The study evaluated the reproductive performance of Dutch and New Zealand White rabbits and their crosses under tropical management conditions. Sixty kits representing four genetic groups were produced from a foundation stock of 10 does and 8 bucks. The genetic groups included purebred New Zealand White (NZW×NZW), purebred Dutch (DU×DU), and two crossbreds (NZW×DU and DU×NZW). Results showed that the genetic group significantly (p≤0.05) influenced all the reproductive traits measured. Correlation analysis showed strong and significant positive and negative relationships among the measured reproductive traits. The study concluded that the genetic group significantly affected reproductive and growth traits in rabbits. The NZW showed shorter gestation length and good litter performance, confirming its value as a maternal line. The DU×NZW cross had a lower litter size but superior weaning weight, indicating improved growth. Strong positive correlations between litter size at birth and weaning, and between birth and weaning weights, suggest early traits predict later performance, although negative associations with litter size indicate a trade-off with growth. These results highlight the need to balance prolificacy and growth, and to carefully consider crossbreeding strategies for optimal productivity in rabbit production.
The Uda ram (Ovis aries) is the predominant species in the Northwest of Nigeria, and the morphology of the testes is an important marker for the reproductive capability of rams. Rams play a pivotal role as a source of livelihood and food, providing milk and meat. This study was conducted to determine the morphometry of the testis for this species during the dry season. This study was conducted by acquiring and assessing the testicular samples of eighty (80) rams during the dry season months to contribute data on the reproductive function during this period. Testicular weight was observed to vary significantly, with the right testis showing greater mean values than the left. The weight of the right testicles varied from 82.00 to 218.00 g (191.80 ± 40.90 g), whereas the weight of the left testicles varied from 74.00 to 210.00 g (184.50 ± 41.70 g). The range of whole testicular weights was 156.00 to 428.00 g (376.30 ± 81.70 g). There were statistically significant (p < 0.05) variations in length, breadth, and circumference, indicating a right-sided predominance. Age and body weight were observed to have a significant association with testicular dimensions. This study also provides baseline morphometric data for Uda rams; the results support reports on lateral asymmetry in testicular morphometry that favours the right side, and they highlight key predictors of reproductive potential.
This study was conducted to evaluate egg external and internal quality traits of the West African Black Mud Tortoise. A total of Eighty (80) eggs were collected from (Pelusios castaneus). Four model specifications (linear, double-log, semi-log and exponential functions) were evaluated to determine the best-fitting regression of egg weight on various egg traits. The data showed mean values of 18.84±1.24g, 8.02±0.26g, 28.30±2.40mm and 76.13±3.62% for egg weight (EWT), albumen weight (AWT), albumen length (ALT) and haugh unit (HU), respectively. Analysis indicated that mean yolk weight (YWT), yolk height (YHT), yolk width (YWD), yolk index (YI), shell weight (SWT) and shell thickness (STH) were 7.14±0.15g, 2.16±0.03mm, 4.07±0.13mm, 0.44±0.01, 3.68±0.13g and 0.25±0.01mm, respectively. Findings revealed mean egg length (ELT) (33.89±1.14mm), egg width (EWD) (25.79±1.41mm) and egg shape index (ESI) (1.20±0.02). EWT data demonstrated a non-linear trend. Evaluation of fit quality across four functional forms resulted in coefficient of determination (R2) values of 78.68 % (linear), 78.35% (semi-log), 65.80% (double-log), and 71.30% (exponential), respectively, indicating that the linear model provided the strongest fit. AWT was the most significant predictor of EWT. The results indicate that a linear function is the most suitable, providing the best fit for modelling the EWT curve of Pelusios castaneus in this study. In conclusion, data analysis shows that EWT is the key factor influencing egg quality and reproductive performance in Pelusios castaneus.
Information about Canine parvovirus (CPV) in dogs is limited in the Gambia; therefore, this retrospective study assessed the prevalence of CPV disease among dogs from Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and West Coast Region (WCR) brought to Central Veterinary Clinic, Abuko, The Gambia. The animals were clinically diagnosed to observe signs of CPV disease. Data from clinic logbooks from January 2020 to December 2023 were obtained on demographic patterns, seasonal effects, symptoms, age and vaccination status. These data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Out of 301 dogs brought to the clinic, 229 suspected cases (76.10%) of CPV were observed. The highest occurrence of suspected CPV cases was recorded in 2022 (31.4%), followed by 2023 (24.5%) and 2020 (22.7%), while the lowest was in 2021 (21.4%). Also, the highest value (14.0%) of the suspected parvo was recorded in February, followed by 13.5% in June, while November had the lowest suspected cases (2.1%). Drier months of the year (December-June) had the highest record compared to July-November. The majority of the suspected parvo cases (76.9%) were observed in adult animals, while (23.1%) were observed in young animals. Geographical distribution data showed that the majority (52.0%) of suspected parvo cases were from the KMC, and (48.0%) were from the WCR. The most common set of clinical signs was "Fever and Haemorrhagic Diarrhoea," accounting for (34.9%) of the suspected cases, followed by "Loss of Appetite, Fever, and Dehydration" with 24.9% of the suspected cases. "Foul Smelling Diarrhoea and Vomiting" accounted for 23.1%. The results revealed that the suspected parvo cases were more prevalent among unvaccinated dogs. It could be concluded from the study that season and vaccination status were potential risk factors associated with CPV among the dog population in KMC and WCR, The Gambia.
The persistence of transboundary animal diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) continues to undermine animal health and production, posing significant challenges for farmers, policymakers, and the livestock sector in Nigeria. Although vaccination is a proven tool for FMD control, vaccine adoption in Nigeria remains suboptimal. A major factor is the limited engagement of animal health service providers (AHSPs) in recommending vaccines, which hampers uptake and leaves livestock populations vulnerable to outbreaks. This study, therefore, explores the contribution of AHSPs to FMD vaccination and the challenges that limit their role in disease control. Using semi-structured questionnaires, 201 AHSPs from 12 states across four geopolitical zones were interviewed to assess their knowledge, experience, and practices regarding FMD vaccination. Data were cleaned in Microsoft Excel and analysed in IBM SPSS®. Most respondents were veterinarians (75.1%) with over five years’ professional experience (80.6%). Although 81.6% were aware of FMD vaccine availability, only 71.3% had recommended the vaccines, and just 52.7% recognized the different FMDV serotypes circulating in Nigeria. Notably, 75.4% of AHSPs advised treatment for managing the disease, reflecting persistent gaps in vaccine use by the farmers. The findings in this study highlight barriers, including limited vaccine availability, logistical constraints, and low farmer compliance. Therefore, strengthening vaccine supply, surveillance systems and farmer sensitisation are crucial to enhance AHSPs-driven FMD control in Nigeria.
The six-week study, carried out at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, investigated the impact of dietary turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome powder on the performance and egg quality characteristics of laying hens. Forty-eight, 16-week-old Isa Brown hens were assigned to three treatments: a control group (T1) with 0 g/kg turmeric rhizome powder (TRP), T2 with 5 g/kg TRP, and T3 with 10 g/kg TRP. Key performance indices, including egg production, shell thickness, yolk colour, albumen weight, and cholesterol levels, were assessed using a completely randomised design (CRD). Results showed that turmeric supplementation improved egg production, as T2 recorded 426 eggs, thereby outperforming (p<0.05) T1 with 415 eggs. External egg quality was significantly (p<0.05) enhanced by additive TRP, as T3 had the highest shell thickness of 0.68 mm compared to 0.53 mm in T1. Internally, yolk pigmentation increased (p<0.05) with turmeric inclusion as T3 had a score of 4, and T1 recorded 3, likely due to curcuminoid pigments inherent in TRP. Cholesterol levels decreased significantly (p<0.05) with higher TRP doses, from 23.3 mg in T1 to 5.82 mg in T3, suggesting a cholesterol-lowering effect. Also, T3 showed the highest (p<0.05) albumen weight of 37.0 g, indicating improved protein deposition. In conclusion, turmeric supplementation enhances laying performance, egg quality, and yolk pigmentation while significantly reducing cholesterol levels, highlighting potential nutritional benefits. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosage levels and long-term effects on egg production characteristics and the nutritional composition of eggs.
Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an emerging transboundary viral disease of cattle causing substantial economic and reproductive losses in Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess the epidemiology of LSD, identify modifiable farm-level risk factors, evaluate therapeutic management, examine farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), and determine the effect of LSD on the conception rate (CR) of first artificial insemination (FAI) in northern Bangladesh. A 'prospective observational cohort' in Methods was conducted from January 18 to October 30, 2025, across 942 dairy farms in 10 northern districts of Bangladesh. Trained veterinarians or interns clinically examined cattle for LSD, and structured interviews were used to collect socioeconomic data, management practices, and KAP indicators. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant risk factors associated with LSD occurrence and reproductive outcomes. The animal-level prevalence of LSD was 21.3%, while herd-level prevalence was 55.1%. Mortality and case-fatality rates were 4.3% and 22.2%, respectively, with calves under six months accounting for 42.9% of deaths. Vector abundance, particularly biting midges, stable flies, and tabanids, significantly increased disease risk. LSD exposure adversely affected reproductive performance; however, cows with higher Red Chittagong (RC) inheritance showed superior FAI conception rates. Only 35.3% of farmers practised adequate preventive measures despite moderate to good knowledge and attitudes. In conclusion, LSD significantly impacts cattle health and reproductive efficiency in northern Bangladesh. Strengthening vaccination coverage, vector control, farmer education, and biosecurity practices is essential to improve disease control and enhance conception rates following the first artificial insemination.
A total of 104 rabbits generated from 24 sexually mature, 5 months purebred of the mating from New Zealand White (NZW) and Californian White (CAL), 12 per breed, which comprised 3 bucks and 9 does mated in a ratio 1:3, replicated thrice, were used in the study. Phenotypic traits measured were body weight (BWT), ear length (ELT), nose length (NTS), heart girth (HGT), shoulder to tail drop (STF), body length (BLT), tail length (TLT) and length of front leg (FLT) from 9 to 21 weeks of age were used to estimate phenotypic correlations and predict body weights using both linear and quadratic models for the two breeds of rabbits. Results of correlation coefficients of post-weaning traits investigated for NZW rabbits expressed mostly high, positive and negative but significant (p<0.01) values for 9, 13, 17 and 21 weeks of age, with few low, positive significant (p<0.05) values and non-significant (p>0.05) values. Whereas, results of phenotypic correlations of CAL rabbits expressed mostly non-significant (p>0.05), both positive and negative low values, with the exceptions of high, positive significant (p<0.01) correlation coefficients between STF and HGT, between BLT and STF for week 17, between STF and NTS, between TLT and ELT, and between TLT and NTS for week 21 of age. The results of high phenotypic correlations mean that these traits could be used for improvement and selection. The regression estimates of parameters and coefficient of determination (R2) for simple (one trait), multiple (two or more traits) and quadratic (X2) for predicting body weights of NZW and CAL rabbits showed highly significant (p<0.01) values associating interrelationships for both breeds of rabbits. Body weights were predicted with effluent accuracy from phenotypic traits of NZW and CAL rabbits using linear and quadratic models. It can therefore be recommended that, where measuring scales are unavailable, rabbits' body weights can be best predicted using BLT and TLT, and BLT and NTS in simple and quadratic models, respectively.
The decrease in the sperm kinematic quality during cold storage is still a significant limitation in the artificial insemination programs, especially on local breeds like the Rote sheep. This experiment was an attempt to determine the impacts of adding Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA), a protein derived from bovine blood plasma that functions as an antioxidant and stabilizer in biological media, and Moringa leaf extract (MLE), a natural extract from Moringa oleifera leaves rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, to Tris-based extender on the kinematic properties of Rote ram sperms at 5oC in 48 hours. Two healthy Rote rams (2-3 years old) were collected with an electroejaculator, and semen was evaluated macroscopically and microscopically. Processing was done on ejaculates whose progressive motility was ≥70%, and sperm abnormalities were less than 20%. In the control (P0), the semen samples were diluted with Tris-egg yolk extender; supplementation was made with 0.3% BSA (P1), 0.125% MLE (P2), 0.3% BSA + 0.125% MLE (P3), 0.3% BSA + 0.25% MLE (P4), 0.45% BSA + 0.125% MLE (P5), and 0.45% BSA + 0.25% MLE (P6). Diluted semen samples were stored in Eppendorf tubes and maintained at 5°C in a refrigerator for up to 48 hours. The Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA; an automated and objective system used to evaluate sperm motility and kinematic characteristics through digital image processing) was used to determine sperm motility and kinematic parameters. It was established that treatment P3 had the highest and significantly different (p<0.05) results in the majority of the parameters, such as progressive motility (52.80%), fast motility (27.31%), VCL (curvilinear velocity, 105.85 µm/s), VSL (straight-line velocity, 41.55 µm/s), VAP (average path velocity, 49.55 µm/s), and STR (straightness ratio, 0.36). Finally, it was found that Tris extender supplemented with 0.3% BSA and 0.125% MLE was effective in preserving sperm kinematic quality of Rote ram semen throughout 48 hours of cold storage.
Infectious bursal disease (IBD) is a highly contagious and immunosuppressive viral disease of chickens that causes significant economic losses in poultry production. This study assessed the prophylactic efficacy of three nutraceuticals—King-Herbs Oral Solution®, Gumbo ND®, and Grand HumiVet®—administered alone or in combination with an intermediate Gumboro vaccine in broiler chickens experimentally challenged with a very virulent IBD virus (vvIBDV). A total of 240-day-old Cobb500 broilers were randomly allocated into 12 groups (20 birds/group). Group A served as the negative control, while Group B was the positive control challenged with vvIBDV. Groups C1–C3 received individual nutraceuticals combined with vaccination and vvIBDV challenge. Groups D1–D3 received nutraceuticals without vaccination but were challenged. Groups E1–E3 received nutraceuticals only, while Group F was vaccinated and challenged without nutraceutical supplementation. Nutraceuticals were administered via drinking water from day 5 to day 28. The intermediate Gumboro vaccine was given on days 11 and 22, and the vvIBDV challenge was performed orally on day 29. Clinical signs, cloacal temperature, body weight, and mortality were monitored between 3 and 7 days post-infection (dpi). Bursa of Fabricius samples were collected at 21, 28, 35, and 42 days of age for gross and histopathological evaluation. Birds in the positive control group showed severe clinical signs, elevated cloacal temperatures, reduced body weight, and marked bursal lesions. Nutraceutical–vaccine combinations (C1–C3) provided the highest level of protection, evidenced by minimal clinical signs, improved growth performance, and significantly lower lesion scores. Nutraceutical-only groups showed partial protection, while vaccinated controls exhibited moderate resistance. Overall, supplementation with King-Herbs Oral Solution®, Gumbo ND®, or Grand HumiVet® enhanced vaccine efficacy and reduced the pathological effects of vvIBDV, suggesting their value as adjuncts in IBD control programs.
This study evaluated the feasibility of orchiotomy as an alternative to partial orchiectomy for milt collection in Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) to maintain fertilisation potential. In the partial orchiectomy group, 12 male fish underwent initial surgery where one-third of the testis was removed to extract milt, which was collected in a sterile bottle. Follow-up surgeries were conducted on six males after 30 days and on the remaining six after 40 days to collect additional milt from the remaining two-thirds of the testis. In the orchiotomy group, milt was obtained from 12 males via a small incision at the proximal testicular pole, allowing the milt to be gently expressed. Recollection followed the same 30- and 40-day schedule as the partial orchiectomy group. Milt quality and fertilisation capacity were assessed by using 1 g of eggs per milt sample. At the initial collection (day 0), there were no significant differences in milt volume, sperm concentration, or fertilisation success between the two methods. However, at 30 and 40 days post-surgery, the partial orchiectomy group showed significantly lower (P˂0.05) milt volume, sperm concentration, and fertilisation rate compared to the orchiotomy group, except for fertilisation rate at 40 days, which was not significantly different. Within the partial orchiectomy group, a significant decline (p˂0.05) was observed in milt volume, concentration, and fertilisation potential at 30 and 40 days compared to day 0, with no significant difference between the 30- and 40-day marks. In contrast, the orchiotomy group maintained consistent milt quality across all time points. Overall, orchiotomy proved superior, offering higher milt volume, concentration, and fertilisation success, along with minimal tissue adhesion, no visible scarring, faster healing, and quicker regeneration.
This study evaluated the comparative effects of vitamin E and garlic oil supplementation on oxidative stress markers, hepatic, and renal functions in weaner rabbits. Twenty-four male rabbits (5 weeks old) were used. Prior to the experiment, the housing was disinfected with hypochlorite solution and left to dry for a week before introducing the rabbits into the house. Following a two-week acclimatization period, the rabbits were randomly assigned to three treatment groups (n = 8) in a Completely Randomized Design: T1 (control), T2 (vitamin E at 300 mg/kg body weight), and T3 (garlic oil at 300 mg/kg body weight). Treatments were administered orally for four weeks, and all rabbits were fed commercial grower's mash ad libitum. Oxidative stress biomarkers assessed included glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Liver and kidney function indices measured were alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine. Results revealed significant differences (p<0.05) among treatments. GSH levels were significantly higher in T2 and T3 compared to T1, with no difference between T2 and T3. GSH-Px, CAT, SOD, and MDA differed significantly across all groups. Vitamin E exhibited superior antioxidant effects, including greater reduction in MDA. However, garlic oil showed better improvement in hepatic and renal parameters, recording lower ALT, AST, ALP, BUN, and creatinine values. In conclusion, both vitamin E and garlic oil enhanced antioxidant status and reduced oxidative stress in weaner rabbits. Vitamin E demonstrated stronger antioxidant capacity, while garlic oil was more effective in supporting liver and kidney functions.
This study evaluates the role of herbal additives, specifically turmeric and ginger, in enhancing the sustainability of poultry farming by assessing their effects on broiler chickens' growth performance, economic parameters, nutrient digestibility, and blood profiles. A total of 120-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four treatment groups: control (no herb), turmeric at 0.25%, ginger at 0.25%, and an equal combination of both herbs at 0.25%. Results showed no significant differences in growth performance across the treatments, as all groups exhibited comparable body weight, feed intake, and weight gain. However, the economic analysis revealed that the inclusion of turmeric, ginger, or their combination increased feed costs and total production costs, with the combined treatment resulting in the highest production cost. Despite this, all supplemented diets resulted in negative cost savings, indicating limited financial benefits. Haematological analyses indicated no major changes in red and white blood cell counts, packed cell volume, or haemoglobin levels. However, significant variations were observed in eosinophil and monocyte percentages. Biochemical analyses showed reductions in total protein and albumin levels in the turmeric group, while serum glucose and cholesterol levels increased significantly. Nutrient digestibility was also influenced by the additives, with significant differences observed in dry matter and nitrogen-free extract digestibility, though other parameters like crude protein and crude fibre remained unaffected. Overall, while the herbal additives had minimal effects on growth performance at 0.25% inclusion level, they influenced production costs and certain biochemical markers, suggesting a potential but modest role in sustainable poultry farming.
Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. are involved in a variety of pathogenic processes in domestic animals and humans. The study aimed to isolate and identify Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella spp. bacteria, and ascertain the specific antibiotic resistance percentages. A total of 40 samples of duck liver and intestinal contents were collected and selected from different villages in Savar Upazila and tested for E. coli and Salmonella spp., with the isolates subjected to antibiotic sensitivity tests. Cultural characteristics, biochemical testing, and Gram's staining were used to isolate and identify bacterial genera/species. Each bacterium has a different prevalence rate. The highest prevalence rate was found in E. coli (52.5%), followed by Salmonella spp. (37.5%). Antibiotic sensitivity test by disc diffusion method or Kirby-Bauer test was performed against the five most commonly used antibiotics. Ciprofloxacin was the most sensitive to E. coli isolates (95.2 %), followed by gentamycin (80.9%), while amoxicillin (90.5%), followed by tetracycline and ampicillin (80.95%), were the most resistant. Salmonella spp. isolates were found to be the most susceptible to Ciprofloxacin (100%), followed by Gentamycin (86.67%). The highest resistant pattern of Salmonella spp. was shown against amoxicillin (100%), followed by ampicillin (80%) and tetracycline (60%), with an intermediate resistance 40%. According to the findings of this study, duck contains a resistance profile to E. coli and Salmonella spp. pathogens on both the duck liver and intestinal contents. Salmonella spp and the resistance profile of E. coli are dangerous bacteria that can spread to people by contact with them or through the food chain, raising major public health problems.
Maternal and dominance effects, General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) were used to determine the influence of additive and non-additive genes effects on linear body traits, using a total of two hundred and fifteen (215) day-old poults of three strains of local turkey crossbred in the humid tropics. A full diallel crossing experiment was conducted using three phenotypes of indigenous turkeys with the plumage colour: black, white and lavender (spotted). A randomised complete block design (RCBD) was also used to analyse the data with phenotypic class as a major factor and batch as a block. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The result obtained in the study showed that GCA was significant for BL, WL, DS and SL and non-significant for BW, BRW, KL and NL with values ranging from – 0.34 to 0.640, respectively. SCA was also significant for BL, BW, BRW, KL and SL but non-significant for WL, DS and NL, ranging from 2.981 to 8.324. It was concluded that the significance (P<0.05) differences observed for most LBMs and BW in different ages (weeks) for GCA and SCA indicates that non-additive effects of genes could be improved genetically through selection and crossbreeding of BxS, BxW and WxS genotypes to bring about genetic improvement for BW and LBMs and by improving the environment. The result also indicates higher maternal and additive effects on body weight among the crossbreds. This also implies that poults from BxW and WxB dams are preferred for body weight compared to poults from BxW and BxS because of negative value estimates obtained in their maternal effect.
A study was conducted to investigate the inclusion of neem leaf (Azadirachta indica) as a protein source in the diet of broilers and layers. A total of one hundred and fifty broiler chicks and one hundred and fifty point-of-laying pullets were assigned to five dietary treatments in a completely randomised design. Five dietary treatments were formulated with varying levels of Neem Leaf Meal (NLM) inclusion. D1 (0% NLM), D2 (5% NLM), D3 (10% NLM), D4 (15% NLM) and D5 (20% NLM) with 30 birds per treatment, 10 birds per replicate and replicated thrice. The experimental trial for broiler chickens lasted for eight weeks, and the layers experimental trial lasted for twelve weeks, during which the nutrient retention of the birds was determined. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences in the nutrient retention of broilers fed the experimental diets. On laying birds’ trial, the result showed that crude protein, ash, ether extract, crude fibre and dry matter were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by dietary treatments. It was concluded that dietary treatments significantly influenced nutrient retention in laying birds, with notable effects on crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract, ash, and dry matter. The results underscore the importance of optimizing dietary formulations to enhance nutrient utilization, reduce waste, and promote sustainable egg production. Therefore, 10% NLM inclusion is recommended for optimal performance in broiler and layer production.
This research provides a detailed description of the gross morphology of the brachial plexus with its peripheral nerve distribution to the muscles of the pectoral limb in the African Striped Ground Squirrel (ASGS). Six (6) adult ASGSs of both sexes were used for this study. The squirrels were euthanised using ketamine hydrochloride at a dose of 60 - 80 mg/kg intramuscularly. They were perfused intracardially with 10 % formalin and fixed in the same solution for three days. The muscles were dissected along the intermuscular septae, and the nerves supplying them were identified and photographed. The vertebral column was opened by laminectomy to expose the cervical and thoracic nerve roots. The last four cervical nerves and the first two thoracic nerves arose from the cervical and thoracic segments, respectively, of the spinal cord of the ASGS by means of dorsal and ventral roots. The cervical and thoracic nerves are divided into dorsal and ventral rami just after exiting the intervertebral foramen. The ventral rami of the last four cervical nerves (C5, C6, C7, and C8) and the first two thoracic nerves (T1 and T2) are interconnected to form the brachial plexus. The peripheral nerves of the brachial plexus, including the subscapular nerve, suprascapular nerve, pectoral nerve, axillary nerve, radial nerve, musculocutaneous nerve, ulnar nerve, median nerve and thoracodorsal nerve, supplied the subscapularis, supraspinatus, pectoralis, teres major, triceps brachii, coracobrachialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis and latissimus dorsi, respectively. The peripheral branches of the brachial plexus supply innervation to the muscles of the pectoral limb. The increased number of spinal nerves that constituted the brachial plexus of the ASGS from this study points to increased versatility of actions of the pectoral limb of the ASGS in climbing, wide jump between tree branches and digging.
This study aimed to determine the effects of sex and strain on the meat yield and sensory qualities of Muscovy and Aylesbury ducks reared in the humid tropics. Sex, strain and the interaction of sex and strain have been reported by various researchers to significantly affect the growth and carcass analysis of Poultry birds in Nigeria. There is limited evaluation of Muscovy and Aylesbury ducks in this region. The study was conducted in the Poultry Unit of Teaching and Research Farm of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. One hundred and eighty (180) sexed ducklings, comprising 90 each of Muscovy and Aylesbury ducks, were randomly allotted to four treatment groups in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Each treatment was replicated 3 times with 15 birds per replicate. The birds were reared for 20 weeks. At the end of the rearing period, 12 birds (one per replicate) of average body weight per replicate were selected and slaughtered. Different meat yield parameters were recorded, and sensory analysis was conducted. Data collected were analysed using SPSS version 20 for Windows. They were no significant differences in the effect of sex on the meat yield but significant differences was recorded in the effects of breed on the Defeathered weight (2003g, 1815g), Breast meat % (18.30, 17.95), Thigh meat % (8.05, 6.31), Drumstick meat % (8.83, 6.33), Breast bone % (5.21, 4.70), Thigh bone % (3.62, 3.50) with the Muscovy ducks having the higher values. In the interaction effect of sex and strain on the meat yield, they were significant differences in the live weight (2320g, 1811.45 g), Defeathered weight (2100.67 g, 1504.00g), Breast meat% (25.84, 10.32), Thigh meat% (12.87, 7.88), Drumstick meat % (10.53, 6.25), Breast meat to bone ratio (6.88, 4.03) with the Muscovy male recording the highest values while the Aylesbury male recorded the lowest values. In the sensory evaluation, the Aylesbury ducks had the better acceptability (7.67, 6.20) compared to Muscovy ducks. Also, Aylesbury ducks had a higher coefficient of variation in most of the parameters measured. Muscovy ducks had a higher meat yield, while the Aylesbury ducks were more acceptable. The higher variability in meat yield also suggests the potential for selective breeding to improve the meat yield of Aylesbury ducks.
A study was conducted to evaluate the growth performance, nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance in twenty (20) growing Balami rams fed four varieties of hydroponic sorghum fodder (HSF) with a supplemented concentrate diet. The HSF varieties were Red Chakalari (V1), White Chakalari (V2), Kaura (V3) and Jigari (V4). Results revealed significant (p<0.05) differences in all the nutrient intake parameters, with rams fed V4 (Jigari) showing the highest values except for organic matter intake. Weight gain and feed conversion ratio also differed significantly (p<0.05) among treatments, with rams on the Jigari variety achieving the highest weight gain of 142.28g/animal/day and the most efficient feed conversion. Although nutrient digestibility did not differ significantly (p>0.05), crude protein digestibility ranged from 79.37% (V4) to 82.04% (V1). Nitrogen balance showed significant (p<0.05) variations in nitrogen intake, faecal and urinary nitrogen output, and retained nitrogen across the treatments, with all groups having positive retained nitrogen as a percentage of intake. It was concluded that the Jigari variety of hydroponic sorghum fodder yielded the best performance in terms of growth, nutrient intake, and nitrogen utilisation in Balami rams.
Haemoglobin type, a useful marker for genomic selection, has influenced the adaptability of animals to a particular environment. The effect of the interaction of haemoglobin types with various locations on morphometric traits of West African Dwarf goats in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, was studied. Three hundred and eighty-four goats of both sexes were sampled from three senatorial districts (Eket, Ikot Ekpene and Uyo) of Akwa Ibom State. Morphometric traits measured were body length (BL), height at wither (HW), heart girth (HG), rump height (RH), body depth (BD) and body weight (BWT). Five millilitres of blood samples from each goat were collected through the jugular vein for electrophoretic analysis. The data obtained were subjected to a 2x3 factorial in a completely randomised design. Gene and genotypic frequencies were estimated, and chi chi-square test was used to assess the conformation mode of the goat population to Hardy-Weinberg genetic equilibrium. Two haemoglobin genotypes, HbAA and HbAB, were identified. Genotypic and allelic frequencies for HbAA are higher in all locations than HbAB. BL (50.75±0.52), HW (45.11±0.29), and RH (45.80±0.36) for HbAA were superior to HbAB. However, HbAB was superior to HbAA for TL (11.00±0.29) and NC (33.43±0.82) in the main effect. The interaction of haemoglobin types with locations had a significant influence on all the morphometric traits, with HbAA being superior to HbAB, but both HbAA and HbAB favoured body weight in Ikot Ekpene.
