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The broiler chicken industry needs effective probiotics to boost productivity and health. However, published data on the impact of in-feed Bacillus supplementation on physiological parameters in healthy broiler chickens are often conflicting and inconclusive. As a result, this meta-analysis aimed to assess the influence of Bacillus on intestinal histomorphometry (villus height [VH], crypt depth [CD], and VH:CD) and blood immunoglobulin (A, G, and M) levels in healthy broiler chickens. Results were pooled using a random-effects model and presented as Hedges d (d) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The results indicate that Bacillus improves gut histomorphometric variables in broilers with the exception of duodenal and ileal CD, which had comparable values with the controls. Likewise, broiler chickens fed Bacillus had increased blood immunoglobulin (Ig) levels compared to controls (IgA: d = 2.29 mg/mL, 95% CI: 1.54–3.04; IgG: d = 2.17 mg/mL, 95% CI: 1.36–2.98; IgM: d = 1.00 mg/mL, 95% CI: 0.54–1.46) taking cognizance of heterogeneity (I 2 = 96–98%). Subgroup analysis showed that studied moderators (Bacillus species, broiler strain, and dosage and duration of supplementation) influenced the results of the meta-analysis. In conclusion, our results suggested that the inclusion of Bacillus at 0.1–6.0 × 106 colony-forming unit/g in broiler chicken feed enhanced the absorptive capacity of the small intestine and blood immunoglobulin levels of broiler chickens. The findings of this study avail important suggestions on policy advancements and sustainable usage of Bacillus in broiler chicken industry.

There are growing numbers of publications on the effect of substitution of maize with cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) on growth indices of broiler chickens with variable results. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the influence of substitution of maize with dietary cassava on growth traits (i.e., average daily feed intake [ADFI], body weight gain [BWG] and feed conversion efficiency [FCE]) of broilers. Search done in PubMed, Google scholar and Scopus databases yielded 303 studies of which 27 were suitable for the analysis. Heterogeneity was explored by subgroup and meta-regression analyses using the following moderator variables: publication year, study continent, processing methods, cassava form, substitution level, broiler strain, number of birds per groups and treatment durations. Results show that dietary cassava reduced ADFI (mean difference [MD] = −5.19 g/day; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −8.60, −1.79; I 2 = 99%) and BWG (MD = −8.49 g/day; 95% CI: −9.65, −7.33; I 2 = 98%) and increased FCE (MD = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.35; I 2 = 99%) in broilers compared to controls. Publication year, broiler strain, treatment durations and substitution level) influenced the outcomes of the study and explained some of the sources of heterogeneity. In conclusion, our results suggested that dietary cassava inclusion at 5% (minimum) and 62% (maximum) reduced growth performance in broiler chickens. However, more effective methods for increasing the nutrient value of cassava roots for broiler chicken feeding as well as the cassava inclusion levels for optimal productivity are required.

Organ characteristics of male growing male pigs fed low crude protein and low energy diets supplemented with multi-enzyme were determined using 36 hybrid (Landrace x Large white) male pigs of 8-10 weeks old. Two metabolizable energy (3000 and 2600 Kcal ME/kg) and three crude protein levels (14, 16 and 18 % CP) were used to formulate six dietary treatments; T1: control (3000 Kcal ME/kg; 18 % CP), T2 (3000 Kcal ME/Kg; 16 % CP), T3 (3000 Kcal ME/kg; 14 % CP), T4 (2600 Kcal ME/kg; 18 % CP), T5 (2600 Kcal ME/kg; 16 % CP) and T6 (2600 Kcal ME/kg; 14 % CP). The enzyme was added to all the treatments at 1g/kg diet except the control. The treatments were replicated three times with two pigs per replicate. The experiment was a 2 x 3 factorial. The pigs were starved for 12 hours but allowed access to drinking water, stunned and bled completely. It was cut open though the thorax region along the underline to the abdomen, exposing the entire internal organs and GIT contents. The heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen and other internal organs were examined, carefully removed and weighed with a sensitive electronic kitchen scale, model SF-400. Higher (P

Haematological characteristics of Boschveld chickens fed baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)–supplemented diets were investigated. Six hundred, day-old unsexed Boschveld chicks were divided into six equal groups and each group replicated 5 times. Birds aged 1 to 49 days were offered starter diet, whereas those aged 50–91days were offered grower diet. Birds in the control group (T1) received basal diet without yeast, while those in groups T2, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 were offered basal diet supplemented with yeast at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0 and 12.5 g/kg feed, respectively, in a completely randomised design. Blood samples for haematological analyses were obtained from 2 birds in each replicate and data generated analysed statistically. Results found that yeast was high in protein and phosphorus but low in crude fibre. Results also indicated that birds in groups T4, T5 and T6 had improved (P < 0.05) packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell volume (MCV) compared to birds in the T1 group. There is evidence of strong and positive linear relationships between probiotic-yeast levels and PCV, Hb and MCV in Boschveld chickens. In conclusion, yeast is a rich source of protein and phosphorus and can be added to the diets of Boschveld chickens at an inclusion rate of 7.5, 10.0 and 12.5 g/kg feed for improved haematological variables.

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effect of neem leaf meal (NLM) based diets on blood and relative organ weight characteristics of rabbits. In the first experiment, 36 rabbit bucks aged 7 to 8 months were distributed into four dietary groups, T1 , T2 T3 and T4 of 9 rabbits using completely randomized design. Each group was replicated 3 times with 3 rabbits per replicate. Rabbits in T1 group were fed diet that contained 0% NLM while those in T2 T3 and T4 groups were fed diets that contained NLM at 5%, 10% and 15%, respectively for 112 days. In the second experiment, 36 rabbit does were used and experimental procedures were laid out as described in experiment 1. Blood samples for analysis, live weight and organ weights were collected from each replicate and data obtained analysed statistically. Higher (p0.05) on haematological parameters was observed among all treatments except for MCV and neutrophils which were significantly (p0.05). It was therefore concluded that up to 5% of neem leaf meal can be included in the diet of pubertal rabbits without any deleterious effects on their organs and blood characteristics.Keywords: Rabbits, neem leaf meal, haematology, serum biochemistry, organs

Seventy two (72) sexed crossbred rabbits aged 6 months were used to determine the effect of ginger rhizome powder (GRP) supplementation on reproductive organ and serum sex hormonal characteristics of pubertal rabbits. The experimental rabbits were divided into 2 treatment groups comprising 36 males and 36 females. Each group was divided into 4 dietary treatments (BT1, BT2, BT3 and BT4 ) of 9 animals and replicated thrice with 3 animals per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). The animals were fed formulated diet containing 2900 Kcal ME kg-1 and 18% crude protein supplemented with GRP at the rate of 0, 5, 10 and 15 g kg-1 feed respectively. Rabbits in each dietary group were fed 50gms of Guinea grass leaf meal containing 27.6% CF (dry matter basis) occasionally as additional fibre sources. Feed and water were offered ad libitum and the study lasted for 10 weeks. Testosterone values of BT (5.83 ng mL-1) and BT (6.28 ng mL-1) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels of BT (1.15 mIU mL-1) were significantly influenced (p

One of the reliable information for evaluating nutritional status, performance and physiological state of farm animals to nutrient utilization is through haematological indices assessment. Haematological parameters of grower pigs fed low crude protein and low energy diets supplemented with multi-enzyme (enziblend plus+) were determined using 36 hybrid (Landrace x Large white) male pigs of 8-10 weeks old. Two metabolizable energy (3000 and 2600 Kcal ME/kg) and three crude protein levels (18, 16 and 14 % CP) were used to formulate Six dietary treatments; T1 (3000 Kcal ME/Kg; 18 % CP), T2 (3000 Kcal ME/Kg; 16 % CP+ 1g of enzyme/kg diet), T3 (3000 Kcal ME/Kg; 14 % CP+ 1g of enzyme/kg diet), T4 (2600 Kcal ME/Kg; 18 % CP + 1g of enzyme/kg diet), T5 (2600 Kcal ME/Kg; 16 % CP + 1g of enzyme/kg diet) and T6 (2600 Kcal ME/Kg; 14 % CP + 1g of enzyme/kg diet). The treatments were replicated three with two pigs per replicate. The experiment was a 2 x 3 factorial, and T1 served as the control. Blood samples were collected (3mls) via the ear vein from one pig in each replicate, three from treatment for haematological analysis. The results of this study recorded significant differences (P

Context Probiotics are attracting wide attention today as a non-antibiotic feed additive in layer feed, and the number of studies in this field is on the increase. However, the results of the effects of probiotic-yeast supplementation on egg-production indices in laying hens are contradictory. Aim Therefore, the aim of the present study was to use meta-analytical methods to ascertain whether yeast-based diets improve feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), hen-day egg production (HDEP), egg mass (EM), egg weight (EW), Haugh unit (HU) and eggshell thickness (EST) in laying hens. Methods A search of four electronic databases for studies on the impact of yeast supplementation on egg-production indices published in English using a combination of search terms yielded 164 studies. Sixteen research publications with 20 771 laying hens met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Data were pooled via random-effects model and are presented as standardised mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each effect size. Key results HDEP and EM showed a significant increase in the SMD of 11.3% (95% CI: 0.037–0.118, P = 0.003) and 22.5 g egg/hen.day (95% CI: 0.095–0.356, P < 0.001) respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that EST, EM, HDEP and FCR were improved in laying hens that received a yeast-based diet at 5 g/kg feed. The results indicated that trial country was a predictor of FI, FCR, EM, HDEP and EST in layers fed yeast-based rations. Conclusion These results suggest that feeding probiotic-yeast at

Blood chemistry of growing male pigs fed low crude protein (CP) and low-energy diets supplemented with multi-enzyme was determined using 36 male pigs aged 8–10-weeks old. Two metabolizable energy (3000 and 2600 kcal ME /kg) and three protein (18, 16, and 14% CP) levels were used to formulate 6 treatment diets: T1 (3000 kcal ME/kg and 18% CP), T2 (3000 kcal ME/Kg and 16% CP), T3 (3000 kcal ME/kg and 14% CP), T4 (2600 kcal ME/kg and 18% CP), T5 (2600 kcal ME/kg and 16% CP) and T6 (2600 kcal ME/kg and 14% CP). T1 served as the control diet, while T2–T6 was supplemented with 1.0 g enzyme/kg feed each. The treatments were replicated thrice with two pigs per replicate in a 2 × 3 factorial and analysed statistically. Serum total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, urea, creatinine, urea/creatinine ratio, cholesterol, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were analysed. Low-energy diets (3000 and 2600 kcal ME/kg) plus enzyme supplementation did not affect (P > 0.05) any of the serum parameter measured. Also, dietary low CP level plus enzyme supplementation influenced (P < 0.05) aspects of the serum parameters. Higher (P < 0.05) total protein, albumin and creatinine were noticed in pigs fed with T2 diet; while pigs fed with T4 diet had higher (P < 0.05) urea compared with those on the other 5 treatment diets. Significant dietary interaction effects (P < 0.05) were observed on cholesterol, ALT, AST and ALP. The quadratic regression model revealed that aspects of serum parameters in pigs were optimized at different low-protein and low-energy levels. In conclusion, the results suggest that pigs on T2 diet had the best serum parameters.

Nutritional strategies that improve growth performance indices in chickens without increasing feed consumption are desirable considering the escalating feed cost. The use of spices to maintain health and increase productivity in livestock and poultry has been documented. However, a consensus has not been attained whether ginger, one of such spices, improves productivity in poultry. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to ascertain the effect of ginger administration on chicken performance. We searched AGORA, Scopus, Science Direct and Google Scholar for papers published in English using Boolean operators, proximity searching, wildcard and alternate spelling. Selected criteria were randomized and control trials with chickens, studies published in peer-reviewed journals, reported at least one presentation form of ginger and outcomes of interest and a measure of dispersion (standard deviation or p value). Twenty-one papers that satisfy the selection criteria were employed to determine the impact of ginger on feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), organ weight, semen parameters and total serum lipid (triglyceride and cholesterol) content using Open Meta-analyst for Ecology and Evolution software. A positive relationship was found between ginger and semen quality in chickens. Ginger administration improved BWG (Hedges’ d, d = 0.495; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.041–0.949; p = 0.033) and FCR (d = − 0.732; 95% CI − 1.195 to − 0.270; p = 0.002) taking cognizance of publication bias and heterogeneity. Restricted subgroup analysis showed there is a positive association between ginger powder and FCR (d = − 0.732; 95% CI = 1.195 to − 0.270; p = 0.002). Meta-regression revealed that covariates (duration of administration, dietary form, inclusion level and strain) explained most of the heterogeneity. The occurrence of variations and publication bias does not pose a major problem in this study since a relatively large number of unpublished studies will be needed to change significant impacts. In conclusion, meta-analytical results suggest enhanced performance in chickens on different levels of ginger administration.

There is insufficient information on the role of micronutrient supplementation on the productivity of local breeder cocks in a tropical environment. The target of this research, thus, was to deduce the impact of dietary vitamin A incorporation on semen traits and testosterone concentration of local breeder cocks in a tropical environment. One hundred twenty-eight–matured Nigerian local breeder cocks aged 10–12 months were alloted to 4 groups (n = 32): a control group (A) was fed experimental diet supplemented with vitamin A at 0 IU/kg feed and supplemented groups (B–D) fed commercial poultry diet supplemented with vitamin A at 250, 500 and 750 IU/kg feed for 16 weeks. Every group was replicated 4 times with 16 birds in every a replicate. A quadratic typed optimization function was employed to determine the optimum vitamin A supplementation that statistically improved serum testosterone and semen quality indices in local breeder cocks. Semen profiling and serum testosterone concentration were analysed at week 4 (pre-supplementation period), and thereafter at weeks 4, 8 and 12 (supplementation period). Serum testosterone and semen quality indices at pre-supplementation period were similar (p

The competition for maize and soybean between humans and livestock for food has led to an increase in the cost of livestock feeds. Therefore, this has necessitated the search for alternative non-competitive feedstuffs in order to partially replace maize and soybean in small ruminant diets. The use of cassava products as a partial replacement for maize and soybean in small ruminant diet has been investigated. Cassava is a tropical crop, and its fodder is rich in crude protein (CP), minerals and vitamins with about 85% of the CP fraction exist as true protein. Cassava by-products are also high in nutrients and could contribute significantly to the nutritional needs of sheep and goats. Specifically, cassava leaves are high in CP (25.10%) with an amino acid composition similar to soybean. Evidence also exist that ruminal degradability of cassava fodder is similar to that of maize and soybean with comparable outflow rates (75%). However, the use of cassava fodder in livestock production is limited by the presence of cyanogenic glucosides (linamarin and lotaustralin) that releases hydrogen cyanide (HCN) known to cause pathophysiological changes in the liver of sheep and goats. Importantly, several processing techniques are well known to reduce or eliminate the concentrates of cyanogenic glucosides in cassava with great success. Blood chemistry and production indices of sheep and goats fed differently processed cassava by-product-based diets have been evaluated by different authors. This review revealed that cassava root sievate meal, cassava root meal and cassava peel meal are low in CP (2.29, 3.40 and 7.05%, respectively), while cassava leaf meal is high in CP (32.43%). Feed conversion efficiency of sheep and good fed cassava leaves were 9.49 and 11.24, respectively, indicating that goats utilize cassava leaves better than sheep. It is concluded that cassava by-products are low in quality protein and should be supplemented with other rich protein sources before their use in ruminant diets.

This experiment was performed to determine the nutrient content of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and effect on carcass characteristics, relative internal organ weights, digesta pH, and lengths and weights of the different segments of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of indigenous Boschveld chickens. Six hundred-day-old unsexed Boschveld chicks were divided into six groups of 100 birds with each group replicated five times. Birds were fed broiler starter from 1 to 49 days and grower diet from 50 to 91 days. Each group was allotted to commercial broiler mash diet supplemented with yeast designated 0 g kg−1 feed (T0), 2.5 g kg−1 feed (T1), 5.0 g kg−1 feed (T2), 7.5 g kg−1 feed (T3), 10.0 g kg−1 feed (T4) and 12.5 g kg−1 feed (T5) in a completely randomised design. Proximate composition of yeast was assessed using the standard method. Live weight, carcass characteristics, organ weights, digesta pH and the lengths and weights of the different segments of the digestive tract were measured and analysed statistically. Probiotic-yeast levels for optimal productivity were determined using a quadratic optimisation model. Results revealed that probiotic-yeast is rich in crude protein (496.0 g kg−1), ash (61.60 g kg−1) and moderate in crude fibre (29.0 g kg−1). Birds in groups fed with diets supplemented with yeast at 7.5 and 10.0 g kg−1 feed gave the best (p

The high cost of feed materials and feed additives in developing nations has elicited interest in the search for sustainable alternatives having in mind the human food security. Moringa (Moringa oleifera), one of such sustainable alternatives, is a tropical plant with excellent nutritive and phytochemical content. It is one of the species in the family of Moringaceae and thrives well in the tropics. The excellent nutritional quality of M. oleifera has positioned it as a choice feed ingredient/additive for broiler production. Furthermore, the high carotenoid content of moringa leaves offers great potential for its use in pigmentation of egg yolk and broiler meat. Moringa has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antihypercholesterolemic and antioxidant properties. Besides the nutritional and phytochemical value of this plant, their use as a feed supplement or feedstuff and their beneficial attributes on production indices and heamato-biochemical values of broiler chickens are also discussed. Alongside their excellent chemical composition, this paper also tends to showcase the plant as a promising novel feedstuff/additive source in broiler nutrition. The use of moringa in broiler nutrition as a novel feed additive and nutrient source will not only reduce feed cost but will also improve production performance, ensure healthy animal products and a better environment.

Improved feed efficiency is the current drive of today’s livestock enterprise and this may be actualized using feed supplementation. The use of natural growth promoting products in livestock feed is on the increase because of the ban on the use of antibiotics in feed by the European Union (EU). The use of antibiotics in animal feed has been reported to increase antimicrobial resistance and this has made animal nutritionist search for natural alternatives to antibiotics. Yeast, one of such natural alternatives in animal production, has received great attention in the last couple of decades. Research has shown that about 2500 yeast species exist in nature of which Saccharomyces cerevisiae is prominent. This paper reviews the current body of knowledge on production and physiological indices of livestock and poultry fed yeast diets. The chemical composition, nutritional analysis, and mechanism of actions of yeast were also discussed.

The ban on the use of synthetic antibiotics in feed by the European Union has pushed animal nutritionists to use natural alternatives as growth promoters, such as prebiotics, probiotics, organic acids, herbs and several others. Garlic (Allium sativum), one of such natural alternative growth promoters, is used globally as a spice in human food preparation. Garlic belongs to the genus Allium and family Liliaceae and is grown in tropical and subtropical countries. Studies have revealed that garlic is a rich source of essential nutrients and beneficial phytochemicals that can be incorporated in animal feed to enhance gut activity and promote growth in livestock and poultry. Research abounds that indicates that garlic phytochemicals have antibacterial, antifungal, hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant effect in animals. This review intends to showcase the importance of adding garlic in livestock and poultry nutrition, so as to promote its use in animal nutrition as an alternative phytochemical source for better growth, health and production performance. The use of garlic in feed as replacement of antibiotics will reduce antimicrobial resistance and ensure safe, organic and healthy food for humans.

The projected human population growth of 9 billion by the year 2050 has placed greater demand on food security. This calls for an increased supply of foods, especially of animal origin in order to prevent food scarcity in the future. Poultry which would have been a solution to this increased demand for foods of animal origin had suffered from the rising costs of conventional feed ingredients, and this emphasizes the interest to develop local feedstuffs. In view of this, there is increased interest by livestock farmers especially in developing countries to harness the potential of leaf and seeds of tropical browse plants. Data abound that leaf and seed meal of tropical plants are rich in beneficial nutrients and phytochemicals. From previous studies, it can be deduced that leaf and seed meal of tropical browse plants improve chicken performance, but their use in animal feed has been limited owing to constraints imposed by antinutrient factors (ANFs). In this review, the biochemistry of leaf and seed meal of tropical plants, mechanism of actions, methodologies for detoxifying their ANFs, and their effect on chicken reproduction is discussed.

This study was conducted to evaluate the hematological and serum biochemical parameters of growing New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits administered Panax ginseng extracts (PGEs). A total of 48 NZW growing male (M) and female (F) rabbits (24 each) were used and the experiment lasted for 28 days. It was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), made up of T1 (0.0 mg/ml of PGEs), T2 (200.0 mg/ml of PGEs), and T3 (400.0 mg/ml of PGEs) which was replicated thrice and sex served as the block. Packed cell volume (PCV) (34.03%), red blood cell (RBC) (5.52 × 106/μl), white blood cell (WBC) (7.60 × 103/μl), and heterophil (34.00%) counts of the growing male NZW rabbits were significantly (P

Growth promoters are feed additives added in livestock diets to enhance performance and health in poultry. In modern poultry production enterprise, the use of low prophylactic doses of antibiotic to enhance growth as well as gut health has been a standard practice. However, the development of direct antibiotic resistance to pathogens in the animal receiving the diet as well as the indirect resistance to similar antibiotics used by humans as a result of food chain residues led to its ban in poultry production by the European Union in many countries. Therefore, there is great interest in developing natural alternatives to antibiotic growth promoter in order to maintain poultry performance and health. Ginger, one of such comparable natural alternatives, is a perennial herb belonging to the family Zingiberaceae. Ginger is rich in beneficial bioactive compounds and essential oils. This review attempts to discuss the recent studies on the potential benefits of ginger in poultry nutrition and reproduction.

A study on blood chemistry, haematology and ileal bacterial count of broilers fed fermented mixture of grated cassava tubers and palm kernel cake (FCP-mix) as a replacement for maize at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels of inclusion was undertaken. One hundred and eighty (180) 7-day-old broiler chickens were divided into six groups of 30 birds, and each group replicated thrice. Six experimental diets were formulated with diet 1 containing maize as the major energy source, while diet 6 containing fermented cassava root meal (CRM) and palm kernel cake (PKC) at the ratio of 1:1 as the main energy source. Diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained FCP-mix at 25, 50, 75 and 100% as replacement for maize. Diets 1 and 6 served as controls. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design. Blood samples for analysis and ileal bacterial count were obtained from each replicate, and data obtained were analysed statistically. Results show the packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), total red cell count (tRBC), mean cell volume (MCV) and platelets were not significantly affected by the inclusion of FCP-mix based diets, but there are significant variations in total white blood cell (tWBC), lymphocyte and heterophil count. Serum biochemistry data were not affected except for serum calcium, conjugated bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels that were significantly affected. Mean intestinal Escherichia coli count were reduced at 50 and 75% replacement of maize by FCP-mix whereas at 100% replacement level, salmonella counts decreased by 50%, and E. coli counts became negligible. It is therefore concluded that FCP-mix has some probiotic activity which can be used to enhance performance of broilers and improve product quality.

The study aimed to examine the effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) powder supplemented diets on semen and blood characteristics of rabbits. A total of 27, 9-month-old New Zealand white male rabbits were assigned randomly into 3 groups with 3 replicates of 3 rabbits. Each group was assigned to one of the experimental diet containing turmeric powder at 0 (control), 2 and 4 g/kg feed for 84 days in a completely randomized design. Blood and semen samples for analysis were obtained from each replicate and data obtained analysed statistically. Results revealed that there are significant (p

West African Dwarf (WAD) goat is one of the most prolific goat species in Nigeria, and its production fulfils important socio-economic functions. In Nigeria, high cost of feed and inadequate nutrient intake undermines this goat breed in expressing their full potential. Therefore, the effect of 90 days of feeding MOLM diets on blood chemistry and haematology of WAD goats were investigated. Thirty six, 10–11-months old WAD goats were divided into four groups of nine , and each group was replicated thrice. Each group was assigned to one of the experimental diets in a completely randomized design tagged A (0%), B (5%), C (10%) and D (15%). Blood samples for analysis were obtained from one animal in each replicate, and data-generated were analysed statistically. The haematology showed that mean cell volume (MCV) and packed cell volume (PCV) were significantly improved (p

A 4-week study was carried out to determine the effects of partial replacement of maize in broiler finisher diets with plantain peel on their blood chemistry and haematology. One hundred and twenty-six (126), 4-week-old Marshall Broilers weighing 1.0 kg were divided into 3 groups of 42 birds. Each group was replicated 3 times with 14 broiler chicks per replicate and each replicate housed in a pen measuring 1.5 m × 2.0 m. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design designated T1 (0%), T2 (10%), and T3 (20%). The condition of housing and management were the same for all the birds. At the end of the feeding trial, blood samples for analysis were randomly obtained from 9 birds selected from each group and analysed statistically. Results revealed that there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the haemoglobin, packed cell volume, red blood cell count, mean cell haemoglobin, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin concentration and lymphocyte values in all the dietary groups, but erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell count and heterophil values of birds on diet T1 differed significantly (p 0.05). It was concluded that plantain peel is a suitable substitute for maize in broiler finisher diet at inclusion rate not beyond 10% for optimal blood characteristics.

This study was conducted to identify the diversity of chicken growth hormone (cGH) single nucleotide polymorphs’ (SNP) and their association on morphometric and growth traits of three Nigerian chicken breeds namely Funaab Alpha (FA), Shikabrown (SB) and Nigerian local chicken (NLC). Morphometric traits measured include shank length (cm), breast girth (cm) and breast width (cm) while growth traits measured were final body weight, av. weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio all at laying stages respectively. Morphometric and growth traits were significantly influenced (P less than 0.05) between the different breeds. The SNP panel showed two base pair substitution mutation (GT and CA) on locus 5 chromosome for the FA and locus 6 chromosome for the SB and NLC respectively. The G – T alignment produced genotypes GG and GT, with TT not observed. Also C – A alignment produced genotypes CC and CA, with AA not observed. The NLC breed had the highest number of haplotypes of 6 while FA and SB had 4 haplotypes each implying that the local breed had more allelic variation than the other two breeds. Also FA had heterozygosity of 0.48 while SB and NLC had a value of 0.44, indicating higher genetic variability of FA breed than the rest with negative theta value (-0.0843) of F-statistics indicating high level of outbreeding. The conducted association of SNP genotypes showed no significant association effects (P>0.05) on the morphometric traits, except for SB breed where CA genotypes was significantly associated with CC for bodyweight, and in NLC breed where CC genotype was also significantly associated with CA genotypes for shank length.

The aim of the study is to use meta-analytical procedure to resolve uncertainty, identify knowledge gaps, and create new insights using published data on the phytobiotic effect of dietary pepper intervention on daily feed intake (DFI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broiler chickens. The authors accessed AGORA, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases for primary studies published between 2011 and 2018 using combinations of different search terms. Fifteen studies were included to assess phytobiotic effect of pepper on DFI, FCR, and ADG in broiler chickens. Random-effects model (REM) was used to generate pooled effect estimates at 95% confidence intervals (CI). Analysis was performed using Open Meta-analyst for Ecology and Evolution (OpenMEE) software, while publication bias and source of heterogeneity were assessed using standard methods. Dietary pepper supplementation enhanced ADG (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.576, 95% CI 0.444 to 0.707, p0.001) and FCR (SMD = 0.325, 95% CI - 0.453 to - 0.196, p0.001) considering the presence of heterogeneity and publication bias. DFI (SMD = 0.052, 95%CI - 0.069 to 0.173, p = 0.403) was not significantly influenced by dietary pepper supplementation. Restricted subgroup analysis revealed that both black and red pepper increased ADG (p0.001). Broilers on black pepper intervention had better FCR (p = 0.002) than broilers on red pepper treatment. Higher (p0.05) DFI was obtained on broilers fed pepper-based diet at the rate of6 g/kg feed for 35 days. There was no association between DFI and explanatory variables (broiler strain used and number of broilers used), whereas study country influenced DFI (p0.001). Furthermore, there was an association between outcome of interests (ADG and FCR) and explanatory variables (supplementation level, study country, number of broilers used per treatment group, and broiler strain used). Broilers on dietary pepper intervention for 42 days had higher ADG (SMD = 62.2 g/bird/day, p0.001) than those on dietary pepper intervention for 56 days (SMD = 35.7 g/bird/day, p = 0.002). There is evidence of heterogeneity, and meta-regression analysis showed that study country, supplementation level, and broiler strain used explained most of the sources of heterogeneity. The results of the present study revealed the potential of dietary pepper intervention to improve production efficiency in broiler chickens. The current meta-analysis also set the steps for standardized experimental designs on the use of dietary pepper intervention in broiler feeding trials in the future.

The responses of growing rabbits to varying levels of ginger rhizome powder (GP) supplementation were investigated. 72 growing rabbits were divided in 4 groups with each group replicated thrice. Rabbits in each group received commercial diet supplemented with GP at a rate of 0 g (T1), 5 g (T2), 10 g (T3) or 15 g/kg feed (T4) in a completely randomized design for 12 weeks. Quadratic regression equation was used to determine GP supplementation for optimum production variables. Results indicated that rabbits on diet T4 gained weight with lesser feed intake (FI), whereas rabbits on diet T2 had the best feed to gain ratio. Rabbits on diets T2 and T3 recorded higher (p less than 0.05) glucose levels compared to those on the other two diets. Higher (p less than 0.05) cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDLP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDLP) were recorded for rabbits on diet T4 compared to those on diet T1. Rabbits on diet T1 had (p less than 0.05) lower potassium level than rabbits on diets T2 and T4. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level was lowest for rabbits on diet T3, which differed (p less than 0.05) significantly from rabbits on the other three diets. The results indicated that GP supplementation at 2.601, 2.826, 2.047, 0.148, 0.774, 0.792, 0.266, 1.363 and 2.443 g/kg feed supported the optimum live weight, FI, glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDLP, LDLP, potassium and ALP level, respectively in growing rabbits. The above-mentioned findings indicate that GP supplementation on rabbit diets enhanced production variables.

The potential of phytobiotics, also referred phytogenics or botanical to improve animal productivity has been highlighted. However, consensus has not been reached on the use of garlic, one of such phytobiotics to boost productivity of laying hens. The objectives of this meta-analysis were to assess the effectiveness of supplementation with garlic on feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), hen day egg production (HDEP) and egg quality attributes of lay hens. Databases [Scopus, Google scholar, and Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture (AGORA)] were searched for peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English. Criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis were information on moderators (breed, preparation form of garlic, treatment duration, age of hen at the beginning of garlic intervention, country where the study was performed, number of chickens included in the study, inclusion level of garlic), an adequate description of randomization, egg production and egg quality data, and associated measures of variance such as standard deviation (SD), standard error (SE) and P - values. Nineteen (19) out of 53 research papers met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. All analyses were conducted using the Open Meta-analyst for Ecology and Evolution (OpenMEE) software. Overall pooled results revealed that garlic supplementation increased HDEP by 0.322% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.211 to 0.432], egg mass by 0.486 g/day/hen [95% CI = 0.163 to 0.810], egg weight by 0.069 g [95% CI = 0.001 to 0.136], egg shell thickness by 0.259 mm [95% CI = 0.160 to 0.358] and egg shell weight by 0.219 g [95% CI = 0.087 to 0.350] relative to controls, taking cognizance of publication bias and heterogeneity. Chickens fed diets with or without garlic had comparable FCR. Results suggest that there was no evidence of treatment effect on FI and Haugh unit. Subgroup analysis found that studies that used garlic extract had significant egg weight while studies that used garlic powder and oil had similar egg weight. Meta-regression analysis showed that study country, breed, hen’s age, garlic preparation form, inclusion level of garlic, number of hens included in the study and treatment duration were predictors of the study effect. The results of this meta-analysis revealed that layers on dietary garlic supplementation had significantly increased HDEP, egg mass, egg weight, eggshell thickness and eggshell weight compared to controls, although the egg production data for the layers (both treatment and control groups) of specific age, breeds, strain and lines used for the analysis were within their respective target data.

The demand for meat in developing countries is on the increase, and this trend is expected to continue over the years. The ability of poultry and rabbit to meet the animal protein demand in developing countries cannot be overemphasized. However, the main constraint limiting effective and efficient use of these choice animals is the high cost of traditional feed ingredients such as maize, soybean meal, fish meal and groundnut cake which are in strict competition with man’s dietary need. However, it is also becoming clear that the requirements for the traditional feed ingredients cannot be met, even according to optimistic forecasts. The gap between local supply and demand for these traditional ingredients is expected to widen over the coming decades, providing a compelling reason for exploring the usefulness of locally available, alternative feedstuffs in feed formulations. Alternative feedstuffs include, but not limited to, agro-industrial by-products and leaf meals of some common tropical plant species. They are good nutrient sources, but their use in animal production has been limited owing to constraints imposed by anti-nutritional and socio-economic factors. Protein from the leaf and seed meals of tropical plants is perhaps the most naturally abundant and cheapest source of plant protein. Several studies regarding the nutritive values of alternative feedstuffs and their usefulness in animal nutrition have been published. The effect of alternative feedstuffs based diets on some physiological parameters of rabbits and chickens have been reported by several authors. The use of alternative feedstuffs in rabbit and poultry diets and their effects on blood chemistry and haematology was reviewed. The review also covered their chemical compositions, economics and availability.

A 49-day feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of Siam weed leaf meal (SWLM)-based diets on growth, organ, and carcass weight characteristics and economics of production of broilers. Proximate biochemical composition of SWLM and the appropriate inclusion level of SWLM for optimum productivity were also determined. Ninety-six-day-old Chi broiler chicks were randomly divided into 4 groups of 24 birds, and each group replicated three times. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design marked T1 (0%), T2 (4%), T3 (8%), and T4 (12%). Proximate biochemical results revealed that SWLM is rich in protein (20.52%) and minerals (9.29%). Birds on diets T1 and T2 had similar (p 0.05) final live weights (FLW), which were higher (p 0.05) than those on diets T3 and T4. Birds on diet T2 had the highest (p 0.05) daily feed intake (DFI) and daily weight gain (DWG), while birds on diet T1 had the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) followed by birds on diet T2. The result of quadratic model regression analyses showed that SWLM levels of 1.48, 1.50, 1.47, and 1.56% supported optimum final live weight, DFI, DWG, and FCR. There were no significant (p 0.05) differences in the dressing percentage, but there were significant differences in the carcass weight between birds on diet T4 and the other three diets. Similarly, pancreas and spleen had similar (p 0.05) weights across the treatments. There was significant difference (p 0.05) between birds on diets T1 and T4 in gizzard weight. Cost-benefit ratio was influenced (p 0.05) with T4 birds having better income of US$1 per US$10.18 invested. It is concluded that SWLM is rich in essential nutrients and therefore suitable for inclusion in broiler diets at level not beyond 2% for best final live weight, daily weight gain, and thigh weight.

Performance and meat quality characteristics of broilers fed fermented mixture of grated cassava roots and palm kernel cake (FCP-mix) as a replacement for maize were studied. One hundred and eighty (180), 7-day-old broiler chickens were divided into six groups of 30 birds, and each group replicated thrice. Six experimental diets were formulated for both starter and finisher stages with diets 1 and 6 as controls. Diet 1 contained maize whereas diet 6 contained a 1:1 mixture of cassava root meal (CRM) and palm kernel cake (PKC). In diets 2, 3, 4, and 5, the FCP-mix replaced maize at the rate of 25, 50, 75, and 100%, respectively. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design. The proximate compositions of the diets were evaluated. Live weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass weight, and sensory attributes of the meats were obtained from each replicate and data obtained was analyzed statistically. The results showed that live weight, average daily weight gain (ADWG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and FCR of birds on treatment diets were better than those on the control diets (Diets 1 and 6). The feed cost per kilogram weight gained decreased with inclusion levels of FCP-mix. Birds on diet 1 recorded significantly (p 0.05) higher dressing percentage than those on the other five treatments. The sensory attributes of the chicken meats were not significantly (p 0.05) affected by the inclusion of FCP-mix in the diets. FCP-mix is a suitable substitute for maize in broiler diet at a replacement level of up to 100% for best live weight, carcass weight yield, and meat quality.

Rising human population throughout the world especially in developing and underdeveloped countries has detrimental effects on life supporting system on earth. Traditionally, plants have been used to treat different kinds of ailments. The growing importance of phytochemicals in males has been reported. Contraceptive ability of plants has been reported in several animal models. The reversibility of the anti-fertility effects of plants and its active compounds are of potential clinical relevance in the development of male contraceptive. This review attempts to discuss the latest reports on the potentiality of medicinal plants as the source of new contraceptive principles in males.