Digestibility Of Nitrogen-free Extract Research Articles

Dietary replacement of maggot meal for soybean meal: implication on performance indices, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilisation and carcass characteristics of grower rabbits.

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with maggot meal (MM) in growing rabbits' diets on their performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics. In the 56 days feeding trials, sixty unsexed mixed breeds (New Zealand White x California) rabbits were allotted on a weight equalization basis into five dietary treatments where a standard corn-soybean meal based diet (0% of maggot meal) (MM0 diet) served as the while other diets had soybean meal replaced with MM at graded levels of 25, 50, 75 and 100% to give MM25, MM50, MM75, and MM100 diets respectively. Each treatment comprises of four replicates having three rabbits each (12 rabbits per treatment). Growth performance parameters were monitored and recorded weekly, carcass and organ weights evaluation was conducted on day 56. Nutrient digestibility commenced on the 56th day and lasted for 6 days. Feed and water were offered to the rabbits ad-libitum throughout the experimental period. All the performance parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by MM inclusion in the diet of rabbits. Rabbits fed MM100 diet had the highest (P < 0.05) final weight (FW), total weight gain(TWG), and the best feed conversion ratio (FCR). The feed cost reduced (P < 0.05) with inclusion of MM in rabbit's diet. Feed cost per kg live weight (FC/LW) (1110.79 ₦/kg) and feed cost per kg weight gain (FC/WG) (1110.62 ₦/kg) was lowest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed MM100 diet. Crude protein digestibility (CPD) (74.05%) was highest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The feeding of MM75 and MM100 diets to rabbits resulted in increased (P < 0.05) dry matter digestibility (DMD) (68.22 and 69.34%), nitrogen free extract digestibility (NFED) (65.52 and 65.22%) and neutral detergent fibre digestibility (NDFD) (70.05 and 69.58%). The highest (P < 0.05) nitrogen retained (NR) (2.10g/d) occurred in rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The dressing percentage (DP) (71.01%) increased (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The weight of forelimbs (10.48 and 10.45%) and hind limbs (17.42 and 18.07%) were highest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed MM50 and MM100 diets respectively. Total gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and liver weight were highest (P < 0.05)for rabbits fed MM0 and MM100 diets respectively. It was concluded that MM can conveniently replace SBM in the diets of rabbits up to 100% for improved growth performance and increased nutrient digestibility. In addition, it can enhance DP and increase the carcass yield of rabbits.

The Effects of Papaya Leaf Extract and Turmeric Extract Inclusion on Total Apparent Digestibility of Nutrients and Methane Gas Production in Bali Cattle

This research evaluated the effects of papaya leaf and turmeric extract supplementation on the total apparent digestibility of nutrients and methane gas production in Bali cattle. The livestock used were 18 Bali cattle that were distributed into treatment without papaya leaf and turmeric extract supplementation (P0), Supplementation of 0.0075% turmeric extract g/kg live weight/day (P1), and supplementation of 0.00375% turmeric extract per kg live weight per day + 0.00375% papaya leaf extract per kg live weight per day (P2). The basal diets were 60% elephant grass cv. Taiwan (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Taiwan) and 40% concentrate. The ration provision was three per cent dry matter of body weight. The observed parameters included feed consumption, feces production, dry matter digestibility, organic matter digestibility, crude protein digestibility, crude fat digestibility, crude fibre digestibility, nitrogen-free extract digestibility, and methane gas production. The research results indicated that the treatment did not significantly affect feed consumption (P&gt;0.05) but did affect crude protein digestibility, crude fibre digestibility, nitrogen-free extract digestibility, and methane gas production. This study concludes that the feeding of elephant grass cv. Taiwan (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Taiwan), with the addition of papaya leaf extract and turmeric extract, does not have a positive effect on feed consumption and feed digestibility; thus, it cannot suppress methane gas production in livestock.

Growth Performance of Growing Rabbits Fed Graded Levels of Commercial and Locally Produced Groundnut Cakes

Evaluate the growth performance of weaned rabbits fed diets containing varying levels of locally produced and commercial grade groundnut cake. Determine the nutrient digestibility of weaner rabbits fed diets containing varying levels of locally produced and commercial grade groundnut cake. Assess the carcass characteristics of weaner rabbits fed diets containing varying levels of locally produced and commercial grade groundnut cake. The results showed that final body, total body weight gain and daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the rabbits were significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced by the dietary treatments. However, total feed consumed and daily feed consumed of the rabbits were not significantly (P&gt;0.05) different. Crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract and nitrogen free extract digestibility were significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected by the dietary treatments. However, dry matter and ash digestibility are not influenced (P&lt;0.05). Lungs result showed that G3 (5 % CGNC), G4 (10 % LGNC), G6 (20 % LGNC) and G7 (20 % CGNC) had no variation and similar trend was also observed on G2 (5 % LGNC), G4 (10 % LGNC), G5 (10 % CGNC) and G7 (20 % CGNC) respectively. G1 (Control) had least values throughout the treatment groups. The kidney result showed that G3, G5 and G7 were not significantly (P&lt;0.05) different when compared. Likewise, G1 (Control), G2 (5 % LGNC), G4 (10 % LGNC), G5 (10 % CGNC) and G6 (10 % LGNC) were not varied. The result of intestine showed that G3 (5 % CGNC), G5 (10 % CGNC) and G7 (20 % CGNC) had the same intestine value than other groups. Likewise, similar trend was observed on G1 (Control), G2 (5 % LGNC) and G4 (20 % LGNC). On the other hand, lowest intestine value was recorded on G6 (20 % LGNC). Abdominal fat outcome indicated G1 (Control), G3 (5 % CGNC), G5 (10 % CGNC) and G6 (20 % LGNC) had more abdominal fat than other treatments However, least abdominal fat was observed on G2 (5 % LGNC) and G4 (5 % LGNC). Though, G4 (10 % LGNC) and 7 (20 % CGNC) were similar across the groups. It can be concluded that rabbits fed CGNC at 5 %, 10 % and 20 % had significant performance on and daily weight gain compare to those fed LGNC.The dry matter digestibility shows that there was no significant difference among the dietary groups.

Utilizing surplus bread as an ingredient in dog food: Evaluating baking and extrusion processing on physicochemical properties and in vitro digestibility performance

This study probed the effects of integrating surplus bread crumbs (BC) into dog food formulations, examining the resulting influence on the rheological, physicochemical, and in vitro digestibility properties of the products processed using baking and extrusion methods. Increasing BC concentration led to increased mean cold viscosity values, decreased peak and paste viscosity, higher expansion indices, and lower bulk density. Lightness of the samples (L* values) increased significantly with higher BC ratios, resulting in lighter-colored products. The hardness of the extrudates ranged between 23.1 N and 49.4 N, and decreased with increasing BC ratios. This suggested changes in structural properties due to the addition of BC. Microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy demonstrated a more homogeneous matrix in BC containing samples, possibly due to interactions between the gelatinized starch and denatured gluten proteins from the BC. The in vitro apparent digestibility coefficients showed no significant variation in dry matter digestibility across BC ratios, while crude protein digestibility decreased and nitrogen-free extract digestibility increased with higher BC ratios. Specific Mechanical Energy (SME) values were found to be lower in BC-containing samples (p<0.05), indicating potential energy-saving benefits during the production process.

The impact of multi-enzyme fortification on growth performance, intestinal morphology, nutrient digestibility, and meat quality of broiler chickens fed a standard or low-density diet.

This research aimed to study the impact of supplementation of three multi-enzyme levels (0, 0.1, and 0.2% of feed) and two levels of dietary treatments [standard diet (SD) and low-density diet (LDD)] on growth performance, carcass traits, digestibility, and meat quality of broilers from 1 to 38 days of age. A total of 216 1-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly assigned to a factorial experiment (2 × 3) comprising six dietary treatments, each with six replicates and each replicate with six chickens. The results showed that the LDD significantly reduced body weight gain by 5.0%, compared with the SD. Multi-enzymes significantly improved body weight gain and the production index (PI) relative to the SD. The feed conversion ratio was significantly enhanced with increased multi-enzymes from 1 to 21 days. A significant relation between the multi-enzyme concentration and type of dietary treatment was observed in body weight gain and feed conversion ratio from 1 to 21 days of age. Nitrogen-free extract digestibility was significantly increased by using the SD diet compared with using the LDD. Multi-enzyme supplementation improved the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and nitrogen-free extract in the LDD. A significant relationship was found between the multi-enzyme concentration and type of dietary treatment on the pancreas, liver, and intestinal length percentages. The meat dry matter concentration was significantly higher in the LDD group than in the SD group. The low-density diet significantly reduced the total revenue compared with the SD, whereas broilers fed the SD recorded significantly higher total revenue and economic efficiency than those fed the LDD. The low-density diet significantly increased economic efficiency compared with the SD. Multi-enzymes significantly increased the total revenue, net revenue, and economic efficiency than the standard set. In conclusion, using multi-enzymes in broiler diets improved body weight gain. The LDD with multi-enzymes showed enhanced body weight gain compared with the SD without multi-enzymes.

Comparative effects of supplementary different copper forms on performance, protein efficiency, digestibility of nutrients, immune function and architecture of liver and kidney in growing rabbits

The various sources of supplemented copper had a different impact on the animal performance based on their bioavailability. The current study compared the effects of supplementary copper oxide (CuO), copper acetate (Cu-acetate) and copper nanoparticles (Cu-NP) on performance, immune function, nutrients digestibility and architecture of the liver and kidney of growing rabbits for eight weeks. Sixty rabbits (581 ± 6.56 g) were randomly allocated to four treatments as follows: basal diet, 100 mg copper/kg diet as CuO, 100 mg copper/kg diet as Cu-acetate and 50 mg copper/kg diet as Cu-NP. Cu-acetate and Cu-NP improved specific growth rate, final weight and daily weight gain. Cu-NP supplementation had higher feed intake, feed conversion, protein efficiency, hematocrit and hemoglobin values compared with other copper forms. All copper sources showed higher levels of serum complement component 3, Immunoglobulin M, lysozyme activity and the digestibility of nitrogen-free extract, dry matter and organic matter. As a result, increased nutritive values were detected when the rabbits were fed copper-supplemented diets. No liver and kidney architecture alterations were identified between the experimental groups. In conclusion, both dietary Cu-NP and Cu-acetate were more efficient than CuO in enhancing growth and seem promising in fattening rabbit nutrition.

In Vitro Digestibility of Hay Mangrove with Native Grass

Forage is the main component of feed given to ruminants. Local feed ingredients that can be used are mangroves and native grass. This study used the Randomized Block Design (RBD) experimental method with 4 = four treatments and 5-five replications. The treatments composed of Hay Mangrove Leaves and Native grass as follows: A (60 + 40%), B (50 + 50%), C (40 + 60%) and D (30 + 70%). Data were analyzed using General Liner Model and continued with Duncan's Multiple Range Tests (DMRT). The results showed that the treatment had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on the digestibility of crude fiber, crude fat, and NFE. The best ratio of the combination of mangrove leaf hay and field grass based on the in-vitro digestibility was C treatment (40% mangrove hay + 60% field grass). The digestibility value of each crude fiber was 61.24%, crude fat was 61.43% and NFE was 62.30%. This study aims to evaluate the in-vitro digestibility of crude fiber, crude fat, and Nitrogen-Free Extract (NFE) of hay mangrove leave and native grass.

Kecernaan Nutrien dan Status Fisiologis Domba Akhir Kebuntingan dengan Ransum Flushing Minyak Sawit dan Minyak Lemuru

The objective of this study was to evaluate nutrient digestibility and physiological status of local sheep at late pregnancy fed with flushing diet containing palm oil, lemuru oil, and their combination. In this research, the livestock used were 12 female local sheep at late pregnancy with an average body weight of 43.58 ± 5.57 kg were placed in metabolic cages. This study used a randomized block design (RBD) with 4 treatments and 3 block replications. The treatments were P1 = control ration (30% grass + 70% concentrate), P2 = control ration + 6% palm oil supplementation, P3 = control ration + 3% lemuru oil and 3% palm oil supplementation, P4 = control ration + 6% lemuru oil supplementation. The feed consumption, nutrient digestibility, and physiological status were measured in this study. The data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA. Means values differences were analyzed using Duncan test. The results showed that the addition of palm oil and lemuru oil to the concentrate diet increased (p&lt;0.05) crude fat consumption, dry matter digestibility, and crude fat digestibility, but decreased (p&lt;0.05) Nitrogen free extract consumption. Addition of palm oil and lemuru oil on the concentrate diet had no significant effect on dry matter consumption, crude protein consumption, crude fiber consumption, crude protein digestibility, crude fiber digestibility, Nitrogen free extract digestibility, and TDN value. The treatments did not affect significantly on physiological status. It can be concluded that the use of 6% palm oil in the ration can increase crude fat consumption and crude fat digestibility in pregnant ewes.&#x0D; Key words: digestibility, ewes, flushing, oil, physiological status

Age-related digestibility of nutrients depending on the moisture content in aged dogs.

Digestibility of pet food can affect the health of dog, especially of aged animals. To maintain the health of dogs in an overall good status it is necessary to provide nutritionally balanced food. For example, the digestibility of dogs was known to be decreased along aging. In addition, losing teethes is an often event in aged dogs that could induce a problem to eat a large size dry pet food. Nonetheless, few detailed information is available on the most suited feeding for aged dogs. As part of the nutritional study of food for aged dogs, in this study, we tested whether food type impacts on digestibility on adult versus senior dogs. The methodology to measure the digestibility of nutrients was chosen the index method using chromium oxide. Dogs were fed the same commercial dry or wet diets, which were supplemented with 0.5% chromium oxide. The wet food was prepared by adding twice volume of water in the dry food prior to incubated overnight (14–16 hours) at room temperature. After five days, their feces were collected up to a total weight of > 200 g which was the amount to analyze undigested nutrients in feces as 3 repeats. In the apparent total tract digestibility analysis of the experimental breed, no difference in the digestibility of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, and energy was observed regarding the moisture content of the food. Noteworthy, the digestibility of nitrogen free extract was significantly increased in senior dogs fed dry dog food compared with adult dogs fed the same diet, whereas no difference was observed between senior and adult dogs fed wet food. The small breed dogs showed similar results to the experimental breed dogs. However, the digestibility of crude fat was additionally affected by age and food type unlike the experimental breed dogs. This finding suggests that the food moisture content affects the digestibility of nutrients in dogs with aging. Hence, it may be helpful to determine the nutrient contents in foods for senior dogs depending on the food type.

Nutrient Digestibility and Digestive Enzyme Activity in Fringe Lipped Carp, Labeo fimbriatus (Bloch, 1795), Fed Diets Containing Cottonseed Meal

Advanced fingerlings of Labeo fimbriatus (Bloch, 1795) were reared in aerated indoor plastic tanks to elucidate the dry matter and nutrient digestibility of cottonseed meal (CSM) in the feed. The fish were fed isocaloric formulated diets containing CSM replacing the main ingredients – groundnut cake and rice bran of the control diet at 10, 20, 30 and 40 % levels. Total dry matter digestibility and major nutrient digestibility were estimated using acid insoluble ash as the marker. In general, the digestibility of dry matter, protein, fat, and nitrogen-free extract was higher in CSM incorporated diets than the control diet. While the dry matter and nitrogen-free extract digestibility values were highest at 40 % CSM incorporation level, those for protein and fat digestibility were highest in 30 % and 10 % levels, respectively, showing an apparent reduction thereafter. The incorporation of CSM had a stimulatory effect on most of the intestinal digestive enzymes tested. Fish fed 20 % CSM diet recorded the highest activity of total protease and carboxypeptidases while those fed 30 % CSM diet had highest trypsin and amylase activities; all showing reducing trend consequently. In the case of hepatopancreas, the reducing trend in the activities of protease, chymotrypsin, carboxypeptidase A, and lipase observed with increased incorporation levels of CSM was significant (P &lt; 0.05) and the reduction in the activities of trypsin, amylase and cellulase in CSM fed fish was not significant (P &gt; 0.05). The study indicates the possibility of incorporation of CSM in the diet of L. fimbriatus up to 40 % level without affecting nutrient digestibility.

Effect of Processed Lemon Pulp with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Zaribi Goats Diet on Milk Production, Nutrients Digestibility, Blood Parameters, and Reproductive Performance

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of replacing concentrate feed (CFM) mixture with different levels of treated lemon pulp (TLP) on milk production and composition, nutrients digestibility, and blood parameters of Zaribi goats. A total of 24 Zaribi female goats at the end of the pregnant period were divided into three groups of eight according to live weight. Concentrate feed mixture and clover hay at a rate of 50:50 were offered twice a day. Treatedlemon pulp replaced CFM at rates 0%, 25%, and 50 % in diets of R1, R2, and R3 treatment groups, respectively. The feeding trial lasted 90 days. Dry matter digestibility and Nitrogen free extract digestibility were significantly raised by the increased level of TLP in groups R2 (72.37% and 70.36%) and R3 (72.28% and 70.30%), compared to (70.99% and 68.51%) in R1, respectively. The same trend was observed for organic matter digestibility (OMD), crude protein digestibility (CPD), crude fiber digestibility (CFD), and ether extract digestibility (EED) with R3, compared with either R1 or R2. However, there were insignificant differences between R1 and R2 in terms of OMD, CPD, and EED but CFD was significantly higher in R2, compared to R1. There was a significant increase in the milk yield by the increased level of TLP in the diet and for R2 (1448.4g/h/d) and R3(1558.7g/h/d), while it was reported as 1377.6 g/h/d in the control group. Feeding dams on the R3 diet had a significant effect on improving total antioxidant capacity by 63.5%, compared with control. The results of the present study indicated that the replacement of CFM by TLP decreased the costs of feed and increase milk production for the replacement level by 50% (R3). Moreover, no adverse effects were noticed on nutrients digestibility and blood parameters of the investigated samples.

Nitrogen output in the urban environment using a vegetarian canine diet.

Pet owners are increasingly concerned about the links between health status, animal welfare, environmental impacts, climate change and consumption of animal products. Accordingly, many owners are increasingly interested in vegetarian diets for themselves and their companion animals. However, such diets should be investigated nutritionally regards digestibility as well as on fecal quality and nitrogen output. In light of this trend, six Beagle dogs were included in a cross-over experimental design and offered a vegetarian diet containing wheat gluten (8.81%), rice protein (8.81%) and sunflower oil (6.84%) or an meat-based diet containing poultry meal (19.5%) and poultry fat (5.23%). The dogs received extruded complete diets for 12 days (adaptation and collection period, each 6 days). The dogs fed both diets showed a high and identical palatability (scoring of food intake) of the experimental diets. No significant differences occurred regarding digestibility of organic matter, crude protein and crude fat between vegetarian and meat-based diets. However, dogs fed the meat-based diet had higher (p < 0.05) nitrogen-free extract digestibility (89.5%) compared to those fed the vegetarian diet (88.6%). The amount of nitrogen excreted in feces (g)/kg BW0.75 was slightly, but not significantly, higher for dogs fed the vegetarian diet compared to those fed the meat-based diet (0.88 vs 0.79). The fecal consistency scores were considered to be within an acceptable range (well formed and firm). The mass of the feces between both groups were similar (62.9 g wet feces/100 g dry matter food) for vegetarian and meat-based diets. Additionally, the fecal dry matter content was comparable between both groups (29.0% and 29.6% for vegetarian and meat-based diets, respectively). In conclusion, the results of this study appear to indicate that virtually the only significant difference between the two diets was lower nitrogen-free extract digestibility in the vegetarian diet. However, the vegetarian diet did not result in a significant difference in amount of nitrogen excreted in feces.

DRIED POULTRY WASTE VERSUS GROUNDNUT CAKE AS PROTEIN SUPPLEMENT FOR GRAZING WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS AND SHEEP

IN two separate experiments dried poultry waste (DPW) from caged-layer units was evaluated as a protein supplement for small ruminants. In experiment 1, nine goats divided into three groups of three animals each were randomly assigned to three diets containing 0,25, and 30% DPW in three periods of 17 days per period. Experiment 2 involved eight sheep, six of which were grazed and in addition fed in pairs to each of three diets containing 0, 20 and 30% DPW over a period of 12 weeks. The remaining two sheep were maintained solely on grazing during the same period of time. Dry matter intake and digestibilities of dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, other extract as well as liveweight gains and feed efficiency were not significantly different among the different treatments in experiment 1. Digestibility of nitrogen free extract was however significantly (P 0.05) different. In experiment 2, the control diet was consumed significantly (P 0.01) more than the diet containing 20% DPW. In general, intake decreased as DPW inclusion increased, but performance of animals on DPW supplemented remained as good or even better than those on the control diet. While supplementation produced on increase in liveweight gain of between 48-58% over initial bodyweight in 12 weeks, grazing alone promoted an overall in increase of 0.04% only during the same period.

The Composition, Nutrient Digestibility and Energy Value of Maize Cobs, Yam Peels and Plantain Peels for Three Weight Groups of Pigs

THE proximate and mineral composition of yellow maize (YM), maize cobs (MC), yam peels (YP) and plantain peels (PP) were determined. Their digestion coefficients for dry matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fibre (CF) and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) were determined with 48 pigs at 18, 45 and 65 kg liveweight. In a second trial 60 pigs of similar weights were used to determine the digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME) and nitrogen corrected ME (ME) for a basal diet and these feeds in diets in which 40; by weight of the test ingredients were added to the basal diet. The digestion coefficents of DM, CP, CF and EE for YM (92.0, 86.0, 76.7 and 88.6% respectively) were significantly better than the values of 83.4, 54.2, 71.7 and 38.4 and 79.5, 57.7, 70.2 and 55.7{ observed for YP and PP respectively. MC had significantly the least digestion coefficients for these nutrients (27.9, -18.5, 51.7 and 17.1%). The 18 kg pigs digested DM and CF to a lesser extent than the 45 or 65 kg pigs. There were no significant differences in CP, EE and NFE digestibility between weight groups. The DE and ME values of 3.14 and 2.98 and 3.15 and 2.94 kcals/g for YP and PP respectively were identical but significantly lower than the values of 4.0 and 3.68 for YM, MC had significantly the least DE, ME and ME% values. The ME values of 3.49, 2.95 and 2.94 kcal/g for YM, YP and PP were not significantly different, There were no significant differences in DE, ME or ME between the weight groups.

COMPARATIVE UTILIZATION OF SEWAGE SLUDGE, POULTRY DROPPINGS AND GROUNDNUT CAKE RATIONS BY WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS

Eighteen young West African dwarf (WAD) goats were used to compare the utilization of sewage sludge, poultry dropping and groundnut cake rations by WAD goats. Total dry matter intake of the animals fed diet A (groundnut cake based ration) and C (poultry dropping based ration) was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher than dry matter intake of animal fed diet B (dry activated sewage sludge based ration). Total dry matter intake of animal fed diet A (664.6 g/day) appeared to be higher than those fed diet C (600.5g/day), although the differences observed were and significant. Values observed for apparent dry matter, ether extract and nitrogen-free extract digestibilities between animals fed the different diets were not significant (P &gt; 0.05). crude fibre and crude protein digestibility values however varied appreciably. Values recorded (12.03, 1.04 and 10.42 g/day and 3.13, 0.28 and 2.72 g.day/w 0.75kg for animals fed diets A, B, and C respectively) for nitrogen balance and weight gains (56.8, -2.7 and 36.8 g/day for animals fed diets A, B and C respectively) were higher for animals fed diet A, followed by animals fed diets C and B respectively.

Incorporation of cooked barley residue and spent grapes in the ration of pregnant Large White Yorkshire sows and their piglets.

In Kerala and other South Indian States, the ayurvedic by-products are widely available which can adequately be incorporated into pig diets. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of dietary incorporation of cooked barley residue and spent grapes on feed intake, growth performance, and nutrient utilization in sows and their piglets. Using completely randomized design (CRD), fifteen (15) Large White Yorkshire (LWY) pregnant sows with an average body weight of 180.53kg, 3weeks before the estimated date of farrowing, were randomly allotted to one of three treatment groups. The dietary treatment groups consisted of T1 (control), fed with a ration containing maize and soya bean meal of 18% CP and 3265kcal/kg ME, T2 with a ration containing cooked barley residue replacing 25% maize in control, and T3 with a ration containing spent grapes replacing 25% maize in control ration. Data on average daily feed intake (ADFI), fortnightly bodyweight of sows and their piglets were recorded for 63days. Also, the average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and cost of feed per kg of weight gain of the piglets were calculated. The result showed no significant (P > 0.05) dietary treatment effects on average weekly dry matter intake and fortnightly average body weight gain among the sows in all the three groups. Piglets showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) in total dry matter intake (DMI), total body weight gain, ADG, and FCR among the three groups during the entire study period. No variations were observed for the apparent digestibility of nitrogen-free extract and the availability of magnesium in the three rations. The cost of feed per kg weight gain was lower in piglets belonging to T2 and T3 than the control (T1), though not significant statistically (P > 0.05). It is, therefore, concluded that cooked barley residue and spent grapes could be included up to 25% in the ration of sow and their piglets by partially replacing maize without affecting their overall performances.

Performance of growing rabbits fed soybean cheese waste meal diet and lablab hay

Growing crossbred rabbits were used to study the performance of rabbits fed different levels of soybean cheese waste (SCW) diet and lablab hay. The treatments comprised of levels of soybean cheese waste diet and lablab hay on a gram to gram basis of: (1) 100:60 (100:60S), (2) 75:85 (75:855), (3) 50:110 (50:110S) and (4) 25:135 (25: 135S) to give a total feed supply of 160g/rabbit/ day. The control was 100:60 (100:60R) of rabbit diet and lablab hay respectively. The concentrates. and forage were offered in separate feeders at 08.00 hours. Rabbits on 100:60S had significantly higher weight gain than the control on rabbit diet (100:60R), Weight gain decreased linearly with decrease in level of SCW. Total daily feed intake was significantly higher for the control than the SCW treatments. Among the SCW treutments, total daily feed intake was significantly higher for rabbits on 25: 135S than 50: 170S. The control had the highest feed cost. Cost/kg gain was significantly higher for the control and 25:135S treatments than the other treatment groups with savings of 58 73% on SCW. Nutrient intake was significantly higher for the control than SCW treatments. Dry matter and ether extract digestibility was similar for the treatments. Crude fibre digestibility was lowest while nitrogen free extract digestibility was highest for the control than the SCW treatments. Crude protein digestibility was similar for the control and other treatments but higher for 75:85S. It is concluded from this study that based on the lower cost of production and high nutrient digestibility of rabbits on soybean cheese waste diet and lablab hay, soybean cheese waste show's good prospect as an alternative cheap feed stuff for rabbit production.

Nutrient Intake and digestibility of Rabbit does fed varying levels of concentrate and lablab during pregnancy

Nulliparous crossbred does were used to study the effects of concentrate:lablab ratio (CL) and stage of pregnancy on nutrient intake and digestibility. Treatments consisted of four concentrate and lablab combinations on a gram:gram basis: 20:130, 40: 110, 80:70 and 100:50 and two stages of pregnancy: second and fourth week of pregnancy Concentrate intake increased as level increased up to 80g/day offered while lablab intake increased from 50 to 130g/day offered. Doe weight and metabolic size were similar for all treatments. Total feed intake was not affected by concentrate and lablab levels. Dry matter intake was lower for 100:50 CL than other treatments. Ether extract and crude fibre intakes decreased with increase in concentrate levels. Dry matter and nitrogen free extract digestibility were higher for 80:70 CL than other combinations. Crude fibre digestibility was higher for 80:70 than 40:110 and 100:50 CL Crude protein retention was higher for 80:70 than 20:130 and 100:50 CL. Fetal growth requirement, total protein requirement and balance of protein were high at 80:70 and 100:50 CL. During pregnancy, dry matter and all nutrients intake were higher in the second than fourth week. Ether extract, crude protein and nitrogen free extract digestibilities were lower in the second than fourth week of pregnancy. Fetal growth requirement and balance of protein were higher in the second than fourth week of pregnancy relationship between feed intake (g DM/day) and nutrient digestibility was negative. The relationship between feed intake (g DM/kg body weight/day) and feed intake (g DM/kg LW0.75/day) was however, positive for all the nutrients except crude protein. For the small scale rabbit producer in developing countries, it is feasible to maintain rabbits on combinations of concentrate and lablab during pregnancy

Dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance of WAD sheep fed ensiled maize stover and concentrate supplement

A study on effect of ensiled maize stover (EMS) and protein concentrate supplement (CS) on nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance of ensiled maize stover (EMS) and concentrate supplement (CS) by West African Dwarf ewe was carried out. were showed Fifteen West African dwarf ewe with body weight of 14-16 kg allotted to individual metabolic cage in completely randomized design after preliminary feeding trial. The treatments were: A (75% EMS + 25% CS), B (50% EMS + 50% CS), C (25% EMS + 75% CS), D (100%EMS) and E (100% CS). The digestibility study lasted for seven days to determine dry matter digestibility, nutrients digestibility and nitrogen retention of WAD ewe fed ensiled maize stover and concentrate supplement. Results that dry matter intake (DMI), digestible crude protein (DCP), digestible crude fibre (DCF), digestible nitrogen free extract (DNFE), and total digestible nutrients (TDN) ranged from 321.65- 694.41gDM/day, 3.99 - 12.30%, 7.32 - 17.23%, 33.35 – 38.85% and 63.65 – 70.92%, respectively. Dry matter intake of ewe fed sole ensiled maize stover (diet D) was lowest (321.65gDM/day) while animals on diet C (25% EMS+75%CS) had the highest (694.41gDM/d). Apparent digestibility of CP was lowest (3.99%) in ewe fed sole EMS and highest (12.20%) in ewe fed diet C (25% EMS + 75% CS). Positive N-balance was observed for all the five diets, but it was highest (P&lt; 0.05) in diet B (50%+50%) and lowest in diet D (100% EMS). Similarly, N-retention was highest (67.15%) in diet B and lowest (27.61%) in diet D. Therefore, diet made up of 50% ensiled maize stover and 50% concentrate is recommended for sheep production.

Nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed different sources of animal protein

One of the most important aspects of animal nutrition is digestibility of ingested materials which has a direct relationship with the health status of an animal. The effect of different fish meal alternatives (maggot, termite, grasshopper and lizard meals) on nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens was investigated in this 56 days feeding trial. One hundred and fifty broiler chicks (Marshal breed) were used for the study. Birds were assigned into five dietary groups of 30 chicks each and further divided into three replicates of 10 chicks each. Five experimental diets were formulated to contain 5% fish meal, maggot meal, termite meal, grasshopper meal and lizard meal in treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 (tagged T1 , T2 , T3 , T4 and T5 ) respectively in starter phase, while fish meal was replaced with 2.5% maggot, termite, grasshopper and lizard meals in treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively in finisher phase. The chicks were allocated into the four diets in a completely randomized design and housed in a deep litter pen with feed and water served without restriction. Results from dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ash, ether extract and nitrogen free extract digestibility showed significant (P&lt;0.05) differences in the test ingredients on birds. Dry matter digestibility ranged from 88.35% in birds fed T3 to 91.86% in birds fed T5 . Crude fibre followed the same trend with the lowest (70.80%) in T3 and the highest (84.83%) in T5 , but ether extract digestibility was at the opposite trend where birds fed T3 had the highest (87.14%), and those on T5 gave the lowest (80.86%). Crude protein showed significant decrease across the treatments from 86.10% in T1 to 80.88% in T5 . Ash digestibility ranged from 68.84% in T2 to 77.05% in T1 . Results on cut-up parts showed that there were no significant (P&gt;0.05) influence on all the parameters considered except in live weight, dressed weight and breast muscle weights where there were significant (P&lt;0.05) differences. Internal organ proportions of the broiler birds showed no significant (P&gt;0.05) effect of the test ingredients on all the parameters considered except in abdominal fat. It can be concluded that crude protein digestibility, live weight, dressed weight and breast muscle values in birds fed T2 (maggot meal) were higher than birds fed other test ingredients and as such recommended as an alternative to fish meal.