IOSR-JAVS   Volume-8 ~ Issue-3 ~ MAR-2015

ABSTRACT: A three year field study was carried out between 2005-2007 wet seasons at the Research Farm of the Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, to determine the effect of incorporated legumes and nitrogen rates on nutrient uptake of two maize varieties. The treatments consisted of two maize varieties (SAMMAZ 12 and SAMMAZ 27) and five nitrogen rates (0, 30, 60, 90 and 120kg N ha-1) in the main plots while three green manure crops (Lablab , Mucuna and Soybean) and a weedy fallow were accommodated in the sub-plots. The treatments were laid out in a split-plot design with three replicates. The results revealed that SAMMAZ 12 and SAMMAZ 27 were similar in the nutrient uptake. Varying rates of nitrogen significantly increased nutrient uptake in grain, stover and shoot of maize plant. Application of 90 kg N ha-1 was adequate for maximum N uptake, and stover and shoot K uptake of maize. However, maximum values for P uptake and grain K uptake were obtained at 120 kg N ha-1. Incorporation of mucuna, lablab and soybean significantly increased uptake of N, P and K in grain, stover and shoot of maize compared with incorporation of weedy fallow.

Keywords: Green manure, Incorporation, Legume, Nitrogen, Plant nutrient, Uptake, Varieties.

[1]. Havlin, J.L., J. D. Beaton, S. L. Tisdale and W. L. Nelson, Soil fertility and fertilizers. An introduction to Nutrient Management 7th Ed. (Pearson Education Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, 2005).
[2]. Adesoji, A.G., I. U. Abubakar, B. Tanimu, and D.A. Labe, Influence of Incorporated Short Duration Legume Fallow and Nitrogen on Maize (Zea mays (L.) Growth and Development in Northern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria. American- Eurasian Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences13 (1), 2013, 58-67. DOI: 10.5829/idosi.aejaes.2013.13.01.1885.
[3]. Ologunde, O. O., Effect of nitrogen and population on yield and yield components of maize (Zea mays L.). M.Sc. thesis submitted to graduate school, university of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1974.
[4]. Allen, V.B. and J. P. David, Handbook of plant nutrition. (CRC Press, 2007) 632.
[5]. Muhr, L., S. A. Tarawali, M. Peters and R. Schultze-Kraft, Forage legumes for improved fallows in agropastoral systems of subhumid West Africa. III. Nutrient import and export by forage legumes and their rotational effects on subsequent maize, Tropical Grasslands 33, 1999, 245-256.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to determine the poverty status of broiler farmers in Calabar Metropolis in Cross River State. The specific objectives were: To assess the socio-economic characteristics of the broiler farmers, estimate the poverty status of these farmers in the study area, and estimate the determinants of poverty among the broiler farmers in the study area and to make recommendation based on findings. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression model were used to evaluate the extent of the impact of variables such as sex, marital status, education, farming experience, number of birds, access to improved breeds and ownership of assets of broiler farmers in Calabar South and Calabar Municipality of Cross River State. Structured questionnaires were administered on 47 heads of household of broiler farmers to generate primary data. Based on the results, three of the logit coefficients were significant at 10% level of significance in predicting if a broiler farmer was poor or non-poor and four other variables were significant at 5% level. The estimated adjusted R2 value of 0.794 indicates that the strength of association between the independent and the dependent variables is about 79.4%.The study suggest that improving the broiler farmers socioeconomic status would enhance their productivity and increase profitability thus reducing the poverty rate among them.

Keywords:Broiler farmers, poverty status, logit coefficients

[1]. Babcock B.A,Chaherli N.M. and P.G.Lakshminarayan (1995). Programmeparticipation and farm-level adoption of conservation tillage: Estimates from a multinomial logit model. Workingpaper 95-WP136, Centre for agricultural and rural development, Iowa State University,Ames, Iowa.
[2]. Bastos,A., Cascas,S.F., Nunes,F.J.,andPereirinha,J.(2009) Women and poverty: A gender- sensitive approach. The Journal of Socio-Economics.3 (5).764-778
[3]. Etim, N. A. and E. J. Udoh, (2006). Efficiency of resources utilization: The case of broiler production by urban farmers in Uyometropolis. Proc. 40th Annual conference of Agricultural Society of Nigeria.
[4]. Federal Office of Statistics (FOS) 1999.Poverty profile for Nigeria: 1980-1996.Federal Office of Statistics, Abuja.
[5]. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) 2013. Statistical Database, www.fao.org.food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome.

ABSTRACT: A field experiment in split-split plot design entitled "Effect of organic cultivation and mulching on improved varieties of turmeric" was undertaken in farmer's field in West Central Table Land zone during kharif 2007-08. The scientific cultivation of turmeric recorded significantly higher number of fingers hill-1 (12.21), fresh rhizome yield (18.093 t ha-1) and dry rhizome yield (4.682 t ha-1) than the fingers hill-1 (10.08), fresh rhizome yield (11.337 t ha-1) and dry rhizome yield (3.071t ha-1) produced with farmer's cultivation practice. The number of fingers hill-1, fresh and dry rhizome yield were significantly higher in both Sal-leaf mulching (12.13, 17.706 and 4.817 t ha-1, respectively) and Sesbania-leaf mulching (11.76, 16.324 and 4.315 t ha-1, respectively) compared to no mulching. The cv. Roma yielded significantly higher fresh (17.326 t ha-1) and dry (5.517 t ha-1) rhizomes than cv. Lakagong and local variety. The scientific cultivation of cv. Roma with Sal mulching generated highest gross return of Rs.3,16,920/- with highest B:C of 2.45.

Keywords: Organic cultivation, mulching, varieties of turmeric.

[1]. Annual Report of DAO-Deogarh, 2013-14. Land utilisation pattern in different blocks, pp-3.
[2]. Directorate of Agriculture and Food Production, Odisha, Bhubaneswar, 2012-13. District wise area, production and yield rate. Odisha Agriculture Statistics 2012-13, pp-72.
[3]. Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Govt. of India, 2014. Area and production of horticulture crops for the years (2012-13), pp-11. Hand book on horticulture statistics 2014 retrieved on December 12, 2014 from web http://agricoop.nic.in/imagedefault/whatsnew/handbook2014.pdf.
[4]. Islam, F., Karim, M. R., Sahajahan, M. O., Hoque, M.O., Rabiul Alam, M. and Akhtar Husein, M., 2002. Study on effect of plant spacing on the production of turmeric in farmer's field. Asian Journal of Plant Science. Vol-1(6), pp-616-617.

ABSTRACT: This study was done to establish if the people's choice of tree species propagated in their home gardens is influenced by Ethnobotanical knowledge. It was carried out in Miwani Division in Kisumu County, Western Kenya between January 2014 and April 2014. Structured questionnaires/schedules, key informant and focused group interviews and secondary sources of data were used to collect the relevant data. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS version 17. The study provided data on different tree species propagated in home gardens, their locations and also established values attached to them.Traditional knowledge systems count when it comes to deciding on what species to plant and where to plant them. This especially applies to indigenous species. It is apparent that planted species or species natured and the specific sites where they are found in the farm are determined by the knowledge and experience with them - the knowledge that is derived from ethnobotany of the local area. The sitting of planting of any species is also closely related to the purpose for planting. Ethnobotanical knowledge can thus be used to predict the choice of tree species to be propagated in home gardens in this community.We recommend that in agroforestry, species choice and planting site consider both biophysical and appreciate socio-cultural values attached to the species, the latter being the consideration of the influences that culture has on society and, which can, in part, determine the social acceptability of agroforestry at the farmer's level. There is need to further research and establish the basis for the superstitious views on tree species not just in this community but also in other communities in Kenya.

Keywords: Ethnobotany; Home gardens; Community; Socio-culture; Luo.

[1]. Atangana Alain, Khasa Damase , Chang Scott, and Degrande Ann (2014). Socio-Cultural Aspects of Agroforestry and Adoption. Tropical Agroforestry 2014, pp 323-332.
[2]. Chepkwony Adam K. arap (2014). Return and Pick it. An Introduction to African Counseling and Therapy. Kacece Publications, Kericho, Kenya. Pp. 174. ISBN 978-996-0-9.
[3]. Evans Richard (1994). The American journal of economic and sociology.
[4]. FAO (1986). Tree Growing by Rural People. FAO Forestry Paper 64, FAO, Rome.
[5]. FAO, (1983). Forest Extension Organization, FAO, Rome.
[6]. Foley G. and Benard G. (1983). Farm and community, Tech: Rep. No. 3 IIED, London pp 236.
[7]. Global Journal of Environmental Science and Technology Vol. 1(1) pp 01-06, November, 2013.

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated linear and nonlinear slenderness coefficient models for Pinus caribaea as predictive models in Nigeria. Data from temporary sample plots (TSPs) were fitted to several linear and nonlinearfunctional models were to determine the best predictive slenderness coefficient models.The functional models were evaluated in terms of coefficient of determination (R2) and standard error of the estimate (SEE). The significance of the estimated parameters was also verified with plot of residuals against predicted to ascertain the goodness of fit of the best models. The multiple linearmodels had the highest R2 and the least SEE and were therefore recommended for predicting slenderness coefficient in the stands with plausible potentials for enhancing reasonable quantification of the stands' stability.

Keywords: Linear, model, nonlinear, slenderness coefficient, wind throws.

[1]. Evans, J. 2003. Plantation conifers in the tropics. ActaHorticulturae 615: Pp.355–359.
[2]. Nivert J. P. 2001. Factors Affecting Stand Stability, Forest Enterprise 139: Pp. 17-25.
[3]. Navratil, S. 1996.Silvicultural systems for managing deciduous and mixedwood stands with white spruce understory. In
Silvicultural of temperate and boreal broadleaf-conifer mixture. Edited by P.G. Comeau and K.D. Thomas. B.C. Ministry of
Forests, Victoria. Pp. 35–46.
[4]. Navratil, S., Brace, L.G., Sauder, E.A., and Lux, S. 1994. Silvicultural and harvesting options to favor immature white spruce and
aspen regeneration in boreal mixedwoods. Can. For. Serv. North. For. Cent. Inf. Rep. No. NOR-X-337.
[5]. Onyekwelu, J. C. 2001. Growth characteristics and management scenarios for plantationgrown Gmelinaarboreaand
Naucleadiderrichii in South-western in Nigeria. HieronymusVerlag, Munich, Pp. 196
[6]. Onyekwelu, J. C., Biber, P., &Stimm, B. 2003. Thinning Scenarios for Gmelinaarboreaplantations in South-Western Nigeria using
density management diagrams. Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment. Vol. 1 (2): Pp. 320-325

ABSTRACT: Peeled taro cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta var esculenta) chips were naturally fermented in water for 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours at room temperature (300c±20c). The quality of the fermented taro cocoyam samples was accessed by determining the microbiological quality, proximate composition as well as the anti-nutritional content. Mixed flora of bacteria (Lactobacillus spp and Leuconostoc mesenteriodes) and fungus (Sacchoromyes cerevisiae) were identified. The result revealed that the crude protein content of fermented taro cocoyam (FTC) increased markedly at the forty eight hour (48 hour) of fermentation and later declined at the seventy hour (72). Crude fiber decreased with increased hour of fermentation. The findings showed that nitrogen free starch (carbohydrate) decreased after 24 hour of fermentation whereas Ash (minerals) content increased after 24 hour. There was no difference in the other extract content across treatments. It was observed that ant-nutrients such as Tannins, Oxalates, Phytates and Saponin decreased with prolonged fermentation. An increase in PH was also recorded with prolonged fermentation.

[1]. Adenike, A.O.A., Mopelola, O.O & Ayasina, A.D.V. (2007). Microbial studies and biochemical characteristics of controlled fermented Afuyo – a Nigerian fermented food condiment from Prosops Africana (Gull and Perr.) Taud: Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 6(6): 620 – 627.
[2]. Aletor, V.A. (1993). Allelochemicals in plant food and feedstuffs. Biochemical and physiopathological aspects in animal production. Vertinary Human Toxicology. Pp. 57-67.
[3]. A.O.A.C. (2000). Official methods of analysis (17th edition). Washinton, D.C., AOAC.
[4]. Barritt, M.M. (1936). The intensification of the voges proskaeur reaction by the addition of & (alpha) – Napthol Journal of Pathogenic Bacteria. 42:441.
[5]. Bough, S.H. & Azam-Ali, S.N (1992). The effect of soil moisture on the reproductive performance of Coturnix breeder hens. Poultry Science. 51:1662 – 1669.
[6]. Bourke, R.M. (1982). Root crops in papua New Guinea. Proceedings of the 5th International Symposium on Tropical Root and Tuber Crops. Philippine Council for Agriculture and Resources Research, 720pp.
[7]. Bunchanam, R.E. & Gibbons, N.E. (1974). Bergy's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology, 9th Edition). Williams and wilkins Company, Baltimore. Pp. 1268.

ABSTRACT: The decreased predictability of seasons due to climate change has had negative effect on planting time and output of maize, a major energy source in the tropics. This negative effect is further reflected in the decreased availability and high cost of maize. However, the idea of making the most of what is easily available at the least cost, has informed research into root crops as important feed source in bridging the energy gap in poultry feeding. Two hundred and twenty five Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments (I-V) of 36 hens and 9 cockerels each. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 12 hens and 3 cockerels per replicate. In each of the five diets, 48hours fermented taro cocoyam meal (Colocasia esculenta var. esculenta) was used to replace maize at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% for treatments I,II,III,IV and V respectively. The quails were fed one of the five experimental diets over a period of 70days (10weeks). Feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) influenced by diet with lowest values obtain for quails in treatment V. cost of feed was significantly (p<0.05) reduced by taro cocoyam. The cost of the feed per gram egg laid was least with treatment II. More saving accrued at 25%inclusion levels with highest profit and return to naira invested. Losses were observed at 75% and 100% level of inclusions. The results indicate that it is cost effective to replace maize with 25% of 48hours fermented taro cocoyam meal in the diet of laying Japanese quails.

Keywords: Japanese quails, fermented taro cocoyam, cost effectiveness.

[1]. Agbede, S.O, Ajaka, K and Aletor, V.A. (2002). Influence of raxozyme G. supplementation on the utilization of sorghum dust based diets for broiler chicks. Proceedings of the 24th Annual conference of Nigeria Society of Animal Production (NSAP). Akure, march 2002, 105-108.
[2]. Agwunobi, L.N.; Agwukan, P.O.; Caro, O.O. and Isika, M.A (2002). Studies on the use of colocasia esculenta (taro cocoyam) in the diets of weaned pigs. Tropical Animal Health and Production. 34(3):243-247.
[3]. Association of Official Analytical Chemist (1995). Official method of Analysis (16th edition). Washington, D.C. AOAC.
[4]. F.A.O (2002). Changes Avario de production http/www.fao.org.com
[5]. Ikani, E.L; Oyibo, S.W and Aduku, A.O(2008). Utilization of sesame meal as protein source in broiler diets. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production. 35(1):18-24.
[6]. Oguundipe, S.O. (2002). NAPRI Publication, Zaria. National Animal Production Research Institute publication, Zaria

ABSTRACT: One hundred and forty four Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 16 quails. In each of the three diets Sun-dried Mango (Mangifera spp) kernel meal (SMKM) replaced maize at 0%, 25% and 50% respectively. At the end of the experiment three quails from each treatment were slaughtered, their breast muscles andthree fresh eggs from each treatment were collected and analyzed for nutrient profile. The result showed that, the crude protein contents of egg and breast muscles decreased with increased levels of SMKM in the diets. Nitrogen Free Extract (CHO) contentsof egg and breast muscle increased across the treatments. Ash (Minerals) content, for breast muscles and egg increased with increased supplementation of SMKM across the treatments. The differences in crude fibre contents of breast muscles and egg did not follow a regular pattern, suggesting that SMKM was not responsible for these variations. It was concluded that, SMKM had effect on the meat and egg quality of quails.

Keywords: Japanese quails, Mango Kernel, nutrient profile of breast muscle and whole egg.

[1]. Atteh, J. O. (1986). Towards animal protein self-sufficiency. A case of increased production of monogastric animals. The University of Ilorin Farmer. 2nd Edition. University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Pp. 12
[2]. Bamgbose, A.M Ogungbenro, S.D Obasohan, E.E., Aruna M.B, Oterkul. T., Igene, U.F., Otoikhian, C.S.O and J.A. Imasuen (2004). Replacement value of maize in offal mango kernel for maize in broiler diet proceeding of the 29th annual conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production, 29, 219-221.
[3]. El Boushy A, Vander P. A.F.B. (2000) Handbook of poultry feed from waste Processing and use (2nd Edition). Kluwer Academic publishers; New York.
[4]. Garwood, A. A. and Diehl, R. C. J. (1987). Body volume and density of live cortunix quail and associated genetic relationship. Poult. Sci. 66 (8) 1269.
[5]. Jadhav, S., Siddiqui K.H.M and Johansen, C. (2010). Effect of processing of parboiling of Sun-dried Mango Kernel. Research conf october18-22 2010.

ABSTRACT: A 49-day feeding trial involving 180 1-day-old Abhor acre broilers was carried out to evaluate growth and carcass quality of broilers fed cassava leaf meal and cassava peel meals used as replacements of soya bean meal and maize at 20% respectively. Four groups of 45 birds per group of 15 birds per replicate consisting of three replicates per group. Group A served as control (cassava leaf meal (0%) and peelings meal (0%)), Group B ( 20% cassava peelings -20% leaf meal), C (20% leaf meal -0% cassava peelings) and group D (20% cassava peelings-0% cassava peelings). The cut parts of the carcass showed superior values (p<0.05) in the A (control) treatment and they differed significantly (p<0.05) from broilers on to the group on B (20 % cassava peelings-20 % leaf meal), C (20% leaf meal-0% cassava peelings), D (20% cassava peelings-0% cassava peelings). On the 49th day, the breast muscles of 36 birds were analysed for dry matter, proteins, fat and ash. The organoleptic values were not significantly influenced by the juiciness, taste, colour and overall acceptability among the dietary treatment levels. Up to 20% inclusion of cassava leaf meal and 20% cassava peelings as replacement for soya bean meal and maize respectively in both broiler starter and finisher, diets did not significantly affect growth and carcass yield of broilers.

Keywords: Cassava peels, Cassava leaf, Carcass yield, Meat qualities, Broiler.

[1]. Adejinmi, O. O., Adejinmi J. O., and Adeleye I. O. A. (2000). Replacement value of fish meal
[2]. with soldier fly larvae meal in broiler diets. Nigerian Poultry Science Journal. 1:52– 60.
[3]. AOAC (1995). Official Methods of Analysis, 15th Edition, Washington, DC
[4]. Aslyng, D. N., Berjerholm, C., Ertbjerg, P, Bertram C. H and Andersen H. J. (2003). Cookinglossand juiciness of pork in relation to raw meat quality and cooking procedure and food quality preference Meat Science14: 277-288
[5]. Barbera, S. and Tassone S. (2006). Meatcooking shrinkage. Measurement ofa new meatqualityparameter. Meat Science. 39: 234-238.
[6]. Esonu, B.O., F.C. Iheukwumere, O.O. Emenalom, M.C. Uchegbu and E. B. Etuk, 2002. Performance, nutrient utilization and organ characteristics ofbroilers. Hitt: //www, cipavorg. Co/Ird//Irrd14/6/eson/146 htn.

ABSTRACT: Dioscorea dumetorum (Kunth), Pax. has suffered research neglect in varietal identification and improvement. Understanding of the ploidy and phenotypic diversity is fundamental for the utilisation of the species in breeding programme. Twenty-three D. dumetorum genotypes were laid out in randomised complete block design with three replications in two years. Sixteen morphological traits were employed to characterize the genotypes. Ploidy levels were determined from chromosome counts and flow cytometric analysis of the 23 genotypes. Two main groups subsisted from the clustering analysis. Traits of discriminatory significance for the species were: tuber weights, tuber girth, leaf length, number of tubers per plant and tuber length. Genotypes in cluster II had higher tuber weight (1.23±0.10 kg), girth (21.42±0.91 cm) and leaf length (10.36±0.30 cm) compared with 1.07±0.12 kg, 19.72±1.04 cm and 10.08±0.34 cm observed in cluster I respectively. The 23 genotypes exhibited tetraploidy = 4x. The chromosome count and flow cytometry methods agreed. Average chromosome counts in TDd 3908 and TDd 3098 were 36.71±2.28 and 38.00±2.16 respectively. DNA content range from 33.16 AU (TDd 05-23) to 46.98 AU (TDd 04-146) with mean of 40.29±0.94 AU. Considerably high genetic diversity exist in the species however, some variability may still be hidden in larger population. Molecular assessment of larger population of this species is suggested for subsequent study.

Keyword: D. dumetorum, diversity, ploidy level, flow cytometry, cluster analysis

[1]. Orkwor GC, Asiedu A, (1998). Agronomy. In: Food yams. Advances in research Eds. Orkwor GC, Asiedu A, Ekanayake IJ, IITA / NRCRI, pp 105 – 141.
[2]. Ogbuagu M.N. (2008) Nutritive and Anti-Nutritive Composition of the Wild (Inedible) Species of Dioscorea bulbifera (Potato Yam) and Dioscorea dumentorum (Bitter Yam). The Pacific Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 9 (1) pp. 203-207
[3]. Echeocha, V.C., Ojimelukwe P. C. And Onwuka,G. I. (2012) Effect of cooking on thr nutritional and physiochemical components of trifoliate yam (Dioscorea dumetorum). Global Adv. Res. J. Biochem. Bioinform., 1:26-30.
[4]. Egbuonu, A.C.C., Nwezi D. C. And Egbuonu, O.N. C. (2014) Functional properties of bitter yam (Dioscorea dumetorum) as influenced by soaking prior to ovendrying. Am. J. Food Technol., 9:93-103
[5]. Ashiwel S. U. and Akubue P. I. (1986) Pharmacological evaluation of Dioscorea dumetorum tuber used in traditional antidiabetic therapy," Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 15, no. 2, pp. 133–144.

ABSTRACT: The investigation to determine the different litter/manure management practices of poultry farmers was carried out in Port Harcourt urban area. A well structured questionnaire was administered to 30 randomly selected poultry farmers in the study area by one on one interview and observation of the environment. The results revealed that poultry farming is on the increase. Majority of these farmer's management practices showed that they have little knowledge about proper disposal of litter/manure resulting from their farm operations. 53.3% sell their waste immediately after clearing their farms while 43.3% store them for later use and 3.4% applied theirs directly to nearby farm lands. During the period of study, 96.7 % of the farmers had not heard of manure treatment before disposal while 3.3% have heard of it but did not practice it. It was also noted that improper handling of poultry production from start to finish could lead to environmental hazards.

Keywords: Intensively managed, Poultry farms, Litter/manure, Port Harcourt

[1]. Mokwunye, U. 2000. Meeting the phosphorus Needs of the soils and crops of West Africa: The Role of Indigenous Phosphate rocks. Paper presented on Balanced Nutrition Management systems for the Moist Savanna and Humid Forest Zones of Africa at a symposium organized by IITA at Ku Leuva at Cotonun, Benin Republic, October 9-12.
[2]. Bolan, N.S., A.A. Szogi, T. Chuasavathi, B. Seshadri, M.J. Rothrock Jr. and Panneerselvam, P. 2010. Uses and management of poultry litter. Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation. University of South Australia. World`s Poult. Sci. J. 66(4): 673-698.
[3]. Sharpley, A. 1998. Agricultural phosphorus, water quality, and poultry production: are they compatible. Poultry Science, 78(5): 660–673.
[4]. Bird, N.A. 1982. Poultry manure handling systems. In: The Manure Management Handbook, Ont. Soil and Crop Imp. Ass., Ont. Min. of Agriculture and Food, Ont. Agricultural College, Canada, pp. G1 to G17.
[5]. Swain, B.K. and Sundaram, R.N.S. (2000) Effect of different types of litter material for rearing broilers. British Poultry Science 41: 261-262.
[6]. Ibrahim, M.A. and P.A. Abdu, 1992. Ethnoveterinary perspective of poultry management health and production among the Hausa/Fulani of rural Nigeria. Proceedings of the Scientific Session of the Congress of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, October 27-30, 1992, Kaduna, Nigeria, pp: 172-181.

ABSTRACT: Ninety eight (98) Anak broiler chicks were used in an experiment to determine the effects of Ginger (Zingiber officianale) meal on the haematology and serum chemistry of broiler birds. The birds were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments in a completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of 24 birds per treatment with 8 birds per replicate in a feeding trial that lasted for a period of 8 weeks. The ginger was incorporated at graded levels of 0g, 2g, 4g and 6g per kg feed in T1 (control), T2, T3 and T4 respectively. At the end of the experiment, 3 birds were randomly picked from each treatment (1 bird per treatment replicate) and their blood samples were collected for haematological assay and serum analysis. Results showed that haematological parameters were not significantly influenced by the treatment. Serum components such as Total Protein, Creatinine, Urea, Aspartate, Alkaline Phosphate and Total Cholesterol were not significantly influenced by the treatment however Serum Albumin was influenced significantly in favour of the ginger supplemented diets. The results of this investigation therefore, demonstrate that the inclusion of ginger at all levels did not alter any haematological indices when compared to the control diet and so normal anatomical and physiological function of birds was not disrupted.

Keywords: Ginger, Haematology, serum chemistry and Broiler Birds

[1]. Ajagbonna, O.P., Onifada, K.I. and Suleiman, U. (1999): Haematological and Biochemical Changes in Rat given Extract of Calatropis Procera Sokoto Journal Of Veterinary Science.
[2]. Church J. P, Judd J. T., Yomg C. W., Kebay T. L. and Kim W. W. (1984): Relationship Among Dietary Constituents and Specific Serum Clinical Components of Subjects Eating Self Selecting Diets. America Journal Clinical Nutrition, 40, 1338- 1344.
[3]. Coles, E.H. (1986). Veterinary Clinical Pathology. 4th, Edn., W.B. Saunders. Pheladelphia, London, Hong Kong.Concerns. Poultry Science, 82(4): 618 – 621.
[4]. Diarra, S.S., Kwari, I.D., Girigigi, Y.A., Saleh, B. and Igwebuike, J.U. (2011) The use of Sorrel (Hibiscuss Sabdariffa) Seed as a Feed Ingredient for Poultry: A Review. Research Opinions in Animal & Veterinary Sciences 1: 573-577.
[5]. Duncan, D.B (1955) Multiple Range and Multiple F Test. Biometrics 11:77-81.
[6]. Esonu, B.O., Emenalum O.O., Udedibie, A.B.I., Herbert, U., Ekpor, C.F., Okolie I.C. and Iheukwumere, F.C. (2001); Performance and Blood Chemistry of Weaner Pigs Fed Raw Mucuna (Velvet Bean). Tropical Animal Production Invest. 4:49-54.

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) on growth performance and carcass characteristics of boiler chicks. A total of 120 day-old broiler chicks of the ANAK – 2000 strain were weighed and allotted to four (4) experimental groups in a Completely Randomized Design and fed graded levels (0.0%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10%) of MOLM for seven weeks (49 days). The experimental groups, which were designed as Treatment T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively were further replicated three times with 10 birds per replicate so that each group had a total of 30 birds. Treatment I, which contained 0% MOLM served as the control. Growth parameters determined were average final live weight and average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. At the end of the feeding trial, three birds per treatment were randomly selected from each of the replicates, starved overnight and slaughtered to evaluate carcass characteristics. Internal organs such as the gizzard, thigh, shank, breast, wings, spleen, neck, lung, drum stick, heart, liver and kidney were removed and grossly examined for any pathological changes. The results showed that there was no significant difference (P >0.05) in growth performance parameter (average daily feed intake, average daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio) and the economic parameters (revenue, gross margin, cost of a kg weight gain). There was significant difference (P<0.05) in organ weights (wings, shank, drumsticks, kidney, liver, gizzard) and some cut parts between the experimental and control groups. These results suggest that Moringa oleifera leaf meal can replace protein source (soyabean and groundnut cake) up to 10% in broiler diets without any adverse effects on growth and carcass qualities, and could marginally reduce feed cost in broiler production.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics.

[1]. Ash A.J and Petaia L.A (1992), Nutritional value of Sebania grandiflora leaves for ruminant and monogastrics. Journal of Tropical Agriculture (Trinidad) 69 223-228.
[2]. Duncan, D.B. (1955). Multiple range and multiple f-test. Biometerics 11.1-42.
[3]. Esonu, B.O., Iheukwumere, F.C., Iwuji, T.C., Akanu,N and Nwugo, O.H. (2008). Evaluation of Microdesmis puberula leaf meal as feed ingredient in broiler starter diets. Nig. J. Anim. Prod. 30(1): 3-8.
[4]. Ige A.O, Odunsi A.A, Akinlade J.A, Ojedapo L.O, Ameen S.A, Aderinola O.A and Rafiu T.A (2006), Gliricidia Leaf Meal in Layer's Diet: Effect on Performance Nutrient Digestibility and Economy of Production Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances 5(6) 483 – 486.
[5]. Kakengi A.M.V, Shem M.N, Sarwatt S.V and Fujihara T (2003), Can Moringa oleifera be used as a protein supplement to ruminants? Asian- Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences 18(1) 42-47.
[6]. Nuhu F. 2007 Effect of Moringa leaf meal (MOLM) on nutrient digestibility, growth, carcass and blood indices of weaner rabbits. Msc. Thesis, Animal Science Department of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Kwame

ABSTRACT: A total of 45 ejaculates from nine Beetal bucks collected by artificial vagina, washed and extended in Tris were frozen in 0.5 ml French straws using a programmable freezer to study the effect of three freezing rates on freezing in liquid nitrogen. Fifteen ejaculates were used for each of the three freezing rates. The straws were thawed in a water bath at 40°C for 20 seconds. Sperm motility, live sperm, incidence of intact acrosome and HOST-reacted sperm were studied after collection, equilibration and freezing by conventional methods. The sperm motility, live sperm, incidence of intact acrosome and HOST-reacted sperm in the semen samples used for freezing by different freezing rates did not differ significantly after collection and after equilibration. However after freezing, sperm motility and live sperm were significantly (P<0.05) higher for Freezing rate II than for Freezing rates I and III but they did not differ significantly between Freezing rate I and Freezing rate III. After freezing, incidence of intact acrosome and HOST-reacted sperm did not differ significantly between freezing rates.

Key words: Beetal goat, Freezing rate, Frozen semen

[1]. Salamon S. and Maxwell W. M. C., Storage of ram semen. Anim. Reprod. Sci. (62), 2000., 77-111.
[2]. Revell S. G. and Mrode R.A. , An osmotic resistance test for bovine semen. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 36, 1994, 77-86.
[3]. Choe Chang-Yong, Kim Jung-Gon, Cho Sang-Rae, Son Dong-Soo, Kim Young-Keun, Balasubramanian S, Choe Sang-Yong and Rho Gyu-Jin., Influence of Seasons, Extenders, Slow and Rapid Freezing on Seminal Characters in Korean Native Bucks. Reproduction in Domestic Animal 41, 2006, 55–60.
[4]. O' Neill D. J., Studies on the cryopreservation of ram spermatozoa. MSc (Agr.) Thesis, National University of Ireland, 1998.
[5]. Byrne G. P., Lonergan P, Wade M, Duffy P, Donovan A, Hanrahan J. P and Boland M. P. Effect of freezing rate of ram spermatozoa on subsequent fertility in vivo and in vitro, Animal Reproduction Sciences 62 (4), 2000. 265-75.
[6]. Saikia P., Studies on freezing of semen of Assam local and Beetal goats, M. V. Sc. Thesis, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Ghuwahaty-22, 2006.

ABSTRACT: This paper work was done for the impact of the microbial biofilms formation in the pasteurized cow's milk production line on the quality assurance (QA) of the product, Taif, KSA. The mean incidence of microscopical examination quality of microorganisms/High Power Field (MOs/HPF) presented in control group (CG) were (00, 00 and 00%) but in tested group (TG) were (100, 41.7 and 25%) within the specimens from (raw milk (RM), production line biofilm (PLB) and pasteurized milk (PM)) respectively. The mean incidence of MOs growth rate in percentage, it was determined as (00, 00 and 00%) from CG and (38.3, 24 and 8.3%) from TG for the specimens of (RM, PLB and PM) respectively. The mean incidence of colony forming unites/ml (CFUs/ml) for MOs, it observed the CG were (00, 00 and 00CFUs/ml) and the TG were (1.3, 0.08 and 0.004X104CFUs/ml) from (RM, PLB and PM) respectively. The present of MOs in RM as a sources which attached to the production line and uncleaning mechanisms which helped to reach that MOs to the PM even with low numbers. It was revealed that PM with low-qualify grades, it is in-need of follow-up the production line maintenance and hygienic measures to keep the PM product in the high-quality grade.
Keywords: Quality Assurance (QA), Microorganisms/High Power Field (MOs/HPF), Control Group (CG), Tested Group (TG), Raw Milk (RM), Production Line Biofilm (PLB), Pasteurized Milk (PM), Colony Forming Unites/ml (CFUs/ml), Total Bacterial Counts (TBCs), Total Microbial Counts (TMCs), Microbial growth (MG).

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[2]. Zelalem,,Y. and Bernard, F., 2006. Handling and Microbial Load of Cow's Milk and Irgo-Fermented Milk Collected from Different Shops and Producers in Central Highlands of Ethiopia, Eth. J. Anim. Prod., 6:67-82.
[3]. Patrizio, T., Luca, T., Mariantonietta, S., Gianfranco, P., Luisa, F., Valeria, C., Raffaele, C. and Elena, S., 2014. Raw milk from vending machines: Effects of boiling, microwave treatment, and refrigeration on microbiological quality, J. Dairy Sci., 97:3314-3320.
[4]. Saiqa, B., Muhammad S., Shahzad, A., Velo, S., Muhammad, M. and Muhammad, K., 2014. Microbiological Quality Evaluation of Raw Milk Consumed in and Around Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Int. J. Micro. Res., 5:112-116.
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ABSTRACT: Boid inclusion body disease is one of the fatal diseases of captive snakes worldwide. Until recently, cases were diagnosed by the demonstration of eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies under light microscopy. Unfortunately, inclusion bodies are also found in many viral infections. The specific etiologic agent of this disease remained a mystery for over 3 decades. However recently, highly divergent arenaviruses were isolated from some snakes with the disease even though direct causal linkage has not yet been fully established. Research has so far been focused on understanding the formation and nature of the inclusion body protein commonly found in tissues of affected snakes. Isolation of this protein has led to a better understanding of its nature and composition, which has consequently led to the development of monoclonal antibodies for use in immunohistochemical diagnostic techniques. This review describes the diagnostic techniques in use today and those that have potential applications in clinical diagnosis of the Disease. Selected approaches from published literature, as well as those in commercial development have also been discussed.
Keywords: Boid Snakes;Arenavirus;Boid inclusion body disease protein; Diagnostic techniques

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ABSTRACT: Effects of seed size on germination and early seedling growth of Symphoniaglobulifera was carried out in the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, University of Port Harcourt. The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) involving 3 replicates. Three hundred seeds were sown per treatment using large, medium and small seeds. Ten seedlings from each treatment were used to estimate seedling growth and biomass production. Results showed that the large seed size had the highest germination percentage of 78.52%±0.849 followed by the medium seed size with 65.91%±0.257 and the small seed size with 26.08%±0.240. Large seed size also had the best seedling growth parameters with total seedling length of 42.7cm ±1.234 followed by the medium seed size with 31.30cm±1.253 and then the small seed size which had a value of 22.47 cm±1.122. Large seed size had the largest collar diameter of 0.50mm±0.043 and followed by medium seed size which had a collar diameter of 0.32mm±0.018 and small seed size which had a collar diameter of 0.22mm±0.009. For leaf area, large seed size had the highest leaf area of 120.9cm2±1.704 followed by medium seed size which had a leaf area of 90cm2±0.67 and the smallest seed size with a value of 59.85cm2±0.655. Large seed size had the highest value of total dry weight of 4.46g±0.272 compared to medium and small seed size with a value of 3.17g±0.283 and 2.03g±0.155 respectively. These imply that the large seed size has the ability to produce high quality seedlings of Symphoniaglobulifera.
Keywords: Symphoniaglobulifera, seed size, germination, early seedling growth.

[1]. Abdul-Salim K. 2002.Systematics and Biology ofSymphoniaglobulifera L. f. (Clusiaceae). Harvard University Cambridge Press. 22.
[2]. Ahirwar J. R. 2012. Effect of seed size and weight on seed germination of Alangiumlamarckii. Research Journal of Recent Sciences. 1:320- 322.
[3]. Akinnifesi F. K., Silesh G., Mkondaa., Ajayi O. C., Mhango J. and Chilanga T. 2007. Indigenous Fruit Trees in the Tropics: Domestication, Utilization and Commercialisation, CABI Publishing, UK. 34-56.
[4]. Amin C. and Brinis L. 2013. Effect of seed size on germination and establishment of vigorous seedlings in Durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.). Advances in Environmental Biology, 7:1, 77-81. ISSN 1995-0756.
[5]. Dar F. A., Gera M. and Gera N. 2002.Effect of Seed Grading On Germination Pattern of Some Multipurpose Tree Species of Jammu Region. 128: 509-512.

ABSTRACT: Early blight is one of the most destructive diseases for tomato crop; traditional breeding programs are the main way to produce new cultivars for early blight resistance. In this study, fivedifferent genotypes namely: NCEBR-6 as a resource of early blight resistance and five domestic genotypes i.e., LA 2399, Edkawi, UCT5, Super strain-B and Peto-82 were used and the crosses were made to produce five populations and to be evaluated for early blight disease under nature infection of early blight during three seasons under the field and greenhouses conditions. Results indicated that, there are significant differences in the degree of resistance (P > 0.05) between tomato genotypes and its crosses. NCEBR-6 cultivar was resistant for early blight and F1 hybrid (Super Strain B × NCEBR-6) recorded the highest degree of resistance compared with the other crosses. The relative potency ratio of gene set for parent showed high partial dominance in the cross (Super strain-B × NCEBR-6) = 0.74. There was negative complete dominance for the cross (Edkawi × NCEBR-6) value = -1 trending to smaller parent. The correlation between resistance for yield, yield components and fruit quality was established, there were highly positive relationship between resistances for fruit set %, fruit number and were moderate with yield. as, r = 0.949, 0.749 and 0.609 respectively. This data revealed that the cultivars did not super pass the resistant parent. Further, this study needs more information to investigate the inheritance and genetic analysis to improve commercial cultivars to get the completely resistance.
Keywords: Tomato breeding, Early blight Resistance, Alternaria solani, Solanum lycopersicum, Inheritance.

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