Kashere Journal of Animal Science

CARCASS QUALITY AND BLOOD METABOLITES OF BROILER CHICKENS FED SUPER SOSAT MILLET IN SUNFLOWER MEAL BASED DIETS

Bello A. T. — 2025-12-28

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the carcass quality and blood metabolites of broiler chickens fed Super SOSAT (SSM) pearl millet in sunflower meal based diets. Three hundred broiler chicks were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments in replicates of three containing 20 birds each in a completely randomized design. In the trial, Super SOSAT millet replaced maize at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels. Feed and water were served ad lib and the experiment lasted for 42 days. Results showed that all carcass indices measured were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. However, only few organs showed influence of super SOSAT millet. Live weight of birds fed super SOSAT millet based diets (1.53 – 1.65 kg) were higher and similar among millet fed groups compared to the control (1.24 kg). The same trend was followed in plucked and eviscerated weights. However, carcass weight was highest (P<0.05) for birds on diet 5 (1.08kg) though did not differ from those on diets 2 (0.92 kg) and 3 (0.94 kg), followed by diet 4 (0.89 kg) and 1 (0.72 kg). In the same way, broiler chickens fed diet 5 (66.00 %) had higher dressing percent (P<0.05) than those on other diets which were the same (56.83 – 59.42 %). Organs weight as percentage of live weight showed significant influence of diets on heart weight with birds on diet 5 (0.61 %) having higher (P<0.05) weight which did not differ from that of birds on diets 1 (0.46 %) and 3 (0.52 %). Each of diets 2 and 4 had a lower value of 0.38 % which was comparable to diets 1 and 3. The weights of kidney (0.17 – 0.29 %), abdominal fat (1.86 – 2.02%) and liver (1.85 – 2.07 %) were not influenced by the replacement of maize with super SOSAT millet. Results for blood analysis showed that except for red blood cells (RBC), Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and hydrocarbonate, no blood parameter was significantly (P>0.05) affected by the diets. The RBC count of birds on diets 5 (1.40 x 10⁶/µl) and 4 (1.43 x 10⁶/µl) which did not differ from those on diets 3 (1.23x 10⁶/µl) and 1 (1.30 x 10⁶/µl), were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of birds fed diet 2 (1.00 x 10⁶/µl) which was also comparable to diets 1 and 2. Conversely, packed cell volume (24.33 – 29.00 %), white blood cells (3.67 – 4.80x 10³/µl), haemoglobin (5.77 – 7.33 g/dl) and cholesterol (4.50 – 6.50 mmol / l) did not differ among the diets. However, all blood parameters were within the normal reference range indicating that the birds were neither anaemic nor undernourished. It is therefore concluded that super SOSAT millet can replace up to 100% of dietary maize in sunflower meal based broiler chickens diets without significant metabolic disruptions. Based on the higher dressing percent of 66.00% for broiler chickens in diet 5 compared to the others, this diet is recommended for broiler chickens.

PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKENS TO ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID (ASA) SUPPLEMENTATION IN DRINKING WATER

Ameh E.R. — 2025-12-28

This study evaluated the effects of Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA) supplementation in drinking water on the growth performance and physiological responses of broiler chickens raised under tropical conditions. A total of 144 two-week-old broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments (0.00, 1.00, 1.50, and 2.00 g ASA/L of water) in a completely randomized design. Birds were monitored over six weeks for growth parameters (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio) and physiological indices (cloacal temperature, respiratory rate, and pulse rate). Results revealed that while initial weight and feed intake were not significantly affected (p>0.05), ASA supplementation significantly (p<0.05) improved final weight, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio, with the highest performance observed at 2.00 g/L. Physiological responses also improved with increasing ASA levels, as evidenced by reduced cloacal temperature, respiratory rate, and pulse rate, suggesting better thermal regulation and reduced metabolic stress. These findings indicate that ASA supplementation, particularly at 2.00 g/L, enhances broiler performance and welfare under heat stress, making it a viable management strategy in tropical poultry production.

PROXIMATE AND MINERAL COMPOSITIONS OF FRESH ATLANTIC MACKEREL (Scomber scombrus) SOLD IN MAJOR MARKETS WITHIN GOMBE METROPOLIS, GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA

B.A., Abdullahi — 2025-12-28

The study determined the proximate composition and Mineral Compositions of Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) sold in various markets within Gombe Local Government of Gombe State. Atlantic mackerelis one of the most commercialized marine fish species consumed in Nigeria due to its high nutritional values. Fresh samples of Atlantic mackerel sold in Gombe local markets were bought, chilled in an ice in a plastic container and transported to the D epartment of Animal Science, Federal University of Kashere for Mineral and Proximate Analysis. The samples were purchased in triplicates from the four major Gombe markets and were tagged as; New Market (A), Old Market (B), Tashan Dukku (C) Pantami Market (D). Proximate analysis was conducted using the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC 2005) method to determine the Protein, Fiber, Moisture, Ether Extract and ash. Mineral contents of the samples were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry, flame photometry and spectrophotometry method.Mineral elements detected includes; Potassium (K), Iron, Copper, Phosphorous and Zinc. Results showed that highest mean value of the moisture, ash, ether extract, crude fiber, and crude protein contents in percent (%) as: 75.92, 1.22, 7.55, 1.10 and 19.65 respectively. The mineral composition was found to be higher in D with 148.52 (Phosphorous), A 14.67 (Zinc), C 11.93 in Copper, 3.02 (D) in Iron and 192.03 in Potassium with treatment D. In conclusion, the study revealed that there is a significant differences in nutritional content among fish sourced from the various markets. Both fish sold in the markets are rich in essential nutrients and minerals, making them a valuable food source. The findings also highlight the importance of marine species in human nutrition and health. Results from this study can also inform policy makers on food security and nutrition to regulate the available fish species sold in the major markets for public health concern.

RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKENS TO DIETARY LEVELS OF SUPER SOSAT MILLET IN SUNFLOWER MEAL BASED DIETS

Bello A. T. — 2025-12-28

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens fed Super SOSAT (SSM) pearl millet to replace maize in sunflower meal based diets. Three hundred broiler chicks were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments in replicates of three containing 20 birds each in a completely randomized design. In the trial, Super SOSAT millet replaced maize at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels. Feed and water were served ad lib and the experiment lasted for 42 days. The results indicated that in the overall phase, all parameters were significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary treatments in favour of Super SOSAT millet based diets. Daily feed intake was similar for birds fed diets 4 (112.23 g) and 3 (113.76 g), but significantly lower on the other diets (99.01 – 103.76 g) which were similar. Birds on diet 5 (2.82) had better (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio than those fed other diets (3.11 – 3.23). The cost benefit of broiler chickens fed the experimental diets showed that feed cost per kg gain (N) increased from N311.78 for diet 1 to N336.57 for diet 2 and later dropped to N289.20 for diet 5. In all, diet 5 recorded the only cost saving of N22.58; however, no cost was saved by replacing maize with super SOSAT millet in the diets at the starter phase. At the finisher phase (4 -6weeks), a decreasing trend was also recorded for feed cost per kg gain (N) where birds on the control diet had the highest value of N471.84 which decreased progressively to N305.61 on diet 5. Cost saving (N) also increased from N47.87 on diet 2 to 166.23 on diet 5. At the Overall phase (0 - 6 weeks), the result indicated that feed cost (N/kg) decreased from N125.50 for diet 1 to N105.72 for diet 5. Total feed cost for each bird was highest for diet 3 (N553.86) and lowest for those on diet 5 (N457.77). Broiler chickens fed diet 5 had the highest average total weight gain of 1.54 kg, while those on the control diet had 1.35 kg which was the lowest. Feed cost per kg gain was highest for birds on the control (N386.73) and least for those on diet 5 (N297.25). Birds raised on diet 5 showed the highest cost saving value of N89.48 compared to N3.80 for those on diet 2 which had the lowest. Feed cost per kg gain (N) decreased with increasing level of super SOSAT millet. This could be attributed to the improved daily weight gain of birds fed these replacement levels. The results of the current study showed that Super SOSAT millet can completely replace maize in broiler chickens’ diets without any deleterious effect on feed intake and growth performance with reduced feed cost per kg gain. Based on the higher daily weight gain of 36.67g, better feed conversion ratio of 2.82, the least feed cost/kg gain of N297. 25 and the highest feed cost savings of N89.48 for broiler chickens in diet 5 compared to the others, this diet is recommended for broiler chickens.

PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF RABBITS TO PETROL-GENERATOR EXHAUST FUME EXPOSURE

Adika O. A. — 2025-12-28

Dependence on petrol generators in developing countries exposes humans and animals to toxic exhaust emissions. this study was carried out at federal university Oye- Ekiti teaching and research farm of the department of animal production and health. This study assessed the effects of petrol-generator exhaust fumes on haematological and serum biochemical parameters of rabbits. Twenty (20) Rabbits were randomly assigned into four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3 and T4): control T1(no exposure) and treatment groups T2, T3 and T4 were exposed for 2, 4, or 6 hours daily respectively. The experiment lasted for 6weeks, at the end of the research, Blood samples were collected for haematological (MCHC, haemoglobin, PCV, leukocyte differentials) and serum biochemical (ALT, AST, ALP, urea, creatinine) analyses. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at (p<0.05). Haematological indices showed some level of changes in haemoglobin and MCHC, with a decrease after 6-hour exposure, while PCV increased significantly compared with control group. Leukocyte counts indicated stress-related neutrophilia and lymphocytosis. serum Biochemical analysis revealed elevated ALT, AST, and ALP activities in 2- and 4-hour treatment groups, followed by a decrease at 6 hours, suggesting hepatocellular stress. Serum urea and creatinine were significantly increased in exposed treatment groups, indicating impede renal function. Exposure to petrol-generator exhaust fumes adversely affect haematological and serum biochemical indices of rabbits, reflecting hypoxia, inflammatory responses, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity. These findings highlight potential public health risks associated with chronic generator use and stress the need for safer energy alternatives and improved ventilation practices.

COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE NUTRITIVE VALUES OF SILAGE PRODUCED FROM NAPIER GRASS (Pennisetum purpureum) VARIETIES IN SHIKA, NIGERIA

Ishiaku Y.M. — 2025-12-28

Seasonal feed scarcity is a major constraint to sustainable livestock production in tropical regions.
Ensiling surplus forage is a key strategy to mitigate this issue. This study evaluated the nutritive value and
fermentation characteristics of silage produced from four Napier grass varieties (Juncao, Super Napier,
Hybrid Napier, and Elephant grass) cultivated in Shika, Nigeria. A Randomized Complete Block Design
(RCBD) with three replications was used. The grasses were harvested at 10 weeks, chopped, and ensiled
for 22 days using a bottle silo method. Silage samples were analyzed for physical properties, proximate
composition, fiber fractions, and mineral content. Results indicated significant differences (p<0.05)
among varieties. Super Napier grass silage had the lowest pH value of (3.93), Hybrid Napier and Elephant
grass silages had pH values of 4.11 and 4.17 respectively, which are within the optimal range (pH < 4.2)
for well-preserved silage, indicating efficient lactic acid production and inhibition of spoilage
microorganisms and very sweet aromas. Elephant grass recorded the highest crude protein (12.07%) but
also the highest fiber fractions (ADF 35.75%, NDF 69.32%), potentially limiting its digestibility. Juncao
grass showed the most favorable fiber profile for intake (lowest NDF: 66.35%) and the highest phosphorus
content (1.32%). It is concluded that while Hybrid Napier offers a balanced combination of good
fermentation quality and moderate nutrient levels, Juncao grass presents exceptional potential as a
mineral-rich, highly digestible silage source. The choice of variety should be based on specific nutritional
goals and supplementation strategies.

EFFECT OF DIETARY INCLUSION OF DRIED MUSHROOM (Pleurotus ostreatus) ON THE BLOOD PARAMETERS AND LIPID PROFILES OF BROILER CHICKENS AT STARTER PHASE

Okey S. N — 2025-12-28

60 day old broiler chicks of either sex were randomly distributed into four treatments groups (T1, T2, T3 and T4) with each treatment having three replicates of five broiler chicks each in a completely randomized design. T1 was given commercial diet without mushroom while T2, T3, and T4 were given same commercial feed supplemented with dried mushroom at 1%, 1.5% and 2% from day old to 28 days of age. At this point, blood was collected by the use of syringe and needle through their wing vein for use in assaying the blood. Data collected were analyzed using one-way Analysis of variance. There was improvement on some blood parameters. PCV was highest at 1% inclusion (30.30 ± 0.53%) as against 23.50 ± 0.64% in the control while HB declined progressively from 8.53 ± 0.023 g/dl (control) to 7.23 ± 0.035 g/dl (2% inclusion). RBC count decreased from 2.85 ± 0.031 ×10⁶/μL in the control to 2.24 ± 0.023 ×10⁶/μL in the 1.5% group. Notwithstanding, PCV fall within the normal range for broilers (25.60-32.50% for PCV, 8.93 - 10.45g/dl for HB and 3.53-3.80 x 106/μL for RBC). Cholesterol reduced from 142.4 ± 0.69 mg/dl in the control to 127.6 ± 1.36 mg/dl at 2% inclusion, while triglyceride declined from 102.3 ± 0.31 mg/dl to 60.6 ± 1.08 mg/dl. In contrast, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) increased progressively from 89.1 ± 1.37 mg/dl (control) to 109.4 ± 0.47 mg/dl (2%). Also, there was a significant improvements in liver markers, reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) coupled with increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL).