National population commission of Nigeria (2006) Retrieved from
https://en.m.wikipedia.org.wiki.Kazaure
Ngapongora, J. M. N., Mbaga, S. H. & Mutayoba, S. K. (2004) Study on the performance of growing
native Muscovy ducks under semi and fully confined rearing systems. www.husdyr.kvi.dk&u=w
RIM (1992) Nigerian National Livestock Resource Survey. 6 vols, Report by Resource Inventory and
Management Limited (RIM) to FDLPCS, Abuja.
John, R. G., Larry, R. M., Lisa, K. M., David L. S. & Venugopal, N. (2003) Disease of poultry. Iowa
State Press 13th Edition, pp 332
Timmler, R. & Rodehutscord, M. (2013) Dose response relationship for valine in the growing White
Pekin duck. Poultry Sci. 82:1755 – 1762
Umeh, A. P., Doma, U. D. & Kushi, D.H. (1999) Observation on the management practice of small
holder duck production in Bauchi L.G.A. Proceedings of 26th Annual Conference of NSAP held
on 22 21 – 25 March pp 219 - 222
Page | 353
EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF LAYERS FED GRADED LEVELS OF

KAURA SORGHUM (SORGHUM BICOLOR) REPLACING MAIZE WITH FULL-FAT
SOYA BEAN
*1Jama’a, N. A. 2Jamilu, H., 1Doma, U. D., 1Egbo, M. L., 1Abubakar, M., 3Zahraddeen, D.
1
Department of Animal Production, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi state, Nigeria
2
Faculty of Agriculture, Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University Dutse
3
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
* Corresponding author email= najamaa4u@yahoo.com, Phone number = +2347061097766
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the egg quality characteristics of layer chickens fed
dietary levels of kaura sorghum. Five diets (16% CP) were formulated, in which the Kaura
Sorghum was included at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels and the diets designated as treatments
T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Kaura sorghum was used to replace maize as a dietary
energy source. Three hundred brown pullets were used for the research. They were allotted to the
five treatments which were replicated four times each with twenty birds per replicate in a
completely randomized design (CRD). Three eggs were collected from each replicate on weekly
basis to determine both the internal and external egg quality parameters. It was revealed that egg
quality parameters were significantly (P<0.001) affected except egg weight and shell weight that
were affected (P<0.01 and P<0.05 respectively). However, yolk weight, albumin height and shell
thickness were not affected. It was concluded that, kaura sorghum can completely replace maize
as dietary energy source in layer chickens with full fat soya bean as protein source with no
adverse effect on egg quality characteristics as well as reduction in feed cost.
Key words: Pullet, Shell, Yolk, Albumen,
INTRODUCTION
Maize serves as the major staple food stuff for a good proportion of Nigerians. Thus its ever
increasing demand for human consumption, livestock feed and industrial uses have raised its
market value. Maize is also the best and conventional source of energy in livestock ration and
energy constitute about 60% of these rations. Cost of the conventional maize will definitely
increase the cost of animal feeds and will consequently increase the cost of production. The
primary aim of producing quality meat and eggs at minimal cost by poultry farmers have been
affected due to man‘s keen competition with his animal over the grain maize (Ademosun and
Eshiett, 1980; Ijaiya et al., 2002). This has been the major obstacle in developing the poultry
industry in Nigeria. Over the decades, alternative feed stuff has been developed to replace the
expensive conventional ones. One of such alternatives is sorghum that has proximate composition
very close to that of maize. Sorghum is very easy to cultivate, tolerant to drought and can be
grown on poor soil condition where maize cannot do well, lower cost of production, stable and
lower market price and year round availability makes it more preferable to maize. In Nigeria, the
role of the poultry industry is very important because of its essential contributions in human
nutrition.

The experiment was conducted between February 2015 and October 2016. Five dietary
treatments were formulated with kaura sorghum as a replacement for maize using full-fat
Page | 354
soyabean as a protein source. Kaura sorghum replaced maize at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% in diets
1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. The full-fat soyabean was mixed with milled kaura sorghum variety
and other ingredients to formulate diet with 16% CP. Three hundred (300) brown pullets were
used for the research. The birds were allotted to the five dietary treatments which were replicated
four times with fifteen (15) birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). On
weekly basis a total of twelve (12) eggs (3/replicate) were collected from each of the five
treatments to determine the internal and external egg parameters. This activity was done for eight
weeks. The egg quality parameters measured were egg weight, egg length, egg width, yolk
length, yolk height, yolk weight, albumen length, albumin height, albumin weight, shell weight
and shell thickness. Vanier caliper and micrometer screw gauge were the instruments used in
taking the readings. The percent compositions of the various feed ingredients used in formulating
the five dietary treatments is presented in Table 1.

Most of the egg quality parameters studied in this research were significantly (P<0.001) affected
by the dietary treatments except in shell weight (P<0.01) and Non-significance in yolk weight,
albumin height and shell thickness. These findings are in consonance with the report of
Murakami et al. (1993), who revealed that egg weight depended largely on daily protein intake.
Bangbose and Biobaku (2003) reported similar findings in laying hens. Also, Oruwari (2003)
stated that with proper protein balance kaura sorghum could completely replace maize in the
diets of layers and broiler chickens.
CONCLUSION
It was concluded that, kaura sorghum can completely replace maize as dietary energy source in
layer chickens feed with the full fat soya bean as protein source with no adverse effect on egg
quality characteristics as well as reduction in feed cost.
REFERENCES
Ademosun, A. A. and N. O. Eshiett (1980). Feeding Cassava root meal to starter, grower and
laying chickens. Tropical Agriculture57: 227 – 229.
Bamgbose, A. M. and Biobaku, W. O. (2003). Utilization of Cotton seed cake as cake
replacement for groundnut cake in layers diets: performance and egg quality
characteristics. Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 3: 140-148.
Bura, A. B. (2000). The role of small scale industries on socio – economic Development of
Azare, Nigerian certificate in Education, project College of Education Azare, Bauchi state.
Ijaiya, A. T., Fasanya, O. O. A. and A. B. Ayanwale, (2002). Reproductive Performance of
breeding does fed maize and fermented cassava meal. Proceedings of 27th Annual
conference of Nigerian Society for Animal Production (NSAP), March 17-21, 2002,
Federal University of Technology Akure, Nigeria. pp. 249-252.
Murakami, A. E., Moraes, V. M. B., De Ariki, J., Junqueeira, D. M., Kronka, O. M. and Don, S.
(1993). Levels of Protein and Energy in Diets of Laying Japanese Quails (Coturnix
Cortonix Japonica). Rovista de soiedade Brasilara de Zootecnia, 22 (4): 541-551.
Oruwari, B. M., Aniebo, A. O., and Nkanta, D. M. (2003). Effects of replacing maize with
cassava brewers‘ dried yeast blend (Cassava yeast) on performance of broiler chicks and
feed cost in southern Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production,30 (2): 169-178.
Page | 355
Table 1: Ingredients and Percentage Composition of Layer Diets Containing Graded

Levels of Kaura Sorghum with Full-Fat Soya Bean as Protein Source
Ingredients Diets
1 2 3 4 5
(0%) (25%) (50%) (75%) (100%)
Maize 50.00 37.5 25.00 12.50 00.00
Kaura Sorghum 00.00 12.50 25.00 37.50 50.00
Soya bean 16.70 16.70 16.70 16.70 16.70
Wheat offal 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Limestone 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0
Bone meal 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
Premix 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Total 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated Analysis
Crude protein (%) 16.55 16.81 17.05 17.31 17.55
M.E (Kcal/kg) 2551.20 2534.84 2518.34 2501.84 2485.34
Crude fibre (%) 3.66 3.64 3.64 3.64 3.64
Ether extract (%) 3.37 2.87 3.12 1.87 2.87
Calcium (%) 3.71 3.78 3.80 3.89 4.19
Phosphorus (%) 0.60 0.65 0.69 0.72 0.80
Methionine (%) 0.37 0.40 0.42 0.44 0.46
Lysine (%) 0.84 0.84 0.85 0.87 0.89
Vitamin-mineral Premix contains the following per 2.5 kg: Vitamin A 10,000 IU, Vit. D3
2,000,000IU, Vit E 12,000mg, Vit K3 2,000mg, Vit B1 1,500mg, Vit B2 4,000mg, Vit B6
1,500mg, Niacin 15,000mg, Vit B12 10mcg, Pantothenic acid 5,000mg, Folic acid 500mg,
Biotin 20mcg, Cholinechloride 100,000mg, Manganese 75,000mg, Zinc 50,000mg, Iron
20,000mg, Copper 5,000mg, Iodine 1,000mg, Selenium 200mg, Cobalt 5000mg, Antioxidant
125,000mg.
Page | 356
Table 2: Egg Quality Characteristics of Layers Fed Dietary Levels of Kaura Sorghum
Replacing Maize with Full-Fat Soya Bean
Parameters Diets
1 2 3 4 5 SEM
(0%) (25%) (50%) (75%) (100%)
Egg weight (g) 54.00ab 52.51b 53.30ab 54.14ab 54.96a 0.47**
Egg length (cm) 9.64a 9.57a 5.49b 5.51b 5.54b 0.62***
Egg width (cm) 7.72a 7.40a 4.19b 4.24b 4.24b 0.71***
Yolk weight (g) 16.29 15.60 15.26 15.49 15.86 0.02NS
a a b b b
Albumin length (cm) 14.40 14.05 7.60 8.07 7.71 0.59***
Albumin height (cm) 0.68 0.67 0.65 0.65 0.70 0.06NS
b b b b a
Yolk height (cm) 1.52 1.48 1.61 1.38 5.14 0.72***
Yolk length (cm) 7.45a 7.47a 4.15b 4.15b 4.20b 0.58***
Shell weight (g) 6.49b 6.43b 6.65ab 6.65ab 6.75a 0.26*
Shell thickness (mm) 0.46 0.48 0.50 0.48 0.46 0.01NS
ab
= Means bearing same superscripts within the same rows are statistically similar (* = p<0.005,
** = p<0.01, and ***=p<0.001), SEM = Standard Error of Mean and NS = Not Significant
Page | 357
Performance and Digestibility of Nutrients by Broiler Finishers Fed Graded

Levels of Mucuna pruriens Seed Meal
*1
Akure, C. O., 2Abeke, F.O.,3Vantsawa P.A.,4Babasanya B., and 4Ayodele. J.T.
1
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
2
3
Department of Biological Sciences, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
4
*
Corresponding Author: akurechristy@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
A four week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of boiled Mucunaseed meal
(BMSM) on the growth performance and the digestibility of nutrients by broiler finisher chicks.
To achieve this three hundred and fifteen (315) broiler chicks were randomly allocated to five
experimental treatment diets in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment was
replicated thrice having twenty-one (21) birds per pen. BMSM was prepared and fed in graded
levels of 10.0, 20.0, 30.0, and 40.0% alongside control diet of 0.0 BMSM. Feed and water were
served libitum. The parameters measured and calculated include final bodyweight, weight gain,
feed intake, feed to gain ratio and feed cost per kilogram gain. Digestibility of dry matter, crude
protein, crude fibre, ether extract, ash and nitrogen free extract were also calculated. The data
collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that the final
body weight, the weight gain. feed intake as well as feed to gain ratio of birds fed 0%,10% and
20% BMSM were statistically (P>0.05) similar. They were however, significantly (P0.05) higher
than those from 30% and 40% levels of inclusion. Feed cost per kilogram weight gain and feed
cost per bird were lower for all BMSB diets when compared to the control diet. Digestibility of
nutrients was similar and better for the birds fed the control, 10.0 and 20.0% BMSM based diets
than those on 30 and 40% BMSM based diets. It was concluded that inclusion of BMSM in the
diets of broiler finisher chicks up to20% has beneficial effects.
Key words: Broiler chicks, Mucuna pruriens, Digestibility, Graded levels,
INTRODUCTION
The global demand for livestock products will require increasing amounts of feed protein
supplies and sources which usually come with its attendant high cost Akinola et al., (2020).
In Nigeria, the Livestock industry has not been able to supply sufficiently the much needed
animal protein by the populace. Poultry production, especially the broiler chickens remains one
of the dynamic ways of attaining sustainable and rapid production of high quality protein to meet
the increasing demand of the Nigeria teeming populace (Apata and Ojo, 2002), due to short
generation interval of 6-8 weeks of broiler chickens (Akinmutimi, 2004), but one of the main
challenges in poultry enterprise is high cost of feed which is estimated to be about 78.8% of the
total cost of production (Akure et al.,2020). This high cost has been attributed to the over-
dependence on the expensive conventional feed stuffs such as soybean and groundnut cake
which aremainly used in poultry feed formulation (Emenalon and Udedibie, 1998). A high
demand for these feed ingredients has resulted in an increase in their prices and consequently,
cost of poultry feeds and its products (Akinmutimi and Okwu, 2006). This necessitates research
into non-conventional feedstuffs (NCF) that are readily available, cheap and nutritionally safe.
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One of these NCF is Mucuna pruriens seeds (Akure, 2013) which is a widely available
leguminous seed found in the forest, it thrives well where others fail due to excellent adaptability
to extreme climatic conditions. It yields about three to four tonnes of seed per hectare. It is a
potential source of protein because it is very high in crude protein. It has a crude protein of about
29.89% (Akure, 2013).This research aims at evaluating the effect of feeding Boiled Mucuna seed
meals on the growth performance and nutrient digestibility when included at different levels in
the diet of broiler finishers.

Agriculture, Mariri, in Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State. Five experimental diets
of boiled Mucuna seed meal at 0.10.0, 20.0, 30.0 and 40.0% levels for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5
were formulated respectively. The feed composition for the chicks is shown in Table 1.The birds
were randomly assigned to pens in a completely randomized design (CRD). There were five
treatments and three replications of the five treatments each with 21 birds per pen. The
management of the birds was carried out according to the standard procedures for brooding,
vaccination and medication (NRC, 1994). The birds and feed were weighed weekly. The
performance characteristics were measured in terms of final weight, weight gain, feed intake, and
feed to gain ratio. Faecal droppings per bird to calculate the apparent nutrient digestibility were
collected. At the end of the 7 days, the faeces for each bird were bulked, thawed, weighed and
oven dried at 600C for seventy two (72) hours and subjected to proximate analysis. The result
obtained from performance was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using procedure of
SAS (2002), significant levels of differences among treatment means were determined using the
Duncan‘s multiple range test.
Table: 1 Gross composition of experimental diet (Broiler finisher) % containing Boiled Mucuna seed
meal (BMSM)
Ingredients (%) Levels of BMSM, %
0 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00
Maize 55.05 51.80 46.95 39.00 32.25
Groundnut cake 25.00 18.25 13.10 11.05 7.80
Mucuna seed meal 0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.0
Soybean meal 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Maize offal 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Common salt 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Methionine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
*Vitamin/trace min.premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 100 100 100 100 100
ME (Kcal/kg) 3001 3000 3112 3020 3025
Crude Protein 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Table 2 shows the performance of broiler finisher fed Mucuna seed meal.The final weight,
weight gain, feed intake and feed to gain ratio, of birds fed 0 and 10.0 and 20.0% boiled Mucuma
seed meal (BMSM) were similar, higher and better than those on other treatments, this could be
an indication that finishers were able to efficiently utilize BMSM at 10,0 and 20.0% better than
other levels.This result of better feed to gain ratio observed for birds fed 10.0 and 20.0% MSM
could also be due to the fact that there were sufficient digestible nutrients that were better
utilized at this level. The results of the feed intake from this study agreed with the findings of
Akinmutimi and Okwu, (2006) who reported reduced feed intake in cooked Mucuna seed meal
as dietary levels of inclusion of cooked Mucuna seed meal increased in the diets of broiler
chickens. There was significant (P<0.05) decrease among treatment means for feed cost per bird
and cost per kilogram gain, which decreased as the dietary levels of BMSM increased. The feed
cost per bird and per kilogram gain were significantly (P<0.05) better for all the BMSM diets
compared to the control diet, This was because Mucuna seeds were cheaper and readily available
without much competition from humans as they are not cherished as human food.
Table 2: Effects of feeding diets containing boiled Mucuna seed meal on performance of Broiler finishers
Levels Of BMSM%
Measurements Control 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 SEM
Initialweight (g/bird) 104.00 104.00 104.00 104.00 104.00 0.00
Final weight (g/bird) 861.11a 857.67a 850.00a 729.67b 680.60c 4.11
Weight gain (g/bird) 757.11a 753.67a 756.00a 625.67b 571.67c 4.21
Feed intake (g/bird) 1455.17a 1440.28a 1444.82a 1400.25b 1350.12c 9.42
Feed to Gain Ratio 1.90a 1.90a 1.90a 2.10b 2.24c 0.01
Feed cost/bird (N) 380.44d 367.58c 365.24bc 362.48b 356.32a 0.47
Feed cost/Kg weight 175.73e 154.03d 149.87c 139.22b 129.61a 0.88
gain (N)
Motrality (%) - - - - - -
abcd
SEM standard error of means
Table 3 shows the results of the nutrient digestibility by broiler finishers fed diets containing
graded levels of BMSM respectively. There were significant (P<0.05) differences among the
treatment means for the digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE),
ash, nitrogen free extract (NFE) and crude protein (CP) retention. The digestibility of all the
nutrients were similar and higher for birds fed control and those fed 10.0 and 20% BMSM diets
but decreased significantly (P<0.05) as the level of inclusion of boiled Mucuna seed meal
increased from 30 to 40% levels. This could be due to the fact that the birds digested and utilized
the diets containing 10.0 and 20% BMSM efficiently as evidenced by better gain on those diets.
The significantly higher weight gain of the birds fed 0, 10 and 20.0% BMSM diets compared to
other levels might have resulted from high nutrient intake and efficient nutrient digestion,
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absorption and utilization in the diets. The significant (P<0.05) decrease in nutrient digestion as
the dietary inclusion level of BMSM increased, could be attributed to low digestible
carbohydrate and high residual effect of anti-nutritional factors such as tannin and hydrocyanic
acid which could reduce digestive efficiency at high levels of BMSM hence low feed intake
recorded. Akure, (2013) reported that high residual MSM has negative effects on digestion
absorption and utilization of nutrients.
Table 3: Effects of boiled Mucuna seed meal based diets on nutrients digestibility by broiler finishers (%)
Levels of BMSM, %
Constituents (%) 0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 SEM
Dry matter 92.65a 92.30 a
92.56a 90.76b 87.61c 0.02
Crude protein 87.87a 87.86a 87.83a 82.53b 80.79c 0.03
Crude fibre 62.04a 62.82 a
62.26a 52.36b 49.36c 0.01
Ether extract 85.77a 85.75a 85.50a 79.79b 71.17c 0.03
Ash 72.30a 72.33a 72.34a 55.87b 50.20c 0.04
NFE 91.67a 91.47 a
91.02a 85.63b 80.80c 0.22
abcd
Means within the same row with different superscripts differ significantly (P<0.05 SEM = standard error of
means NFE.
REFERENCES
Akinmutimi, A.H. (2004). Effects of cooking periods on the nutrients composition of
Mucuna utilis seed. Nigerian Journal of Poultry science, 2: 45-51.
Akinmutimi, A. H. and Okwu, N.D. (2006). Effect of quantitative substitution of Cooked
Mucunautilis seed meal for soybean meal in Broiler finisher Diet.International Journal of
Poultry Science, 5: 477 – 481.
Akinnola, O.S., Akintola, K.A. and Oluwatosin, O.O. (2020). Infertile egg meal can replace
fishmeal in broiler chicken diets. Nigerian Journal of Animal production, 47(2): 131-
143
Akure, C.O. (2013). Evaluation of the nutritive value of differently processed mucuna prurient
ssee dmeal (MSM) on the performance of broiler chicken. PhD Dissertation submitted to
the Department of Animal Sciece, Faculty of Agriculture. Ahmadu Bello University
Zaria, Kaduna State , Nigeria.
Akure, C.O., Sekoni, A. A., Abeke, F.O., Vantsawa, P.A., Babasanya, B., Olukotun, O. and
Ayodele. J.T. (2020). Growth performance and carcass characteristics of finisher broilers
fed fermented mucuna pruriens seed meal. Journal of Animal Production Research, 32
(1): 92-99.
Apata, D. F. and Ojo, Y. (2002). Efficacy of Trichodermaviride enzyme complex in broiler
starter fed cowpea Testa Based Diets. In: Proceedings of 25th Annual Conference of
Nigerian Society for Animal Production, March 19 - 23: Pp132-134.
Emenalom, O.O. and Udedibie, A.B.I. (1998).Effect of dietary raw, cooked and toasted
Mucuna pruriens seed (Velvet bean) on the performance of finisher broilers.Nigerian
Journal of Animal Production, 25 (2): 115 -119.
National Research Council (1994). Nutrients Requirements of Poultry 8th Revised Ed. National
Academy press Washington D.C: National Academy of Science
Statistical Analysis System (SAS) (2002).User guide statistics, Version 9 Edition, SAS Institute
Inc. Cary. North Carolina, U.S.A.
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COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SOME COMMERCIAL FEEDS SOLD IN AKURE

METROPOLIS ON PERFORMANCE OF LAYING BIRDS
Akintomide, A.A., Ogundolire, A., Obatoye, O.P. and Oluwadahunsi, I.M.

Department of Animal Production & Health, School of Agriculture & Agricultural Technology,
The Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria
Corresponding author: Akintomide, A.A.; aaakintomide@futa.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
The comparative analysis of four commercial diets using chemical analysis and performance of
laying birds as response criteria was evaluated on one hundred and twenty (120) ISA Brown
laying birds of 22 weeks old in a completely randomized design. The commercial diets were
coded as CKM, TFM, ABM and ACM. Live weights of the hens were taken at the start and end
of the trial so as to determine the average body weight change. The numbers of eggs laid per
treatment were recorded daily, and hen day production (HDP) and feed conversion ratio (FCR)
were calculated. Significant differences (P˂0.05) were found in the proximate compositions with
crude protein (CP) values between 14.91% and 17.41%; ether extract (2.50%-4.71%), fibre
(3.69%-5.18%) and ash content (13.30%-19.47%). The performance indices were significantly
(P˂0.05) influenced by the test diets. Feed intake was between 100.61g and 123.96g/bird with
the highest value recorded in birds fed with TFM while the lowest feed intake was recorded in
birds fed CKM. Also, HDP value was between 43.33% and 55.04% and was highest for TFM.
The best value (2.30) recorded for FCR was from birds fed ACM while birds fed ABM had the
least value (2.71). Hence, it can be concluded that these commercial feeds are good for the
optimum performance of laying hens although feed TFM gave the best performance output
among the feeds.
Keywords: Feed quality, ISA brown layers, Commercial layers mash, Egg production, Feeding
INTRODUCTION
Nigeria, due to her ever-increasing population experiences inadequate supply of animal protein
in the diet of a good number of the populace, especially among rural dwellers who constitute a
large proportion of the entire population (Millward et al., 2008). Monogastric animal production
and poultry production in particular is capable of alleviating this by contributing significantly to
food security in the country. Chicken products such as eggs and meat are majorly protein
sources with high biological value (Alex et al., 2018).
However, cost of feed gulps the largest proportion of the total cost of production in the poultry
industry. Most times, over 75% of total cost of production is expended on feeding, out of which
50% is used to purchase protein and energy-giving feed ingredients (Ahaotu et al., 2013;
Okonkwo and Ahaotu, 2019). In recent times, the poultry industry witnessed scarcity and soaring
prices of these nutrients and according to Roy et al. (2004), it is apparent that diets/feeds given to
these birds have positive correlation with their performance and profitability. So, there is need
for time-to-time monitoring of these feeds to ensure that quality is not compromised. Visual
observation, chemical analysis and on-farm trials could be used to achieve this (Roy et al.,
2004).
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The objective of this study therefore was to assess the quality of four commercial layers‘ mash
sold in Akure, Ondo State using proximate and on-farm analyses.

The research was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Livestock Section, Teaching and Research
Farm, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State. One hundred and twenty (120)
ISA Brown point-of-lay hens of seventeen (17) weeks old were procured from a reputable
farm in Ibadan, Oyo State. On arrival, anti-stress was administered in order to stabilize the
birds and they were managed till 10% Hen Day Production (HDP) was recorded before the
commencement of the experiment.
At the 22nd week, the birds were divided into four (4) treatments which represented the
commercial feeds coded as CKM, TFM, ABM and ACM in a completely randomized
design. The declared nutrients compositions of the diets by the manufacturers are shown in
Table 1. Each bird was given 125g of feed per day and the trial lasted for five (5) weeks .
Live weights of the hens were taken at the start and end of the trial so as to determine the average
body weight change. The numbers of eggs laid per treatment were recorded daily and HDP for
each treatment was calculated as
( )
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated as:
All data obtained were subjected to one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using SPSS version 23.0
(SPSS Software products, Marketing Department, SPSS Inc Chicago, IL, USA). Significant differences
were compared using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) of the same package.
Table 1: Nutrient compositions of the commercial layers’ mash
Parameters (%) CKM TFM ABM ACM

Crude Protein 16.50 16.50 16.50 16.50
Crude Fibre 5.00 5.00 6.00 5.00
Fat and Oil 5.00 5.00 5.00 4.40
Calcium 3.50 3.80 2.00 3.75
Lysine 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
Methionine - 0.40 0.34 -
Salt - - 0.03 -
Metabolizable Energy 2500 2650 2500 2650

Table 2 shows the proximate composition of the four commercial diets. Significant differences
(P˂0.05) were found in all parameters analysed. Crude protein (CP) was highest (17.41%) for
ACM and lowest (14.91%) for CKM. According to USDA (2003), the CP content for layers can
fall within the range of 12.50%-18.80%. Feed TFM had the highest fibre content of 5.18% while
ABM had the lowest value for crude fibre (3.69%). Feed CKM had the highest ash content
(19.47%) and ACM had the lowest value (13.30%). In the study conducted by Ebenebe et al.
(2013) on layers, a range of 4.02-4.82% was reported for crude fibre and 11.50-16.15% was
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reported for ash. The high nutritive status of the four commercial diets could infer good egg
qualities due to the high mineral and CP contents.
Table 3 shows the performance of layers on the four commercial diets. The final weight, feed
intake, percent HDP and FCR were all significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the diets but weight
gain was not significantly different (P>0.05). The highest values for HDP (55.04%) and total egg
produced (19.27) were recorded in birds fed TFM while the lowest values for HDP (43.33%) and
total egg produced (15.07) were recorded in CKM. Also, the best FCR (2.30) was recorded in
birds fed with diet ACM while the lowest FCR (2.71) was recorded in birds that consumed
ABM. In this study that feed intake ranged between 100.61g – 123.69g/day. This observed value
range is comparable with 103.97–110.49 g reported by Oyewole et al. (2018), but lower than
128–148 g observed by Iheukwumere et al. (2007). The least HDP recorded in CKM (43.33%)
might have been due to the low feed intake of the layers. Differences in HDP and FCR among
the diets reflect the variation in ingredients used in formulating the commercial feeds and their
consumption rate.
Table 2: Proximate composition of the commercial feeds

Parameters CKM TFM ABM ACM SEM P-value
(%)
Crude Protein 17.40a 14.91c 15.62b 17.41a 0.02 0.01
Ether extract 4.71a 4.11b 2.50d 4.50c 0.01 0.001
Moisture 6.56d 7.30b 7.70a 6.63c 0.01 0.001
Crude fibre 4.09c 5.18a 3.69d 5.09b 0.02 0.001
Ash 19.47a 14.43c 18.53b 13.30d 0.01 0.001
Nitrogen Free 47.77d 54.07a 51.96c 53.07b 0.02 0.02
Extract
a,b,c,d
– Means on the same row having different superscripts are significantly (P< 0.05) different.
SEM – Standard Error Mean
Table 3: Performance of birds fed the commercial feeds

Parameters CKM TFM ABM ACM SEM P-value
Initial Weight (kg/bird) 1.34 1.34 1.34 1.33 0.01 0.97
b a
Final Weight (kg/ bird) 1.53 1.60 1.65a 1.59ab 0.01 0.02
Weight Gained (kg/ bird) 0.19 0.26 0.31 0.25 0.02 0.22
d
Feed Intake (g/bird/day) 100.61 123.96 119.18b
a
105.50c 0.11 0.01
Total Egg Production (per bird) 15.07d 19.27a 15.87c 16.47b 0.02 0.01
Hen Day Production (%) 43.33d 55.04a 45.33c 47.04b 0.05 0.01
Feed Conversion Ratio 2.40c 2.32b 2.71d 2.30a 0.02 0.01
a,b,c,d
– Means on the same row having different superscripts are significantly (P< 0.05) different.
SEM – Standard Error Mean
CONCLUSION
The comparative analyses of four commercial diets using performance of laying birds as
response criteria showed that the feeds were of good nutritional qualities with reference to the
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weight gain, Hen Day Production (HDP) and Feed Conversion Ratio. However, birds fed TFM
had the highest total egg produced and HDP.
REFERENCES
Ahaotu, E.O; Ezeafulukwe C.F.; Ayo-Enwerem C.M and Ekenyem, B.U (2013). Effects of
enzyme fortified raw moringa seed (moringa oleifera) waste diets on nutrient utilization
and haematological parameters of broilers. International Journal of Applied Science in
Engineering, 1(1): 25-30.
Alex, A., Jacob, A. H., Addo, Y. A. and Kwaku A. (2018). Impact of egg storage duration and
temperature on egg quality, fertility, hatchability and chick quality in naked neck
chickens. International Journal of Poultry Science, 17: 175-183.
Ebenebe, C. I., Anigbogu, C. C., Anizoba, M. A. and Ufele, A. N. (2013). Effect of various
levels of Moringa Leaf Meal on the Egg Quality of Isa Brown Breed of Layers. Advances
in Life Science and Technology www.iiste.org ISSN 2224-7181 (Paper) ISSN 2225-
062X (Online)Vol 14
Iheukwumere, F.C, Ndubuisi, E.C, Mazi, E.A, Onyekwere, M.U. (2007). Growth, blood
chemistry and carcass yield of broilers fed cassava leaf meal (Manihot esculenta Crantz).
International Journal of Poultry Science, (6):555-559.
Millward, D. J., Layman, D. K., Tome, D. and Schaafsma, G. (2008). Protein quality assessment:
Impact of expanding understanding of protein and amino acid needs for optimal health.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 87: 1576-1581.
Okonkwo, S.and Ahaotu, E.O. (2019). Management of laying birds in deep litter and battery cage
systems in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria: A Comparative Study.
International Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry, 6(3): 21-29.
Oyewole, B. O., Ojotule, B. and Salihu, A. (2018). Performance, egg qualities, and blood
parameters of layers fed diets containing graded levels of sundried sweet orange fruit peel
meal. Agricultural Extension Journal, 2(2):125-131.
Roy, B.C., Ranvig, H., Chowdhury, S.D., Rashid, M.M. and Chwalibog, A. (2004). Evaluation of
compound broiler feeds manufactured in Bangladesh. Livestock Research for Rural
Development, 16(11). Article #93.
U. S. Department of Agriculture (2003). Feed and Animal management for poultry. Nutrient
Management Technical Note No. 4. USDA: Washington, DC, USA, 2003.
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EFFECT OF ACETIC ACID ON BROILER CHICKS GROWTH PERFORMANCE
Abatan M.O., Egbeyale, L.T., Abioja, M.O., Majekodunmi, B.C. and Adeleye, O.O.
Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Corresponding author: adeleyeoo@funaab.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
This study was conduct to investigate the effect of drinking water supplemented with different
dosage of acetic acid (AA) at varied frequency of administration on growth performance of
broiler chickens at the early growth phase. 300 Arbor acre broiler chicks were assigned to 6
groups in a completely randomized design experiment with a 2 by 3 factorial arrangement and 5
replicates of 10 chicks each. The 6 groups were; T1 and T4 (0ml/L AA/Enrofloxacin group), T2
(5ml/L AA twice weekly), T3 (5ml/L AA thrice weekly), T5 (10ml/L AA twice weekly), T6
(10ml/L AA thrice weekly. The AA administration began on the 2nd day of the chicks‘ life and
was included in the drinking water on selected days. Growth performance was evaluated on
parameters like weight gain, feed intake, water intake and Feed Conversion Ratio. The data
collected were subjected to One-way Analysis of Variance via a General Linear Model
procedure using Minitab 17 and means were separated using Tukey‘s test of the same statistical
software. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among all the 6 groups but when
considering the main effect of AA dosage and the frequency of administration, only the dosage
had significant effect (p<0.05) on the final weight and water intake of the birds, as the highest
values were obtained in the 10ml/L AA group and both AA groups respectively. Results from
this study shows that inclusion of AA in drinking water of broilers at the early growth phase is a
promising alternative to antibiotics growth promoter.
Keywords: Broiler chicks, Acetic acid, Enrofloxacin, Antibiotic growth promoter, Growth
performance
INTRODUCTION
The global threat of antibiotic resistance and the ineffectiveness of antibiotics treatment has led
to the ban of non-therapeutic use of antibiotics in animal production in many parts of the world
(Castanon, 2007; Cogliani et al., 2011). This has led researchers to test the efficacy of organic
alternatives (such as acidifiers (organic acids), prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, enzymes,
phytogenic, microflora enhancers, immunostimulants, antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages and
metals) in maintaining or improve poultry health and performance (Gadde et al., 2017).
Organic acids are widely distributed in nature as normal constituents of animal or plant tissues
and some of them [specifically short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)] are produced in the hind gut of
livestock and humans through microbial fermentation of carbohydrates and they can also be
administered in the feed or drinking (Huyghebaert et al., 2011). AA is one of such SCFA. SCFA
improves gut health by serving as a direct energy source for the growth of epithelial cells which
are responsible for most digestive, absorptive and secretory processes in the GIT (Gadde et al.,
2017). Generally, organic acids showcase specific antimicrobial properties via pH-reduction
effects at the moment of digestion thus inhibiting some pathogenic bacteria proliferation, trophic
effects on the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) mucosa, and increase of pancreatic secretion (Dibner &
Buttin, 2002; Van Immerseel et al. 2006). In young chicks, SCFA production in the gut is
insufficient and acidifiers may be used to compensate for this. Various studies have shown that
organic acids can be used to enhance growth performance. In spite of this, using organic acids to
Page | 366
improve performance lacks consistency and this is attributable to various factors such as
inclusion rates, the source of the organic acids, and the buffering capacity of other dietary
ingredients (Dibner and Buttin, 2002; Kim et al., 2015). Hence, this research which aims to
examine the effect of AA in drinking water of broiler chicks (at varying inclusion rate and
frequency of administration) on the growth performance.

This study was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm Unit of the Directorate
of University Farms, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. 300
broiler chicks of Arbor acre strain obtained from reputable hatchery were brooded on a deep
litter system for two weeks after initially weighing and allotting them into six treatments,
namely; T1 and T4 (Control/Enrofloxacin group for the 5ml/L AA and 10ml/L AA groups
respectively), T2 (5ml/L AA twice weekly), T3 (5ml/L AA thrice weekly), T5 (10ml/L AA twice
weekly), T6 (10ml/L AA thrice weekly) using a Completely Randomized Design in a 2 by 3
factorial arrangement. A total of 50 chicks were assigned into each treatment which was made up
of 5 replicates with 10 chicks each. The feed and water were supplied ad libitum. The
commercial starter diet used for all treatment contained 2800Kcal/KgME and 21% crude protein.
The AA administration began for the required treatments on the second day of the chicks‘ life
and was included in the drinking water on selected days while antibiotics containing 20%
Enrofloxacin & bromhexine hydrochloride solution was administered into the drinking water of
birds in the control groups following the standard medication schedule. All other medication and
vaccination schedules were strictly adhered to as applicable. To monitor the ambient temperature
and relative humidity of the brooding house, hygrometers were suspended about the level of the
birds in addition to the physical observation of the birds. Data were collected for feed and water
intake (daily), weekly weight, weight gain and consequently the Feed Conversion Ratio were
calculated while statistical analysis of all data generated were done by subjecting the data to
One-way analysis of variance using the general linear model procedure of MINITAB 17 and
means were separated using Tukey‘s test of the same statistical package.

The effect of AA on growth performance parameters of broiler chicks are presented in Tables 1
and 2, with Table 1 showing the main effect of dosage and frequency of administration of AA at
two weeks of age and Table 2 showing the interactive effect of dosage and frequency of
administration at two weeks of age. Table 1 indicated that the frequency of administration did
not significantly affect (p>0.05) all measured parameters while there was a significant difference
(p<0.05) only in values obtained for the water intake and final weight with regard to the dosage
of AA. Table 2 revealed that the two factors considered (dosage and frequency of administration)
did not have a significant effect (p>0.05) on all growth indices measured.
Page | 367
Table 1: Main effect of AA on growth performance at the second week of experiment

Dosage of AA Frequency
Parameter 0ml/L 5ml/L 10ml/L SEM P-value Twice/w Thrice/ SEM P-
eek week value
Initial weight 119.3 122.6 123.6 2.00 0.30 119.6 124.1 2.83 0.05
(g/bird)
Final weight 268.7b 269.5b 288.3a 5.57 0.03 275.0 276.1 4.55 0.87
(g/bird)
Average feed 243.0 259.3 270.7 7.43 0.05 260.8 254.6 6.07 0.48
Intake
(g/bird/week)
Average water 0.46b 0.52a 0.54a 0.01 <0.01 0.50 0.52 0.01 0.21
Intake
(l/bird/week)
Average 148.9 146.9 164.7 5.93 0.09 155.4 151.6 4.84 0.59
weekly weight
gain (g/week)
Feed 1.64 1.79 1.67 0.08 0.33 1.70 1.70 0.06 0.96
Conversion
Ratio
a,b
Means in the same row not sharing common superscript are significantly different (P<0.05)
Table 2: Interactive effect of AA on growth performance at the second week of experiment

5ml/L AA 10ml/L AA SEM P-value
Parameter 0 Twice/ Thrice 0 Twice/ Thrice/
week /week week week
Initial weight (g/bird) 119.8 116.2 129.0 118.9 122.7 124.6 1.63 0.06
Final weight (g/bird) 269.0 265.0 274.0 268.4 290.9 285.8 7.88 0.66
Average feed Intake 243.0 264.6 254.0 243.0 274.7 266.8 10.51 0.87
(g/bird/week)
Average water Intake 0.46 0.50 0.54 0.46 0.53 0.56 0.02 0.57
(l/bird/week)
Average weekly 149.2 148.8 145.0 148.6 168.1 161.2 8.38 0.93
weight gain (g/week)
Feed Conversion Ratio 1.63 1.80 1.78 1.64 1.65 0.69 0.11 0.97
a,b
Means in the same row not sharing common superscript are significantly different (P<0.05)
Organic acids such as AA, formic acid and butyric acid have been used in poultry diets for
decades and seem to elicit a positive response in growth performance (Kopecky et al., 2010).
According to this study, the growth performance of the chicks was not negatively compromised
but rather positively enhanced (as reflected by the final weight at 2 weeks and the birds‘ water
consumption) by the administration of AA via drinking water at 5ml/L (0.5%) and 10ml/L (1%)
Page | 368
dosage and at both frequencies of administration considered (twice or thrice weekly), thus
indicating the potency of AA as a growth promoter and a beneficial alternative to antibiotic
growth promoters. This result corroborates the findings of Rehman et al. (2016) in their study of
dietary AA supplementation in which AA supplementation at 0.3% level was reported to
improve bird‘s performance during 2-6 weeks of age.
The final weight at the end of the second week of the chicks‘ life was significantly higher in the
10ml/L AA group. This increase in the final weight may be attributed to the ability of AA to
reduce microbial competition with the host for nutrients thus leading to an enhanced nutrient
digestibility and absorption (Dibner and Buttin, 2002). This finding is in agreement with
Abdelrazek et al. (2016) who also reported a significant increase in body weight of broilers when
their drinking water was acidified with mixture of citric acid and AA. However, in contrast to
our result, Islam et al. (2008) reported a reduced weight in birds on 0.5% AA when compared to
the other groups (0% organic acid, 0.5% citric acid and 0.5% citric acid + 0.5% AA). A
significantly higher water intake was also recorded in both 5ml/L AA group and 10ml/L AA
group. The high water consumption by chicks may be due to the numerically higher feed intake
which makes the birds require more water to aid their feed digestion process. Ali et al. (2020) in
their study using single and mixture of organic acids as antibiotics alternative, found that water
acidification did not affect birds‘ water consumption.

The results of the present study have demonstrated the beneficial effects of AA (particularly at
10ml/L dosage) on growth parameters in broiler chicks and it could be suggested as a
replacement for AGPs. However, further studies are needed to determine the maximum safe
level of AA inclusion in drinking water of chicks.
Acknowledgement
The authors would like to thank Adelaja Folarin, Adeoye Jumoke, Adekunle Afolarin, Akinade
Azeez and Enitan Adebayo for their efforts during data collection.
REFERENCES
Abdelrazek, H.M.A., Abuzead, S.M.M., Ali, A.F., El-Genaidy, H.M.A., Abdel-Hafez S. (2016).
Effect of citric and AA water acidification on broiler‘s performance with respect to thyroid
hormones levels. Advance Animal Veterinary Science. 4: 271-278.
Ali, A.M., Elagrb, H.M., Hamoud, M.M., Gamal, A.M., Mousa, M.R., Nasr, S.A.E., ElShater,
M.A.H., Laban, S.F., Zahran, O.K., Ali, M.M. (2020). Effect of acidified drinking water by
organic acids on broiler performance and gut health. Advance Animal Veterinary Science.
8(12): 1301-1309.
Castanon, J.I.R. (2007). History of the use of antibiotic growth promoters in European poultry
feeds. Poultry Science. 86: 2466-2471.
Cogliani, C., Goossens, H., Greko, C. (2011). Restricting antimicrobial use in food animals:
Lessons from Europe. Microbe. 6:274-279.
Dibner, J. J., and P. Buttin. (2002). Use of organic acids as a model to study the impact of gut
microflora on nutrition and metabolism. Journal of Applied Poultry Research. 11:453–
463.
Page | 369
Gadde U, Kim, W.H., Oh, S.T., Lillehoj, H.S. (2017). Alternatives to antibiotics for maximizing
growth performance and feed efficiency in poultry: A review. Animal Health Research
Review. 18(1):26-45.
Huyghebaert G, Ducatelle R, and Van Immerseel F. (2011). An update on alternatives to
antimicrobial growth promoters for broilers. The Veterinary Journal. 187: 182–188.
Islam, M.Z., Khandaker, Z.H., Chowdhury, S.D. and Islam, K.M.S. (2008). Effect of citric acid
and acetic acid on the performance of broilers. Journal of Bangladesh Agriculture
University. 6(2): 315–320.
Kim, J.W., Kim, J.H. and Kil, D.Y. (2015). Dietary organic acids for broiler chickens: A review.
Colombian Journal of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine. 28: 109–123.
Kopecký, J., Cyril, H., Ján, W. (2012). Effect of Organic Acids Supplement on Performance of
Broiler Chickens. Animal Sciences and Biotechnologies. 45 (1):51-54.
Van der wielen, P. (2000). Dietary strategies to influence the gastrointestinal microflora of young
animals and its potential to improve intestinal health. Pp. 37-60 in Nutrition and Health of
the Gastrointestinal Tract. M.C. Blok, H.A.
Van Immerseel, F., Russel, J.B., Flythe, M.D., Gantois I., Timbermont L., Pasmans F.,
Haesebrouck F., Ducatelle, R. (2006). The use of organic acids to combat salmonella in
poultry: a mechanistic explanation of the efficacy. Avian Pathology. 35:182-188.
Zaib, R., Ahsan, H., Naasra, A., Mohamed E. Abd El-Hack, Muhammad, S., Shahid, R.,
Chunchun, M., Mahmoud, A., Maryam, S., Kuldeep, D. and Chan, D. (2016). Growth
performance, intestinal histomorphology, blood hematology and serum metabolites of
broilers chickens fed diet supplemented with graded levels of acetic acid. International
Journal of Pharmacology. 12: 874-883.
Page | 370
EFFECT OF FEEDING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF RED AND BLACK VARIETIES OF

FINGER MILLET (ELEUCINE CORACANA) AS REPLACEMENT FOR MAIZE ON
CARCASS EVALUATION OF BROILER CHICKENS
1
Bot, M.H., Tok, C.C., 3Ajimohun, F. F., 1Udokainyang, A. D., 1Olaiya, O. D., 4Kpanja, E.J. and
1
Hassan, I.M.
1
Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, NVRI, Vom, Plateau State.
2
Federal College of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State.
3
National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom.
4
Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of replacing maize with two varieties of finger millet
(Eleucine coracana) on the carcass evaluation of broiler chickens. Significant (P<0.05) main effect was
observed in dressing percentage, back, thigh, wings and lungs of the replacement levels. However, there
was significant (P<0.05) interaction in all the prime cuts across the dietary treatments. Therefore, red and
black finger millet can be recommended for farmers to incorporate into broiler feeds, since birds fed with
these varieties of finger millet can perform fovourably with birds fed maize based diets.
INTRODUCTION
Broiler chickens being part of poultry birds have greatly influenced the lives of human beings positively
by providing them with sources of proteins/food, employment and income. Delgado et al., (1999)
projected that per capita consumption of livestock products will increase by about 50% from 1993 to
2020, with most of the increases attributed to developing countries, as a result of population growth,
urbanization and rising incomes. FAO, (2010) reported that poultry has contributed to improving human
nutrition and food security by being a source of high-quality protein, economic, social and cultural
significance in small societies. It is no longer news that the cost of feed ingredients has continued to soar
high everyday so that the ordinary farmers are finding it difficult to remain in poultry business. Conolly,
(2012) reported that feed cost is expected to continue in the upward swing.

Source of Finger Millet
The grain which is popularly called finger millet or tamba locally was purchased from local markets in
Ganawuri in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau and Manchok in Kaduna States of Nigeria.

Main effect of feeding diets containing different level s of red and black varieties of finger millet as
replacement for maize on carcass evaluation of broiler chickens
The result of the main effect of red and black finger millet on the carcass evaluation of broiler chickens is
presented in Table 1. It can be observed that there is no significant (P>0.05) main effect of variety on all
the parameters measured, however there is significant (P<0.05) main effect of replacement levels on
prime cuts and organ such as; back, thigh, wings and lungs. This relatively low dressing % observed
could be due to the impact of the replacement levels of finger millet on the birds. The result of dressing %
range of 62.46-68.95g obtained in this study is lower than 68.43-73.99g recorded by (Tok et al., 2018)
when gayamba millet was fed to broiler chickens, however, live weight range of 2012-2143g recorded in
this study is better than 1750-2220g obtained by (Yunusa et al., 2015). Finger millet had no significant
(P>0.05) main effect on the remaining prime cuts and organs. This suggests that finger millet is a
potential alternative energy source that can be used to replace maize in feeding broiler chickens.
Page | 371
Interaction effect of feeding diets containing different levels of red and black varieties of finger
millet as replacement for maize on carcass evaluation of broiler chickens
The result of interaction effect of red and black finger millet varieties with their replacement levels on
carcass evaluation of broiler chickens is presented in Table 2. There is significant (P<0.05) interaction
effect of variety and replacement levels of the carcass evaluation on live weight, back and thigh of broiler
chickens. The live weight of the birds was increasing inconsistently as the finger millet replacement level
was increasing across the dietary treatments. The best performance (2276g) was put up by broilers fed
diets containing 75% red finger millet, which indicates that finger millet if given the opportunity can be
an alternative energy feed resource. The live weight range 2010-2276g disagree with the result of Tok et
al., 2018) who reported live weight range of 1880-2160g after feeding varying levels of gayamba millet
to broiler chickens. The carcass weight and the dressing % did not give values as expected from the live
weight; the reason may be that some of the birds had more feathers and organs weight that added to their
live weights. Similar observation was made by Adeniji, (2004) that the number of feathers and viscera
possessed by birds depend on their body surface area and weight respectively which can increase or
decrease their dressed weights. However, it can be observed that there is no significant (P>0.05)
interaction effect of red and black finger millet and replacement levels in some of the prime cuts and
organs of the carcass of broiler chickens. This result is in conformity with what was obtained by Tok et
al., 2018) where most of the carcass parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) different after feeding
broiler chickens with varying levels of gayamba millet. This result is also supported by (Bedford, 2006
and Panda, 2006). The interaction effect observed in all the parameters measured is an indication of the
better ability of the birds to tolerate the anti-nutritional factors that may be found in finger millet.
CONCLUSION
It can be concluded that finger millet is energy rich which is can improve the carcass quality of broiler
chickens and therefore can be use in compounding feed for broilers without any deleterious effects.
REFERENCES
Adeniji, C.A. (2004). Performance of carcass characteristics of chicken fed high fiber sunflower seed
cake diets. Nig. J. Anim. Prod. 31(2): 174-181.
Bedford, M.R. (2006). Phytate as an antinutrient challenges in quantification of the nutrient value of
phytase, Syngenta Animal Nutrition Technical symposium, Multi-State Poultry Feeding and
Nutrition conf. pp. 25-27.
Conolly, A. (2012). Seminar presentation on ―Pushing the boundaries – Performance and profitability‖.
Poultry International Magazine, Mark Clement (ed). January 2012. p.18 www.WATTAgNet.com
Delgado, C., Rosegrant, M., Steinfield, H., Ehui, S. and Courboi, C. (1999). Livestock to 2020,
The Next Food Revolution. Food, Agriculture and the Environment Discussion Paper 28. IFPRI,
Washington D.C.
FAO, (2010) Agribusiness Handbook: Poultry meat and eggs. Investment Centre
Division. FAO, Rome, Italy.
Panda, A.K. (2006). Phosphorus: The essential mineral. Feed-mix, 14 (1): 16-17
www.AGRIWORLD.NL.
Tok, C.C., Dafur, B.S., Anwo, O.J. and Datit, J.S. (2018). Utilization of graded levels of gayamba millet
Pennsetum species variety by broiler chickens. Nigerian journal of Anim. Sci. 20(4): 601-608.
Yunusa, Y., Doma, U.D., Zahraddeen, D., Abubakar, S.B., Umar, A. and Isah, A. (2015). Performance
and economics of production of broiler chickens fed different dietary energy sources. Asian
Journal of Poultry Science. 9 (1): 41-49.
Page | 372
Table 1: Main effect of Finger millet varieties and levels of replacement on Carcass Characteristics
of broiler chickens
Varietal Effect (%) Replacement levels (%)
Parameter Red Black SEM 0 25 50 75 100 SEM
Live 2105 2072 28.00 2012 2070 2104 2143 2112 44.27
weight (g/)
Carcass 1378 1338 30.60 1388 1293 1392 1339 1378 48.30
weight (g)
Dressing % 65.51 64.59 1.06 68.95a 62.53b 66.12ab 62.46b 65.17ab 1.68
Prime cuts expressed as % carcass weight
Drumsticks 14.90 14.59 0.25 14.33 14.61 15.07 14.97 14.73 0.39
Back 18.46 18.00 0.27 18.31b 17.35c 19.90a 18.38b 17.22c 0.43
Thigh 18.31 17.83 0.67 15.88c 18.68b 17.49a 20.21a 18.09b 0.66
Breast 35.14 34.67 0.73 35.49 35.33 33.08 35.08 35.04 1.15
Wings 12.76 12.71 0.16 12.23b 12.80a 13.05a 13.04a 12.56a 0.14
Organ weights expressed as % live weight
Heart 0.52 0.54 0.02 0.56 0.55 0.52 0.53 0.48 0.03
Liver 1.74 1.63 0.07 1.79 1.74 1.67 1.61 1.62 0.10
Lungs 0.62 0.61 0.03 0.61ab 0.61ab 0.70a 0.55b 0.60ab 0.04
Gizzard 1.66 1.66 0.05 1.59 1.67 1.72 1.56 1.77 0.07
Spleen 0.10 0.11 0.01 0.12 0.10 0.10 0.09 0.10 0.02
Abdominal 1.15 1.18 0.11 1.60 1.19 1.26 0.98 0.80 0.17
abc: Means on the same row with these superscripts differ significantly (p<0.05)
SEM: Standard error of means
Page | 373
Table 2: Interaction effect of finger millet varieties and replacement levels on carcass characteristics of broiler chickens
Red variety (%) Black variety (%)
RBFM levels 0 25 50 75 100 0 25 50 75 100
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 SEM
Live weight (g/) 2012b 2041b 2141ab 2276a 2051b 2012b 2098ab 2065b 2010b 2174ab 62.60
Carcass weight (g) 1388 1318 1429 1426 1330 1388 1268 1354 1253 1425 48.30
Dressing (%) 68.95 64.44 66.76 62.61 64.77 68.95 60.63 65.48 62.30 65.57 2.38
Prime cuts expressed as % carcass weight
Drumstick 14.33 14.75 14.75 15.32 15.34 14.33 14.47 15.40 14.62 14.12 0.55
Back 18.31b 17.25b 19.52a 19.15a 18.06b 18.31b 17.45b 20.28a 17.61b 16.37c 0.40
Thigh 15.88b 18.44b 17.09b 21.56a 18.58b 15.88b 18.91b 17.88b 18.87b 17.61b 1.22
Breast 35.49 35.29 34.57 36.24 34.12 35.49 35.36 31.60 34.93 35.96 1.62
Wings 12.23 13.84 12.55 13.34 12.83 12.23 12.75 13.54 12.74 12.28 0.35
Organ weights expressed as % live weight
Hear 0.56 0.56 0.48 0.53 0.47 0.56 0.54 0.55 0.53 0.49 0.04
Liver 1.79 1.86 1.81 1.57 1.69 1.79 1.63 1.53 1.66 1.55 0.15
Lungs 0.61 0.62 0.76 0.48 0.62 0.61 0.60 0.63 0.61 0.59 0.06
Gizzard 1.59 1.68 1.67 1.61 1.77 1.59 1.67 1.78 1.51 1.77 0.10
Spleen 0.12 0.11 0.08 0.06 0.11 0.12 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.09 0.02
Abdominal fat 1.60 1.12 1.49 0.94 0.60 1.60 1.27 1.03 1.01 1.01 0.25
abc: Means on the same row with these superscripts differ significantly (p<0.05)
SEM: Standard error of means
Page | 374
QUALITY OF EGGS FROM LAYING HENS FED SUPPLEMENTAL SELENIUM AND

Α-TOCOPHEROL
1
Jemiseye, F. O., 1Ogunwole, O. A., 2Mosuro, A. O., 1Adedeji, B. S. and 3Alonge, O. O.
1
Agricultural Biochemistry & Nutrition Unit, Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan,
Ibadan, Nigeria
2
Department of Human Nutrition, Lead City University, Ibadan
3
Animal Science Department, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Correspondence email-jemiseyefo@gmail.com, Phone number-08037064917
ABSTRACT
Effects of dietary supplement of selenium and α–tocopherol on quality of eggs from laying hens was
assessed in a 20-week trial. ISA brown pullets (n=192, age =20 weeks) were randomly assigned to six
experimental diets in a completely randomised design: Basal diet (T1) without any supplemental
selenium or α–tocopherol, T2: Basal + 0.5 mg/kg selenium, T3: Basal diet + 1.0 mg/kg selenium, T4:
Basal diet + 1.5 mg/kg selenium, T5: Basal diet + 20 mg/kg α–tocopherol, T6: Basal diet + 40 mg/kg α–
tocopherol. Each treatment was replicated four times and a replicate comprised eight pullets. At week 36
freshly laid eggs (3 eggs per replicate) were collected randomly for measurement of internal and external
egg quality parameters using an electronic top loading scale and Vernier caliper following appropriate
procedures. External egg characteristics parameters were not significantly affected (P>0.05) by
supplemental selenium and α–tocopherol. Albumen length (69.62), yolk weight (12.74) and albumen
weight (0.35) were significantly (P<.05) reduced in hens on supplemental 40mg/kg α-tocopherol diet but
yolk diameter increased in the control and 40mg/kg α-tocopherol supplemented groups. In conclusion,
supplemental selenium and α–tocopherol did not influence the external egg characteristics though
supplementation of α–tocopherol up to 40 mg/kg reduced most of the internal egg quality characteristics.
Keywords: Isa Brown layers, selenium, α–tocopherol, egg quality, supplement
INTRODUCTION
Egg quality is a serious concern in egg producing industries and marketing. Quality of a particular food is
defined as the properties which impact its approval or refusal by the consumer (Kramer, 1951). Egg
quality refers to the attributes of an egg which influence consumer‘s tolerability, therefore, it is of great
importance to pay attention to the difficulties of safeguarding and promotion of eggs to preserve the
quality characteristics (Adeogun, and Amole, 2004).
A change in egg quality can be caused by several factors. Proper management and dietary modification
strategies however could alleviate the problems associated with egg quality. Selenium and α-tocopherol
are antioxidants of proven capabilities of cell protection in domestic animals (Finch and Turner, 1996).
Some of the established applications of these antioxidants are in the improvement of egg production, shelf
life and quality, inhibition of cholesterol and lipid oxidation during cooking, storage and importantly
antioxidant-fortified eggs. Alpha tocopherol prevents formation of lipid hydroperoxides from unsaturated
phospholipids existing in subcellular membrane (McDowell, 1989) thus prevent lipid peroxidation in egg
yolk. While the sparing effects of selenium on vitamin E has been established. However, there have been
conflicting reports of dietary supplementation of selenium and α-tocopherol on egg quality parameters of
laying hens. Therefore, this research was designed to investigate the influence of selenium and α-
tocopherol supplementation in the diets of laying hen on egg quality.

The experiment was carried out at the Poultry Section of the Teaching and Research Farm, University of
Ibadan, Ibadan. The geographical location is longitude 7°.27.05 North and latitude 3°53.74 of Greenwich
Meridian East at an altitude above 200 m sea level. Average temperature and relative humidity of the
location is about 23-55°C and 60%, respectively. Open sided pen housing system of 29 by 13.9 m2
Page | 375
constructed with wire mesh fitted to concrete wall of 8.4 m above ground was used in this trial. A
conventional 3-tier battery cage system and the dimension of each unit of the cage was 40 x 41 x 32 cm3
accommodating four hens each. The cages were arranged in rows placed on leg supports so the floors of
the cages were about 61.00 to 91.44 cm above ground with a rectangular hollow in the middle to collect
the droppings.
Effects of dietary supplements of selenium and α-tocopherol on egg quality attributes was evaluated in a
20-weeks trial. ISA brown pullets (n=192) at 20 weeks of age were assigned to six experimental diets in
a completely randomised design (Table 1). Basal diet (T1) was without supplementation while diets T2,
T3 and T4, contained 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg supplemental selenium, respectively. Diets T5 and T6 were
supplemented with 20 and 40 mg/kg vitamin E, respectively. Each treatment comprised four replicates
with eight birds per replicate.
Weight (g) of the eggs and its shell were determined using an electronic top loading scale (JS-B LCD®
Display Scale). Length with diameter of the eggs were measured with electronic digital Vernier caliper.
The shell thickness (mm) with the membranes was also measured with the electronic digital vernier
caliper and the average was determined after measurement at the sharp, broad and the middle part of the
egg (Monira et al., 2003). Shell ratio was measured using the formulae: Shell ratio (%) = (Shell weight /
Egg Weight) x 100 (Scott and Silverside, 2000).
At week 36 of life freshly laid eggs (3 eggs per replicate) were collected randomly for measurement of
internal and external egg quality parameters. Measurements of the egg internal contents were achieved
after measuring the external features of the eggs. An opening was created close to the sharp portion of the
egg and allows albumen and egg yolk passage into a flat plate. The yolk was carefully removed from the
albumen with a spoon, thereafter the albumen and yolk were placed in separate petri dish for
measurement using an electronic top loading scale. Yolk and albumen lengths and diameters were
measured using a Vernier caliper.
Table 1: Gross composition of experimental basal diet fed to laying hens
Ingredients Level of inclusion (%)
Corn 50.00
Wheat offal 11.00
Soya bean meal 22.00
Palm kernel cake 11.25
Di calcium phosphate 1.30
Salt (Sodium Chloride) 0.30
DL-Methionine 0.15
L-Lysine 0.15
Vitamin/mineral premix 0.30
Oyster shell 3.00
Total 100.00
Nutrient Composition Calculated
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2736.01
Protein (%) 17.23
Calcium (%) 4.18
α-tocopherol 17.05
Selenium 0.18
Available Phosphorus (%) 0.17
Methionine (%) 0.51
Lysine (%) 0.87
*Vitamin-mineral premix - Vitamin A–10,000IU, Vitamin D3–1800IU, Vitamin E–40mg, Vitamin K–
1.43 mg, Vitamin B1–0.7mg, Vitamin B2–4mg, Vitamin B6–2.5mg, Vitamin B12–0.2mg, Niacin–
10mg, Panthothenic–10,000mg, Folic acid –0.25mg, Biotin–100mg, Choline Chloride–300mg,
Manganese–80mg, Zinc–60mg, Iron–40mg, Copper– 80mg, Iodine–0.8mg, Selenium–0.2mg, Cobalt–
0.3mg, Antioxidant–100mg
Page | 376
Albumen and yolk height was measured by putting the pointed tip of the Vernier caliper in the middle of
the albumen and yolk, height of the fluid on the tip was marked and read on the digital screen of the
vernier caliper. Yolk colour was accessed with DSM Yolk Colour Fan which has colour scale from one to
fifteen (Monira et al., 2003). Relationship between height of the albumen and weight of the egg was used
to determine the Haugh unit as described (Haugh, 1937); Haugh unit = 100 log10 (h - 1.7W0.37 + 7.6)
(Where: h= Albumen height (mm); W= Egg weight (g)), Yolk ratio was calculated. Data were subjected
to analyses of variance (SAS, 2003) and means were separated at α0.05 using New Duncan‘s multiple
range test option of the same software.

Internal quality characteristics of eggs from laying hens fed supplemental selenium and α-tocopherol is
shown in Table 2. Albumen weight and haugh unit were not significantly affected (p>0.05) by the dietary
supplements of selenium and α-tocopherol. Egg albumen length (69.62), yolk weight (12.74) and yolk to
albumin ratio (0.35) were significantly lower in hens on 40mg/kg α-tocopherol supplementation. Egg
yolk diameter of hens on 20 mg/kg α-tocopherol (41.63) was similar to the control (44.64), 0.5 mg/kg
(43.34), 1.0 mg/kg (41.83) and 1.5 mg/kg (43.14) selenium supplementation, though, yolk diameter in the
control treatment and hens fed diet supplements of 40 mg/kg α-tocopherol (40.16) were different (p<0.05)
significantly. Yolk weight to albumen weight was increased with selenium supplementation at 0.5 (0.40),
1.0 (0.40) and 1.5 (0.41) mg/kg. Ratio of egg yolk weight to albumen weight was increased with selenium
supplementation at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg. As observed from Table 2, there was reduction in albumen
length, weight of the yolk, yolk diameter, yolk ratio as well as yolk/albumen weight at supplemental α-
tocopherol of 40 mg/kg. This probably suggests that supplementation at this level may not support these
parameters. These results negated the discoveries of Puthpongsiriporn et al. (2001) and Bollenger-Lee et
al. (1999) that incorporation of α-tocopherol in laying hens diet improved internal egg quality attributes in
laying chickens raised under heat stress. Vitamin supplementation as high as 25% above the 1994
National Research Council recommendations has resulted in this higher profitability (Ward, 1993).
Although, Selenium and α-tocopherol supplementation in laying hens diets had no significant effect on
egg Haugh unit values recorded in this trial were within the A and AA egg classification by USDA (2000).
Haugh unit as well as the quality of egg yolk is significant characteristics in egg quality measurement
(Saki et al., 2012). Hens on supplemental selenium and α-tocopherol had increased albumen height which
invariably resulted in improved Haugh unit in eggs obtained from supplemented hens. Yolk weight, yolk
diameter and yolk ratio were relatively improved across the supplemented treatments suggesting positive
influence of these supplements in egg quality.
Table 2: Internal quality of eggs from laying hens fed supplemental selenium and α-tocopherol
Selenium (mg/kg) α-tocopherol (mg/kg)
Parameters Control 0.5 1.0 1.5 20 40 SEM
AW (g) 37.33 36.00 37.70 33.73 36.66 36.46 0.70
a a a a a b
AL (cm) 98.81 94.89 96.93 96.20 96.31 69.62 3.43
YW (g) 14.48a 14.56a 15.10a 13.86ab 13.36ab 12.74b 0.26
a ab ab ab ab b
YD (cm) 44.64 43.34 41.83 43.14 41.63 40.16 0.55
ab a a a ab b
YW:AW 0.39 0.40 0.40 0.41 0.36 0.35 0.01
HU 75.32 70.38 81.21 73.08 77.05 81.41 1.65
a, b
Means in the same row with different superscript are significantly different (P<0.05), SEM- Standard
error of mean,
AW-Albumin weight, AL-Albumin length, YD-yolk diameter, YW-yolk weight, AW-Albumin weight,
HU-Haugh unit
External quality characteristics of eggs from laying hens fed supplemental selenium and α-tocopherol is
shown in Table 3. Dietary supplementation of selenium and α-tocopherol had no significant effect
Page | 377
(p>0.05) on external egg quality parameters. Barroeta et al. (2003) outlines optimum vitamin nutrition
(OVN) as the ―level of vitamin beyond minimum requirements which will optimize genetic potential,
improve laying hens immune status, and result to an improvement in performance, production and egg
quality‖. Usually, the optimum level of supplementation among all is the level of nutrients concentration
that attains the best feed utilization, growth rate, good health, lower mortality and provides adequate body
reserves.
Table 3: External quality of eggs from laying hens fed supplemental selenium and α- tocopherol
Selenium (mg/kg) α-tocopherol (mg/kg)
Parameters Control 0.5 1.0 1.5 20 40 SEM
Egg Weight (g) 55.13 53.63 55.20 52.93 53.70 53.43 0.67
Egg Length (mm) 54.98 54.65 54.55 55.95 54.41 53.28 0.42
Egg Diameter (mm) 42.79 42.83 43.14 42.22 52.91 42.80 1.49
Shell Thickness (mm) 0.37 0.36 0. 36 0.35 0.36 0.37 0.01
Shell Weight (g) 4.70 4.70 4.93 4.20 4.50 4.63 0.11
Shell Ratio (%) 8.62 8.80 8.96 7.93 8.38 8.88 0.25
SEM-Standard error of mean
CONCLUSION
The present study revealed that dietary supplements of selenium and α-tocopherol had no effect on
external egg quality parameters but imparted all internal egg characteristics monitored this study except
albumen weight and Haugh unit.
REFERENCES
Adeogun, I. O. and Amole, F. O. 2004. Some quality parameters of exotic chicken eggs under
different storage conditions. Bulletin of Animal Health and Production in Africa (52): 43-47.
Barroeta, A., M. D. Baucells, and A. Castro, (2003). Nutrición Vitamínica Óptima en Ponedoras. In:
Óptima Nutrición Vitamínica Óptima de los Animales para la Producción de Alimentos de
Calidad. Pulso Ediciones 2002, Barcelona, Spain. pp. 133-169.
Bollengier-Lee, S., Williams, P. E. V. and Whitehead, C. C. 1999. Determination of optimal
concentration of dietary vitamin E to alleviate the effect of heat stress on egg production in
laying hens. British Poultry Science, 40, 102-107.
Finch, J. M. and Turner, R. J. (1996). Effects of selenium and vitamin E non immune responses of
domestic animals. Research in Veterinary Science, 60, 97-106.
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and 572-573.
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of view. Market Demand and Product Quality. Mktg. Res: Workshop Rept., Michigan State
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Quality Characteristics of Chicken" (PDF), International journal of Poultry Science 2 (4): 261–
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Supplementation on Performance, In Vitro Lymphocyte Proliferation, And Antioxidant Status of
Laying Hens During Heat Stress. Poultry Science. 80: 1190-1200.
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SAS, (2003). SAS/STAT User‘s guide Version 8 for windows SAS Institute Inc. cary NC.
Scott, T. A., and Silversides, F. G. (2000). The effects of storage and strain of hen on egg quality.
Poultry Science, 79:1725-1729.
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laboratory. Agricultural research service. Albany, CA: US Department of Agriculture.
Page | 379
PERFORMANCE OF FINISHER BROILER CHICKEN FED ENZYME

SUPPLEMENTED CORN COB MEAL BASED DIETS
Ikpe, J. N.*, Oko, E. C.*, Abdullahi, J.*, Okonkwo, V. N.** and Ahaotu, E.O.***
* Department of Agricultural Technology, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi
State.
**Department of Animal Science and Fisheries, Imo State University, Owerri.
***Department of Animal Production Technology, Imo State Polytechnic Umuagwo, Ohaji, Imo
State.
Corresponding Author: Ikpe, J. N. jnikpe@akanuibiampoly.edu.ng +234 803 492 8358
ABSTRACT
The soaring cost of producing poultry feed due to high competition in the conventional feed ingredients
calls for action into discovery of avenues to harness the efficiency of agricultural ―waste‖ products to fit
in as ingredient in feeding poultry. This, will broaden the ingredient base for poultry feed production.
This study therefore, investigated the effect of enzyme supplemented Corn Cob Meal (ECCM) diet on the
performance of finisher broiler chicken. The ECCM was used, in a feeding trial with 120 finisher broiler
chickens of 28days old. The broilers were randomly assigned to 4 experimental diets in a complete
randomized design of 10 broilers each replicated 3 times. The control, TI contained no ECCM, while T2,
T3 and T4 contained 5, 10 and 15% ECCM respectively. The birds were managed under deep litter system
and fed adli-bitum for 28 days. The result of the performance data collected showed that there was no
significant difference (P > 0.05) when the average final weight, average weight gain and feed conversion
ratio of the control was compared to T2 and T3 but significantly higher (p<0.05) when compared to T4.
The feed intake was similar (P > 0.05) among all the treatment groups. It was concluded that ECCM can
be used in broiler diet at up to 10% inclusion rate without deleterious effect on the broilers.
Key words: Corn Cob, Diet, Enzyme, Finisher Broiler chicken, Performance
INTRODUCTION
The looming hunger likely to follow the present COVID -19 pandemic will no doubt pose an immense
problem over an already dwindling condition of poultry subsector. FAO 2020 has warned that COVID-19
will exacerbate the impact of hunger which will result to an atmosphere of economic uncertainty for
producers and consumers while (RPCA, 2020) reiterated that the expected effects of the COVID-
19 pandemic on food and nutrition security will aggravate the already difficult situation. Urgent need
therefore, is necessary for radical development in animal agriculture in order to abate the ugly situation.
For age long, poultry sector has been at the forefront of supplying animal protein to Nigerian citizenry
and contributes a reasonable percentage to the economy and GDP of the Nigeria. The greatest problem
facing the industry presently is feed which takes a whooping 65-75% of cost of producing poultry
(Madubuike, 2012).
To solve this problem and to achieve the country‘s economic growth in the post pandemic era, nutritionist
believe that attention should be geared into the discovery of avenues to utilize agricultural waste products
which are usually abundant, thrown away and are not in use by humans, in compounding poultry feed.
The use of these, will broaden the ingredient base for poultry production and will not only enhance
productivity of poultry sector but will also avert the risk of environmental pollution hazards posed by
these agro waste products.
Corn cob, which is a waste product of maize grain shelling, is one of these waste products that can fit in
as feed ingredient in poultry production. Corn cob has been seen to litter the surroundings, street, markets
and constitute public nuisance during season of harvest. They can block drainage canals and cause
flooding (Ndubuisi, Iheukwumere and Onyekwere, 2008). The chemical composition of corn cob (Oke,
Page | 380
Oke and Adeyemi, 2007) showed that the material has some reasonable quantity of nutrients but also high
in fibre – a factor that negates its use as feed ingredient in poultry production. Several avenues have been
propagated as a possible avenue for reducing the fibre content of ingredients. Among these avenues is
inclusion of exogenous enzyme which have been shown to improve poultry performance through
improved digestibility (Gracia et al., 2007).
Our research therefore, is aimed at investigating the effect of dietary levels of enzyme supplemented corn
cob meal diet on the performance of finisher broiler chicken.

The research was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Department of Agricultural Technology,
Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State in tropical rain forest zone of Nigeria.
The corn cob used for the experiment was collected from corn sheller at Eke Market and milled in a
hammer mill.The chemical composition of the CCM was analyzed according to (7). Nutri-Zyme TM was
the enzyme used for the research and according to manufacturer‘s instruction the enzyme contains:
Hemicellulase, Pectosanase, Xylcanase, Arabinase, B-glucanase, Cellulase, Pectinase, Protease, Amylase,
Lipase and wheat starch as the carrier. The potency of the enzyme was ascertained using cellulose acetate
before being used for the research. The enzyme was added at1gm of the enzyme to 1kg of the diet.
A total of 4 experimental diets were formulated such that, the control diet contained no CCM while in T 2,
T3and T4 diets, CCM was added at 5, 10 and 15% inclusion rates on weight-to-weight basis. The
ingredient composition of the diets is presented in Table 1.
Table 1. Ingredient Composition of the Experimental Diets

Ingredients Treatment levels (%)
T1 (0.00) T2 (5.00) T3 (10.00) T4 (15.00)
Maize (8.9% CP) 55.00 55.00 55.00 55.00
Soyabean meal (44.0%CP) 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Groundnut cake (45% CP) 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
Corn Cob meal (2.3% CP) 0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00
Brewer‘s dried grain (27.9% CP) 15.00 10.00 5.00 0.00
Fish meal (63.11% CP) 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Blood meal (77.35% CP) 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal (nil) 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
*Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Common salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
TOTAL 100 100 100 100
Calculated nutrient composition of the experimental diets
Crude protein % 21.34 20.06 18.78 17.50
Crude fibre % 4.14 5.31 6.47 7.64
Crude fat % 4.92 4.57 4.22 3.87
Metabolizable energy (kcal/kg) 2886.26 2868.63 2801.63 2733.76
Note:*to provide the following per kilogram of feed; vit A 10,000IU, vit D 3 1, 500 IU; vit E 2mg; riboflavin 3mg; pentothenic acid 10mg;
nicotinic acid 2.5mg chlorine 3.5mg; folic acid 1mg; magnesium 56mg; lysine 1mg; iron 20mg; zinc 50mg; cobalt 1.25mg. M.E = 35 × % cp +
81.8 × % E.E + 35.5 × % NFE, where, M.E = metabolizable energy, CP = crude protein, EE = ether extract, NFE = nitrogen free extract
(Pauzenga, 1985).
A total of 120 Marshal breed of broiler chicken of 28 days of age with an average weight of 965.50g were
used for the experiment. The chickens were randomly assigned to four treatment groups in a Completely
Randomized Design (CRD). Each treatment group was replicated 3times to obtain a total of 12 groups of
Page | 381
10 broilers each. The broilers were randomly assigned to an experimental unit of 1m by 1m each
partitioning and assigned to the four treatment diets. Deep liter system of management was adopted. Feed
and water were given ad-libitum and proper routine management practices and medications strictly
adhered to. The feeding trial lasted for 28 days.
Data were collected on the performance of the finisher broiler chicken. Data obtained from the study were
subjected to statistical analysis using one way analysis of variance procedure at 0.05% significant level.
Significant means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1995). The data were
computed with IBM SPSS statistical 22 of 2013 software.

Proximate composition
The result of proximate composition of the corn cob meal as presented in Table 2 showed that the corn
cob meal contains a crude protein of 3.50%, crude fibre of 44.8%, no ether extract, ash of 1.6% and
calculated nitrogen free extract of 38.7%. The crude protein obtained from the present research is a little
lower than that of (Akinfemi, 2010), who reported a crude protein of 3.89%. Also, (Akinfemi, 2010)
reported an ash content of 7.67% and ether extract of 5.7%. The changes in values could be attributed to
difference in climate, production methods, harvesting time, soils, stage of maturity, variety of maize
cultivar and possibly drying methods that were adopted (Szyskowska, Sowinsk and Wierzbicki, 2007).
Table 2 Proximate Composition of Corn Cob Meal

Parameters Values (%DM)
Dry matter 88.60
Moisture 11.40
Crude Protein 3.50
Crude Fibre 44.80
Ash 1.60
Ether Extract 0.00
Nitrogen free Extract 38.70
Source: Field study (2019). DM = Dry Matter
Performance of the Broilers

The result of the performance of the finisher broilers as presented in Table 3 showed that the performance
of the finisher broiler fed dietary levels of exogenous enzyme supplemented corn cob meal were
favorable when the average final weight, average weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the control
were compared to T2 and T3 as the results were similar (p>0.05), but significantly higher (p<0.05) when
compared to T4. A liner decrease in weight was observed as the level of inclusion increased but not
significantly different with the control until at 15% inclusion (T4). This is an indication that the finisher
broilers can utilize exogenous supplemented corn cob meal up to 10% inclusion (T3) without
compromising these parameters. The poor performance of T4 could be attributed to high level of fibre
present in the diet. This is in line with (Ajai et al., 2018) who argued in their research that high level of
fibre reduces the acceptability of feed hence, feed intake is reduced which in turn affect the general
performance of the birds.
There was no significant difference when the control (p>0.05) was compared to T2 and T3. The value
recorded for T4 was significant (p<0.05) when compared to the control. The total feed intake and the
average daily feed intake however, had no significant difference (P > 0.05) among the treatment groups.
Page | 382
Table 4.2 Performance of finisher broiler chickens fed different levels of exogenous enzyme
supplemented corn cob meal
Parameters Treatment levels (%) SEM
T1(0.00) T2(5.00) T3(10.00) T4(15.00)
Av. Initial wt. 786.67 800.00 786.67 813.33 6.89
Av. Final wt 2920.00a 2836.70 ab
2793.30ab 2686.70b 33.92
Wt. Gain 2133.30a 2036.70ab 2013.30ab 1873.30b 36.52
Av. Daily wt. Gain 73.33a 66.61 ab
70.00b 60.00b 1.79
Av. Total feed Intake 5880.30 5960.00 5873.30 5706.70 54.50
Av. Daily feed Intake 210.00 210.00 210.00 200.00 2.78
FCR 2.85b 3.16ab 2.99ab 3.33a 0.75
Note: without superscript = not significant. Means with different superscript in the same row differ significantly (P0.05). SEM =
standard error mean, Av. = Average, FCR = feed conversion Ratio, DWG = daily weight gain

Based on the results of this research, it was concluded that
1. Inclusion of enzyme supplemented CCM at up to 10% inclusion level in the finisher broiler diet
did not cause an adverse effect on their weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio.
2. Corn cob meal can fit in as feed ingredient in finisher broiler‘s diet if exogenous enzyme is added
in the formulation.
REFERENCES
A.O.A.C (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) (2000). Official methods of analysis (17 th ed.).
AOAC. International Virginia, USA.
Ajayi, M. A. Nwaodu, O. B. U., Elechi, J., Eziulo, N. E. and Ugwu, S. O. C. (2018). Performance of
Finishing Broilers fed Dietary levels of Groundnut pod. Proceeding animal Science Association
of Nigeria and Nigerian institute of Animal Science. 11th-13th, September, 2018, Pp. 157.
Akinfemi, A. (2010). Nutritive value and in vitro gas production of fungal treated maize cobs. African
Journal of food, Agriculture Nutrition and Development, 1018).
Duncan, D. G. (1995). Multiple range and multiple F-test. Biometrics 11: 1-2.
FAO, (2020). COVID-19: Our hungriest, most vulnerable communities face ―a crisis within a crisis‖
http://www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/1269721/icode/.
Gracia, M.I., Aranibar, M.J., Lazaro, R., Medel, P. and Mateos, G. G. (2003). Alpha-amylase
supplementation of broiler diets based on corn. Poult. Sci., 82 (2003), pp. 436-442.
Madubuike, F. N. (2012). Bridging the animal protein supply and demand gap in Nigeria. Inaugural
lecture series No.7. Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria.
Ndubuisi, E. C., Iheukwumere, F. C. and Onyekwere, M. V. (2008). The effects of varying dietary levels
of maize cob meals on the growth and nutrient digestibility of grower pigs. Research Journal of
Animal Science, 2(4): 100- 102.
Oke, D. B., Oke, M. O. and Adeyemi, O. A. (2007). Influence of Dietary Fermented Corn-cob on the
Performance of Broilers. Journal of Food Technology 5(4); 290-293.
Pauzenga, U. (1985). Feeding parent stock. Zootecnia International Pp 22-25.
RPCA, (2020). The Food Crisis Prevention Network RPCA http://www.food-security.net/en/actors/
Szyszkowska, A., Sowinsk, J. and Wierzbicki, H. (2007). Change in the Chemical composition of Maize
cobs depending on the cultivars, effective temperature sum and farm type. Acta Scientriarum
Polonorum. Agricultura. 6(1).
Page | 383
ANTIOXIDANTS IN ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND REPRODUCTION-A REVIEW
Lawanson A. A*., Akinlade O. O. and Obi G. C.

Agricultural Technology Department, The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro,
*Corresponding author: adedamola.lawanson@federalpolyilaro.edu.ng (+2348060174508)
ABSTRACT
Antioxidant is known to be a vital feed additive which helps to combat oxidative stress in living
organism. The challenges of increasing cost of animal production and reduced demand for
animal products due to reduced income and loss of job among citizens as a result of post covid-
19 effect could make farmers to play down on its importance as feed additives. This review
further expatiate its various classification and significance in animal production (enhanced
performance, health and welfare) through feed supplementation and reproductive efficiency in
male and female animals.
Keywords: antioxidants, animal production, animal reproduction, covid-19, feed additive
INTRODUCTION
The global impact of post-covid 19 on animal production is somewhat disturbing. Increase in
cost of production coupled with low income rate which has grossly affected the demand for
animal products despite the increasing population among other factors could cause a farmer to
ignore some basic fundamentals that enhance effective animal production and reproduction.
Among such fundamentals are the benefits of antioxidants as examined in this review.
Antioxidants are broadly defined as any substance that delays, prevents or removes oxidative
damage to target molecules (Halliwell, 2007). They are the agents, which break the oxidative
chain reaction, thereby, reducing the oxidative stress (Kumar and Mahmood, 2001).
Imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants at the cellular or individual level causes oxidative
stress (Lykkesfeldt and Svendsen, 2007), which leads to damages and disruption of normal
metabolism and physiology (Trevisan et al., 2001). Ultimately leading to loss of cell function or
necrosis, if not controlled (Chauhan et al., 2014).
In general, antioxidants are compounds and reactions which dispose, scavenge, and suppress the
formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), or oppose their actions (Bansal and Bilaspuri,
2011).
Antioxidant activities in livestock

Living animals develop precise antioxidant defense mechanisms to combat ROS and reactive
nitrogen specie (RNS) while growing (Surai, 2002). These antioxidants are diverse and
responsible for the protection of cells from the actions of free radicals. The antioxidant system as
highlighted by Fotina et al., (2013) are as follows:
1. Natural fat-soluble antioxidants (vitamins A, E, carotenoids, ubiquinones, etc.)
2. Water-soluble antioxidants (ascorbic acid, uric acid, taurine, etc.)
3. Antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and superoxide
dismutase (SOD).
4. Thiol redox system consisting of the glutathione system (glutathione/glutathione
reductase/glutaredoxin/glutathione peroxidase and a thioredoxin system
(thioredoxin/thioredoxin peroxidase/thioredoxin reductase).
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Antioxidative mechanisms in biological systems according to (SIES, 1985) can broadly be

classified into two:
1. Non-enzymatic such as Vitamin E, Vitamin C, B-Carotene, Glutathion, Flavine, Organic
acids, Plasma proteins and technically produced antioxidants.
2. Enzymatic which include superoxiddismutases (CuZn-, Mn-Enzymes), GSH-Peroxidase
(containing selenium and free of selenium, GSH-transferases), Catalases, Auxiliary enzyme
(NADPH-quinon oxidoreductase), Conjugating enzymes (UDP-glucoronyl-transferase).
The protective antioxidant compounds are reportedly situated in organelles, subcellular
compartments or the extracellular space aiding optimum cellular protection. Antioxidant system
of the body is responsible for prevention of damaging effects of free radicals in stress conditions.
Hence, dietary supplementation of antioxidant compounds is a means of advancing broiler
(Fotina et al., 2013) and by extension, animal production efficiency.
Antioxidants as feed additive

The addition of antioxidants as nutritional supplements in animal diets is a common practice to
improve animal performance, health, and welfare. For meat animals, natural antioxidants added
to feed do not only improve the oxidative stability and organoleptic properties of meat but they
also can enhance the nutritional value and the health benefit of meat products (Kasapidou et al.,
2012).
α-Tocopherol is the most traditional feed additive up to about 500 mg/kg feed supplementation
levels. Reports from González-Calvo et al., (2015) showed that the fresh color of meat on retail
display was maintained for beef, lamb and poultry respectively. This protective effect is exerted
via the delayed oxidation of oxymyoglobin and the inhibition of polyunsaturated fatty acids
(PUFAs oxidation). The goal of the livestock producer is to produce nutritionally balanced or
enhanced meat that contains appropriate amounts of n-3 PUFAs (from α- linolenic acid) versus
n-6 PUFAs formed from linoleic acid (18:2) (Williams, 2000).
Aromatic herbs and essential oils are known for their antioxidant potency which is mainly
attributed to phenolic compounds in the oil or in other phytochemical fractions. Some non-
phenolic substances also exhibit antioxidant activity, for example, caryophyllene, careen, and
terpinene (Franz et al., 2010). Such substances contribute to the protection of feed lipids from
oxidative damage (Delles et al., 2014). In chicken, oregano added in doses of 50–100 mg/kg to
the broiler diet exerted an antioxidant effect in the muscle tissue (Youdim and Deans, 2000).
Significance of trace elements

Trace elements are cofactors of enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) (Antonyuk et al.,
2009), glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, thioredoxin reductase (Huang et al., 2012),
ceruloplasmin (Hussein and Staufenbiel, 2012) and catalase (Markesbery et al., 2001). These
enzymes are important to maintain the immunity of animals (Gressley, 2009). They act as
antioxidants (NRC, 2001) and prevent oxidative stress by neutralizing oxidants produced under
different stresses like environmental or production stress or stress related to infections or
diseases (Gressley, 2009). Being components of the anti-oxidant system (Spears, 1995), trace
elements prevent oxidative stress. Copper is the essential element in two enzymes that are
important for immune competence; copper/zinc-superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ceruloplasmin
(Hussein and Staufenbiel, 2012). Iron is an essential component of catalase, peroxidase and
cytochrome oxidase (NRC, 2001). These play important roles in oxidative stress (Antonyuk et
al., 2009). Selenium is an essential part of a family of enzymes called glutathione peroxidases
Page | 385
(GSH-Px) and thioredoxin reductases (Huang et al., 2012) which are important for neutralizing
free radicals or oxidants. Zinc and manganese, in addition to copper, are also integral parts of
SOD (Tomlinson et al., 2004, Markesbery et al., 2001). All these neutralize free radicals like
peroxides, super oxides or hydroxyl ions (Yatoo et al., 2013).
Antioxidants and female animal reproduction

To evaluate reproduction status of female animals, many factors must be considered, such as
estrous cycle, ovarian functions and ovulation, embryo development, pregnancy and fetal
development. The estrous cycle involves many histological, physiological, morphological, and
biochemical changes within the ovary (Zhong, 2013).
Any imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in these changes leads to dysfunctions of the
ovary and irregular estrous cycle (Gupta et al., 2011). Ovulation oxidative stress is an underlying
reason of irregular estrous cycle (Martins et al., 2011), polycystic ovary syndrome (Wong et al.,
2010), endometritis (Bedaiwy et al., 2002; Lambrinoudaki et al., 2009), infertility (Fleischer et
al., 2001), pregnancy failure (Hansen. 2002; Harvey et al., 2002), and embryo development.
Increased antioxidant status of the reproductive tract may improve competence of oocyte or
embryo development (Cerri et al., 2009), pregnancy and fetal development (Volpato et al.,
2008).
Antioxidants and male animal reproduction

To evaluate reproduction status of male animals, many factors must be considered, such as
spermatogenesis, semen functions, sperm quality, and fertility. Spermatogenesis depends on
intratesticular and extratesticular hormonal regulatory processes and functions of the intertubular
microvasculature (Holstein et al., 2003). Semen parameters such as sperm count and
concentration, viability, mobility, and morphology are indicators to evaluate semen functions
(Rodriguez-Martinez, 2006). Infertility is not only a major public health problem in humans, but
also the case in animals due to extensive feeding system and application of synthetic feed
additives.
Oxidative stress is a main underlying cause which can interfere with spermatogenesis, reduce
sperm quality and production, and even cause infertility (Boonsorn et al., 2010). Because
elevated ROS generation causes damage to the spermatozona DNA, results in increased
apoptosis of cells, and therefore, leads to a low fertility rate (Kaur and Bansal, 2003). The
application of exogenous plant derived antioxidant is likely to improve health status of male
animals (Nantia et al., 2009).
CONCLUSION
The role of antioxidant supplementation cannot be overemphasized and must not be
compromised by farmers whose focus is centered on efficient animal production. Its benefits are
evident in the stability of animal performance, health and welfare during production,
reproduction and quality of animal products.
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THE EFFECTS OF BANANA PEELS MEAL INCLUSION ON OFFALS AND CARCASS

CHARACTERISTICS OF GROWER RABBITS
*Saidu, S. G.1 and Yahaya, B2.

1
Federal College of Education Yola, School of Vocational Education Department of Agricultural
Education P.M.B 2042 Yola Adamawa State Nigeria
2
Federal University Kashere Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Animal Science P.M.B 0182 Gombe
State Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: E-mail:sanisaidugaya@gmail.com, Phone: +2347067940124; +2348056498754
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to assess the carcass characteristics of grower rabbits fed inclusion levels of
banana peels meal (BPL) at 0, 10,20 and 30% levels in diets treatment (T) 1,2,3 and 4 respectively. The
study was conducted at teaching and research farm of School of Vocational Education, Federal College of
Education, Yola, for eleven weeks. A total of thirty six (36) grower rabbits aged 5-7 weeks with mean
initial weight of 837.50+ 0.2g were used. Randomized Block Design was used in the research and carcass
characteristicswere taken as parameters. The results indicated that significant differences exist in all the
parameters measured (p≤0.05) with T4 having the highest in terms of Head weight 73g, Dressing
percentage 57.01%, Carcass weight 764g, Liver 4.0g and Small Intestine 90cm respectively. Based on the
results obtained, banana peels canbe included up to 30% as one of the alternative feed to rabbits as
substitute for maize so as to reduce the total feed costs which constitute about 60% of production cost.
Keywords: Banana Peels Meals, Carcass characteristic, Grower rabbits, Animal Protein
INTRODUCTION
In developing countries, the vast majority of people have low protein intake. (Alade et al., 2002). Poultry
and rabbits keeping provide a method by which rapid transformation in animal protein consumption can
be achieved in the humid tropics. However, this can only be achieved if the production process has been
modernized (Oluyemi and Robert, 2007).To alleviates this protein deficiency rabbit production should be
encourage as it provides a cheapest and reliable source (Mohammed, 2003). There are many good reasons
for rabbit production, first it is an alternative livestock species secondly, it is a means of utilizing small
rural holdings in a profitable manner and thirdly; it is a more efficient means of converting low quality
feed ingredients into meat for human consumption (Alhaidary, et al;,. 2010). Besides, Rabbit production
can also be a family hobby for semi-rural and urban families and at the same time could give the families
a supply of very nutritious meat with all amino acids required for the human body that is low in
cholesterol and high in omega 3 fatty acids (McCroskey, 2000).Rabbits have a potential as meat
producing animals in the tropics, particularly on subsistence type small farms. Such characteristics as
small body size, short generation interval, high reproductive potential, rapid growth rate and the ability to
utilize forages and fibrous agricultural by-products are attributes in favour of rabbit production.
Raising rabbits on a small scale in an urban environment can provide a means of converting garden and
other food wastes into high quality protein forthe family, while also providing excellent manure forthe
garden, which can be fed directly to the rabbit without composting (Joseph et al., 2000; Nuriyasa et al.,
2018). Banana plant is not truly a tree, even though they have been known to reach heights of 8 meters or
more. The plants are all fibre, and grow by sending out successive groupings of leaves from the stalk, on
each trunk, approximately 10 leaves are visible at any one time, while the same number of new leaves
wait within the stalk to emerge as the older one falls off.The leaves and peels of banana have little or no
use in the tropic rather is regarded as waste.Feeding trials on the use of banana leavesas supplements have
been documented (Iyeghe, 2006; Oboh, 2006), However, the use of banana peels in monogastric diet
particularly rabbits is very limited (Sumadi, et al., 2019).
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Study Area
The research was conducted at Federal College of Education Yola,Teaching and Research Farm,
It lies within the Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria within latitude 09.11° north and longitude
12.28°. It has a tropical climate made up of dry and rainy seasons. The rainy season commences
in April and ends late October while the dry season starts in October and ends in April. It has an
annual rainfall of 800-1500mm. The ambient temperature ranges from 25-440C (Adebayo and
Tukur, 1999).
Experimental Design and Animals Management
Thirty six (36) rabbits aged 5-7 weeks were used for the experiment. The rabbits were of mixed
breed. They were purchased around Yola and its environs from individuals that keep rabbits.
Two cages were constructed (2.80 x 2.80m x 0.45m) using wood and wire mesh in such a way
that it maintains 0.6m above the ground for easy cleaning. Each cage was divided into eighteen
compartment/hutches measuring 36 x 36 x 45cm width, length and height respectively. One-
week adaptation period was allowed before data collection commenced to enable the animals
adjust to new environment and diets. The rabbits were randomly allocated to four dietary
treatments in a complete randomized block design. Each treatment was replicated three times
with three rabbits per replicate.Feeds were given twice a day- 7:30am and 3:30pm daily.
Data Collection
Initial weight of each animal was obtained before feeding in the morning. Daily records of feed
intake and weight gains were also recorded weekly.Twelve (12) animals were slaughtered that is
three (3) per treatments each for the determination of carcass and organs characteristics. The
experiment lasted for 70 days.
Proximate analysis of the banana peels meal and the experimental diets were carried out at
National Veterinary Research Institute Vom, (NVRI) Biochemistry laboratory Jos Plateau State,
using the procedure, described by AOAC (1990). Data generated were subjected to analysis of
variance and Duncan Multiple Range Test was used to separate the treatment means. (p ≤ 0.05).

The composition of the experimental diets was shown in Table 1. The result indicated that
treatment one (T1) has no banana peels inclusion (0%), while T2, T3 and T4 have inclusion
levels of 10, 20 and 30 % respectively. The metabolizable energy ME (kcal/kg) shows that the
diets are similar in energy density with a margin of 50 kcal/kg.
The figures agree with the findings of (Sumadi et al., 2019), where the effects of fish meal
replacement with expired milk in ration of male local rabbit (Lepus nigricollis) give similar
margin. The effects of treatment diets on carcass characteristics of rabbits were shown in Table
2. Average live weight was higher in T3 (1350g) compared to T1,T2 and T4. Highest dressing
percentage was observed in T4 (54.90%). Therefore, it was deduced that inclusion of banana
peels at 30% encourages higher dressing percentage rather than body weight, therefore rabbit
farmers should use banana peels instead of wasting. This findings tally with the work of
(Nuriyasa, et al., 2018) where the performance and carcass of local rabbitfed concentrate on
different levels based on waste carrot leaf inclusion produced similar results.
Joseph et al. (2000) recorded no significant differences between the treatment groups for head, feet and
skin when different levels of toasted Bambara Groundnuts Meal on Rabbit Carcass was used in
evaluating carcass characteristics of growing rabbits as against the current findings where highest values
were recorded in Treatment 4, 73g, 64g and 72g for head feet and felt respectively.
Page | 391
Table 1: Composition of Experimental Diets Fed to Grower Rabbits

Maize offal (%) 81 71 61 52.5
GNC(%) 10 10 10 9
F/meal (%) 8.5 8.5 8.5 8
B/peels (%) 0 10 20 30
Premix (%) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt (%) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total (%) 100 100 100 100
Calculated analysis
ME (kcal/kg) 3073 3025 3033 3069
CP (%) 17.7 17.3 17 15.9
CF (%) 4.5 4.6 5.6 6.2
Calcium (%) 0.5 0.6 0.5 2.1
Phosphorous (%) 0.8 0.3 1 1.9
Table 2: Analysis on Carcass Characteristics of Grower Rabbits Fed Graded Levels of

Banana Peels Meal
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM SD LS
d c b a
AVLW 1280 1300 1350 1340 16.52 33.04 *
Dressing % 54.69d 55.77c 56.30b 57.01a 0.49 0.98 *
Head 70c 70.5c 72b 73a 0.69 1.38 *
Feet 60d 61c 63b 64a 0.91 1.83 *
Pelt 68d 69c 71b 72a 0.91 1.83 *
Main Carcass 700c 725b 760a 764a 15.20 30.39 *
Shoulder 62c 66b 75a 76a 3.42 6.85 *
Rack/Ribs 7.1d 7.3c 7.4b 7.5a 0.09 0.17 *
Loin 12b 14a 14a 14a 0.50 1.00 *
Thigh 20c 22b 22b 23a 0.63 1.26 *
Liver 3.1c 3.3c 3.7b 4.0a 0.20 0.40 *
Kidney 2.2c 2.5b 2.9a 2.5b 0.14 0.29 *
Lungs 2.1d 2.2c 2.3b 2.4a 0.06 0.13 *
Small Intestine 85b 86b 89a 90a 1.19 2.38 *
Large Intestine 75c 76b 78a 78a 0.75 1.50 *
Caecum 50b 53a 54a 55aa 1.08 2.16 *
Stomach 12.0d 13.0c 13.5b 14.0a 0.43 0.85 *
AVLW= Average Live Weight; SEM=Standard Error of Means; Mean in the same row bearing different
subscript differ significantly(p ≤ 0.05)L= Level of significant;GIT= Gastro Intestinal Tract;
However, Iyeghe, (2006) recorded no significant differences between treatment groups for
Carcass, Loin, Shoulder and Ribs when grower rabbits were fed concentrate and Stylosanthes
combinations under tropical conditions. The variation in treatments groups in this research may
be attributed to the fact that the banana peels may be richer in nutrients composition as against
the stylosanthes used by (Iyeghe, 2006).The result indicated that the Carcass and Small intestine
were not significant in T1 and T2 on one hand and T3 and T4 on the other side respectively. The
findings agree with work of (Joseph et al., 2000) who reported that there were significant
Page | 392
differences between treatment groups for head, thigh, liver, lungs and kidneys of growing rabbits
when palm oil was supplemented at different levels. Therefore, the differences and or
similarities obtained in this study might be as a result of the weight of the rabbits selected for the
carcass analysis that have varying weights though they were taken randomly, However, the
banana peels meal might be another reason for the differences.
CONCLUSION
The study showed that up to 30% of banana peels inclusion in rabbit diet could be included for
grower rabbit without any deleterious effects on the carcass characteristics. Other advantages
were reduced feed cost and lower cost per kilogram weight gain. The peels can be used to
formulate unconventional diet for livestock. The use of such materials that are discarded as waste
in compounding feed could help sanitize environment and reduce competition between man and
animals for conventional ingredients such as grains and their offal.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We want to sincerely appreciate the Dean School of Vocational Education and the Head of the
department, Agricultural Education, Federal College of Education Yola, for their support and
encouragement, above all for allowing the research to take place in the School Teaching and
Research farm.
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performance and serum cholesterol in rabbits. American Journal of Animal and Veterinary
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A.O.A.C (1990). Association of Official Analytical Chemists 15th edition Washington DC USA
Iyeghe-Erakpotobor, G. T. (2006). Performance of grower rabbits fed concentrate and Stylosanthes
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Joseph,J.K, B. Awonsanya, P.C.Adeoye and M.R,Okekunle.(2000).The influence of graded levels of
toasted Bambara Groundnuts Meal on Rabbit Carcass. Nigeria Journal of Animal Production.
Vol. 20 pp 86-89
McCroskey, R. (2000). Raising rabbit in the pacific North West Canadian. Canadian Centre for rabbit
production and development. 3:207 - 237.
Mohammed G. (2003). Inclusion of different levels of dried goat rumen contents in diet of growing
rabbit in the semi-arid zone. M. SC dissertation University of Maiduguri Nigeria.
Nuriyasa, I.M, Puspani E and Yupardhi,W.S (2018). Performance and carcass of local rabbit (Lepus
nigricollis) fed concentrate on different levels based on carrot leaf waste (Daucuscarota L.).
International Journal of Life Science. 2: 13-19.
Oboh, G. (2006). Nutrient enrichment of cassava peels using a mixed culture of Sacharonyescenevisal
and Lacto bacillus sp pusing solid metalic foundation techniques. Electronic Journal of Bio
Tecnology. 9:1.
Oluyemi J.A. and Robert F.A. (2007).Poultry Production in Warm Wet Climate: 3rd edition Spectrum
Books Publishing Limited, Ibadan Nigeria
Page | 393
Sumadi, Nuriyasa and Yupardhi (2019). Effects of fish meal replacement with expired milk in ration
to performance and carcass of male local rabbit (Lepus nigricollis). International Journal of
Multi - disciplinary Approach. 6: 63-68.
Page | 394
PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED THREE DIFFERENT SOURCES

OF CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS MINERAL SUPPLEMENT.
Adegbe, John Yusuf

adegbejohneekoojo@gmail.com
Tel: 07067308775
Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Eight weeks study was carried out to evaluate the serum biochemistry of broiler chickens at finisher
phase. Birds were fed commercial diet (T1) as control and different dietary sources of calcium and
phosphorus mineral nutrients in on-farm formulated diets fortified with bone meal (T2), eggshell meal
(T3) and limestone (T4). Ninety six unsexed broiler birds were raised through the starter phase (week 1-
4) to the finishers phase (week 4-8) before random allotment into the four treatment groups. The
experimental diets were fed to four groups of 24 broilers and each treatment group was replicated thrice
of 8 birds in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experimental model. Data obtained were subjected
to statistical Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The result obtained at the end of the experiment showed
that birds on eggshell meal, bone meal and limestone performed comparably well (P<0.05) with the birds
on control diet (commercial feed) in terms of final weight, weight gain, total, weekly and daily feed
intake. Furthermore, there was no significant different (P>O.05) in FCR. However, T4 recorded the poorest
FCR which may be attributed to the level of calcium concentration in limestone in T4. It may be
concluded from this study that eggshell meal and one meal are excellent sources of calcium and
phosphorous mineral at 3% level of inclusion for the overall better performance of broiler. The use of
limestone should be accompanied with readily available source of phosphorus for adequate calcium and
phosphorus balance for better feed utilization.
Keywords: Broiler chicken, performance, egg shell meal, bone meal, limestone.
INTRODUCTION
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) (1995) asserted that the most critical in the global basket crisis
is animal protein. In Nigeria, the major source of animal protein is the livestock industry. Over the years,
the contributions of the livestock industry sub sector to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) have decreased
from 5.61% in 1960 to about 2.64% in 2010 (CBN 2010). This is even worst in the post COVID-19
pandemic era. One of the greatest limitations to the industry is the high cost of feed ingredients which
account for over 70% of the total production cost (Adeyemo and Longe, 2007).McDonald et al. 1992
also noted that calcium and phosphorus represent the third most expensive nutrient after energy
and protein. This high cost of feeding consequently affects the availability and supply of poultry
products. This high cost of feeding consequently affects the supply of poultry products.
Organic sources of calcium and phosphorus are inexpensive and readily available except for their high
demands by the livestock industry. The availability of discarded abattoir bones, eggshell, limestone found
locally within the study area as mineral supplement to alleviate deformities and physiological disorders in
broiler birds forms the objective of this experiment. The experiment also has potential advantage to
recycle farm and industrial waste materials for wealth generation in this post pandemic era.

The research work was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research farm of Kogi State
University, Anyigba. Anyigba lies between latitude 7° 28' 51.39'' N of the equator and longitude 7°
11' 14.86'' E of the Greenwich meridian. Ninety-six of the broiler chicks were subjected to four (4)
dietary treatments. Commercial feed(with unknown source and quantity of calcium and phosphorus
mineral) as T1, on-farm prepared diets consisting Bone meal (T2), Eggshell meal (T3), and Limestone (T4).
Page | 395
Birds at week five (5) were allotted in a Completely Randomized Design into four (4) treatments and
three (3) replicates each such that each treatment had twenty-four (24) birds and eight (8) birds in a
replicate. The day old chicks were brooded for three (3) weeks and reared up to finisher phase for the
commencement of trial up till eight (8) weeks.
Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significant mean levels were
separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD).
Dietary Composition
The summary of t gross composition and calculated analysis of commercial and on farm formulated
finishers diets supplemented with Different sources of Calcium and phosphorus is presented in Table 1
below.
Table 1: Gross Composition of Commercial and Formulated Finisher Diets Supplemented with
Different Sources of Calcium and Phosphorus.
Nutrients T1 (Commercial T2(Bone Meal) T3(Eggshell T4(Limestone)
based feed Diet) Meal)
Maize - 45.00 45.00 45.00
Soyabean Full Fat - 24.00 24.00 24.00
Palm Kernel Cake - 8.00 8.00 8.00
Maize offal - 15.00 15.00 15.00
Fish Meal - 4.20 4.20 4.20
Bone Meal - 3.00 - -
Eggshell Meal - - 3.00 -
Limestone - - - 3.00
Methionine - 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt - 0.30 0.30 0.30
Premix - 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total - 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
Metabolizable Energy 2900.00 2822.64 2822.64 2822.64
(Me Kcal/kg).
Crude Fat 6.00 7.26 7.26 7.26
Crude Fiber (C F%) 6.00 4.45 4.45 4.45
Phosphorus (P %) 0.40 0.47 0.41 0.39
Calcium (Ca %)) 1.00 1.40 1.45 1.46
Crude protein (Cp %) 18.00 19.00 19.00 19.00
Methionine (Met. %) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine (%) 0.85 0.94 0.94 0.94
Table 2 below present the result of performance of broilers fed different calcium and phosphorus sources.
Birds on T1 (control) recorded a significant (P<0.05) higher final weight and total weight gain of
2623.33g and 1913.30g respectively while those on T3 and T2 followed very closely with 2244.00g and
1716.67g, 2421.67g and 1725.00g respectively. Furthermore, T1, T2 and T3 showed a significant (P<0.05)
similarities in final weight. T4 significantly (P<0.05) recorded the lowest final weight and weight gain of
2236.67g and 1510.00g respectively. Daily, weekly and total feed intake followed the same trend as the
T1which recorded the highest total feed intake of 3360.00g compared with T 2, 3173.33g; T3 3126.67g
Page | 396
and T4 3172.00g. The result of initial weight and FCR were not significantly P>0.05) affected. However
the result of FCR shows that T1 has the best result of 1.75, T3 and T2 followed very closely with 1.82 and
1.84 respectively, while T4 showed the poorest FCR of 2.09. Birds on T4 and T3 are significantly (P<0.05)
comparable with the birds on T1 diet in final weight and weight gain. Though, the significant difference
(P<0.05) of T1 over T2, T3 and T4 may be due to the form and composition of T1 (control) diet. Birds on
T4 recorded a significant(P<0.05) low weight gain and final weight which reflected in their FCR despite
their total feed intake comparable to the best performing birds on T1,T2 and T3.
As shown in Table 2, the significance difference (p <0.05) recorded in the final body weight, weight gain
and total feed intake is contrary to those reported by Cheng and Coon (1990) who recorded a no
significant (p >0.05) level of the overall body weight of birds fed different Calcium and Phosphorus
sources. The poor growth rate of the birds in T4 may be due to the effect of poor limestone utilization in
the diet. This is true to the report of Aribido et al., 2009 who stated that specific effect of mineral
supplementation or deficiency on productivity may be via higher or lower efficiency of ingested mineral
nutrients. The organic sources of bone and eggshell meal seem to have enhanced supply of both calcium
and phosphorus in diet T2 and T3 hence, ensuring better performance (Kebreabet al., 2005). The feed
conversion ratio recorded was not significantly affected. It is worthy of note that T1, T2 and T3 have
similar result and this is true to the reports of Akteret al (2016) that FCR of birds is improved when they
consume diet that contain adequate proportion of calcium and phosphorus, which otherwise, reverse is the
case.
Table 2. Performance of broiler chickens fed different dietary source of calcium and phosphorus
mineral supplement
Parameters T1 (control) T 2 (Bone T 3 (Eggshell T4 SEM LOS
(Commercial Meal) Meal) (Limestone)
based feed Diet)
Initial weight (g) 710.00 730.00 730.00 726.67 6.90 NS
Final weight (g) 2623.33a 2421.67bc 2440.00ab 2236.67c 41.63 *
Total weight gain (g) 1913.33a 1725.00ab 1716.67bc 1516.00c 43.74 *
Weekly weight gain 478.31a 431.25ab 429.17bc 379.00c 10.94 *
(g)
68.33a 61.61ab 61.31bc 54.14c 1.56 *
Daily weight gain (g)
Daily feed intake (g) 120.00a 113.33ab 111.67ac 113.29ab 4.43 *
Weekly feed intake 840.00a 793.33ab 781.67ac 793.00ab 31.70 *
(g)
3360.00a 3173.33ab 3126.67 ac 3172.00ab 126.78 *
Total feed intake ((g)
Feed Conversion 1.75 1.84 1.82 2.09 6.05 NS
Ratio (g)

Result obtained from this experiment showed that birds onT2, T3 and T4 performed credibly well in
comparison to the birds onT1 (control) diets in terms of final weight, total weekly and daily weight gain,
total weekly and daily feed intake. FCR was not significant. It may be concluded from this study that egg
shell meal, bone meal and limestone are excellence sources of calcium and phosphorus mineral for the
overall better performance of broiler birds. However, the usage of limestone should be deliberately
accompanied with readily available source of phosphorus for adequate calcium and phosphorus balance.
Therefore, it is recommended that farmers may use any of these mineral sources as an alternative source
Page | 397
of calcium and phosphorus mineral supplement at 3% level of inclusion for optimum performance and
wellbeing of broiler birds especially in an integrated farm or areas where they are abundant, and
considered as waste.
References
Aribido, S.O., Oyewole, B.O. and Abdulkadir, A.A.,(2009). Preliminary evaluation of the
nutritional value of commercial salt and free choice mineral mix offered to goats.
Journal of Animal Production Research 22: 65-71.
Adeyemo, G.O., Longe, O.G., (2007). Effect of graded level of cotton seed cake on
performance,haematology and carcass characteristics of broilers fed from day old to 8 weeks of
age. African Journal of Biotechnology. Vol.6(8): 1064-1071.
Akter, M., Grahm, H., and ji, P, A., (2016).Response of broiler chicken to different level of calcium, non-
phytase phosphorus and phytase. British Journal of Poultry Science. Volume 57, issue 6, 2016.
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) statistical bulletin:2010. www.cbn.gov.ng (c) 2011.
Cheng, T.K. and Coon, C.N. (1990).Effect of calcium sources, Particles size, limestone
solubility invitro and calcium intake level on layer bone status and performance Poultry.
Science vol. 69: 2214-2219.
FAO (1989) (2002). Animal Production and Health Paper No. 35, Rome.
Kebreab, E, and D.M. S.S. Vitti.(2005). Mineral Metabolism.Pages 469-486 in Quantitative Aspects of
Ruminant Digestion and Metabolism. J. Dijkstra, J. M. Forbes, and Journal France Edition.
CAB International, Wallingford, UK.
Mcdonald, P., Edward, R.A., Greenhalgh, J. and Morgan, C.A. (1995). (Animal Nutrition 5th ed.).
London Longman Singapore Publishes (Put) Ltd.
Page | 398
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS SOURCES ON

SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF BROILER CHICKENS
Adegbe, John Yusuf

Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
adegbejohneekoojo@gmail.com, Tel: 07067308775
ABSTRACT
8weeks study was carried out to evaluate the serum biochemistry of broiler chickens at finisher phase.
Birds were fed commercial diet (T1) as control and different dietary sources of calcium and phosphorus
mineral nutrients in on-farm formulated diets fortified with bone meal (T2), egg shell meal (T3)and
limestone (T4). Ninety six unsexed broiler birds were raised through the starter phase (week 1-4) to the
finishers phase (week 4-8) before random allotment into the four treatment groups. The experimental
diets were fed to four groups of 24 broilers and each treatment group was replicated thrice of 8 birds in a
Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experimental model. Data obtained were subjected to statistical
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The result obtained at the end of the experiment showed that birds on
egg shell meal, bone meal and limestone competed favorably (P<0.05) with the birds on control diet
(commercial feed) in all the serum biochemical parameters measured; in terms of total protein, albumin,
globulin, urea, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and createnine except
calcium (T4) which may be attributed to the amount of calcium in limestone without supplemental
phosphorus source. It may be concluded from this study that Eggshell meal and Bone meal are excellent
sources of calcium and phosphorous minerals, for good serum biochemistry and overall performance of
broilers. However, limestone should be accompanied with readily available source of phosphorus for
adequate calcium and phosphorus balance for better feed utilization.
Keywords: Broiler chicken, serum biochemistry, egg shell meal, bone meal, limestone.
INTRODUCTION
Donald et al., (1992) noted that calcium and phosphorus represent the third most expensive nutrient after
energy and protein. In addition to this, dysfunctional biochemistry in broiler birds has been attributed to
inadequate intake and utilization of calcium and phosphorus due to high expenses. To solve this problem,
there is an urgent need to source for cheaply available feedstuffs that meet requirement for high
performance within reasonable production cost.
Bone meal and egg shell meal are excellent dietary sources of calcium and phosphorus (Shirley and
Parsons, 2001). The economic value for such products in poultry diets has been attributed to their mineral
content (Waldroup, 2002). This experiment was intended to leverage on the availability of discarded
abattoir bones, eggshell, marble (limestone) dust found locally as mineral supplement to alleviate
physiological and biochemical disorders in broiler birds and thereby improve productivity and
profitability of their production. This study has potential advantage to recycle farm and industrial waste
materials for wealth generation inform of mineral feed ingredient and thereby reducing environmental
pollution.

The research work was conducted at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research farm of Kogi State
University, Anyigba. Anyigba lies between latitude 7° 28' 51.39'' N of the equator and longitude 7°
11' 14.86'' E of the Greenwich meridian. Ninety-six broiler chicks were subjected to four (4) dietary
treatments. Commercial feed(with unknown source and quantity of calcium and phosphorus mineral) as
T1, on-farm prepared diets consisting Bone meal (T2), Eggshell meal (T3), and Limestone (T4). Birds at
week five (5) were allotted in a Completely Randomized Design into four (4) treatments and three (3)
Page | 399
replicates each such that each treatment had twenty-four (24) birds and eight (8) birds in a replicate. The
day old chicks were brooded for three (3) weeks and reared up to finisher phase for the commencement of
trial up till eight (8) weeks.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) as outlined in SPSS (2011)
version 20 Statistical software. Significant mean levels were separated using Least Significant Difference
(LSD).
Dietary Composition
The Gross composition and calculated Analysis of Commercial and on farm formulated finishers diets
supplemented with Different sources of Calcium and phosphorus is presented in Table 1below.
Table 1: Gross Composition of Commercial and Formulated Finisher Diets Supplemented with
Different Sources of Calcium and Phosphorus.
Nutrients T1 (Commercial T2(Bone Meal) T3(Eggshell T4(Limestone)
based feed Diet) Meal)
Maize - 45.00 45.00 45.00
Soyabean Full Fat - 24.00 24.00 24.00
Palm Kernel Cake - 8.00 8.00 8.00
Maize offal - 15.00 15.00 15.00
Fish Meal - 4.20 4.20 4.20
Bone Meal - 3.00 - -
Eggshell Meal - - 3.00 -
Limestone - - - 3.00
Methionine - 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt - 0.30 0.30 0.30
Premix - 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total - 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated Analysis
Metabolizable Energy 2900.00 2822.64 2822.64 2822.64
(Me Kcal/kg).
Crude Fat 6.00 7.26 7.26 7.26
Crude Fiber (C F%) 6.00 4.45 4.45 4.45
Phosphorus (P %) 0.40 0.47 0.41 0.39
Calcium (Ca %)) 1.00 1.40 1.45 1.46
Crude protein (Cp %) 18.00 19.00 19.00 19.00
Methionine (Met. %) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Lysine (%) 0.85 0.94 0.94 0.94
As shown in Table 2 below, The total protein recorded in T 1 over birds on T2, T3 and T4 are not
significant(P>0.05) . T1 recorded the highest value (mg/dl) in total protein of 6.72±0.55 followed by T3,
6.50±0.1 6; T4, 6.00±0.75 and T2, 5.73+0.42 respectively. Serum phosphorus is highest in the control (T 1)
diet with 4.03-±0.84mg/dl while values (mg/dl) of, T2, T3 and T4 are: 3.93±0.6, 3.60±1.47 and 2.97±0.85
respectively, all of which are not significant (P>0.05). The result of creatinine, ALT. AST albumin,
globulin and urea are closely related among the treatments and are not significantly (P>0.05) affected as
well. Birds on T4 (limestone) diet recorded a significant (P<0.05) higher value of calcium level (mg/dl) of
Page | 400
6.27+:3.26 over those birds on T1, 5.63±2.36; T2, 4.57±1.18 and T3,5.83±3.03while the result for
phosphorus (2.97±0.55) in this treatment is very low and this may be attributed to imbalance of calcium
and phosphorus in T4(limestone).As shown in Table 2, all the serum biochemistry parameters measured
showed no significant (p>0.05) difference compared with the control, except calcium level in 4
(limestone) that show significant effect on the birds. A number of biochemical parameters such as
creatinine, AST, ALT and albumin measured in the dietary treatment are within normal value as reported
by Banerjee (2009). The normal range for some of the biochemical profile (mg/dl) as stated by Banerjee
(2009) are Total Protein, 5.20-6.90; Albumin, 2.10-3.45; Urea, 1.50-6.30; Creatinine, 0.90-1.85; AST,
88.0-208.0; ALT, 9.50-37.2 and Triglyceride, 62.0-148.0. The values of Total Protein, Creatinine, ALT,
AST, Urea, Albumin, Globulin, Phosphorus and calcium obtained in the various treatments were within
the normal range as presented by Okunlola et al., (2015). The similarity in serum albumin, creatinine,
urea, phosphorus and total protein implied that there was normal protein metabolism. The uniformity in
the levels of AST and ALT showed that there was no liver damage cause by the toxicity of the
experimental diets. This was in line with the findings of Ekpenyong and Biobaku (1986) who stated that
the value of AST and ALT are normally low in blood but becomes high when there is occurrence of liver
damage by toxic substances in feed. Calcium level in T4 recorded the highest value (6.27±3.26) due to its
high concentration in limestone, consequently, T4 also recorded the lowest value of Phosphorus (2.97±
0.55).
Table 2: Serum Biochemistry of broiler finishers offered different dietary sources of calcium and
phosphorus mineral supplement
Parameters T1 (control) T 2 (Bone T 3 (Eggshell T 4( SEM LOS
(Commercial Meal) Meal) Limestone)
based feed
Diet)
Total Protein 6.72 ± 0.55 5.73 ± 0.42 6.50 ± 0.16 6.00 ± 0.75 0.71 NS
(mg/dl)
Creatinine 0.60 ± 0.10 0.87 ± 0.12 0.60 ± 0.10 0.83 ±0.35 0.20 NS
(mg/dl)
Alanine 34.53 ± 6.59 36.03 ± 6.06 35.40 ± 15.12 34.50 ± 3.69 2.67 NS
Transaminase
(ALT) (iu/l)
Aspartate 43.10 ±10.84 40.63±10.06 42.57 ±9.19 42.13 ± 2.61 2.19 NS
Transaminase
(AST) (iu/l)
Phosphorus 4.03 ± 0.84 3.93 ± 0.76 3.60 ± 1.47 2.97 ± 0.85 0.28 NS
(mg/dl)
Calcium (mg/dl) 5.63 ± 2.36c 4.57 ±1.18bc 5.83 ± 3.06b 6.27 ± 3.26a 0.67 *
Albumin (mg/dl) 3.42 ± 0.61 3.40 ± 0.47 3.45 ± 0.62 3.35 ± 0.50 0.49 NS
4.97 ± 0.61 5.10 ± 0.69 4.95 ± 0,95 4.87 ± 0.68 0.63 NS
Globulin (mg/dl)
Urea (mg/dl) 6.23 ± 0.58 5.90 ± 2.65 5.81 ± 5.77 5.67 ± 2.52 0.87 NS
Conclusion and recommendations

Based on the result obtained from this experiment, it may be concluded that birds on egg shell meal, bone
meal and limestone treatment diets competed favorably non significantly (P>0.05) with the birds on the
control diets consisting of commercial feed in the serum biochemical parameters measured. Therefore,
these dietary mineral sources used in this experiment are excellent sources of calcium and phosphorus for
good serum biochemistry and the overall all wellbeing of broiler birds.
Page | 401
Therefore, it is recommended that farmers can use any of these mineral sources as an alternative source of
calcium and phosphorus mineral supplement at 3% level of inclusion. However, the usage of limestone
should be deliberately accompanied with readily available source of phosphorus for adequate calcium and
phosphorus balance. This experiment also helps to control environmental pollution posed by these
otherwise discarded farm wastes.
REFERENCES
Banerjee, G.C. (2004). A text book of Animal Husbandry.8th ed. Oxford and IBH Publishing Co. PVT
LTD. New Delhi, India.
Ekpenyong.1.E. and Biobaku, W.O. (1986). Growth response of rabbits fed activated sewage and dry
poulty waste. Journal of Applied Rabbit Research. 9(1). 1986, 14-16.
Okunlola, D.O., Akande, T.O., Nuga, H.A., Adebiyi, O.A., and Ojedele, T.S. (2015) Haematological and
Serum Characteristics of Broilers birds fed diets supplemented with varying level of selenium
powder.
Olorede, B.R., Onifade, A.A., Okpara, A.O., Babatunde, G.M. (1990). Growth, Nutrient Retention,
Haematology and Serum Biochemistry of Broiler Chickens fed Shea Butter Cake or Palm
Kernel-cake in the humid tropics. Journal of Applied Animal Research. 1996; 10: 166-173
Shirley, R.B. and Parson C.M. (2001).Effect of ash content on protein quality of meat and bone meal.
Journal of Poultry Science. 80, 626-632.
SPSS (2011).Statistical Package for Social Science 20.0 version. SPSS incorporated.
Waldroup, P.W. (2002). The future of poultry nutrition. Poultry International. 41(7), 12-19
Page | 402
EFFECTS OF REPLACING MAIZE WITH INDOMIE DOUGH IN FEEDING

JAPANESE QUAILS
1
Ajibola, O. O., 2Olugbemi, T. S., 1Saulawa, L. A. 1Sabo, M. N., 1Gaddafi, S. and 2Daudu, M. O.
1
Department of Animal Science, Federal University Dutsin-ma, Katsina State, Nigeria,
2
Department of Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria
*corresponding author: oyewoleajibola08@gmail.com: Phone: +234(7)068797577
ABSTRACT
A six weeks feeding trial was carried out to evaluate the effect of replacing mazie with indomie waste in
feeding Japanese quails. Two hundred and five quails were randomly allocated to five treatments in a
completely randomized design consisting of five treatments which were five graded levels of indomie
(nodules) waste (IW) at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 13
quails per replicate. Weight of birds and feed intake were measured on a weekly basis and used to
compute weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Blood samples were collected to analyze for
haematological parameters. The results of the study showed that weight gain was highest for quails fed
50% IW compared to those fed 75%, 0% (control) and 25% IW. Feed conversion ratio was highest
(P<0.05) for quails fed 50% IW as compared those fed 75%, 0% and 25% IW. There was significant
(P<0.05) difference among the treatments in heterocyst‘s and lymphocytes while red blood cell, PCV,
heamoglobin and total protein were similar for all the treatments.It can be concluded that indomie
(nodules) waste can replace maize up to 50% without adverse effects on growth performance and
haematological indices of quail birds..
Key word: Indomie waste, Japanese quails, feed intake, maize, body weight
INTRODUCTION
Noodle waste (NW) is an alternative source of energy and less expensive compared to maize which is one
of the main conventional source of energy in the diet of poultry (Omole et al., 2013). Noodles waste
(NW) is another good source of energy that can be used to replace maize. The protein content is relatively
similar to that of maize and it has high metabolizable energy, rich in minerals such as calcium and iron
(Omole et al., 2013). Indomie waste can be used to replace maize in the diets of poultry to get a cheaper
and equally effective ration and the metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) content of
indiome waste product are closer to that of maize (Alabi and Ayoola, 2010).
Quail belongs, along with chickens, pheasants and partridges to the Family Phasianoidea of Order
Galliformes of the Class Aves of the Animal Kingdom (Mizurani, 2003). Species of subspecies of the
genus Coturnixare native to all continents except the Americas. One of them; Coturnixcoturnixor
common quail are migratory birds of Asia, Africa and Europe. Several interbreeding subspecies are
recognized with the more important being the European quail, Coturnixcoturnixand the Japanese quail
(Coturnixcoturnix japonica)(Shim, 2004).
The Japanese quail (Cortunixcortunix japonica) is the smallest avian specie farmed for meat and egg
production (Panda and Singh, 1990). It has also assumed worldwide importance as a laboratory animal
(Wilson et al., 1961). Distinct characteristics of the quail bird include rapid growth enabling its marketing
for consumption at about 5 - 6 weeks of age, early sexual maturity resulting in a short generation interval,
high rate of lay and much lower feed and space requirements than the domestics fowl and it is less
susceptible to common poultry diseases (Edacheet al., 2005). Due to their low weight, less feed and space
requirements, quail farming can be started with lower capital investment as compared to chicken and duck
with almost the same profit margin. With shorter reproduction cycle and earlier marketing age, it offers
fast monetary circulation ultimately yielding quicker returns. Quail farming in the tropics is highly
profitable (Shim, 2004).
Page | 403
Quails begin laying eggs at about 35 days of age and an average of 40days (Babangida and Ubosi, 2006).
Their layers are very prolificacy is very high, able to produce more than 300 eggs per year (Shim, 2004).
Some authors affirm that they are also more efficient converters of feed to eggs than chickens (Sundaram,
1989). Quail eggs are widely accepted by Asians and quail meat is treated as a delicacy among the Asians
(Hoffmann, 1988 and Shim, 2004). The objective of this research was to investigate the replacement
value of Indomie waste for maize in Japanese Quail diets in terms of growth performance and
haematological indices also due to the high cost of maize and the competition between man and animal
want to source of other available nutrient to replace maize

Experimental Site
The experiment was carried out at the Quail Unit of the Teaching and Research farm of Department of
Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University Samuru , Zaria. It is located within the Northern Guinea
Savannah zone of Nigeria with latitude 11o14‖ 44N and 7o38‖65E, altitude of 610m above sea level.
Experimental Design
The design of the experiment was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) comprising of two hundred
two weeks old birds randomly divided into five treatments with three replicates and 13 birds per replicate.
The experiment lasted for four weeks.
Experimental Diets
Five experimental diet were formulated comprising of diet containing 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% Indomie
waste as displayed in Table1. The diets were is caloric and is nitrogenous.
Table 1: Feed Composition of the Experimental Diets (2-6 weeks)

Treatments
Ingredent 0% IW 25% IW 50% IW 75% IW 100% IW
Maize 67.96 50.52 33.46 16.60 0.00
Indomie 0.00 16.84 33.46 49.80 65.97
Soya beans cake 18.09 18.41 18.73 19.04 19.35
Ground nut cake 9.04 9.20 9.36 9.52 9.67
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Limestone 1 1 1 1 1
Salt 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Methomine 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Calculated Analysis
ME Kcal/kg DM 2831.23 2811.4 2798.32 2781.24 2774.52
Crude protein (%) 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00
Crude fibre (%) 4.70 3.53 3.53 3.53 3.53
Ether extract (%) 3.75 5.43 5.43 5.43 5.43
Calcium (%) 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Phosphorus (%) 0.72 0.72 0.72 0.72 0.72
Lysine (%) 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.40
Methionine (%) 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85
Management of the experimental birds

During the period of the experiment, feed and clean drinking water were given ad-libitum. All routine
practices were duly followed throughout the experiment.
Data collection
Performance characteristics were taken at the beginning of the experiment, the initial week was taken and
weekly weight gain was also taken. Weekly feed intake and left over was taken as well per week.
Page | 404
Haematological parameters determination

Blood samples from three birds per replicate was collected and were transferred to test tubes containing
EDTA and was taken to the Haematological Laboratory at the Veterinary Department, A.B.U., Zaria .
The parameters measured were Packed Cell Volume (PVC), Hemoglobin (HB), White Blood Cell
(WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Total Protein (TP), Heterocyst and Lymphocyte.
Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance. The data was statistically analyzed using the
General Linear Model Procedure of Statistical Analysis (SAS, 2002) while Duncan‘s multiple range test
was used to compare the means.
Table 2: Effects of feeding graded levels of Indomie waste based diets on the
performancecharacteristics of quail birds (2-6weeks)
Levels of indomie waste inclusion (%)
Parameters 0%IW 25%IW 50%IW 75%IW 100%IW SEM
Initial weight (g) 44 45 44 45 45 0.06
c c a bc ab
Final weight (g/bird) 119 118 136 123 131 2.60
Daily weight gain (g/bird) 76bc 73c 92a 78bc 89ab 1.80
Total feed intake (g/bird) 438 462 436 451 463 16.48
Daily feed intake (g/bird) 15.7 16.5 16 16 17 1.50
bc c a bc bc
Feed conversion ratio 5.81 6.32 4.74 5.77 5.41 1.90a
abcd
Means with different superscripts within the same row are significantly(P<0.05) different. SEM=
Standard error of the means

The performance of growing Japanese quails fed indomie waste is presented in Table 2. There was no
significant difference (P>0.05) in the average daily feed intake, average weekly feed intake and total feed
intake. Final weight, average weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of growing Japanese quails
were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the inclusion of indomie waste.
Treatment 3 (50% IW) had the highest final body weight which was significantly higher than treatments 4
(75%), 1 (0%) and 2 (25%) but similar to treatment 5 (100%). Treatments 5 (100%) and 4 (75%) have
similar final body weights while 4 (75%), 1 (0%) and 2 (25%) also had similar
final body weights. Treatment 3 (50% IW) had higher (P<0.05) average weight gain compared to
treatments 4 (75%), 1 (0%) and 2 (25%) but similar to treatment 5 (100%). Treatments 5 (100%) and 4
(75%) and 1 (0%) had similar (P>0.05) average weight gains. Treatments 4 (75%), 1 (0%) and 2 (25%)
also had similar average weight gains.
Feed conversion ratio was highest (P<0.05) for treatment 3 (50% IW) as compared to treatments 4 (75%),
1 (0%) and 2 (25%) but similar to treatment 5 (100%). Treatments 5 (100%) and 4 (75%) and 1 (0%) had
similar (P>0.05) feed conversion ratios. Treatments 4 (75%), 1 (0%) and 2 (25%) also had similar
(P>0.05) feed conversion ratio.
Eniolorunda et al. (2008) reported that indomie waste has no anti- nutritional factor and the high energy
content of indomie waste makes a good substitute for maize (and other cereal grains).
The effect of feeding indomie dough to Japanese quails on haematological parameters is shown in Table
3. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in all the treatments for PCV however the values
obtained (46.44 to 52.67) fell within the normal range of 37 to 69% (Campbell, 1988). There were no
significant (P>0.05) differences in haemoglobin values obtained across the treatments (14.83-17.51).
They however fell above the normal range of 12 to 15.52g/dl (Campbell 1988). Total protein values
indicated no significant differences (P>0.05) across treatments (4.42-5.23). Ayup et al. (2012) recorded
higher values of 3.7 to 12.6g/dl for total protein. There were no significant (P>0.05) differences across
the treatments for RBC (7.33-8.88) but was higher than the range of 3.8 to 5.5x10%/ul reported by
Page | 405
Campbell (1988). There was no significant difference among all white blood cell values for treatments
which had values of 3.34ul-4.02ul but fell below the normal range of 4.10.9x103/ul (Campbell 1988).
There were significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatments in heterocyst‘s with treatment 3 having
the lowest value of 6.78. It was statistically lower than the values for treatments 2 and 5. Treatments 2, 5,
1 and 4 had similar values while treatments 1, 4 and 3 had similar values.
There were significant (P<0.05) differences among the treatments in lymphocytes with treatment 3 being
significantly higher than treatments 2 and 5. Treatments 3, 1 and 4 had similar values.
Table 3: Effects of feeding graded levels of Indomie waste based diets on the
haematologicalcharacteristics of quail birds (2-6weeks)
Levels of indomie waste inclusion (%)
Parameters 0%IW 25%IW 50%IW 75%IW 100%IW SEM
PCV 52.67 50.78 46.44 50.78 50.89 12.67
HGB 17.11 15.82 14.83 15.67 15.67 3.56
TP 5.01 5.23 4.42 4.60 4.82 3.21
WBC 3.74 4.02 3.34 3.64 3.40 2.56
RBC 8.89 7.91 7.49 7.33 8.16 4.32
HETERO 9.67ab 10.33a 6.78b 9.56ab 11.22a 1.02
LYMPHO 90.33ab 88.89b 93.22a 90.44ab 88.78b 1.22
abcd
Means with different superscripts within the same row are significantly(P<0.05) different. SEM=
Standard error of the means
PCV= packed cell volume, Hb=haemoglobin, TP=total protein, RBC=red blood cell,
WBC=white blood cell. Hetero= heterocyst, Lympho= lymphocytes

The results of this study show that indomie (nodules) waste can replace maize without adverse effects on
growth performance and haematological indices of the quail birds. From the finding of the study, indomie
waste can be included up to 50% inclusion without deleterious effects on quail performance and
haematological indices.
REFERENCES
Alabi, O.M. and Ayoola, M.O. (2010). Growth Response of Broiler Finisher Chicken Red
with Graded Level of Indomie Waste Meal as Replacement for Maize. International Journal of
Current Research and Review, 2 (8): 45-53.
Babangida, S. and Ubosi, C.O. (2006). Effects of Varying Dietary Protein Levels on the Performance of
laying Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japanica) in a semiarid environment. Nigeria Journal of
Animal Production, 3(1) L5-52.
Mizutani, M. (2003). The Japanese Quail Laboratory Animal Research Station,Nippon Institute for
Biological Science Irobuchizawa Yamnnashi, Japan, W08-0041. Pp 143-163.
National Research Council (NRC) (1991). Micro-Livestock Little Known Small Animals with a
Promising Economic Future, National Academic Press,Washington DC
National Research Institute (NURI) (1996). Farmers Training on Quail Production and Health
Management, National Workshop on Quail Sept. 12-14, NURI, Vol. PP. 8-24.
Omole, A.J., Okpeze, C.N., Salako, R.A., Obi, O.O. and Fayenuwo, J.O. (2013).Utilization of Noodle
Wheaters Replacement for Maize in the Diet of Broiler Starter Chicken, American Journal of
Experimental Agriculture, 3(4):1012-1019.
Shim, K.F. (2004).The Nutrition and Management of Japanese (Cotunix) Quail in the Tropics.
Sundaram, T. (1989). Comparative Egg Production Efficiency of Chickens, Dudils and Quails. Poultry
International, 8:60.
Page | 406
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF THREE STRAINS OF LAYING CHICKENS IN A

SEMI-ARID REGION OF NIGERIA
* Muhammad, K.D., Jamilu, M., Umar,Y.B., Lawan, U. and Titus, M.

Department of Animal Science, P.M.B. 1069, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State
ABSTRACT
A total of 550 birds comprising of Noiler and Silver brown 200 for each while the remaining 150 Bovan
brown were used for the study. Data were collected on each bird on weekly basis from week one to
twentieth week. Body weight were significant (P<0.05) across all ages. The result revealed that the
growth performance of Noiler was significantly higher (3128g) than Bovans brown (1819.20g) and Silver
brown (1797.80g) at 20th week.
Key words: Noiler, Bovans brown, Silver brown, growth performance, body weight.
INTRODUCTION
Livestock keeping is an essential part of the Nigerian society and economy, as it contributes to man
livelihood in terms of food, employment, transport, draft power, manure, savings and insurance and social
status (FAO, 2018). About 13 million households keep farm animals and the sector contributes 6 to 8
percent of the National Gross Domestic Product. Nigeria has the second largest chicken population in
Africa after South Africa. The Nigerian poultry industry comprises about 180 million birds, 80 million of
which are raised in extensive systems, 60 million in semi-intensive and the remaining 40 million in
intensive systems (FAO, 2018).
Growth being one of the major characteristics of all living organism, involves dynamic physiological
changes which commences when the zygote is formed at the moment of fertilization and continues till
maturity of the individual (Olerefuh et al.2017). Growth is the result of an animal gaining weight with
time until it reaches maturity (Porter et al., 2010). The growth of animals is characterized by a sigmoid-
type curve with three phases: initial slow growth, a phase of pronounced acceleration, and a period of
deceleration, until mature weight is reached (Segura-Correa et al., 2017). Growth performance of an
animal is a phenotypic attribute influenced by the environment, to a larger extent and it is a manifestation
of the genetic constitution of the animal. Growth aspects in farm animals can be readily appreciated and
can be easily subjected to quantification either by weighing or by linear measurements (Lawrence and
Fowler, 2012, Oleforuh et al., (2017). The current study was taken to determine the growth performance
of three strains of chickens.

The study was conducted at the University of Maiduguri Livestock Teaching and Research Farm,
Maiduguri, Borno State.
Experimental birds and management

A total of 450 day-old birds sourced from two reputable hatcheries; Amo and Zartech were used for the
study. One hundred and fifty day-old chicks each of Noiler and Silver brown strains were sourced from
Amo hatchery and the remaining one hundred and fifty Bovan brown day old chicks sourced from
Zartech Hatchery.The day-old chicks‘ were identified by tagging with indelible marker pen and brooded
together. The birds were fed commercial starter mash containing 2800 kcal ME/Kg and 21% Crude
Protein (CP) from 0-8 weeks. Clean water was given ad libitum. They were all vaccinated against New
castle disease and Vitamin supplements were also given to ensure good health and improved egg
production.
Body measurements
The bodyweight were collected on weekly basis body weight measured in gram with a digital scale.
The appropriate statistical model used is
Page | 407
Yik = µ + Ai + Lk + eik
Where; Yik = observation of the individual bird
µ = Population mean
Ai = Fixed effect of age (i = 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th……… 20th week)
LK = Fixed effect of strain (k = 1, 2, 3)
eik = Random Error
All data generated were subjected to analysis using statistix 9.0 and significant means were separated
using Least Significant Difference
RESULTS
The table showed the least square means of bodyweight for Noiler, Silver brown and Bovans brown
chickens from 1-20 weeks of age. Strains had significant (P<0.05) effect in all the ages of study. The
result revealed that Noiler strain had the heaviest bodyweight and were significantly (P<0.05) different
across all ages among the three strains of chickens. However, despite the variation in mean bodyweight
between Silver brown and Bovans brown from one to twenty weeks of age, there was no statistical
difference between them.
DISCUSSION
The variation in growth rate observed among the three strains at weekly interval is an indication that
strains have different genetic potentials for growth and the strains have different ancestors. Increase in
bodyweight of each strain as growth advances in age is an indication that age is a major determinant of
growth and physiological development, such variation in growth performance among the three strains of
chickens could be utilized in genetic improvement of growth through selection. The findings of the
current study are consistent with the reports of Ojedapo (2008) who reported marked strain and breed
differences for bodyweight. According to the reports of Ojedapo et al. (2008) chickens reared in derived
savannah zone of Nigeria mean bodyweight for Nera black (1237g), Brown shaver (978g), Black shaver
(983g) which were lower than the current findings of this study. Furthermore, the mean bodyweight
obtained in this study were also higher than the reports of Olawumi (2011) on three breeds of commercial
layers in derived savannah zone of Nigeria at 20 weeks of age for Isa brown (1422g), Bovans Nera
(1499g) and Dominant black (1412g). However the mean bodyweight reported in this study were
lower than the result obtained by Melesse et al. (2018) for three strains of chickens reared in
midland agro ecological zone of Ethiopia for Bovans brown (3.13kg), Sasso (3.19kg) and
Keokok (3.17kg) respectively.
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Table 1 Least square means of body weight in three strains of chickens

Age Noiler Silver brown Bovans SEM
brown
1 59.29a 52.40b 51.49b 1.16
2 131.23a 108.37b 108.36b 2.27
a b b
3 259.00 201.33 194.61 4.48
4 431.81 a 294.40 b 278.30b 7.05
a b b
5 588.47 381.70 373.92 9.88
6 793.13 a 467.87 b 477.46b 11.09
8 1068.80 a 652.00 b 659.06b 14.61
a b b
10 1413.30 829.80 848.27 19.51
12 1742.10 a 1019.50 b 1030.50b 24.82
a b b
13 1916.70 1114.80 1131.00 28.26
14 2092.50 a 1208.90 b 1227.2b 31.95
a b b
15 2272.40 1296.70 1332.1 34.38
16 2442.60 a 1394.80 b 1430.80b 36.66
a b b
17 2607.10 1498.50 1522.50 38.60
18 2785.30 a 1598.6 b 1623.20b 40.31
a b b
19 2949.60 1693.7 1722.4 41.30
20 3128.40 a 1797.80 b 1819.20 b 43.34
Means (a,b) within row with different superscripts are significantly different (P<0.05)
CONCLUSION
From the results obtained in this study, it was found that Noiler chickens tend to have higher bodyweight
among the three strains of chickens and hence it can be use for both meat and egg production.
REFERENCE
Assan, N. (2015). Bio-prediction of body weight and carcass parameters from morphometric
characteristics in indigenous livestock species in Zimbabwe. Scientific Journal of Review
2(6):140-150.
FAO, (2018). Livestock and livelihood spotlight in Nigeria cattle and poultry sectors, 1-12.
Ige, A.O. Rafiu, B.R. and Mudasiru, I.T. (2016). Effects of genotype on traits characteristics of two
commercial broiler chickens in the derived savannah zone of Nigeria. International Journal of
Research Studies in Agricultural Science, 2:26-32.
Melesse, A., Assefa, S. and Banerjee, S. (2018). Egg production and linear body measurement traits of
local and three exotic chicken genotypes reared under two agroecological zones, International
Journal of Ecology and Ecosolution, 5(2): 18-23.
Ojedapo, L.O. (2013). Evaluation of Body Weight and Other Linear Parameters of Marshall Broiler for
Repeatability Estimates. International Journal of Applied Agricultural and Apicultural Research,
9 (1 and 2): 175-181.
Olawumi, S.O. and Adeoti, A.I. (2009). Comparative Economic Analysis of Black and Brown
Commercial Layer Strains in Nigeria. International Journal of Poultry Science, 8 (10): 1011-
1013.
Olawumi, S.O. (2011). Study on pre-laying characteristics of three breeds of commercial layers in the
derived savannah zone of Nigeria, Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences, 14(23): 1061-1065.
Oleforuh, O., Vivian U., Kurutsi, R. F. and Ideozu, H.M. (2017). Phenotypic evaluation of growth traits
in two Nigerian local chicken genotypes, Animal Research International, 14(1): 2611 – 2618.
Page | 409
Porter T, Kebreab, E., Darmani, K.H., López, S., Strathe, A.B. and France, J. (2010). Flexible
alternatives to the Gompertz equation for describing growth with age in turkey hens, Poultry
Science, (2): 371–378.
Segura-Correa, J.C., Santos-Ricalde, R.H. and Palma, Á. (2017). Non-Linear Model to Describe Growth
Curves of Commercial Turkey in the Tropics of Mexico, Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science,
19(1): 027-032.
Page | 410
GROWTH PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER BIRDS FED THREE

MORINGA PLANT FRACTIONS AS SUPPLEMENTS AT STARTER PHASE (0-4
WEEKS)
*Anyanwu, N.J1 Duruigbo, C.J1 , Simobi C. F 1 Ekpe I.I. 2 and Kalio G.A.4
1
.Department of Animal Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri
2.
Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology, Owerri
3
Department of Agric. Science , Ignatius Njuru University of Education, Port Harcourt
*Corresponding author Email, njanyanwu@yahoo.com 08187184503
ABSTRACT
The addition of different plant part extracts in the diets of poultry has been reported to have some effects
on animal physiology and biochemical functions. This study evaluated the growth performance of broiler
chickens fed leaf meal, raw and toasted seed cakes of Moringa oleifera from 0-4 weeks. A total of 96 day-
old chicks were allotted to 4 treatment groups of 8 birds each in a completely randomized design with 3
replications. The trial lasted for 28 days for the starter phase. The results showed significant differences
(p<0.05) in average final weight gain, average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed
conversion ratio. The birds fed the toasted Moringa seeds showed significantly higher weight gains than
all other treatments. Therefore, it can be concluded that toasted Moringa seed cake, when included in the
diet of starter broilers, promotes , optimal growth and productivity, than raw Moringa seed cake, leaf meal
as well as the control treatment. Therefore, toasted Moringa seed cake could effectively be used as growth
promoter and can replace the use of other synthetic commercial additives especially for consumers who
insist on organic products as well as for increased profitability of the poultry production business.
Key Words: Broiler Finisher, Feed additive, Growth Performance, Moringa oleifera,
INTRODUCTION
The spiraling costs of broiler feeds and the attendant reduction in profit margins has made many farmers
to seek alternative methods not only to reduce feed costs but also to improve feed utilization for overall
animal performance and profitability. Addition of natural pigments from plants to animal diets has been
reported to improve efficiency of feed utilization and decreased mortality in fish (Watanabe and Aquis,
2003) improved sow fertility and survival of healthy piglets (Lignell and Inboor, 2000), improved feed
utilization in poultry (Iheukwumere et al.,2008). Besides the high contents of protein, they contain a
variety of biologically active compounds that may serve as growth and health promoting substances.
These compounds include vitamins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, isothiocyanates, tannins as well as
saponins (Vergara-Jimenez et al., 2017), others are alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids ( Mashayekhi et al.,
2018). Moringa oleifera is indigenous to Northern India and Pakistan (Bosh, 2004) and is introduced
throughout the tropics and sub-tropics becoming naturalized in many African countries. Yameogo et al.
(2011) reported that, on a dry matter basis, Moringa oleifera leaves contained 27.2% protein, 5.9%
moisture, 17.1% fat, and 38.6% carbohydrates. Anwar and Rashid (2007) observed that on a dry matter
basis, Moringa oleifera seeds contained 34.80% ether extract, 31.65% protein, 7.54% fibre, 8.90%
moisture, and 6.53% ash contents. Makkar and Becker (1997) found that the essential amino acid contents
of the leaves and sulphur containing amino acids of the kernel were higher than the amino acid pattern of
the FAO reference protein, but other essential amino acids of the kernel were deficient.
In a bid to meet the protein needs of an ever growing human population, Nigerians rely heavily on poultry
products such as meat from broilers which is in high demand by households especially on weekends and
during ceremonies. This has developed the live-chicken and processing segment of the poultry value
chain, evident in most urban markers across Nigeria. The survival of the poultry industry in the region is
premised on reduction of cost of production hence the search for alternative additives in broiler diets that
are capable of improving feed efficiency at minimal cost. The improvement in feed utilization promotes
lower feed consumption and reduces cost of production which before now was achieved by the use of
Page | 411
many synthetic growth promoters and probiotics, some of which may be harmful. In view of the concerns
of the long-term health implication of prolonged use of synthetic products it becomes imperative to
replace these synthetic feed additives/growth promoter with natural based products. Based on the
foregoing therefore, this study was initiated. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of
inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaf and seed cake fractions on the growth performance of broiler starter
birds.

The experiment was carried out in the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm of the School of
Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT), Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State
Nigeria. Owerri is located at an altitude of 90m above sea level. The mean annual rainfall, temperature
and humidity are 2500mm, 26.5-27.5°c and 70-80%, respectively. The duration of the dry season is 3
months with rainfall of 65mm and the mean annual evaporation of 1450mm. The soil is sandy loam with
an average pH of 5.5.
Fresh leaves of Moringa were harvested from within the University Campus and surrounding areas and
were spread under the sun to facilitate drying for 5-7 days until the leaves became crispy while still
retaining its greenish colouration. The dried leaves were then ground into a meal using a motorized
electric grinding mill to produce Moringa oleifera leafmeal (MOLM). Similarly, the dry seeds of
Moringa were sorted, cleaned and divided into two batches, one batch was toasted for 10-15 mins, in a
frying pan using dry heat, while the other one was left raw. The toasted and raw Moringa seeds were then
separately ground into a meal using a motorized electric grinding mill to produce Moringa oleifera seed
cake (MOSC).
A total of 96 (ninety – six) day old broiler chicks of Cob-strain were used for the experiment. The birds
were divided into 4 groups and randomly assigned to the four experimental diets in a completely
randomized design (CRD). Each group was further subdivided (replicated) into 3 groups of 8 birds each.
They were housed in a deep litter system with wood shavings used as litter materials. Feed and water
were provided ad-libitum during the trial period. Litter was changed periodically to reduce build-up of
pathogenic microbes as well as the observance of other routine poultry management practices. Four
experimental starter broiler diets were formulated such that the diets contained 0 % (control), and 5%
inclusion of leafmeal, raw and toasted seed cakes respectively, at the starter phase.
The parameters measured were, initial body weight, final body weight, weekly body weight gain, average
daily body weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Birds were weighed together
at the beginning of experiment and at the end of each week and the weights recorded. The average weight
per treatment was obtained by dividing the total weight of birds in the treatment by the number of birds in
that treatment group.
Statistical Analysis: Data on each of the parameters were subjected to analysis of variance using the
(ANOVA) as a completely randomised design (CRD). The Duncan New Multiple Range test was used to
determine differences between treatment means in accordance with SAS (2002).

There were significant (P<0.05) differences in average final weight gain, average daily weight gain,
average daily feed intake. and feed conversion ratio with treatment 2 showing superior performance when
compared with the rest of the treatments and treatment 4 having the least Table 2. This could be as a
result of the fibrous nature of the leaf meal which also resulted in a lower average daily feed intake. The
results also showed that Treatments 1 and 3, were statistically similar (p>0.05) in average final body
weight, average daily weight gain, average feed intake and feed conversion ratio but differed
significantly (p<0.05) from treatment 4. These results are in line with the findings of Soad, (2010) and.
Banjo, (2010) who reported significant differences in broiler diets at various levels at the inclusion of
Moringa plant fractions in the diet of broiler birds.
The feed conversion ratio showed that treatment 1 and 2 had better conversion ratio although not
significant (p>0.05). The lower feed intake observed in treatment 4 may be result from the fibrous nature
Page | 412
of the leaf meal fraction, the lower nutritional composition of the leaf meal and probably the absence of
feed enzymes. Abou - Elezz et al.(2012) demonstrated that Moringa seed cake contained higher vitamin
and mineral, and amino acid content as compared to the leaf meal.
Table 1: Percentage composition of experimental diets at the starter phase

Ingredients Diet 1 (Control) Diet 2 (Toasted Diet 3 (Raw Seed Diet 4 (Leaf
Seed Cake) Cake) Meal)
Maize 60 60 60 60
Soya bean 25 20 20 20
Wheat offal 10 10 10 10
Moringa plant 0.0 5 5 5
fraction
Fish meal 1 1.75 1.75 1.75
Bone meal 3 3 3 3
Lysine 0.25 0.0 0.0 0.0
Methionine 0.25 0.0 0.0 0.0
Vit/min premix* 0.25 0.0 0.0 0.0
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
TOTAL 100 100 100 100
Table 2: Performance of broiler birds from 0-4 weeks of growth.

T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM
Average initial body weight 25 25 25 25 -
Average final body weight 413ab 450a 392b 229c 35.26
Average weight gain 388ab 425a 367b 204c 23.39
ab a ab
Average daily weight gain 13.86 15.18 13.11 7.29c 2.22
Average daily feed intake 32.99ab 36.39a 32.93ab 26.72c 3.29
Feed conversion ratio 2.38a 2.40ab 2.51ab 3.67c 0.52
Mortality - - - 4
Means across rows with different superscripts are significantly different (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION
The result of this study demonstrated that inclusion 5% level of toasted Moringa oleifera seed cakes to
broiler starter feeds significantly increased the growth performance of birds leading to for optimum
weight gains and therefore could serve as effective natural growth promoter thereby improving feed
utilization and reduction of cost of production.
REFERENCES
Abuye, C., Urga, K., Knapp, H., Selmar, D., Omwega, A. M., Imungi, J.M., Winterhalter, P. (2003). A
compositional study of Moringa stenopetala leaves. East Africa Medicinal Journal 80: 247-252.
Anwar, F and Rashid,U. (2007). Physicochemical characteristics of Moringa oleifera seeds and seed oil
from a wild provenance of Pakistan. Pak. J. Botany 2007, 39, 1443-1453.
Aregheore, E.M., (2002). Intake and digestibility of Moringa oleifera-batila grass mixtures by growing
goats. Small Rumin. Res. 46, 23-28.
Banjo, O.S (2012). Growth and performance as affected by inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaf meal in
broiler chicks diets. Vol 2, No. 9 (2012). Journal of Biology, Agriculture and healthcare.
Fahey, J.W.; (2005). Moringa oleifera: A review of the medical Evidence for its nutritional, therapeutic,
and prophylactic properties, part l. Trees for life Journal. 1, 5.
Fuglie, L.J. (1999). The miracle tree: moringa oleifera: Natural Nutrition for the tropics church world
service, darkar. 68 PP.; revised in 2001 and published as the miracle tree: the multiple attributes of
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moringa, 172 PP. http://www.echotech.org/bookstore/advanced search result pup? key

words=miracle+Tree.
Gopalakrishnanb L, Doriya K and Kuma D.S (2016). Moringa oleifera: A review on nutritive importance
and its medicinal application Sciece direct. www.sciencedirect.com. Food Science and Human
Wellness. 5 (2016).49-56
Makkar, H.P.S. and; Beeker, K. (1997). Nutritional value and ethanol extracted moringa oleifera leaves
Animal feed Science and Technology. 63(1-4) 211-228.
Mashayekhi H, Mazhari M and Esmaeilipour, O. (2018). Eucalyptus leaf powder, antibiotic and
probiotic addition to broiler diets: effect on growth performance, immune response, blood
components and carcass traits. Animal, 12, 2049-2055. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1751731117003731
Oduro, I.; Ellias, W.O.; Owusu, D. (2008). Nutritional potential of two leafy vegetables: moringa oleifera
and ipomoea batatas leaves. Scientific research and Essay. 3(2): 57-60.
Olugbemi, T.S.; mutayoba and F.P. lekule, (2010). Effect of moringa oleifera inclusion in cassava based
diets fed to broiler chickens. Int. J. poult. Sci.;9:3 63-367.
Teketay, D. (2001) Deforestation, Wood Famine, and Environmental Degradation in Ethiopia‘s Highland
Ecosystems: Urgent Need for Action. Northeast African Studies, 8, 53-76.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1353/nas.2005.0020.
Vergara-Jimenez M, Almatrafi M M and Fernandez M L (2017). Bioactive components in Moringa
oleifera leaf protect against chronic disease. Antioxidants, 6(91).
https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox6040091
Watanabe, T. and R. Aquis, (2003).Broodstock nutrition research on marine fish in Japan. Aquaculture,
227 (1-4): 75-88.
lheukwumere, F. C.; Onyekvvere, M. U.; Egu, U. E., (2008). Growth, carcass and reproductive
characteristics of male rabbits (bucks) fed raw and boiled pigeon pea seed (Cajanus cajan) meal.
Pakistan J. Nutr., 7 (1): 71-20
Yameogo C.W, Bengaly M.D, Savadogo A, Nikiema P.A and Traor S.A (2011). Determination of
Chemical Composition and Nutritional Values of Moringa oleifera Leaves
Page | 414
BLOOD PROFILE OF STARTER BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET CONTAINING

LEAF MEAL COMPOSITE AS ALTERNATIVE TO COMMERCIAL BROILER
PREMIX
Onunkwo, D. N.*., Ufot, E. U* and Ezenyilimba, B. N**

*College of Animal Science and Animal Production, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,
Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
**Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka
Corresponding author email: donunkwo1@gmail; +2348033388622
ABSTRACT
The need to explore and harness the potentials green vegetable plants as part replacements for the more
expensive conventional Vitamin-Mineral premix is of great importance. One hundred and eighty broiler
chickens were used in a three weeks experiment to determine the effect of varying levels of Leaf Meal
Composite (LMC) as an alternative to vitamin-mineral premix using Telfairia occidentalis, Vernonia
amygdalina, Piper quinenses and Ipomea batata on the haematology and serum biochemical profile of
broiler chickens. The chicks were allocated to six dietary treatment each having thirty birds, replicated
thrice with ten birds each in a Completely Randomized Design. The birds were fed formulated diet, the
test material was introduced from the first day, feed and water were provided ad libitum The composite
leaf meal inclusion level was at 0.00 (0.25% premix), 0.125 (0.125% premix), 0.63 (0.0% premix), 0.125
(0.0% premix), 0.188 (0.0% premix) and 0.25% (0.0% premix) at the expense of a commercial premix
and designated diets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 respectively.Treatment one (T1) served as the control. Data was
obtained for analysis. The result reveals that the LMC was not toxic to the birds, had superior disease
fighting ability and were not anaemic. All the treatment levels were significant for MCV, MCH AND
MCHC. AST and ALT reduced with increasing concentration of LMC, the test material was not toxic to
the liver. Total Globulin and Glucose level reduced with increasing concentration of LMC. Leaf meal is
effective in reducing fat deposition. It can be concluded that this leaf meal composite had no detrimental
effect on the haematology and serum biochemical profile of broiler chicken and can be used to replace
commercial Vitamin-Mineral premix.
Keywords. Leaf Meal Composite, Vitamin-Mineral Premix, Hamatological indices, Serum biochemical
INTRODUCTION
Vitamins and minerals are unarguably essential components in animal nutrition, poultry not being an
exception. Although required in small quantities, they are crucial for the immune system as defence
against unhealthy pathogens, metabolic reactions, skeletal support, nutrient absorption, growth,
reproduction and production.
Broiler chicken being a monogastric do not have the required microbes in its guts to sequester or
synthesize sufficient amount of vitamin and mineral (Onunkwo and George, 2015) to meet its
requirement unlike the ruminant who graze on green pasture where these nutrients abound and the
microbes in the guts helps to synthesize more. Hence, vitamins and minerals in the form of "premix" are
added to broiler chicken feed (some are also administered through drinking water) to meet its requirement
for optimal performance. This premix originates from a synthetic source and comes at a premium
(Areghore et al., 1998) since it is mostly imported and distributed by a few dealers to the local farmers in
developing countries; there is occasional scarcity, adulteration challenge, and high cost (Onunkwo and
George, 2015)
This birth the urge among animal nutritionist to research on indigenous plant sources that can serve as an
alternative to synthetic Vitamin-Mineral Premix that will furnish the animal with adequate blend of
vitamins and minerals, serve as a source of fibre since it has already been established that vegetables
provide fibre to birds. In addition, the quality will be verified and it will come at a cheap rate to address
the economic challenges with the use of synthetic Vitamin-Mineral premix.
Page | 415
A standard quantity and combination of composite leaf meal has not yet been accepted as an alternative to
premix, information on it is scanty and still in the infancy stage hence researchers are still searching for
the right combination of leaves that could serve this purpose. On this note, Telfairia occidentalis,
Vernonia amygdalina, Piper quinenses and Ipomea batata were employed in this study to test the blood
and serum biochemical profile when used as an alternative to vitamin-mineral premix in different
proportions.
Materials and Methods

The study was carried out at the Poultry unit of Teaching and Research Farm, Michael Okpara University
of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. Umudike is situated on latitude 05o 21‘ N and longitude 07o 33‘E,
with an elevation of about 112m above sea level with an annual rainfall of 177 - 2,000mm (April to
October) and a short period of dry season (November to March) with a relative humidity of about 50-90%
and monthly temperature range of 17oC -36oC (NRCRI, 2020).
Pumpkin leaf was sourced from the Cross River Basin Abak, Akwa Ibom State while Sweet potato,
Moringa and Bitter leaves were obtained within Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
premises. Each type of leaf was harvested fresh, sliced to reduce the particle size and increase the surface
area for quick drying then air dried at room temperature for four days. Thereafter, it was ground to fine
powder and stored in an air-tight container. For compounding the feed, equal quantity of each ground leaf
was measured out and mixed thoroughly using an improvised mixer; this made up the Leaf Meal
Composite (LMC) used to replace commercial premix in the diet at different levels. The CLM sample
were mixed along with other feed ingredients used to formulate the experimental diets (Table 1). The
experiment lasted for three weeks.
At the 3th week of the experiment, blood samples were collected from one bird randomly selected from each
replicate per treatment for the evaluation of haematological and serum parameters. Blood collection was
carried out by using a sterile needle to puncture the right jugular vein, and blood drawn into the syringe.
The blood samples were collected into labeled sterile bottles containing EDTA (Ethyl diamine tetra acetic
acid) powder as anti-coagulant. These samples were used in the laboratory to determine haematological
parameters such as: Red Blood Cell (RBC), White Blood Cell (WBC), Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and
Haemoglobin Count (Hb), according to Coles (1986). Values for Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean
Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) were
determined. Also, blood samples were collected into another labeled sterile bottle without anti-coagulant to
analyze serum biochemical constituents such as total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, triacylglycerols,
alkaline phosphatase and aspartate amino transferase.
All data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and treatment means that were
significantly different were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955) according to
Steel and Torrie (1980) using computer software IBM SPSS Statistic version 20 (SPSS, 2009).

Haematology Profile of Broiler Chicken
The result of the haematological indices of broiler chicken fed diet containing leaf meal composite is
shown in Table 2. Packed Cell Volume (PCV) is the percentage of Red Blood Cell (RBC) in the blood
(Purves et al., 2003) It is involved in the transport of oxygen and absorbed nutrients round the body
delivering it to target cells or tissues. PCV values in this study ranged between 22.0 - 29.7% which falls
within the normal range for healthy chicken (Mitrula and Rawnsley, 1977) except at T4 and T5 which
were lower; this could be due to the sex of the selected animal as the female chick tends to have a lower
value than the male as estrogen level impairs erythrocyte synthesis( Fair et al., 2007) or due to
dehydration since PCV represents an increase in the number of RBCs or a reduction in the circulatory
plasma volume( Chineke et al., 2006) Dehydration results in a low fluid in the blood and therefore, a
high RBC and its associated parameters. It is indicative that the experimental birds were not anaemic
since Hb and RBC values were within the normal range for healthy broiler chicken (Mitrula and
Page | 416
Rawnsley, 1977), but there could have been dehydrated; this condition will be reversed when the water
intake improves.
Table 1: Gross percent composition of experimental starter broiler diet

INGREDIENTS T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Maize 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Wheat offal 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
PKC 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Rice Bran 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
SBM 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00
Fishmeal 65 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.20 3.15 3.1 3.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vit/Min Premix 0.25 0.125 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
CLM 0.00 0.125 0.063 0.125 0.188 0.25
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.01 100.02 100.03 100.0
*premix supplied per kg diet: vitamin A 15,000 I.U, vitamin D3 13000 iu, thiamine 2mg, Riboflavin 6mg, pyridoxine 4mg, Niacin
40mg, cobalamine 0.05g, Biotin 0.08mg, choline chloride 0.05g, Manganese 0.096g, Zinc 0.06g, Iron 0.024g, Copper 0.006g,
Iodine 0.014g, Selenium 0.24mg, Cobalt 0.024mg and Antioxidant 0.125g, NFE = Nitrogen free extract.
RBC transports oxygen to animal tissues for the oxidation process to release energy and transport carbon-
dioxide out of the tissues (Omiyale et al., 2012) and the manufacture of haemoglobin. RBC values in this
study increased numerically with increased inclusion of LMC. the control had the least value while the
highest was observed at T6 group. The observed values range between 2.53 - 3.3 *106/mm3 which is
within the normal range for healthy broiler chicken (Mitrula and Rawnsley, 1977) T2, T3, T6 were
significantly different (P<0.05) from the control. This shows that the LMC enabled proper functioning of
the RBC in respiration, expiration supply of nutrients and manufacture of haemoglobin which indicates a
better health status. LMC resulted in an elevation RBC value, this could be due to the high nutrient in
LMC such as iron in Telfera occidentalis and high protein quality in potato. Iron is essential in body
functions such as formation of haemoglobin and myoglobin (Elbashier and Ahmed, 2016). These rich
nutrients have blood boosting ability and a rich blend of amino acids.
White Blood Cell (WBC) defends the body against invasion by foreign organisms and to supply
antibodies for immune response. There is significant difference among T2, T3, T4 and T1 (control). the
WBC values obtained in this study range between 10.7-18.4*106/mm3 which is not in agreement with
(Mitrula and Rawnsley, 1977). All the inclusion levels were higher than the normal range indicating that
the LMC influenced the birds‘ immune status being an intrinsic body defence system (Ganomg,1991) and
will optimise performance under stressful condition. Animals with high WBC values are capable of
generating antibodies and a high degree of disease resistance (Soeatan et al 2013). The increase in WBC
could also be attributed to the presence of some Phytochemicals in bitter leaf which induces the animal to
respond as if it had an infection (Areghere et al., 1998) or due to the presence of residual anti-nutrients
which induces production of more antibodies that stimulate more WBC production to fight the infection
being a defence system. Birds with low WBC are exposed to high risk of disease infection while an
increase are capable of producing antibodies in the process of phagocytosis and have a higher degree of
disease resistance (Soetan et al., 2013). The increase in WBC indicates a superior disease fighting ability
showing that the LMC did not compromise the bird's immunity (Eroschenko, 2000).
Haemoglobin (Hb) values of the experimental broiler chickens is 7.0-8.8 which are within the normal
range. T6 had the highest value and significantly different from the control while the least was observed
in T4. Haemoglobin is the oxygen carrying protein in the RBC. Hb levels is a direct reflection of the
Page | 417
amount of oxygen in the blood. Increased Hb is seen in dehydration, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease etc. while a decrease results in anaemia, blood loss, liver disease etc.
MCV, MCH, MCHC were significantly different and numerically lower than the control. The significant
difference recorded in this study maybe correlated with the quality of protein in the experimental diet
since haemocrit and haemoglobin are influenced by the quality of protein. MCH indicates the blood
carrying ability of RBC, the study reveals that the LMC reduced the blood carrying ability of the RBC.
Table 2: Haematological indices of starter broiler chicken fed diet containing Leaf Meal Composite.
Variable 1 2 3 4 5 6 S.E.M
HB (g/dl) 8.2ab 8.2a 7.67ab 7.0a 7.8ab 8.87c 0.203
a bc a a a
PCV (%) 22.3 28 25.3 22.0 24 29.7c 0.823
6 3 a bc ab a ab
RBC(1O /mm ) 2.53 3.2 2.9 2.6 2.7 3.3c 0.089
6 3 b c a a bc
WBC(1O /mm ) 15.4 18.6 10.7 11.4 17.1 17.7bc 0.779
MCV (fl) 100.4b 97.7a 96.9a 97.5a 96.9a 97.5a 0.538
b a a a a
MCH (g/dl) 32.5 25.9 26.9 27.2 28.1 26.6a 0.642
b a a a a
MCHC (g/dl) 36.7 29.3 30.4 31.7 32.5 29.3a 0.709
Serum biochemical indices of starter broiler chickens fed diet containing Composite Leaf Meal
The result of the serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken fed diet containing leaf meal composite is
shown in Table 3. Serum protein shows that only T6 is similar to control while other treatment groups
are statistically different (P<0.05) and numerically lower than the control. Serum proteins are synthesized
in the liver to maintain blood volume through the colloidal osmotic effect, buffer blood pH, transport
hormones and drugs, cell coagulation, catalyze enzymatic reactions, regulate hormones, and defend body
against foreign materials. (Melillo, 2013). The high value in T6 is due to high values of globulin and
albumin which sum up to give the total protein.
ALT and ALT are enzymes in the liver and are released when the liver is damaged, although there was a
decrease in both with increasing concentration of CLM than the control, the levels of both in this study
reflects normal liver function and shows that the liver was not damaged by the CLM but the reduction in
CLM levels can be due to hepato protective effect of CLM which improves liver health.
Serum cholesterol (triglycerides) are synthesized in the intestinal mucosa and in the liver from the
digestion of dietary components and the absorption of fatty acids. The result shows that the leaf meal
significantly (P<0.05) influenced the triglyceride level as it is observed that there is a decreasing value of
triglyceride with increasing inclusion of composite leaf meal, Glucose also follows this trend. This shows
that the leaf meal is effective in reducing abdominal fat, hence it can be used in fattening broilers to
prevent excessive deposition of fat and in breeding animals to prevent excess fat build up that could
interfere with reproductive ability. This report supports Nwanjo (2005) and Ndelekwute et al., 2017 who
observed that bitter leaf reduces body fat.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.

This combination of leaf meal composite had no detrimental effect on the haematology and serum
biochemical profile of broiler chicken and can be used to replace commercial premix. More research is
required since age of leaves before was not considered and this influences the nutrient content in leaves.
Page | 418
Table 3: Serum biochemical indices of starter broiler chicken fed diet containing Leaf Meal Composite.
PARAMETER 1 2 3 4 5 6 S.E.M
Total Protein(g/dl) 3.07b 2.58a 2.57a 2.53a 2.68a 3.06b 0.058
Globulin (g/dl) 1.63c 1.11a 1.18ab 1.15ab 1.37ab 1.33b 0.048
Albumin (g/dl) 1.44a 1.47a 1.39a 1.38a 1.55ab 1.73b 0.034
Urea (mg/dl) 9.59b 8.99ab 8.91ab 8.31a 8.43a 8.98ab 0.126
Creatine(mg/dl) 0.96ab 0.91ab 1.07b 0.82a 0.92ab 1.01ab 0.031
Glucose (mg/dl) 145.33a 184.0ab 210.33b 319.0c 230.0b 191.33ab 14.100
AST (u/l) 35.45b 33.48ab 32.53ab 33.60ab 31.48a 32.38ab 0.483
ALT (u/l 122.16b 120.29a 117.23a 120.22a 119.93a 119.01a 0.774
TG (mg/dl) 1.31c 1.24b 1.26b 1.26b 1.25b 1.21a 0.747
REFERENCES
Areghore, E. M.; H. P. S. Makkar and K. Becker, (1997). Chemical composition and tannins in leaves of
some browse plants from Delta (Central Nigeria) eaten by ruminants.
Chineke, C. A., Ologun, A. G. and Ikeobi, C. O. N. (2006). Haematological Parameters in Rabbit Breeds
and Crosses in Humid Tropics. Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences. 9(11): 2102-2106.
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple range and multiple F tests. Biometrics, 11:1-42.
Ganomg, J. E. (1991). A Review of Medical Physiology.Lange Medical Publication.
Mitruka, B. M. and Rawnsley, H. M. (1977). Clinical, biochemical and haematological reference value in
normal experimental Animal. Mason publishing company, New York. pp. 35-50.
Mmereole, F.U. (2008). The Effects of replacement of groundnut cake with rubber seed meal on the
haematological and serological indices of broiler. International Journal of poultry science,
7(6):622-624.
Ndelekwute, E. K., Ekere, P. C., Assam, E. D. and Okonkwo, A. C. (2014). Dietary Effect Of Bitter Leaf
(Vernonia Amygdalina) Meal On Growth Performance, Carcass And Internal Organs
Characteristics Of Finisher Broilers. Journal of Animal Production Research. (2017) 29(1):
295-300
Nwanjo H. U. (2005). Efficacy of aqueous leaf extract of vernonia amygdalina on plasma lipoprotein and
oxidative status in diabetic rat models. Nigeria Journal of Physiological Science. 20 (1-2): 30 –
42.
NRCRI (2020). Agro-meterologic unit, National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Nig
Onunkwo, D. N and George, O. S. (2015). Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on the growth
performance and carcass characteristics of broiler birds. Journal of Agricultural Veterinary
Science 8(3), 63-66.
Purves, W. K., Sadava, D., Orians, G. H. and Heller, H. C. (2003). Life: the science of Biology (7th ed.,
p.954). Sinaeur Associates and W. H. Freeman.
Soetan K. and Oyewol O. (2009). The need for adequate processing to reduce the antinutritional factors in
plants wild yam (Dioscorea spp.). Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems. (8), 319 - 225.
SPSS (2012). Statistical Package for Social Science, SPSS 20 for Windows. SPSS Inc. Chicago, Illinois.
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principle and Procedures of Statistics: A Biometrical Approach
Page | 419
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF STARTER BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET

CONTAINING LEAF MEAL COMPOSITE AS ALTERNATIVE TO COMMERCIAL
BROILER PREMIX
Onunkwo, D. N.*., Ufot, E. U* and Ezenyilimba, B. N**

*College of Animal Science and Animal Production, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,
**Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka
ABSTRACT
This study produced composite leaf meal (CLM) from four vegetables to replace commercial premix in
broiler diets. Fresh Telfairia occidentalis, Vernonia amygdalina, Piper quinenses and Ipomea batata
leaves were harvested, air-dried and milled separately and were later mixed in equal proportion (ratio
1:1:1:1) into a composite meal and used to replace broiler commercial premix at 0.00 (0.25% premix),
0.125 (0.125% premix), 0.63 (0.0% premix), 0.125 (0.0% premix), 0.188 (0.0% premix) and 0.25% (0.0%
premix) reduction levels of commercial premix and designated diets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
respectively.Treatment one (T1) served as the control. One hundred and eighty broiler chickens were
used in a three weeks experiment. The chicks were allocated to six dietary treatment each having thirty
birds, replicated thrice with ten birds each in a Completely Randomized Design. The birds were fed
formulated diet, the test material was introduced from the first day, feed and water were provided ad
libitum. Data was obtained for analysis. The result reveals that the Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI),
Average Daily Weight Gain (ADWG), Total Feed Intake (TFI) and Final Body Weight (FBW) were all
significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatment. Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) was not
significantly (P>0.05) different among all treatment groups including the control, although, the control
was numerically lower than T2, T3 and T6 while T4 and T5 were lower than the control. In all parameters
evaluated for growth performance, T4 and T2 were different from the control, though T3, T5 and T6 were
not significantly (p>0.05) different from the control, there were all numerically higher than the control. It
can be concluded conceivably within the limit of this study that the replacement of commercial broiler
premix with CLM could help to stem over dependence of broiler farmers on importation of premix.
Keywords. Broiler chicken, Leaves, Leaf Meal Composite, Premix, Growth Performance
INTRODUCTION
Vitamin-mineral premix remained an essential component of feed for broiler chicken as the gut of broilers
cannot synthesize adequate vitamin and minerals (Onunkwo et al., 2018). Synthetic single vitamin and
minerals for producing Vitamin-mineral premix are manufactured by few companies globally. They are,
therefore, expensive and subject to sporadic scarcity, which makes it imperative to seek for viable
alternatives to address economic challenges faced by farmers in the rural areas of the developing world.
Vegetable-based feeds are rich source of essential plant amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Furthermore,
it has been established that green vegetable leaves are the cheapest and most abundant source of proteins
because of their ability to synthesize amino acids from a wide range of available primary materials such
as water, carbon dioxide and atmospheric nitrogen (Agbede et al.,, 2004; Fasuyi, 2006). Thus, in the
course of world clamour for sustained food security through organic farming enhancement, the
combination of Telfairia occidentalis, Vernonia amygdalina, Piper quinenses and Ipomea batata leaves
could be as a replacer for the expensive commercial premix often used in poultry diets production. This
thus forms the main focus of the compendium of studies reported herein. Hence, this study examined the
nutritive potentials of composite leaf meal from four leaves available locally as alternative premix in
broiler chicken diets.
A standard quantity and combination of composite leaf meal has not yet been accepted as an alternative to
premix, information on it is scanty and still in the infancy stage hence researchers are still searching for
Page | 420
the right combination of leaves that could serve this purpose. On this note, Telfairia occidentalis,
Vernonia amygdalina, Piper quinenses and Ipomea batata were employed in this study to evaluate the
growth performance of broiler chickens when used as an alternative to vitamin-mineral premix in
different proportions.

The study was carried out at the Poultry unit of Teaching and Research Farm, Michael Okpara University
of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. Umudike is situated on latitude 05o 21‘ N and longitude 07o 33‘E,
with an elevation of about 112m above sea level with an annual rainfall of 177 - 2,000mm (April to
October) and a short period of dry season (November to March) with a relative humidity of about 50-90%
and monthly temperature range of 17oC -36oC (NRCRI, 2020).
Pumpkin leaf was sourced from the Cross River Basin Abak, Akwa Ibom State while Sweet potato,
Moringa and Bitter leaves were obtained within Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
premises. Each type of leaf was harvested fresh, sliced to reduce the particle size and increase the surface
area for quick drying then air dried at room temperature for four days. Thereafter, it was ground to fine
powder and stored in an air-tight container. For compounding the feed, equal quantity of each ground leaf
was measured out and mixed thoroughly using an improvised mixer; this made up the Leaf Meal
Composite (LMC) used to replace commercial premix in the diet at different levels (T1 = 0.0% CLM :
0.25% premix; T2 = 0.125% CLM : 0.125% premix; T3 = 0.63% CLM : 0.0% premix; T4 = 0.125%
CLM : 0.0% premix; T5 = 0.188% CLM : 0.0% premix and T6 = 0.25% CLM : 0.0% premix). The CLM
sample were mixed along with other feed ingredients used to formulate the experimental diets (Table 1).
The Completely Randomized Design was used. The experiment lasted for three weeks. Standard brooding
and rearing protocols were strictly adhered to, as scheduled for broiler . Feed and water were supplied ad
libitum throughout the experimental period. Medication and vaccination were given as at when due. Daily
feed consumption was recorded by subtracting the left over feed from the feed supplied. Chickens were
weighed weekly and accurate records of body weight changes were taken at the beginning and end of the
starter (day 1-21). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated from the values obtained from daily
feed consumption and weekly weight changes.
All data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and treatment means that were
significantly different were separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955) according to
Steel and Torrie (1980) using computer software IBM SPSS Statistic version 20 (SPSS, 2009).
Table 1: Gross percent composition of experimental starter broiler diet

INGREDIENTS T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
Maize 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Wheat offal 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
PKC 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Rice Bran 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
SBM 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00 30.00
Fishmeal 65 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.20 3.15 3.1 3.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Vit/Min Premix 0.25 0.125 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
CLM 0.00 0.125 0.063 0.125 0.188 0.25
TOTAL 100.00 100.00 100.01 100.02 100.03 100.00
*Premix supplied per kg diet: vitamin A 15,000 I.U, vitamin D3 13000 iu, thiamine 2mg, Riboflavin 6mg, pyridoxine 4mg, Niacin
40mg, cobalamine 0.05g, Biotin 0.08mg, choline chloride 0.05g, Manganese 0.096g, Zinc 0.06g, Iron 0.024g, Copper 0.006g,
Iodine 0.014g, Selenium 0.24mg, Cobalt 0.024mg and Antioxidant 0.125g, NFE = Nitrogen free extract.
Page | 421

The growth performance of broiler starter chickens fed diet containing composite leaf meal is
presented in Table 2. The result reveals that the Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI), Average Daily
Weight Gain (ADWG), Total Feed Intake (TFI) and Final Body Weight (FBW) were all significantly
(P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatment. In all the growth parameters evaluated for performance,
T4 and T2 were different from the control, though T3, T5 and T6 were not significantly (p>0.05)
different from the control, there were all numerically higher than the control.
The higher performance in T4 and T2 is indicative of the fact that both treatments had received
adequate nutrients including a blend of vitamins and minerals from the composite leaf meal
which influenced feed intake and resulted in higher weight gain than the control, there was a
better feed utilization. Minerals and vitamins biologically available in broiler chicken diet
improves feed intake, this is in tandem with the report of Oluyemi and Roberts, (2007) who
found that both micro and macro elements improve feed intake in poultry. The decrease in feed
intake in T3 could be due to inadequacy of vitamins, minerals and protein in the leaf meal to
meet the requirement for optimal performance. Although T5 and T6 received higher quantity of
composite leaf meal, there was reduced feed intake which affected its general performance, this
could be as a result the birds not being able to tolerate the bitter taste of the leaf meal at high
concentration which made the feed unpalatable. Increasing levels of bitter leaf (Onunkwo et al.,
2019) and moringa (Onunkwo and George, 2015) decreases feed intake, Ndelekwute et al. (2014)
reported a reduced performance with increasing levels of leaf meal. The leaf meal could also have
increased the fibre content of the feed which impairs efficient feed utilization. Birds here could
not eat enough because of the bitter taste of the feed and the little quantity eaten could not be
adequate utilized because of the high fibre. This is in support of Esonu et al., 2003
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broiler chicken production measures the efficiency of converting
feed into muscle. In this study, FCR was not significantly different among all treatment groups
including the control, although, the control was numerically lower than T2, T3 and T6 while T4
and T5 were lower than the control. A lower FCR is desirable in broiler production as it indicates
efficiency of production. Higher FCR in T6 shows depressed growth, T4 indicates better
efficiency of feed utilization having higher live weight.
Table 2: Growth Performance of Starter Broiler Chicken Fed Composite Leaf Meal
Parameter 1 2 3 4 5 6 S.E.M
IBW 39.00 39.00 39.00 39.00 39.00 39.00 0.00

ADFI 22.69a 31.61b 25.16a 30.89b 24.89b 24.56a 24.69
ADWG 15.02a 19.06b 15.17a 20.52b 14.84a 15.05a 0.64
TFI 635.45a 885.20b 704.59a 865.12b 696.80a 687.75a 691.53
FBW 420.60a 533.6b 424.77a 574.57b 415.42a 421.47a 17.98
FCR 1.51 1.66 1.66 1.50 1.50 1.68 1.5
IBW- Initial body weight, ADFI-Average daily feed intake, ADWG-Average daily weight gain, FBW-Final body weight, FCR-
Feed Conversion ratio
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.

It can be concluded conceivably within the limit of this study that the replacement of commercial broiler
premix with CLM could help to stem over dependence of broiler farmers on importation of premix. This
Page | 422
combination of leaf meal composite had no detrimental effect. More research is required since age of
leaves before was not considered and this influences the nutrient content in leaves.
REFERENCES
Agbede, J. O., Arimah, A. A., Adu, O. A., Olaleye, M. T. and Aletor V. A. (2011). Growth-enhancing,
health impact and bacteria suppressive property of lanthanum supplementation in broiler
chicken. Archiva Zootechnica, 4 (2): 44 – 56.
Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple range and multiple F tests. Biometrics, 11:1-42.
Fasuyi, A. O. (2006). Nutritional potentials of some tropical vegetable leaf meals: chemical
characterization and functional properties. African Journal of Biotechnology. Vol. 5 (1), pp. 049-
053
Esonu, B.O.; Iheukwumere,T.C.; Emenalom, O.O.; Uchegbu, M.C. and Etuk, E.B. (2002). Performance,
nutrient utilization and organ characteristics of broiler fed Microdesmis puberula leaf meal.
Livestock Research and Rural Development. 14. http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd14/6/eson146.htm
(13/03/2015).
Ndelekwute, E. K., Ekere, P. C., Assam, E. D. and Okonkwo, A. C. (2014). Dietary Effect Of Bitter Leaf
(Vernonia Amygdalina) Meal On Growth Performance, Carcass And Internal Organs
Characteristics Of Finisher Broilers. Journal of Animal Production Research (2017) 29(1):
295-300
NRCRI (2020). Agro-meterologic unit, National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Nig
Oluyemi, A .K., Omotuyi, O. I., Jimoh, R .O., Adesanya, A. O., Saalu, C. L., & Josiah, L. S (2007).
Biotechnol. Appl. Biochemistry 46, 69 -72.
Onunkwo, D. N and George, O. S. (2015). Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on the growth
performance and carcass characteristics of broiler birds. Journal of Agricultural Veterinary.
Science 8(3), 63-66.
Onunkwo, D. N., Ugwuene, M. C., Eze, J. C. R. and Okpechi, F. C. (2018). Replacement value of palm
kernel meal for maize on growth, egg quality and economic parameters of local duck hens. Nigerian
Journal of Animal Science, 20(1):145-151.
Onunkwo, D. N., Nathaniel, J., Ezike, J.C., Amaduruonye, W., and Daniel-Igwe, G (2019).
Effect of garlic rhizome (Allium sativum) powder supplemented diets on the haematology
and serum biochemistry of broiler birds at starter and finisher phases. Nigerian Journal of
Animal Production, 46(1): 149-156.
SPSS (2012). Statistical Package for Social Science, SPSS 20 for Windows. SPSS Inc. Chicago, Illinois.
Steel, R. G. D. and Torrie, J. H. (1980). Principle and Procedures of Statistics: A Biometrical Approach
Page | 423
PHYSICO – CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF PALM KERNEL SHELL ASH (PKSA)

AS A POTENTIAL MINERAL SUPPLEMENT IN LIVESTOCK NUTRITION
Ukonu E.C*., Ohanaka A.U.C. *, Uzegbu H.O*., Onunkwo, D. N.* *., Duruanyim V.O*., Saleh,I*.
and Ejiofor I*.
*National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ahmadu Bello University
(ABU) Zaria, Samaru, Zaria, Nigeria
**College of Animal Science and Animal Production, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,
Abstract
The aims of this study were to determine the physico – chemical composition of palm kernel shell ash
(PKSA) as a potential mineral supplement in livestock nutrition. Properties such as bulk density, water
holding capacity, specific gravity, ash yield percentage and pH of the PKSA were evaluated. The mineral
content was also assayed to ascertain its concentrations of minerals. Results obtained showed that PKSA had
92.68% dry matter, 0.8206 g/cm3 bulk density, 0.8977 g water/g feed water holding capacity, 0.8149 specific
gravity and was mildly alkaline (8.39). The order of mineral elements in PKSA were K> Mg> Ca> P> Na>
Fe> Mn> Zn> Cu. A calcium/phosphorus ratio of 1.01 and sodium/ potassium ratio of 0.15 was also
calculated for PKSA. Thus, PKSA can serve as a mineral supplement in livestock feeding.
Keywords: Ash, palm kernel shell, mineral contents.
Introduction
Palm kernel shell (PKS) is a readily available agricultural industry residue that has found limited application
in the Nigerian industry. It is obtained as the crushed pieces of the hard endocarp of palm seed after crushing
or threshing to remove the kernel, which is used in the production of palm kernel oil and palm kernel cake as
a by-product (Olutoge, 1995). PKS can be considered as a natural pellet and a high grade solid renewable
biofuel for burning. The resultant ash is high in potash and therefore could also be used in a variety of
agricultural and cultural applications (Campbell, 1990) including cooking fuel and mineral supplement in
livestock diets (Ndlovu, 2007; Iwu et al., 2013).
It is well documented that wood ash is a ready source of lime material rich in calcium and has been used
successfully as fertilizer, especially to ameliorate acidic soils (Demeyer et al., 2001).
Similarly, several cultural reports have highlighted the value of highly alkaline plants in the improvement of
the nutritional value of animal feeds (Ramirez et al., 1992; Kyarisima et al., 2004). Recently Nwogu (2013)
reported some observable effects in laying hens when 1g/kgBW of plantain root ash (PRA) and 2g/kgBW of
plantain stalk ash (PSA) were supplemented in their diets. Ash supplementation was found to influence
higher mineral uptake from the intestine of birds, while shell quality and laying performance were
compromised. Similar study by Iwu et al. (2013) showed that supplementation with coconut shell ash (CSA)
at the level of 1g/kgBW was optimal and supported superior testicular development in growing rabbits fed
commercial diet. This study evaluated the physicochemical composition of palm kernel shell ash as a
potential mineral supplement in livestock feeding.

Collection and Preparation of Palm Kernel Shells
The palm kernel shells (PKS) were collected from a local oil mill at Enyiogugu, Imo State. Thereafter, they
were washed with water, sun – dried, weighed and ashed in a bread oven after which the resultant product
was placed inside a porcelain pot and ashed again till the ash produced became red hot (Iwu et al., 2013). At
the end of the ashing process, the palm kernel shell ash (PKSA) produced was weighed again to ascertain
PKS ash yield.
Page | 424
Analyses of Physicochemical Properties of PKSA

Bulk density (BD)
The method described by Makinde and Sonaiya (2007) and modified by Omede (2010) was adopted. To
obtain the BD of the experimental material, a Pyrex glass funnel of known volume was weighed and the test
sample was poured into it and then leveled off. The funnel and its content were weighed again and initial
weight of funnel was subtracted from the final weight to obtain the weight of the test material. The weight of
the test material was then divided by the known volume of the funnel. For example, the BD of a dry sample
weighing 50g in a 165 cm3 will be: 50g/165 cm3= 0.3030 g (Makinde and Sonaiya, 2007).
Water holding capacity (WHC)
The filtration method described by Makinde and Sonaiya (2007) was adopted with slight modification
(Omede, 2010). The initial weight of the funnel and its content was subtracted from the weight of the wet set-
up to obtain weight of water absorbed by the test sample material.
Specific gravity (SG)
The specific gravity of a substance is a comparison of the density of the substance relative to a standard value
(e.g. density of water). The procedure that was used in determining BD was repeated to determine BD of test
sample material of 1kg. This BD value was used to determine SG of the test sample material. SG was
determined as the ratio of the bulk density.
pH of the PKSA
A known weight of the PKSA was dissolved in known volume of deionized water and stirred to obtain a
homogenous mixture. The pH of the mixture was thereafter determined with the aid of a pH meter (Hanna
Combo pH Meter, Model: HI 98129). pH is a measure of hydrogen ion activity in solutions.
Mineral Content of Palm Kernel Shell Ash (PKSA)
A measured quantity (2g) of the PKSA was put into a Kjeldahl flask; 20 ml of concentrated nitric acid
(HNO3) was added and the sample was digested by heating. clear digest was obtained, cooled and filtered
into a 50 ml volumetric flask through a Whatman (No. 42), 150 mm diameter filter paper and was made up to
mark with distilled water. The resultant solution was analysed for mineral elements using the Atomic
Absorption Spectrophotometer (Bulk Scientific, 205). Thereafter, the calcium - phosphorus and the sodium -
potassium ratios of the product were also calculated.
Data analysis
Data generated was presented in table format
Results and Discussion

PKSA yield characteristics
Table 1 showed that ashing of 55kg palm kernel shell (PKS) led to a loss of about 42kg of shell material
representing about 76% of combustible material. The percentage ash produced from the shell was
approximately 24%. This is much higher than the 2.11% ash yield obtained by Iregbu, (2015) from pulverised
PKS ashed in a porcelain plate over a Bunsen burner. It is therefore possible to achieve a lower ash yield by
grinding the PKS before ashing. The ash yield is also higher than the 10.88% and 21.12% reported for
plantain stalk ash (PSA) and plantain root ash (PRA) respectively by Nwogu et al. (2012).
Earlier reports from studies carried out (Nwogu, et al., 2012; Iwu et al., 2013) have shown that plant ashes
such as coconut shell ash (CSA), plantain root (PRA) and plantain stalk (PSA) ashes could serve as good
sources of bioavailable minerals for livestock and possibly humans.
Table 1: Ash yield from Palm kernel
Parameters Values
Initial weight of palm kernel shell (kg) 55.00
Weight of ash produced (kg) 13.00
Weight of material lost (kg) 42.00
Percentage ash yield (%) 23.64
Percentage combustible material (%) 76.36
Page | 425
Physical characteristics of PKSA

The physical characteristics of PKSA are summarized in Table 2. Its pH value at 8.39 was lower than the
12.40 and 12.50 reported for plantain stalk ash (PSA) and plantain root ash (PRA) by Nwogu et al. (2012)
and the 11.90 reported for coconut shell ash (CSA) by Iwu et al. (2013). The present result indicates that
PKSA is mildly alkaline. Moisture content (MC) of PKSA recorded in this study was 7.30% which is lower
than the 8.9% reported by Akpakpan et al. (2012) and 9.61% reported by Iregbu (2015). PKSA also has a dry
matter content of 92.68% suggesting that it is a very dry material.
Results also showed that the bulk density (BD), water holding capacity (WHC) and specific gravity (SG) of
PKSA were 0.8206 g/cm3, 0.8977 g water/ g dry ash and 0.8149 respectively. The BD of PKSA obtained here
compared favorably with the 0.73 g/cm3 reported by Iregbu (2015).
Table 2: Physical characteristics of PKSA
Parameters Values
Moisture content (%) 7.30
Dry matter (%) 92.68
Bulk density (g/cm3) 0.8206
Water holding capacity (g water/g feed) 0.8977
Specific gravity 0.8149
pH 8.39
Again, the WHC obtained in this study at 0.897 g water/g ash was lower than the 2.10 g water/g ash reported
for CSA by Iwu et al. (2013). Omede (2010) reported a range of 0.85 – 1.11g water/g feed and 0.64 – 1.22g
water/g feed for commercial broiler starter and finisher feeds respectively produced in Nigeria. The
implication of these results is that the inclusion of PKSA in a broiler diet would not alter the WHC of the diet.
It is known that high WHC feeds absorb excess water within the GIT of birds and then swell up to form a gel
beyond the holding capacity of the bird‘s gut. This mechanism triggers satiety and reduces feed intake, with
an after effect of poor growth and performance (Kyriazakis and Emmans, 1995).
Specific gravity of feed and feedstuff has an important role in the transit of digesta particles through the
gastrointestinal tract of animals as a measure of physical quality of feed (Bhatti and Firkins, 1995). The SG
value of PKSA at 0.814 was much higher than the range of 0.33 – 0.46 reported for broiler rations produced
in Nigeria (Omede, 2010).
Mineral composition of palm kernel shell ash
The mineral analysis of palm kernel shell ash is summarized in Table 3. The study showed that the major
metals in PKSA were potassium (150.52 mg/kg), magnesium (43.52 mg/kg), calcium (33.14 mg/kg),
phosphorus (32.75 mg/kg), with copper recording the lowest concentration of 0.76 mg/kg. Thus, the order of
mineral elements in PKSA is K> Mg> Ca> P> Na> Fe> Mn> Zn> Cu. The contents of several metals such as
calcium (33.14 mg/kg), and magnesium (43.52 mg/kg) were similar to the range of values reported by
Akpakpan et al. (2012) for palm kernel shell and coconut shell. This is in agreement with Ndlovu (2007) that
Ca, K, Mg, Si, and P are the major mineral components in wood ash. The present study also showed that
PKSA contained more K and Mg than Ca and P. Akpakpan et al. (2012) also reported higher values of K in
PKSA and CSA (118.70 and 348.40 mg/kg respectively) than Ca (33.14 and 43.52 mg/kg respectively). It is
therefore possible that these plants are natural accumulators of potassium in their shells.
The very high value of K in PKSA is of interest because K is often called the alkalizer. It neutralizes acids
and restores alkaline salts to the blood stream. It also works with Na in all cells to maintain membrane
potentials and assist in metabolic processes. Together with Mg, it helps prevent kidney stone, promote
healthy adrenal glands etc (Sanchez, 2010).
The zinc, copper and manganese recorded in the present study were relatively lower than those reported by
Akpakpan et al. (2012). The differences could be a reflection of soil mineral content of the locations from
where the PKS were harvested.
Page | 426
A calcium/phosphorus ratio of 1.01 and sodium/ potassium ratio of 0.15 was calculated for PKSA. The Na/K
ratio obtained in this study is much lower than the range of 2.09 – 3.85 reported for CSA by Iwu et al. (2013).
The Ca/P ratio of 1:1.01 obtained in this study is normal since it indicates that for every gram of P supplied
by PKSA, 1.01g of Ca is also supplied making it unnecessary for the birds to recruit Ca from storage deports
in the bone (Reinhart and Mahan, 1986).
Table 3: Mineral compositions of the PKSA

Sample Parameters Results
Calcium (mg/kg) 33.14
Phosphorus (mg/kg) 32.75
Sodium (mg/kg) 22.35
Magnesium (mg/kg) 43.52
Potassium (mg/kg) 150.52
Manganese (mg/kg) 2.01
Iron (mg/kg) 10.02
Zinc (mg/kg) 1.65
Copper (mg/kg) 0.76
Cobalt (mg/kg) 1.23
Ca/P ratio 1.01
Na/K ratio 0.15
Conclusion
This study showed palm kernel shell could yield approximately 24% ash which contains K, Mg, Ca and P
among others as it major minerals and was mildly alkaline indicating that palm oil tree could be a natural
accumulator of potassium in its kernel shell. The order of mineral elements in PKSA were K> Mg> Ca> P>
Na> Fe> Mn> Zn> Cu. Thus, PKSA can serve as a mineral supplement in the nutrition of animals.
References
Akpakpan, A. E., Edouk, U. M., Udiong, D. S., Udo, I. E. and Ntukuyoh, A. I. (2012). Metals in kernels
and shells of oil palm and coconut fruits. International Journal of Modern Chemistry, 2(1):20 –
27.
Campbell, A.G. (1990). Recycling and disposing of wood ash. TAPPI Journal, 73(9):141 –146.
Demeyer, A., Voundi Khana, J. C. and Verloo, M. G. (2001). Characteristics of wood ash and influence
of soil properties and nutrient uptake. An overview. Biores. Technol. 77:287 – 295.
Iregbu, U.G. (2015). Evaluation of the energy and combustion values of pig dung in its pure and
combustion accelerants blended state. Msc. Thesis. Federal University of Technology Owerri,
Nigeria.
Iwu, A.N., Ebere, C.S., Ogbuewu, I.P., Etuk, I.F., Opara, M.N., Uchegbu, M.C., Okoli, I.C.,
Iheukwumere, F.C. and Herbert, U. (2013). Coconut Shell Ash as a Mild Agonist of Reproductive
Organ Development and Sex Hormone Release in Growing Rabbits. J. of Med. Sci., 13: 563 –
570.
Kyarisiima, C.C., Okot, M.W. and Svihus, B. (2004). Use of wood ash in the treatment of high tannin
sorghum for poultry feeding. Dept. of Animal Science, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Kyriazakis, I. and Emmans, G.C. (1995). Voluntary intake of pigs given feeds based on wheat bran, dried
citrus pulp and grass meal in relation to measurement of feed bulk. British Journal of Nutrition,
73: 191-207.
Makinde, O. A. and Sonaiya, E. B. (2007). Determination of water holding capacity, blood and rumen
fluid absorbencies of some fibrous feed stuffs. In: A.Giang et al., (eds). Sustainability of
Livestock Industry In An Oil Economy. Proceedings of the 32nd annual conference for animal
production, vol. 28: 84 – 87.
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Ndlovu, H. (2007). Ash from homestead fire places and wood as possible sources of minerals for
livestock. M Sc. Thesis, univ. Of Pretoria, South Africa.
Nwogu, C.M., Etuk, I.F. and Okoli, I.C. (2012). Ash from plantain stalk and root base as possible sources
of organic minerals for poultry production. Intl. J. Trop. Agric. And Food Syst. 6: 22 – 26.
Olutoge, F.A. (1995). A study of saw dust, palm kernel shell and rice husk ash as full/partial replacement
for sand, Granite and cement in concrete. M.Sc project, University of Lagos, Nigeria.
Omede, A.A (2010).The Use of Physical Characterstics in the Quality Evaluation of Some Commercial
Poultry Feeds and Feedstuffs. MSc. Thesis Federal University of Technology Owerri.
Ramirez, R.G., Cruz, F. and Gonzalez, C.C. (1992). Effect of treating corn stover with wood ashes and
sodium hydroxide on nutrient digestibility by sheep and goats. Small Rumin. Res., 7:225 – 233.
Reinhart, G.A. and Mahan, D.C. (1986). Dietary phosphorus for Starter, Grower and Finisher Swine.
Effects of various calcium: phosphorus ratios at low and high. J. Anim. Sci., 63: 457 – 466.
Sanchez, L. (2010). The ABC‘s of Minerals. http://www.antibiotics-alternatives.com/abc‘s of minerals.
Page | 428
CARCASS YIELD AND GUT CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED GRADED

DIETARY LEVELS OF SUN DRIED SWEET POTATO MEAL DIET.
F. MOHAMMED, U. DAUDA, N.H ADAMU AND I.MADU

DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY FEDERAL
COLLEGE OF HORTICULTURE DADIN KOWA P.M.B 108 GOMBE STATE NIGERIA.
Email: ismaelyunush@mail.com
ABSTRACT
A feeding trial was conducted at the poultry research and teaching farm of Federal College of Horticulture
Dadin- kowa, Gombe state to evaluate the effect of sun dried sweet potato meal on the growth
performance of broiler chickens they were fed sun dried sweet potato meal S.S.P.M which replaced
maize at 0,20,40,60, and 80% levels designated as diet 1,2,3,4, and 5 respectively. Two hundred day- old
broiler chickens were randomly allotted into five dietary treatments with forty chickens per treatment
replicated four times in a completely randomized design. Feed and water were supplied ad-libitum and the
duration of the trial lasted for eight weeks.
The result indicates that all carcass and gut characteristics measured were not influence by the level of
sun dried sweet potato meal S.S.P.M. It was concluded that S.S.P.M can replace maize as energy source
in the diet of broiler chickens up to 80% with no adverse effects on the carcass yield and gut characteristic
of broiler chickens.
Keyword: Broiler chicken, sun dried sweet potato meal, Ad-libitum , dietary and carcass yield.
INTRODUCTION
Animal protein is essential in human nutrition due to its balanced in amino acid profile and ease of
utilization (Tewe, 1997). Inadequate animal protein intake is one of the major problems hindering
development in developing countries like Nigeria. (F.O.A 2006) Therefore need to increase this protein
intake to a level which compares to that of developed nation (Odunsi et al 2007) this could be done
through processing agro- industrial by- product as animal feed in the countries which are currently many
un-used or used inefficiently and developed of local crops that can be grown to supply the nutrients.
Cereals generally make up between fifty-five and sixty- five percent of most conventional compounded
animals feed where they supply a major part of the nutrients. Cereal provides not only the main part of the
energy in feed but also a significant part of the total protein, minerals and vitamins (Machin 1991).The
plant materials utilized in this study to replace maize is sweet potato roots.

The study was conducted at the Poultry Research and Teaching Farm of Federal College of Horticulture
Dadin-kowa, Gombe State is located in Dadin-kowa along Gombe Biu/ Maiduguri road in Yamaltu-Deba
local Government area of Gombe state. Dadin- kowa lie about 35 kilometers away from Gombe and is
located in the Sudan Savanna Ecological Zone of Nigeria on latitude of 10 0 18E Longitude 110 31N and
on the altitude of 218 meters above sea level.
EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT OF BIRDS
Two hundred day old broiler chicks were purchased from reputable company branch in Gombe state the
chicks were brooded for seven days on deep litter using 200 watts electricity bulbs. After brooding the
chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatment replicated four times each with ten (10) birds per
replicate Feed and water were supplied adlibitum. All vaccination schedules were administered to the
birds at appropriate time anti stress was also given to the chick on arrival and after every week of
weighing.
EXPERIMENTAL DIETS
Five experimental diets were formulated in which sundried sweet potato meal replaced maize at 0, 20, 40,
60 and 80 % levels.Designated as dietary treatment 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. for both starter and
finisher phase. Bone meal, Salt, Limestone, methionine and lysine were also used in compounding the
Page | 429
feeds. The ingredient chemical composition and calculated analysis of the experimental diets for both
starters and finisher phases are shown in table 1and 2 respectively.
Table 1: Ingredient and nutrient composition (%) of broiler starter diets containing sun dried sweet
Potato meal (SSPM)
Diets
Maize 48.70 39.00 29.22 19.50 9.74
SSPM 0.00 9.74 90.50 29.22 39.00
Fish Meal 5.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00
Wheat Meal 10.00 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00
Bone Meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Vitamin/mineral premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Crude Protein 23.10 22.60 22.70 22.70 22.70
ME (Kcal/kg) 30.29 28.35 26.50 24.67 22.83
Crude fiber (%) 3.60 3.60 3.50 3.40 3.30
Ether extract (%) 7.70 7.50 7.30 7.20 7.10
Total Phosphorus (%) 1.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Calcium (%) 1.30 1.30 1.30 1.40 1.50
PROCEDURE FOR CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS

At the end of the experiment forty birds (two replicate) were randomly selected and fasted for 12 hours
but were supplied water. They were weighed early in the morning to obtain the slaughter weight and then
slaughtered by severing the jugular vein. They were processed by manually plucking the feathers after
immersion in warm water. The carcass was eviscerated and weighed to obtain carcass weight after which
dressing percentage was determined by dividing the carcass weight by live weight and multiplied by 100.
ORGAN MEASUREMENTS
Internal organs were measured in grams using an electric sensitive balance while the lengths of small
intestine and large intestine were measured in centimeter using a meter rule. The weight of the various
organs measured was expressed as percentage of live weight.
Table 2: carcass yield and gut characteristics of broiler chickens fed graded levels of sun
dried sweet potato meal based diets
Diets
Parameter 1 2 3 4 5
Live weight 1884 1889 1882 1961 1807 0.060
Plucked weight (g) 1729 1739 1741 1809 1684 0.05NS
Carcass weight (g) 1332 1316 1348 1362 1292 0.05NS
Dressing Percent (%) 70.5 69.7 71.5 69.4 71.5 1.03NS
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The carcass yield, and gut characteristic of the birds fed graded level of sun dried sweet potato meals is
presented in table 2 and 3 Significant dietary influence were not observed for live weight, slaughter
weight, carcass weight and dressing percentage. Live weight ranges from 1807g on diet 5, to 1961 on diet
1 values for plucked weight increased with increasing levels of S.S.P.N. The highest value 1513g of
organs weight was obtained on birds fed diet 4 while the lowest (1430g) was recorded for those on diet 5
value for carcass yield 1292g, 1316, 1332 and 1462g were obtained for birds on diet the following orders
diet 5, 2, 1,3and 4 respectively. Dressing percentage (69.4to 71.5%) was lowest for bird fed diet 4 but
highest for those fed diet 3 and 5. Results of the various organs of birds fed the experimental diets showed
that abdominal fat was affected (P>0.05) by dietary treatments. Significant difference (P>0.05) was not
observed for gut dimension and weights (P>0.05).
Table 3: GUT characteristics of broiler chickens fed sundried sweet potato based diets
DIETS
1 2 3 4 5
Parameters SEM
Abdominal fat (g) 2.23a 2.05b 1.55d 1.77cd 1.81c 0.17*

Gizzard (g) 2.42 2.47 2.55 2.55 2.47 0.12NS
NS
Heart (g) 0.49 0.60 0.56 0.59 0.53 0.03
Kidney (g) 0.29 0.29 0.29 0.29 0.33 0.03NS
Liver (g) 1.91 1.92 2.06 2.03 2.12 0.16NS
Lungs (g) 0.68 0.57 0.67 0.66 0.62 0.03NS
Pancreas (g) 0.33 0.36 0.40 0.43 0.41 0.03NS
Spleen (g) 0.15 0.12 0.12 0.13 0.12 0.02NS
Small intestine (g) 3.78 4.21 3.85 4.00 3.90 0.15NS

Large intestine (g) 0.19 0.24 0.29 0.24 0.22 0.04NS
NS
Caeca (g) 0.66 0.64 0.77 0.79 0.89 0.07
Small intestine (cm) 157.6 181.6 176.1 191.4 179.5 10.37NS
Large intestine (cm) 9.75 10.00 10.50 10.88 11.25 0.55NS
NS
Caeca (cm) 18.62 19.75 19.37 21.19 20.12 0.78
Note: abc Means bearing different superscripts within the same row differ.
* - P<0.05,SEM = standard error of means, NS – not significant.
There was no significant dietary effect on carcass yield in terms of live weight, slaughter weight,
eviscerated weight, carcass weight and dressing percentage higher live weight (1961g) was obtained for
birds on diet 4 in which 60% of maize was replaced with S.S.P.M. This report confirms the report of
Adelina (2002) and Agwunobi (1999). Inclusion of sun dried sweet potato meal had no significant effect
on the weight and length of the small intestine and large intestine. This disagree with the report of
Maphosa et al (2003).
CONCLUTOIN AND RECOMMENDATION

 It was concluded that S.S.P.M can replace maize as energy source in the diet of broiler chickens up to 80%
with no adverse effects on the carcass yield and gut characteristics.
REFRENCES
Adelina P.U. (2002) Replacement value of sweet potato (ipomeabotatas ) for maize in Broiler diet
M.S.C thesis, A.T.B.U.
Page | 431
Agwunobi, L.N. and Robert, A.N. (2008). The performance of broiler chicken fed fermented carcass
composite diets I.N: Animal Agriculture Towards M,ibnnium Development in `
Nigeria.
Adeyemi,, .A. Ogungbesan, A.M. Dada, A.O.Amaefule K.J., Ibenkwumere F.C., Lawal S.A and
Ezekwonna A.A.,(2006). The effect of treated rice milling weste on the performance nutrient
retention carcass and internal organ characteristic of finisher broilers International Journal of Poultry
Science 5 (10) 51.55.
Eniolorunda, Awojobi. H.A, Oke, D.B and Aggunbiade, J.A. Procceding of the 33 rd Annual
conference of the Nigeria society for Animal production 16-20th march College of
Agricultural sciences O.A.U, Yewa campus AyetoroPg 476- 478.
F.O.A (2006). FAOSTAT. Database. Food and Agricultural organization, Rome Haly.
Fetuga B.L and Oluyemi, J.A. (1976). Metabolisable energy of some tropical tuber meals for chicks.
Poultry Science 55:686-873.
Gonzalez- Alvarado. J.M., Jimenez- Moreno. E., Lazaro, R, Mateos G.G. (2007), Effects of types of
cereal heat processing of the died on productive performance and digestive trait of broiler.
Journals of Poultry Science 86: 1705-1715.
Maphosa, T.1 Gunduza, K.T., Kusina, J. and mutungamici, A. (2003). Evaluation of sweet potato
tuber (pomeabatatas I.) AS A feed ingredient in broiler chicken diets livestock Research for
Rural Development 15(1).13-17, 2003.
Machin, D.1. (1991) Overview of needs and justification for use of root, tubers, plaintains, and bananas
in animals feeding, IN: Roots, tubers, plantain and banana in animal feedings (Eds. David
Machin and soveigNyvoid) proceedings of the F.A.O Export consultation held in CIAT, Cali,
Colunbia, 21-25- January pp 81- 98 www.fao.org/ DOCREP/ 003/TOSS4E/TO554E
01.htm/1chI.
Tewe, 0.0. (1997). Sustainability and development parading from Nigeria Livestock industry. Inaugural
lecture delivered at the university of Ibadan Nigeria 5-7.
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UTILISATION OF MAIZE OFFAL ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEANER

RABBITS
1@
Ajimohun, F.F, 2Oshibanjo D.O, 3Nwamo, A. C, 4Adelowo V.O., 4Emennaa C.I, 2Akwashiki M.A
and 2Izang A. I.
1
Rabbitary Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau state.
2
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jos, Plateau State.
3
Livestock Services Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau state
4
@
ajumohunfelicia@gmail.com: 08036708169
Abstract
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the proximate analysis of maize offal and growth performance
of weaner rabbits fed varying levels of maize offal as replacement for wheat offal in a completely
randomized design. A total of sixty weaner rabbits of both sexes average weight of 535g were randomly
allocated to five dietary treatments in which groundnut haulms formed 20% of the diet. Five iso-
nitrogenous diets were formulated to meet 16% crude protein nutritional requirements of the weaner
rabbits and similar levels of crude fibre by varying the levels of maize offal respectively in which
groundnut haulms constituted 20% of each diet. The diets were designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. T1
contained wheat offal which served as the control, while treatment (T2-T5) contained maize offal at 25,
50, 75, and 100% respectively. Data were collected on feed intake and weight gain. The proximate
analysis obtained for maize offals is crude protein (8.26%), crude fibre (16.99%), ether extract (4.28%),
ash (4.26%), Nitrogen free extract (66.21%) and metabolisable energy (2970.25Kcal/kg). Results revealed
there were no significant difference (p>0.05) between treatment means for the average weight gain of
rabbits. Mortality was less than 5% throughout the study. The results show that rabbits have the capacity
to utilise agro industrial by-product of maize which is maize offal in diet.
Keywords: Rabbits, maize offal, groundnut haulms, performance.
Introduction
The ever-increasing population growth in the developing countries means a greater demand for animal
protein which is already in short supply in this region. The animal shortage is due largely to low level of
animal productivity. The cost of conventional feed ingredient such as maize, soyabean, wheat among
others has been on the increase from year to year leading to increase in the price of animal protein source
(Adejinmi et al., 2007). The utilization of agro-industrial by–product in animal feed has increased so as to
reduce the cost of feed ingredients. Due to economic situation of the Nation, which indicates drought,
famine, scarcity and limited resources, there is inadequate supply of protein from the traditional livestock
such as cattle, sheep, goats, dogs and poultry. There is therefore a protein deficiency in Nigeria resulting
in malnutrition whose effect can be deteriorating especially on children (NRC, 1991). Therefore, the key
to abundant animal production is the availability of feed stuff sources that are cheap and reaching
available, posing minimal competition to man (Akinmutimi, 2007). Feed dictates how many animals you
can grow and how fast they can mature for market (Aduku, 1990). Faced with the shortage of grains and
the competition between humans and livestock sector there is a need to bridge the gap of animal protein
consumption by accepting the use of non-conventional feed stuff and fast growing animals as rabbit over
the conventional ones. Some of the advantages of keeping rabbits includes its short generation interval,
high fecundity rate low cost of investment and small body size which makes it suitable for backyard
rearing and easily consumable by a family (Taiwo et al., 2005). Rabbits produce healthy meat that is
suitable for producing healthy people, because of its low salt and fat content, being a white meat like
poultry. (Oyawoye, 1989; NRC, 1991, Mclean et al., 1994; Aderemi and Wuraola, 2010; Njidda and
Page | 433
Isidahomen, 2011). It has a dressing percentage of 74% (Aduku, 1990; Etchu et al., 2013). The recent
understanding of the usefulness of the meat for diabetics, hypertensive and middle aged people has further
raised awareness on the production of rabbits, thus increasing the demand for rabbit meat (Iyeghe-
Erakpotobor et al., 2012).
Materials and methods

The experiment was carried out at the rabbitry unit of National Veterinary Research Institute Vom,
Plateau state Nigeria. The maize offal obtained from a local milling factory in Bukuru Town, Jos south
Local Government of Plateau State, While the groundnut haulms were purchased from a cattle market in
Bukuru, Jos South both were obtained wet and sun dried to reduce the moisture content. Sixty, 5-6 weeks
old cross breed weaned rabbits of both sexes were used for the experiment. Five iso-nitrogenous diets
were formulated to meet 16% crude protein nutritional requirements of the weaner rabbits and similar
levels of crude fibre by varying the levels of maize offal respectively in which groundnut haulms
constituted 20% of each diet. The diets were designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5. T1 contained wheat offal
which served as the control, while treatment (T2-T5) contained maize offal at 25, 50, 75, and 100%
respectively. The test ingredients and five diets were analysed for their proximate composition. The
composition of the diet is shown in Table 1.
Table 1: percentage composition of diet

Diet
Ingredient T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Maize 31.87 30.54 29.22 27.90 26.58
Soya beans 14.88 16.21 17.53 18.85 20.17
Wheat Offal 30 22.5 15 7.5 0
Maize Offal 0 7.5 15 22.5 30
Groundnut haulms 20 20 20 20 20
Bone meal 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5
Limestone 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Lysine 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.13 0.13
Methionine 0.12 0.12 0.12 0.12 0.12
Total (%) 100 100 100 100 100
Calculated analysis
Crude Protein (CP) 15.999% 16.001% 16.000% 15.999% 15.997%
Metabolisable 2619.7058 2657.1936 26904.7548 2723.316 2769.871
Energy(ME Kcal/Kg)
Crude fibre (CF) 8.8066 9.1289 9.4508 9.7727 10.0946
Either Extract (EE) 4.6316 4.5724 4.5133 4.4542 4.3951
Calcium 1.1219 1.1177 1.1269 1.1092 1.1319
Phosphorus 0.4963 0.4849 0.4025 0.4621 0.4507
Lysine 1.3885 1.3670 1.3453 1.3236 1.3019
Methionine 0.5397 0.5289 0.5382 0.5374 0.5367
Ash 4.7571 4.4221 4.0866 3.7512 4.1574
Bio-premix supplied per kg of diet: Vitamin A, 12500I.U; Vit. D3, 2500 I.U;Vit E, 50mg; Vit K3, 2.5mg; Vit B3.0mg; VitB6 6.0mg; Niacin,
40.0mg; Calcium pantothenate 10.0mg; Biotin 0.8mg; VitB 12 0.25mg; Folic acid 1.0mg; Choline chloride 300mg; Manganese 100mg; Iron
100mg; Zinc,50mg;Iodine 1.55I.U; Selenium 0.1mg
Proximate Analysis
Page | 434
The proximate composition of the test ingredients and experimental diets were carried out as outline by
AOAC (2007).
All the data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS statistical package
version 23(SPSS 2015) were, applicable, significant difference between mean were separated using
Duncan New Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955).
Result and discussion

The proximate composition of the maize offal is as shown in Table 2, while the diet is presented in Table
1. Table 3 shows the performance characteristics of the experimental animals. There was no significant
(p<0.05) differences in live weight, initial weight, final weight, weight gained average daily weight gain,
feed conversion ratio and carcass dressing percentage.
Table 2: Chemical composition of maize offal

Ingrediets Chemical composition
Ether extract (%) 4.28
Ash (%) 4.26
Nitrogen free extract (%) 66.21
Metabolisable energy (kcal/kg) (%) 2970.25
Table 3: Growth performance of rabbit fed maize offals

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Parameters SEM
maize maize maize maize maize
offals offals offals offals offals
Live weight (g) 1080.00 1490.00 1260.00 1430.00 1470.00 70.00
Daily Feed intake (/g) 79.45 76.53 76.55 73.97 80.78 2.07
Initial weight (g) 554.17 550.00 541.33 529.00 574.67 7.60
Final weight (g) 1230.00 1281.33 1424.67 1280.67 1263.33 31.93
Weight gained (g) 675.83 731.33 883.33 751.67 688.67 35.30
Daily weight gain (/g) 12.07 13.06 15.77 13.42 12.30 0.63
FCR 6.89 5.85 4.85 5.76 6.71 0.36
FCR= Feed conversion ratio
SEM = Standard Error of Mean
Discussion
The non-Significant (P>0.05) variation observed in all the parameters evaluated in rabbit fed maize offal
(MO) probably suggest the attainment of the delicate balance in the nutrient of the feed (Cheek et al.,
1997), who documented that optional growth rabbits are obtained when adequate nutrient is containing in
the feed ingredient. Rabbit fed treatment three attained the highest weight gain followed by those fed
treatment four and treatment one had the least body weight gain. The values recorded for feed intake was
comparable among the treatment groups. This present finding was in line with the previous finding of
(Onifade and Abu, 1998). The poor growth performance on the control diet may have been due to
inadequate fibre in the diet was always in agreement with the report of Osakwe and Nwose (2008).
According to Champe and Maurice (1983) rabbit require crude fibre in excess of 9 % for normal growth.
Reduced growth rates as observed in diets 1 may be due to decrease in dietary fibre (Bamgbose et. al.,
2002). The mean weight gain recorded in this study compared favourably with the reports of Agunbiade
Page | 435
et. al. (1999) and Schiere (1999). The increased mean weight gain of rabbits fed diets 3, 4 and 5 over
those fed diets 1 and 2, respectively, could be attributed to the favourable effect of fibre, termed a
―ballast‖ effect (Colin et al., 1976). The daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio obtained in our study
was in line with the values reported by other workers (Onifade and Tewe, 1993; Agunbiade et al., 2002)
who fed diets containing about 30 % of maize offal to growing rabbits. The low feed intake (73.97 –
80.78) g/day as per the value 131 g/d reported by Cheeke (1984) for rabbits reared in temperate countries
may be due to the variation in ambient temperature. Felding (1991) reported that high ambient
temperature has adverse effect on feed intake.
Conclusion
From the result above, it can be concluded that rabbits fed with maize offal at all levels performed well.
Therefore, maize offal could be used as fibre sources in the diet of weaner rabbits without any side effects
on performance.
References
Aderemi, F. and Wuraola, A. (2010).Effect of dietry replacement of maize with malted and unmalted
sorghum on the performance of weaner rabbits. African journal of food, Agriculture, Nutrition
and Development, 2010:10 (9): 4032- 4046.
Aduku, A.O and Olukosi, J.O (1990).Rabbit Management in the Tropics Abuja, G.U. publishers.
Agunbiade, J. A., Adeyemi, O. A., Fasina, O.E., Ashorobi, B.O., Adebanjo, M. O. and Waide, O. A.
(1999). Cassava peels and leaves meal as the diet of rabbits: Effect on performance and carcass
characteristics. Nigeria Journal Animal Science Production, 26: 29
Agunbiade, J. A., Bello, R. and Adeyemi, O. A. (2002). Performance characteristics of weaner rabbits on
cassava peels based diets. Nigerian Journal Animal Production, 29(2): 171 – 175.
Anonymous, (2015).A Quick Guide to Domestic Rabbit Keeping. Ghana Farmer 16(12): 56-60.
AOAC, (2007). Association of Official Analytical Chemists,. Official Methods of Analysis of the
Association of Official Analytical Chemists, Vols. I and II, Association of Analytical Chemists,
Arlington, 2000; 1298pp.
Bamgbose, A. M., Abimbola, M., Olayemi, W. A., Osofowora, A. O., Oso, A. O. and Ojo, O. T. (2002).
Performance of weaner rabbits fed supplemented Tridax procumbens diets: Pages 69 – 70.
Champe, K. A. and Maurice, D. V. (1983). Effect of different levels of fibre on performance of growing
rabbits. Journal Applied Rabbit Research, 6(2): 64 - 67.
Cheeke, P. R. (1984). Rabbit nutrition and feeding: Recent advances and future perspectives. Journal of
Applied Rabbit Research. 7(1): 31 – 37.
Fielding, D. (1991). Rabbits. The Macmillan Press Limited, London, 106 pp.
Iyeghe-Erakpotobor, G. T. and Adeyegun, E. (2012). Evaluation of growing rabbits fed diets containing
varying levels of groundnut forage meal (Arachis hypogea). Journal of Applied Agricultural
Research.4(2).41-51.
Mclean- Meyinsse, P.E., Hui, J. and Meyinsse, J. (1994).Consumer perception of and attitudes rabbit
meat. Journal of Agribusiness, 1994; 12(1): 55- 67.
Njidda, A.A, Isidahomen C.E. (2011). Hematological parameters and carcass characteristics of weaner
rabbits fed sesame seed meal (Sesamum indicum) in a semi-arid region, Pak. Vet. J., 31 (1): 35-
39.
Onifade, A. A. and Tewe, O. O. (1993). Alternative tropical feed resources in rabbit diets: growth
performance, diet digestibility and blood composition. World Rabbit Science, 1:17 –24
Osakwe, Isaac Ikechukwu and Nwose, Roseline Nwuguru (2008). Feed intake and nutrient digestibility of
weaner rabbits fed cassava peel as replacement for maize. Animal Research International (2008)
5(1): 770 – 773
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Oyawoye E.O (1989). Rabbit production as a means of supplying cheap Animal Protein in Nigeria.
Nigerian Livestock farmer 9:11-14
Schiere, J. B. (1999). Backyard rabbit farming in the Tropics. Third Edition, Agrodok Publications,
Wageningen, 70 pp.
Taiwo A.A, A.D, Adejuyigbe, E.A. Adebowale, J.S Oshotan and David, O.O. (2005) Performance and
nutrient digestibility of weaned rabbits feed forages supplemented with concentrates. Nigeria
Journal of Animal Production 2005, 32 (1): 74-78
Page | 437
GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF JAPANESE QUAILS FED DIETS CONTAINING

GRADED LEVELS OF GINGER WASTE MEAL
M. J. DANLADI*; A. T. IJAIYA, A. A. MALIK and M. A. ASOLOKO

Department of Animal Production, Federal university of Technology Minna, Niger State
*Corresponding author’s e-mail: methuselahmdj@gmail.com
Tel: +2347085482050
ABSTRACT
A total of two hundred and eighty eight (288) two-weeks-old Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix
japonica) were used to evaluate their growth performance when fed diets containing graded levels of
ginger (Zingiber officinale) waste meal. They were purchased from National Veterinary Research
Institute Vom, in Jos, Plateau State Nigeria. The birds were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments
subdivided into four replicates containing 18 quail birds per replicate; and were fed formulated diets
containing ginger waste meal at 0 (control), 10, 20 and 30 % respectively (designated as T1, T2, T3 and
T4) for four weeks in a completely randomized design model. Parameters measured included initial body
weight (g/b), final body weight (g/b), average weekly weight gain (g), average weekly feed intake (g),
total feed intake (g) and feed conversion ratio. No significant (P >0.05) differences was observed in the
initial body weight, final body weight, average weekly weight gain, and feed conversion ratio among all
the treatments. However, there was significant (P< 0.05) difference in total feed intake and average
weekly feed intake among the treatments with treatment 4 having highest feed intake. It was therefore
concluded that the inclusion of ginger waste meal up to 30 % in the diets of Japanese quails aided
increase in feed intake which could be attributed to the property of ginger as an appetizer that enhances
the activities of gut microflora; and it has no detrimental effect on the growth performance of Japanese
quails.
Keywords: Growth performance, Japanese quail, ginger waste meal
Introduction
Poultry production is a vibrant aspect of livestock production and contributes about 37 % of animal
protein both in developed and underdeveloped countries of the world (Khatun et al., 2003; Adio, 2019).
Management of chickens incur more cost on production as compared to other domesticated birds. Malik
(2018) reported that with the increase in population of developing countries, it is germane that other wild
poultry birds such as quail, emus, rheas, and pheasant be introduced into the commercial market to meet
up the demand of animal protein.
Abu et al (2016) reported that there is a need to diversify and commercialise the production of other
poultry birds such as quail because chicken and ducks suffered losses due to disease; and quails are
suitable species easy to rear with little investment yet they provide more economic returns within a very
short period of time.
Quails are small game birds that are suitable for meat and egg production on a commercial scale
(Oyewuchi et al., 2013). They have a short incubation period and attain sexual maturity within a short
period of time, able to have about four generations in a year (Saidu et al., 2014). They have favourable
characteristics such as fast growth rate, high number of egg production of about 300 eggs per annum,
early sexual maturity of about 6 weeks, little floor space required to rear them, about 200-250cm2 in a
cage system and about 150-200 cm2 in a deep litter system of management (Jatoi et al., 2015). They
consume only about 20-25 gram of feed per adult per day, have short incubation period, less feed cost and
they are not easily brought down by common poultry disease (Aygun et al., 2013). Japanese quail egg is
reported to be cheap and delicious, rich in protein containing a good amount of selenium, folate,
phosphorus, riboflavim, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid and iron (Kalsum et al., 2012). They also have a
tender, nutritious and tasty meat which is similar to that of the chickens but having 3-4 times greater
nutritional value (Narinc et al., 2013).
Page | 438
Utilization of antibiotic based growth promoters has witnessed severe criticisms and universal concern
because of their dangerous effects which include microbial resistance and their potentially dangerous
effects on the health of man (Rahmatnejad et al., 2009). These problems have prompted the investigation
of other alternative substances that can reduce these threats (Manesh, 2012). Ginger has been used over
centuries for healing purposes in Asia, Middle East, Europe and India to treat diseases such as arthritis,
menstrual irregularities, asthma, diabetes and stomach upset (Ali, 2008). Prasad (2014) reported that
ginger serves as an anti-inflammatory agent, prevent respiratory tract infections, prevents cough, prevents
bronchitis and may be recommended for joint problems. Ginger has constituents that have been found to
help as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic properties and other biological activities. It also
helps in the suppression of growths that induce varieties of cancer (Srinivasan, 2014). Hence, the
objective of this study was to evaluate the growth performance of Japanese quails fed diets containing
graded levels of ginger waste meal.

Experimental site
This research study was carried out at the Quail Unit of the Department of Animal Production Old
Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University of Technology, Bosso Campus Minna, Niger State.
Minna is located between latitude 90 15‘ and 90 45‘ N and between longitude 60 15‘ and 60 45‘ E of the
equator. The average yearly rainfall is about 1000-1500 mm with an average temperature of about 28-
420C. Minna falls within the Southern Guinea Savannah vegetation of Nigeria having two distinct
seasons; wet periods from March to October and dry season from November to March (NSADP, 2009).
Experimental diets and their sources
Ingredients such as maize, soya bean, maize offal, fish meal and salt were purchased at the Kure Ultra
Modern Market. Other micro ingredients such as vitamin premix, lysine, methionine, and bone meal were
purchased from feed ingredient depots in Minna. Ginger waste was sourced from Kafanchan, Kaduna
State. The ginger waste was sun dried for about 3-4 days until it was properly dried to a moisture content
of about 10%. It was then milled using attrition mill and stored in plastic containers until it was needed.
Experimental birds were purchased from the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) of Nigeria,
VOM Plateau State Nigeria. The quails were kept under an intensive system of management in cages.
Experimental treatments and design
During the growth phase of quails, the experimental diets had crude protein (CP) level set at 24 %.
Treatment 1 (T1) contained no ginger waste meal which served as the control; while treatment 2, 3 and 4
(T2, T3 and T4) contained 10, 20 and 30 % inclusion levels of ginger waste meal respectively. Other feed
ingredients were kept constant while varying maize and soya bean with ginger simultaneously. This was
done to balance fibre content present in maize and soya bean with high level fibre inclusions of ginger
waste meal.
Two hundred and eighty eight (288) two weeks old unsexed Japanese quails were used for the first phase
(growth phase) of the experiment, which were allocated to four dietary treatments with four replicates of
18 birds per replicate. Data collected from the experiment were subjected to a one-way analysis of
variance (ANOVA) at 5% probability level. Significantly different means were separated using Duncan
multiple range test. The statistical package for social scientist version 17 (SPSS, 2007) version 17 was
used to analyze the data.
Table 1: Proximate composition of Ginger Waste Meal (GWM)
Parameters GWM %
Crude protein 12.95
Crude fibre 10.00
Ash 5.50
Ether extract 3.60
Dry matter 87.50
Nitrogen free extract 55.45
Page | 439
Table 2: Composition of experimental diets fed to growing Japanese quails

Ingredient T1 T2 T3 T4
Maize 43.29 38.83 34.54 30.14
Ginger waste meal 0.00 4.32 8.64 12.92
Soybean meal 40.01 40.13 40.12 40.25
Maize bran 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Fish meal 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Bone meal 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50
Limestone 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Premix 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Methionine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Lysine 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
ME (Kcal/Kg) 2759.92 2657.63 2536.37 2323.14
Crude protein 22.90 23.11 23.78 23.49
Crude fibre 5.14 5.15 5.16 5.17
Lysine 1.39 1.39 1.38 1.37
Methionine 0.45 0.44 0.44 0.43
Calcium 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Phosphorus 0.77 0.76 0.74 0.73
Premix (vitamin x minerals) Vitamins; A=7,500 IU, D=500,000 IU, E=100 IU, B1=325 mg, B2 =125 mg, B3 = 500
mg, B6 = 150 mg, B12 = 2.5 mg, C = 10 mg, K = 15 mg and folic acid = 150 mg, Minerals: Ca = 12.5 mg, Cu = 8.0
mg, Fe = 32 mg, I = 0.8 mg, Se = 100 mg, Mg = 0.25 mg, chlorine = 250 mg, pantothenic acid = 14.4 mg, lysine,
methionine and terramycine (Broad-spectrum antibiotics and growth promoters).
Management of experimental animals
This research lasted for four weeks. The birds were raised using intensive management system throughout
the experimental period. Animals were served multivitamin SuperVit Plus (Multivitamin for Poultry) and
fresh water was always served ad libitum. Parameters such as initial body weight (g/b), final body weight
(g/b), average weekly weight gain (g), average weekly feed intake (g), total feed intake (g) and feed
conversion ratio were obtained.
Result and Discussion
The results showed that graded levels of ginger waste meal in the diets of Japanese quail did not have any
significant effect (p>0.05) on the growth performance (Table 2). The inclusion of ginger waste meal
increased (p<0.05) feed consumption that may be due to appetite stimulation (Wafaa et al., 2012) as
ginger enhances feed taste and digestion. The total feed intake of birds fed T4 was higher than other
treatments with could be attributed to the property of ginger as an appetizer that enhances the activities of
gut micro flora (Anwarul et al., 2009).
Conclusion and Recommendations

This study revealed that feed conversion ratio, initial weight, final weight and average weight gain were
not significant except for feed intake, which is significant at 30 % inclusion of ginger waste meal. Hence,
ginger waste meal can be used to replace 30% of maize in the diet of quail with no detrimental effect on
their performance.
Page | 440
Table 3: Effects of diets containing ginger waste meal on the growth performance of Japanese quail
Parameters T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM LS
Initial body weight (g/b) 36.39 35.90 36.08 36.42 0.53 NS
Final body weight (g/b) 124.80 124.60 124.74 125.12 2.51 NS
Ave. weekly weight gain (g/b) 22.10 22.18 22.17 22.18 0.09 NS
Ave. weekly feed intake (g/b) 74.52a 76.15ab 74.91ab 79.85a 1.50 *
Total feed intake (g/b) 298.08b 304.61ab 299.62ab 319.38a 2.89 *
*ab means in the same row with different superscript differ (p<0.05) significantly
Key;LS= (level of significance), NS=Not Significant,
References
Abu, N.M. Aminoor, R.M. Nazmul, H. Anup, K.T. and Ziban, C.D. (2016). A survey of Japanese Quail
(Coturnix coturnix japonica) farming in selected areas of Bangladesh; Veterinary world 9(9):
940-947.
Ali, B. Blunden, G. Tanira, M. Nemmar, A. (2008). Some phytochemical, pharmacological and
toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinate roscoe): Food and Chemical Toxicology;
46: 409-420.
Anwarul, H. and Gilani, M.N (2005). Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of ginger in
gastrointestinal disorders. Digestive diseases and sciences; 50 (10): 1889-1897.
Aygun, A. And Sert, D. (2013). Effects of pre storage application of propolis and storage time on egg
shell microbial activity hatchability and chick performance in japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix
japonica ) eggs. Poultry Science. 92: 3330-3337.
Jatoi‖, A.S. Sahota, A.W. Akran, M. Javed, k. Hassain, J. Mehmood S. and Jaspal, M.H. (2013).
Response of different body weights on blood scrum chemistry values in four close-bred flocks
of adult Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) pak J. Zool., 45(5): 1215-1220.
Kalsum, U. Soetanto H. Achmanu and Sjofjan O. (2012). Influence of a probiotic containing lactobacillus
formentum on the laying performance and egg quality of Japanese quail. International Journal
Poultry Science. 11(4): 311-315.
Khatun, R., Howlider, M.A.R., Rahman, M.M and Hasanuzzama, M. (2003). Replacement of fishmeal by
Silkworm pupae in broiler diets. Pakistan journal of Biological Science 6; 955-758.
Malik, A.A. Ijaiya, A.T. Tsado, D.N. Ntaudom, N. (2018). Growth performance and egg production of
Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) fed diets containing graded levels of sun-dried
cassava(Manihot esculenta) peel meal. Nigerian journal of Animal Science. 20(2): 2018.
Manesh, M. K. (2012). Influence of poly germander (Teurium polium) and water cress (Nasturtium
officinale) extract on performance, carcass quality and blood metabolite on male broiler.
Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Science 2: 66-68.
Narinc, D., Aksoy, T., Karaman E., Aygan, A., Fir\t m.Z and Uslu, M.K (2013) Japanese quail meat
quality: characteristics, heritability and genetic correlations with some slaughter traits. Poultry
Science. 92: 1735-1744.
NSADP (2010) Niger state Agricultural Development Project.
Oyewuchi, U.U Offor I.Rand Okoli C.F (2013) profitability of quail bird and egg production in Imo state.
Nigerian Journal of Agriculture, Food and Environment. 9(1): 40-44.
Prasad S., J.H Kim, S.C Gupta, and B.B. (2014). Aggarwal targeting death receptors for Trail y agents
designed by water nature. Trends in Phamacological Sciences. 35(10): 520-536.
Rahmatnejad., D. E., Roshan fekar, O. J. Ashayeri, Z. M. Manodew and Ashyeri, Z. A. (2009).
Evaluation of several non _antibiotic additive on growth performance of broiler chicken.
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Page | 441
Saidu, S., Afanasyex G., popova, L., Komarcher, A. And Ibrahim U. (2014). Dynamic of reproduction
qualities of Japanese quails. International conference in earth, environment and life sciences,
(EELS 2014) December 23-24, Dubai (UAE).
Scrinivasan K., ―Antioxidant potential of spices that active constituents ―, critical reviews in food science
and nutrition. 54 (3). 352-372.
SPSS, (2007). Statistical package for Social Science. Release 17.0. User Manual. Microsoft Corporation;
U.S.A.
Wafaa, B.Z., Khadiga, A.A., Bakheit, M.D., Ahmed, G.M. (2012).The effect of ginger root powder
(Zingiber officinale) supplementation on Broiler chicks performance, blood and serum
constituents, Journal of Animal and Feed Research.1 (6): 457-460.
Page | 442
PERFORMANCE OF ISA BROWN COCKEREL CHICKS FED VARYING NUTRIENT

DENSE DIETS
*1
Sabo, M. N., 2Abubakar, A., 2Abdullahi, A. U. and 1Usman, H.B
1
Department of Animal Science, Federal University, Dutsin-ma
2
Department of Animal Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
Corresponding Author: mustynalado@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Eight weeks feeding trial was carried out using a total of 300 day old Isa brown cockerel chicks to
evaluate the effect of feeding varying nutrient dense mashes. The experimental design was a completely
randomized design with three treatments consisting of three diets viz; high nutrient dense mash, medium
nutrient dense mash and low nutrient dense mash with each treatment replicated four times with 25
cockerels per replicate. Feed intake and live weight gain were measured. Body weight of the birds was
measured at the beginning, weekly intervals and end of the experiment. Feed conversion ratio was
determined. Data generated were subjected to statistical analysis. The result of the performance of
cockerel chick fed different diets is shown in table 2. All parameters considered were significantly
affected by the dietary treatments with the exception of initial weight. The results of the study showed
that final weight and weight gain of the cockerel chicks fed high and medium nutrient dense mashes were
similar (P>0.05) but both higher (P<0.05) than that of chicks fed low nutrient dense mash. The chicks fed
the low nutrient mash had the highest feed intake followed by those fed the high nutrient mash and then
those fed the medium nutrient mash. Feed conversion ratio was similar (P>0.05)) for chicks fed high and
medium nutrient dense mashes and superior (P<0.05) to that chicks fed the low nutrient dense mash. Feed
intake per kg gain was higher and hence inferior (P<0.05) for both chicks fed high and low nutrient dense
mashes compared to that of chicks fed the medium nutrient dense mash. The results of this study showed
that feed type affected the performance of cockerel chicks. Medium nutrient dense mash performed better
in terms of FCR and feed cost per kg gain. It is therefore recommended that Isa brown cockerel chicks
should be fed a medium nutrients dense mash which is similar to the chick mash (laying birds early
rearing diet).
Keywords: Cockerels, Nutrient, Diets, Feed cost, Weight gain,
INTRODUCTION
In the past, it was not possible to sex day old chicks, so all birds were reared to six or eight weeks, when
cockerels and pullets could be distinguished and separated. Cockerels would then be slaughtered as for
meat at about 16 weeks and pullets kept for egg production (Leenstra, 2014). With the advent of sexing of
day-old chicks, cockerels and pullets were separated at hatch, and it was no longer necessary to raise all
birds, poultry production started to specialize in layers for eggs and broilers for meat (Leenstra, 2014). In
some countries, most layer type males are killed at hatch. In some Asian countries, the day old chicks are
consumed as a snack; in several European countries these chicks are processed as zoo and pet food, and
sometimes they are simply destroyed. In many European countries this practice is challenged: Killing
chicks immediately after hatch is considered ethically unacceptable (Leenstra, 2014).
Raising cockerels is not very complicated, but production costs may be high compared to producing
poultry meat from specialized broilers. This is caused by the rather slow growth rate of cockerels from
layer strains. Whereas standard broilers reach 2000 grams at about 5 weeks of age, the layer cockerels
need about 18 weeks to attain 2000 grams. Due to this unfavourable feed conversion and the long rearing
period, production costs of cockerels are high (Leenstra, 2014). However, cockerel production
management is easier than the broiler production particularly in the rural areas where modern facilities
including electric supply are not available (Olaniyi et al., 2012). Cockerel are among preferred meat by
consumers and have lower chick price, mortality and morbidity, management cost, initial investment,
more organoleptic preference, family labour utilization and easy management (Olaniyi et al., 2012). The
Page | 443
aim of the research is to evaluate the performance of Isa Brown cockerel chicks fed varying nutrient
dense diets.

Site location
The experiment was conducted at the Livestock Teaching and Research farm, Department of Animal
Science, Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina state. Dutsin-Ma lies on latitude 12°26'N and longitude
07°29'E. Rainfall is between May and September with a peak in August. The average annual rainfall is
about 700 mm. The mean annual temperature ranges from 29°C – 31°C. The highest air temperature
normally occurs in April/May and the lowest in December through February (Abaje et al., 2014).
Experimental birds and design

A total of 300 day old cockerel chicks were used for the study. The birds were sourced from a reputable
hatchery. The birds were reared on deep litter with all routine management practices adhered to. The
experimental design was a completely randomized design with three treatments consisting of three diets
viz; high nutrient dense mash, medium nutrient dense mash and low nutrient dense mash. The feed
compositions are shown in table 1. Each treatment was replicated four times with 25 cockerels per
replicate. The birds were reared on deep litter throughout the experimental period of 8 weeks with ad
libitum access to feed and water.
Table 1: Composition (%) of Experimental Diets

Ingredients High Nutrient Dense Mash Medium Nutrient Dense Mash Low Nutrient Dense Mash
Sorghum 59.00 65.00 60.80
Soyabean meal 34.80 23.00 12.00
Wheat offal - 7.80 23.00
Limestone 0.50 0.50 0.50
Bone meal 3.00 3.00 3.00
Salt 0.25 0.25 0.25
Premix* 0.25 0.25 0.25
Palm oil 2.00 - -
Total 100.00 100.00 100.00
Calculated analysis
Crude protein 22.15 18.83 16.00
ME (kcal/kg) 2953.08 2856.66 2731.70
Crude fibre 2.61 3.02 4.01
Ether extract 3.53 1.76 2.03
Calcium 1.32 1.31 1.30
Phosphorus 0.88 0.90 0.95
Lysine 1.42 1.10 0.84
Measurements
Growth Performance
Feed intake and live weight gain
A given quantity of feed was measured and fed to the birds on a weekly basis. From which weekly feed
intake was measured. Daily feed intake and total feed intake were determined. The birds was weighed at
day old and assigned to the various treatments. From thereon, they was weighed early in the morning
before receiving any feed and water using a weighing balance at weekly interval during the experimental
period. Initial and final body weights of the birds were measured at the beginning and end of the
Page | 444
experiment respectively. Average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio was determined. Mortality
was recorded as it occurs and its cause was determined.
Feed Cost
Feed cost: Feed cost (N/Kg) was calculated from the cost of individual ingredients used in feed
preparation.
Feed cost per kilogram weight gain: This was calculated by multiplying feed cost per kilogram by feed
conversion ratio.
All data generated was subjected analysis of variance. Significantly (P<0.05) different means was
separated using Duncan‘s Multiple Range Test as contained in SAS (1999) package.
Table 2: Effect of Different Feeding Regimes on Growth performance of Isa Brown Cockerels (0-8
weeks)
Parameter H M L SEM
Initial weight (g) 36.68 36.00 37.00 0.07
Final weight (g) 518.83a 511.08a 411.14b 6.77
Weight gain (g) 482.15a 475.08a 374.14b 6.76
b c
Feed Intake (g) 1710.67 1650.00 1770.00a 6.26
b b
Feed Conversion ratio 3.55 3.48 4.73a 0.05
a b
Total Feed Cost (N) 181.67 150.25 145.07c 0.63
a b
Feed cost/kg gain (N) 377.43 316.69 388.00a 5.00
SEM – standard error of mean
a, b, c
means in a row with no common superscript(s) differ significantly (P<0.05)
H- High nutrient dense mash
M- Medium nutrient dense mash
L- Low nutrient dense mash

The result of the performance of cockerel chick fed different diets is shown in table 2. All parameters
considered were significantly affected by the dietary treatments with the exception of initial weight. The
final weight of the cockerel chicks fed high and medium nutrient dense mashes were similar (P>0.05) but
both higher (P<0.05) than that of chicks fed low nutrient dense mash. Weight gain followed a similar
trend with final weight. Feed intake was different (P<0.05) among the different diets. The chicks fed the
low nutrient mash had the highest feed intake followed by those fed the high nutrient mash and then those
fed the medium nutrient mash. Feed conversion ratio was similar (P>0.05)) for chicks fed high and
medium nutrient dense mashes and superior (P<0.05) to that chicks fed the low nutrient dense mash.
Total feed cost was affected by the different diets with the high nutrient mash recording the highest
(P<0.05) compared to medium and low nutrient dense mashes. The low nutrient dense mash had the least
feed cost which was less than that of the medium dense mash. Feed intake per kg gain was higher and
hence inferior (P<0.05) for both chicks fed high and low nutrient dense mashes compared to that of
chicks fed the medium nutrient dense mash. Weight gain similarity observed between the high and
medium nutrients dense mashes in this study was contrary to that obtained by Koenig et al. (2012) when
they compared cockerels fed a broiler diet (high nutrient) and a rearing diet for laying hens (medium
nutrient). They observed 11% higher gain in the broiler diet fed chicks compared to the rearing diet fed
chicks. They also obtained a better FCR in broiler diet fed chicks compared to the layer rearing diet fed
chicks which was contrary to the observations of this study. The higher weight gain observed in the high
nutrient dense mash fed group may be due to higher contents of crude protein and metabolizable energy.
The superior FCR and feed cost per kg gain of the medium nutrient dense mash may be due to the
genotype of the cockerels which is not for rapid weight gain.
Page | 445

The results of this study showed that feed type affected the performance of cockerel chicks with high
nutrient dense mash having weight gain. Medium nutrient dense mash performed better in terms of FCR
and feed cost per kg gain. It is therefore recommended that Isa brown cockerel chicks should be fed a
medium nutrients dense mash which is similar to the chick mash (laying birds early rearing diet).
REFERENCES
Abaje, I. B., Sawa, B. A. and Ati, O. F. (2014). Climate Variability and Change, Impacts and Adaptation
Strategies in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria. Journal of
Geography and Geology; Vol. 6, No. 2; 2014
Leenstra, (2014). Raising cockerels as part of free range egg production. LowInputBreeds Technical
Note. Download at www.lowinputbreeds.org
Olaniyi, O. A., Oyenaiya, O. A., Sogunle, O. M., Akinola, O. S., Adeyemi, O. A. and Ladokun O. A.
(2012). Free range and deep litter housing systems: effect on Performance and blood profile of
two strains of Cockerel chickens Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 15 (2012) : 511 –
523
Tong, H. B., Q. Wang , J. Lu, J. M. Zou , L. L. Chang, and S. Y. Fu (2014). Effect of free-range days on a
local chicken breed: Growth performance, carcass yield, meat quality, and lymphoid organ
index. Poultry Science 93 :1883–1889. http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3382/ps.2013-03470
Zandbergen, J. (2016). Introducing poultry in orchards to restore ecological relationships in agricultural
production systems. Msc. Thesis, Wageningen University and Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1
– 6708 PB Wageningen - The Netherlands
Koenig, M., Hahn, G, Damme, K. and Schmutz, M.(2021). Utilization of laying-type cockerels as
coquelets―: Influence of genotype and diet characteristics on growth performance and carcass
composition. Arch.Geflügelk., 76 (3). S. 197–202, 2012, ISSN 0003-9098
Page | 446

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NIGERIAN SOCIETY FOR ANIMAL PRODUCTION (NSAP) 46TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE – DUTSIN-MA 2021 BOOK OF PROCEEDINGS

MONOGASTRIC NUTRITION AND MANAGEMENT

RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKENS TO TIME LIMITED FEEDING OF

O. A. ADEYEMI*, A. M. OYELEKE, L.T. EGBEYALE, A. O. OSO and C.P. NJOKU

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical and Statistical analysis

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1: Analysed Composition (%) of Mash and Pellet

SOIL NUTRIENTS POTENTIALITY OF PIG DEEP LITTER INOCULATED WITH

Adewale I. Adeolu, †Adanne P. Agbafor, †Nancy C. Umezuruike, §Ukaegbu G. Nneji

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

INNOCULATED BED FERMENTED BED Bed without EM Bed with EM

PERFORMANCE AND COST IMPLICATION OF BROILER CHICKENS FED

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table 2: Dietary composition of starter diets

Table 3: Dietary composition finisher diets

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF GROWER RABBITS FED GRADED LEVELS OF

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table 1 Ingredient and Percentage Composition of Experimental Diets

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Growth Performance of rabbits fed fermented Jatropha seed meal

PERFORMANCE AND COST BENEFIT OF REPLACING WHEAT OFFAL WITH

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 2: Performance of Broiler Finisher Chickens Fed Diets Containing Xylanase-Supplemented

NS= Not significant; SEM = Standard Error of Means

Table 3: Cost-Benefit of Finisher Broiler Chickens Fed Xylanase-Supplemented Rice Offal

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

PERFORMANCE AND COST BENEFIT OF REPLACING FISH MEAL WITH

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table 1: Proximate composition of fish meal and blood meal

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

NUTRIENT DETERMINATION OF CASSAVA PLANT MEAL

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 2: Mineral composition of cassava plant meal products

Table 3: Amino acid composition of cassava plant meal products

Table 4: Vitamins composition of cassava plant meal products

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

CARCASS TRAITS AND HAEMATOLOGY OF BROILER FINISHER CHICKENS FED

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 3: Haematological Indices of Finisher Broilers Fed Graded Levels of Enzyme-

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS CONTAINING

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Maize 59.35 58.35 57.35 56.05 55.05

Total 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

Initial wt. (g/bird) 614.67 616.00 616.00 613.33 620.67 6.02

INFLUENCE OF GRADED LEVELS OF ETANDA AFRICANA SEED MEAL ON

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table 1: Dietary composition of experimental starter and finisher diets

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

ADWG, g/b/d ADFI, g/b/d FCR

100 93.59 91.37 93.2 90.47 94.33

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

EFFECT OF FEEDING OVEN-DRIED Canarium schweinfurthii SEED MEAL ON CARCASS

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Table 1: Composition of the experimental diet

Strain * *

Age (weeks) * *