West African Dwarf Goats Research Articles

Sour sop (Annona muricata L) leaf meal enhanced growth ofWest African Dwarf goats

Apart from the use of sour sop (Annonamuricata) as food crop, the leaves, seeds andmany of the plant parts are used in traditional medicine for treatment of kidney problems, fever with antispasmodic, antidysenteric, and parasiticidal activity. Thus, a 63 day study was conducted to evaluate the feed potentials and effect of sour sop (Annona muricata) leafmeal (AMLM) on growth performance ofWest African dwarf (WAD) weaned goats. Nine (9)WAD goats were grouped into three and assigned diets containing 0%, 10%, and 20%Annona leaf meal.Formulated feedswere offered at3%of bodyweight in themorning andgmelina leaves later in the day. Feed intake was recorded daily while weight gain was taken weekly and feed conversion ratio was calculated to determine growth performance. Proximate composition of the leaf meal was determined according AOAC, (2000). The result showed high metabolisable energy, dry matter, ash, and crude fiber of 2563.5Kcal/Kg, 93.91%, 10.62% and 16.20% respectively,moderate level of nitrogen free extract (42.39%) and crude protein (20.41%) which is an indication thatAnnonamuricata leafmeal could be a suitable feedstuff for ruminant animals. The performance results showed that feed intake was significantly higher in group 1(0%AMLM) and lower in group 3(20%AMLM). However, no significant (P>0.05) differences were observed among the groups on weight gain and feed conversion ratio proving that the diet treatment had no significant effect on the goats. Therefore,Annona muricata leafmeal could be an alternative to high-cost goat nutritionwithout compromising growth performance.

Growth performance ofWest African Dwarf goats fed boiled dried Gmelina arborea and sun dried Moringa oleifera leaves

Sixteen West African dwarf (WAD) goats weighing 5.5kg to 10.7kg were used to determine the growth performance ofWADgoats fed boiled driedGmelina arborea leaves and sundried Moringa oleifera leaves. The goats were allotted randomly into four treatments groups of four animals each having two replicates each in a completely randomized design. Goats in T1 were fed concentrate and Panicum maximum (control diet), in T2 were fed concentrate and boiled dried Gmelina arborea leaves, goats in T3 were fed concentrate and sundried moringa oleifera leaveswhile goats in T4were fed concentrate andmixture of freshGmelina arborea and freshMoringa oleifera leaves. The experiment lasted for 10 weeks. The animals were weighed on weekly basis throughout the 56 days (8 weeks) of the experiment. Feed intake and weight changes were monitored. Data collected were analyzed using the one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) while the mean were separated using the Duncan multiple range test. The result from this study shows that animals in T4 fed concentratewithmixture of fresh Gmelina arborea leaves and freshMoringa oleifera leaves performed better in respect to feed intake having a record of 2.88 0.008 followed by T1 2.86 0.012 while experimental animals in T2 and T3 had the lowest value 2.69 0.011 and 2.60 0.008 respectively, animals in T4 gained weight while those in T1, T2 and T3 lost weight. The study suggest the use of fresh Gmelina arborea leaves and fresh Moringa oleifera leaves in feeding goats due to the fact that they are efficiently utilized by the animals and their availability even at the peak of dry season.

Comparative study of growth patterns of Kalahari Red goats and West African dwarf goats reared in Southwest Nigeria

This study focused on comparing growth traits (body weights at birth, 3-month weaning and 6-month post-weaning) as well as growth curves of Kalahari Red (KR), a newly introduced goat breed in Nigeria and West African Dwarf (WAD) goat semi-intensively managed. Data on growth traits and weekly live weights were collected from 124 kids consisting of 61 KR and 63 WAD goats. The data were subjected to least squares analysis of variance to evaluate the effects of breed, sex, season, birth type and parity. The results showed that KR kids exceeded WAD kids in body weights at birth (2.30±0.06 kg vs 1.56±0.06 kg), 3-month weaning (8.88±0.57 kg vs 3.88±0.20 kg) and 6-month post-weaning (13.97±0.86 kg vs 5.05±0.37 kg). Corresponding pre-weaning average daily gain (ADG) estimates were 84.44±2.44 g and 31.73±1.16 g and post-weaning ADG were 61.88±1.81g and 24.84±1.21 g. Growth patterns of the two breeds were described using four different non-linear models: Brody, Gompertz, Logistic and Von Bertalanffy. Models were compared using parameter estimates (asymptotic weight 'A', integration constant 'B' and rate of maturity 'k'). Model with good fit was adjudged using coefficient of determination (R2) and residual mean squares (RMS). The KR goats had higher parameter estimates than WAD goats. Von Bertalanffy model had the highest 'A' estimates (24.24±0.94 kg vs 11.99±0.54 kg for KR and WAD goats). Gompertz had highest 'B' and 'k' estimates (5.37±0.20 vs 3.38±0.09) and (0.19±0.01 vs 0.13±0.01) for KR and WAD goats. All four growth models generally had R2 exceeding 99% and low RMS, hence giving good fit to the observed growth data. They can be used to implement feeding and management decisions that will optimize productivity. Information on superior growth performance of the Kalahari Red goat can be utilized to further investigate genetic improvement of the indigenous West African Dwarf population through crossbreeding. Cette étude s'est concentrée sur la comparaison des traits de croissance (poids corporel à la naissance, sevrage à 3 mois et 6 mois après le sevrage) ainsi que les courbes de croissance du Kalahari Red (KR), une race de chèvre nouvellement introduite au Nigéria et West AfricanDwarf (WAD) chèvre gérée de manière semi-intensive. Des données sur les traits de croissance et le poids vif hebdomadaire ont été collectées auprès de 124 chevreaux comprenant 61 chèvres KR et 63 chèvres WAD. Les données ont été soumises à une analyse des moindres carrés de la variance pour évaluer les effets de la race, du sexe, de la saison, du type de naissance et de la parité. Les résultats ont montré que les enfants KR dépassaient les enfants WAD en poids corporel à la naissance (2.30 ± 0.06 kg vs 1.56 ± 0.06 kg), au sevrage de 3 mois (8.88 ± 0.57 kg vs 3.88 ± 0.20 kg) et 6 mois après le sevrage (13.97 ± 0.86 kg contre 5.05 ± 0.37 kg). Les estimations correspondantes du gain quotidien moyen (ADG) présevrage étaient de 84.44 ± 2.44 g et 31.73 ± 1.16 g et l'ADG post-sevrage était de 61.88 ± 1.81 g et 24.84 ± 1.21 g. Les modèles de croissance des deux races ont été décrits à l'aide de quatre modèles non linéaires différents :Brody, Gompertz, Logistic et Von Bertalanffy. Les modèles ont été comparés à l'aide d'estimations de paramètres (poids asymptotique « A », constante d'intégration « B » et taux de maturité « k »). Le modèle avec un bon ajustement a été évalué en utilisant le coefficient de détermination (R2) et les carrés moyens résiduels (RMS). Les chèvres KR avaient des estimations de paramètres plus élevées que les chèvres WAD. Le modèle de Von Bertalanffy présentait les estimations « A » les plus élevées (24.24 ± 0.94 kg contre 11.99 ± 0.54 kg pour les chèvres KR et WAD). Gompertz avait les estimations « B » et « k » les plus élevées (5.37 ± 0.20 vs 3.38 ± 0.09) et (0.19 ± 0.01 vs 0.13 ± 0.01) pour les chèvres KR et WAD. Les quatre modèles de croissance avaient généralement un R2 supérieur à 99% et un RMS faible, ce qui correspondait bien aux données de croissance observées. Ils peuvent être utilisés pour mettre en œuvre des décisions d'alimentation et de gestion qui optimiseront la productivité. Les informations sur la performance de croissance supérieure de la chèvre rouge du Kalahari peuvent être utilisées pour étudier plus avant l'amélioration génétique de la population indigène de nains d'Afrique de l'Ouest par croisement.

Haematological and biochemical profiles of WAD goats fed graded levels of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) meal

Bitter leaf is an underutilized manageable size shrub in Nigeria despite its numerous nutritional benefits, economic value and potential as a dry season feed source for ruminant animals. This study was carried out to determine the haematological and biochemical profiles of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed graded levels of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) meal (BLM). Twenty-four WAD goats of both sexes and 5-7 months old were randomly allotted to four treatments of graded levels of BLM (0% BLM (Control Diet), 15% BLM, 30% BLM and 45% BLM diets) in a completely randomized design. The diets were used as supplements to a basal ration of Panicum maximum. The feeding trial lasted 20 weeks. The analysis of blood components, red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC) and parked cell volume (PCV) counts showed that there were no significant (P>0.05) differences in each of these parameters among the goats fed experimental diets. There were no significant differences in the albumin, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, creatinine, globulin, total protein and urea levels of the animals fed the different levels of bitter leaf meal (p>0.05). The result of the serum glucose of goats fed 30% BLM and 45% BLM was significantly (p<0.05) lower than that of CD. It is concluded that feeding of bitter leaf meal at the different levels had no adverse effect on the haematological and biochemical profiles of WAD goats except in the reduction of serum glucose in animals fed above 15% bitter leaf meal. La feuille amère est un arbuste de taille gérable sous-utilisé au Nigéria malgré ses nombreux avantages nutritionnels, sa valeur économique et son potentiel en tant que source d'alimentation de saison sèche pour les ruminants. Cette étude a été réalisée pour determiner les profils hématologiques et biochimiques de chèvres naines d'Afrique de l'Ouest (WAD) nourries à des aliments de farine de feuilles amères(le 'BLM') (Vernonia amygdalina). Vingtquatre chèvres WAD des deux sexes et âgées de 5 à 7 mois ont été attribuées au hasard à quatre traitements de niveaux gradués de BLM (0% BLM (régime témoin), 15% BLM, 30% BLM et 45% BLM) dans conception aléatoire. Les régimes ont été utilisés comme suppléments à une ration basale de Panicum maximum. L'essai d'alimentation a duré 20 semaines. L'analyse des comptages des composants sanguins, des globules rouges (le 'RBC'), des globules blancs (le 'WBC') et du volume de cellules en stationnement (le 'PCV') a montré qu'il n'y avait pas de différence significative (P> 0.05) dans chacun de ces paramètres parmi les chèvres nourries avec des régimes expérimentaux. Il n'y avait pas de différences significatives dans les taux d'albumine, de phosphatase alcaline, de cholestérol, de créatinine, de globuline, de protéines totales et d'urée des animaux nourris avec les différents niveaux de farine de feuilles amères (p> 0.05). Le résultat du glucose sérique des chèvres nourries à 30% de BLM et 45% de BLM était significativement (p <0.05) inférieur à celui de CD. Il est conclu que l'alimentation de farine de feuilles amères à différents niveaux n'a eu aucun effet indésirable sur les profils hématologique et biochimique des chèvres WAD, sauf dans la réduction de la glycémie chez les animaux nourris à plus de 15% de farine de feuilles amères.

Proximate composition and physico-chemical parameters of water hyacinth (Eicchornia crassipes) ensiled with breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) as feed for WAD goats

Scarce forages and low digestibility are major challenges of dry season feeding of ruminants in the tropics. This can be overcome by conservation of forages through ensiling with unconventional and inexpensive materials containing high fermentable carbohydrates. Water hyacinth, an invasive water weed with high biomass yield was ensiled with graded levels of breadfruit and assessed for its potential as a feed resource. Breadfruit was included in silages at 0% (control, T1); 10% (T2), 20% (T3), 30% (T4) and 40% (T5) with sawdust added at a constant inclusion level of 10% to serve as absorbent. Proximate composition and silage quality assessment were determined after 30 days of ensiling. Results showed that dry matter (%) of silages ranged between 14.21 (T1) and 28.44 (T4). Ash contents (g/100g) reduced (P<0.05) as breadfruit inclusion increased in the silage diets. Crude protein (g/100g) was higher (P<0.05) in T1 (12.03) than T5 (9.18) but was similar in T2, T3 and T4 (10.50, 10.72, 10.28) respectively. The appearance, odour and texture of the silages in T3-T5 had acceptable physical attributes while pH values ranged from 4.65 – 5.40. It is concluded that the leaves and stem of water hyacinth ensiled with breadfruit have potential as feed for ruminants in terms ofnutritio nal and physico-chemical attributes.

Nutrients intake and weight gain ofWest African dwarf goats fed maize offal substituted with urea-molasses treated cassava peel diets

A study that involved 20West African dwarf (WAD) goats aged 1½ - 2 years with an average live weight of 13.86 ± 0.14 kg was carried out to evaluate nutrients intake, digestibility, Weight gain, nitrogen balance and feed to gain ratio of WAD goats fedmaize offal substituted with urea-molasses treated cassava peels meal. The goats were divided into 5 groups of four goats per group and allotted to individual pens in a completely randomized design. The experimental period lasted 63days excluding two weeks of adaptation. Five diets were formulated such thatmaize offal was substitutedwith ensiled urea-molasses cassava peels at ratio 0% (A), 20% (B), 30% (C), 40% (D), 50% (E) respectively. The drymatter ranged from 91.26 (diet E) to 91.69% (diet A) while diet B had highest NDF (32.39%) and energy (16.61KJ/100gDM). The crude protein content ranged between 16.31 (diet A) and 23.30% (diet E) and increased with the increased inclusion of urea-molasses treated cassava peel meal in the diets. Nutrients intake, apparent digestibility, dailyweight gain, nitrogen balance and feed to gain ratio were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by the treatments except hemicelluloses and cellulose. The highest dry matter (549.42g/day) and crude protein (108. 95g/day) intake were observed in goats fed diet C. All the diets were adequately utilized however, goats fed diet B have the best weight gain (61.90g/day) and convert their feed to flesh better (8.52) than others goats.Hence, the diet was palatable, acceptable and tolerable to the goats without a sign of ill-health. Thus, maize offal replaced with ensiled 20% ureamolasses treated cassava peelsmeal could be a good source of protein and energy that would enhance nutrient utilization by ruminants during difficultmonths of the dry season.

Assessment of the nutritive value of bovine Iiquor and urea treated corn-straw and corn-cobs as feed for the West African Dwarf sheep and goats

Corn-straw (CS) and corn-cob (CC) were treated with bovine liquor (BL) to enhance their nutritive values. Eight preparations consisting of CC, CS, CC + BL, CS + BL, CC + urea, CS+ urea, CC+ BL+urea and CS + BL + urea were made to ferment for five days under anaerobic condition. The final products were assessed for their chemical composition, in vitro gas production and feed preference by sheep and goats. Crude protein contents in CC and CS significantly (P <0.05) increased from 3.5% and 2.7% to 8.6% and 3.4% respectively without urea but addition of urea increased the contents to 14.6% and 6.8% respectively. Crude fibre, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, acid detergent lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose of the treated CS and CC were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced. Similar trends were observed for gas production characteristics as the potentially degradable fraction ‘b’ and the potential degradability ‘a + b’ of treated straw and cobs were better (P < 0.05) than the untreated. The rate ‘c’ of gas production was slower for the treated than the untreated CC and CS. Both sheep and goats separately preferred the treated CC and CS to the untreated after three days and subsequent days of consumption. Since the bovine liquor showed the tendency of enhancing the nutrient contents of corn-cobs and corn-straw and that small ruminant preferred the treated materials than the untreated, sheep and goats can be sustained during the dry season.

Nutritive attributes of Sesbania parchycapa fodder in a crop-livestock farming system

Two experiments were conducted to investigate and compare the nutritive attributes of Sesbania parchycapa (SP) in a crop-livestock farming system. In Experiment 1, the feeding attributes of Sesbania parchycapa (SP) fodder was investigated with 15 West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep, by feeding Panicum maximum (PM) alone and P. maximum supplemented with S. parchycapa (SP) in the ratio of 70:30. The study lasted 28 days, during which feed intake was monitored daily. In Experiment 2, the nutritive value of SP was investigated with WAD sheep and goats by feeding them as sole diets. The study lasted 15 days consisting of 10 days adjustment and 5 days of data collection using 5 each of bucks and rams in a completely randomised design. In the first trial, DM intake (99.5g/kgBW0.75) was higher for the control PM and least (72.8g/kgBW0.75) for SP. Total DM intake followed similar trend. In the second trial, DM (185g/kgBW0.75), CP (40%) and NDF (645g/kgBW0.75) intakes were generally higher (p<0.05). for sheep than for goats. DAM (562), CP (421) and NDF 680g/kg digestibility coefficients were also higher (p<0.05)for sheep than for goats. The N balance and retention (g/h/d) was higher in sheep. Results indicated that intake, digestibility and N- utilisation of S. parcyhcapa by sheep is better than goats although both had a positive N-balance. It could be concluded that apart from the well known positive impact of S. Parchycapa in agro forestry and alley farming systems, it can effectively serve as protein supplement in a small holder crop-livestock farming system.

Haematological and serum biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf goats fed ensiled cassava leaves with or without molasses and caged layer waste

The study was conducted to evaluate the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of WestAfrican dwarf goats fed ensiled cassava leaves with molasses and caged layer waste. Eighteen West African dwarf goats were randomly assigned to three experimental diets consisting of cassava leaves ensiled alone (ECF), cassava leaves ensiled with 5% molasses (ECFM) and cassava leaves ensiled with 5% caged layer waste (ECFP) in a Completely Randomized Design. Results obtained showed that ensiling with molasses resulted in lower DM, CP, NDF, tannin and HCN levels. Crude protein intake was similar in ECF and ECFM but lower (P < 0.05) in ECFP ranging from 161.28 - 172.71g/d. The packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) and lymphocyte concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) highest in ECFP but similar with the values obtained for ECF. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in the red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), neutrophil, basophil, eosinophil and monocytes contents in all the treatments. The highest significant (P < 0.05) value of 36.7g/l was obtained in ECFM and values of 29.4 and 24.0g/l in ECF and ECFP respectively for globulin. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in AST content in all the treatments. ALT value of 16.5 IU/L was significantly (P < 0.05) highest in ECF and different from the values of 12.0 IU/L obtained in both ECFM and ECFP respectively. It is concluded that cassava leaves can be conveniently ensiled with 5% of both molasses and caged layer waste without adverse effects on the haematological and biochemical status of WAD goats.

Effect of age, sex and local government area on linear body measurements of WAD goat in Ogun State, Nigeria

One hundred and twenty West African Dwarf goats were used in this study. Observations were made from twelve different towns in Yewa North, Yewa South and Abeokuta North Local Government. West African dwarf goats were evaluated for phenotypic variation at different ages ranges from 1, 2 and 3 years. Variations in live weight and body measurements such as height at wither; body length, heart girth, fore limb length, hind limb length, face length, ear length, ear width, hip width and tail length were taken. The local government areas significantly (P<0.05, 0.001) affected body length, fore limb length, ear length, ear width, hip width and live weight. Age and sex significantly (P<0.01) affected all the body measurements. The mean live weight by age groups are 6.61 + 0.31kg, 13.10 + 0.60kg and 20.18 + 0.95kg for ages 1,2 and 3 respectively. The coat colour varied from black, brown, grey to white in WAD goats. Some colours were in patches, some uniform while others were spotted

Effect of dietary inclusion of cashew nut shell liquid on in vitro and in vivo protein digestibility and utilization in West African dwarf goats

Effect of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) in diets for West African dwarf (WAD) goats on protein digestibility and utilization was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Four diets consisting of Panicum maximum supplemented with concentrate pellets containing 0, 5, 10 and 15mL/kg of CNSL were used. Panicum and pellets were combined in ratio 70: 30 of required dry matter (DM). For in vitro experiment, 500 mg (n=8 per diet) of diet samples (DM basis) were incubated at 39°C for 48 h following the procedure of Menke and Steingass (1988). Dry matter and crude protein digestibility, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and bacteria count were determined after 24 and 48 h incubation by recovering feed residues and rumen liquor. For in vivo experiment, twenty-four WAD goats were divided into four groups of six animals each. Each group was fed one of the four diets at 5% body weight (DM basis). Dry matter and crude protein intake, weight gain, protein efficiency ratio, rumen NH3-N, bacteria count and crudeprotein digestibility were measured during 98 days of feeding and digestibility trial. Experiments were arranged in a completely randomized design and data analyzed using one way analysis of variance procedure of SAS (1999). Results showed that 5 – 15 mL/kg CNSL in supplemental pellets reduced (P < 0.05) protein digestibility in vitro but increased (P < 0.05) total-tract protein digestibility in vivo. In vitro rumen NH3-N decreased (P < 0.05) with 5 – 15ml CNSL inclusion after 24 and 48 h. At 30 and 60 days post-feeding, 10 – 15 mL CNSL reduced (P < 0.05) rumen NH3-N in goats Protein efficiency ratio was higher (P < 0.05) with CNSL and goats fed 15 mL CNSL had the highest (P < 0.05) protein efficiency ratio. Rume bacteria population in vitro and in vivo decreased (P < 0.05) with 5 – 15 mL CNSL in supplemental pellets. In conclusion, the reduced in vitro protein digestibility with reduced NH3-Nproduction and bacteria population in vitro and in vivo suggests an inhibitory effect of CNSL on rumen proteolysis. Cashew nut shell liquid in supplemental pellet for WAD goats up to 15 mL/kg therefore inhibited dietary protein breakdown in the rumen with consequent improvement in protein digestibility and utilization at the lower tract.

Phenotypic and genotypic variability between two Nigerian indigenous goat population

In order to estimate the future breeding potential of a livestock breed, it is necessary to estimate the level of genetic diversity within the breed. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the phenotypic and genotypic variability within the West African dwarf (WAD) goats and a non-descript goat population. The WAD goats were obtained from Bodija market Ibadan, Oyo state, while the non-descript goats were obtained from the Animal Science Departmental Farm in Zaria, Kaduna State. Random collection of tissue samples was carried out on each goat population using an all flex ear punch tissue sample collector and aliquoted into plastic tubes containing the all flex preservative. DNA extraction, amplification and sequencing were carried out at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya. DNA was extracted from the tissue cells using the Pure Link™ Genomic DNA-minikit according to the manufacturer's specifications and protocol and 25 microsatellite markers as recommended by FAO/ISAG were used for genotyping. Twenty three of the 25 microsatellite markers used in this analysis had four or more alleles. The mean Shannon index (I), observed (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) and inbreeding coefficient (Fis) for the WAD goats were 1.568, 0.584, 0.679 and 0.167, respectively. For the non-descript goats, the mean Shannon index, observed and expected heterozygosity and inbreeding coefficient (Fis) were 1.607, 0.678, 0.721 and 0.041, respectively. The microsatellite markers used in this study showed their suitability for analysis of genetic variability in this population as demonstrated by the high mean Shannon index. This study has shown that these two goat populations are significantly different phenotypically and genetically. Also, both populations showed significant deviations (P<0.01) from Hardy-Weinberg expectations.

Growth performance and nitrogen utilization by West African dwarf goats fed supplemented with varying ratios of and Panicum maximum Afzelia africana Newbouldia laevis

Afzelia africana and Newbouldia laevis have recognizable potential as important locally available forage resources but yet to be explored and exploited for ruminants in the tropics. This study was therefore investigated to determine the effect of supplementing varying ratios of Afzelia africana and Newbouldia laevis with Panicum maximum on growth performance and nitrogen utilization of West African dwarf goats. Twenty female West African dwarf goats, aged between 5 and 7monhs old with an average weight of 6.62 ± 0.41kg were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments with four goats per treatment in a completely randomized design. The treatment diets included T (100% Panicum maximum), T (25% Afzelia africana and 75% Panicum maximum), T (50% Afzelia africana and 50% Panicum maximum), T (25% Newbouldia laevis and 75% Panicum maximum) and T (50% Newbouldia laevis and 50% Panicum maximum). A metabolism trial was conducted at the end of the feeding trial to assess the effects of the diets on nitrogen utilization after the growth study on the goats. Results obtained showed that goats on diets T were significantly (P<0.05) higher in terms of final live weight (9.95kg), metabolic weights (6.20LW ), total weight gain (3.15kg) and growth rate (35.50g.d ) at (P < 0.01) while nitrogen intake (7.86g/d ), metabolic nitrogen intake (1.76g.kg LW ), nitrogen balance (6.81g.d ) were higher (P < 0.001) than goats on other diets. Urinary nitrogen output (6.81g.d ) was significantly (P<0.01) higher in goats on T compared with goats on other diets. No significant (P> 0.05) effect in treatment diets with regards to initial and average live weights, faecal nitrogen output, and total nitrogen output with nitrogen retention. It was concluded that goats fed 50% Afzelia Africana and 50% Panicum maximum had better nitrogen utilization for growth performance.

Growth performance and blood profile of West African dwarf goats fed urea treatedwild cocoyam (Colocasia esculentum) mea

Wild cocoyam is a non edible plant found growing around riversides and can serve as source of energy to ruminants. Hence, a twelve weeks study was conducted to investigate the effect of wild cocoyam – urea meal on the growth performance and blood profile of West African dwarf (WAD) goats. Twelve WAD goats with an average weight of 7.25 ± 0.04kg were randomly allotted into four dietary treatments: T1 (raw wild cocoyam), T2 (urea treated wild cocoyam), T3 (urea treated cooked wild cocoyam) and T4 (urea treated fermented wild cocoyam), replicated thrice in a completely randomized design. Results obtained showed that the experimental diets significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the growth performance. Goats fed urea treated cooked wild cocoyam had the best feed conversion ratio (10.35), the highest values of dry matter intake (405.35 g/day) and daily weight gain (39.17 g/day) when compared to other dietary treatments. The dietary treatments did not significantly (p < 0.05) influence the haematological parameters except the red blood cells (9.62 - 11.67×106 mm3),white blood cells (4.07-9.05×106 mm3) and monocytes (1.00-2.50%). No significant (p>0.05) differences among the dietary treatments were observed in all the serum biochemical indices evaluated except for urea which ranged from 15.50 – 28.70mg/dl. It can therefore be concluded that addition of urea with processing, further improved the utilization of the experimental diets thus improving performance of the animals.

Nutrient intake and digestibility of West African dwarf goats fed graded levels of and as supplements to Afzelia africana Newbouldia laevis Panicum maximum

The study was conducted to determine nutrient intake and digestibility of West African dwarf goats fed graded levels of Afzelia africana and New bouldia laevisas supplements to Panicum maximum. Twenty female West African dwarf goats aged between 5 and 7 months old with mean live weight of 6.62±0.41kg were allotted to five dietary treatments with two replicates of two goats per treatment in a completely randomised design. The compared diets were: T (100% Panicum maximum), T (25%Afzelia africana and 75% Panicum maximum), T (50% Afzelia africana and 50% Panicum maximum), T (25% New bouldia laevis and 75% Panicum maximum) and T (50% Newbouldia laevis and 50% Panicum maximum). A metabolism trial was conducted at the end of the feeding trial to assess the diets on nutrient digestibility after the nutrient intake study of the goats. Results obtained showed that total hemicelluloses intake (62.48g.day ) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in T compared with other diets. Total crude protein intake(43.45g.d) and hemicelluloses digestibility(92.20%)were higher significantly (p<0.001) and (p<0.01) respectively in T . Total lignin intake (36.22g.d )and organic matter digestibility (77.70%) were significantly better (p<0.05) and (p<0.01) respectively in T . Digestibility of neutral and acid detergent fibre (55.71% and 49.79%) were significantly higher (p<0.05) and (p<0.001) while dry matter digestibility (83.49%) was significantly better (p<0.01) in T than other treatment diets. Total dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and cellulose intakes with digestibility of crude protein, lignin and cellulose were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by treatment diets. It was concluded that the combination of Panicum maximum based diet with Newbouldia laevis in a ratio of 50:50 had the potential to enhance nutrient digestibility in goats.

Serum biochemistry and oxidative stress indicators in West African dwarf goats under semi intensive management system

This study aims to evaluate variations in serum biochemistry and oxidative status between male and female WestAfrican dwarfgoats under semi intensive management system. Twenty, each of bucks and does (12 months old) were randomly selected from a herd purchased from Oyo livestock market, in Oyo State. The average body weights of the goats were12.08 ± 3.26 and 12.15 ± 1.51kg does and bucks, respectively. Blood samples were collected from fastened goats and assayed for serum biochemicals, lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant activity, catalase and superoxide dismutase using standard procedures. Data obtained were subjected to T-test. The result showed serum glucose, albumin, cholesterol, total protein, globulin, triglyceride, creatinine, alanine amino transferase(ALT),aspartate amino transferase(AST) and urea were not significantly (P>0.05) different among the sexes. Serum high density lipoprotein was significantly (P<0.05) higher in does (13.96 mmol/l) than in bucks (5.91mmol/l) and alkaline phosphatase was significantly (P<0.05) higher in bucks (2580.55 IU/L) than in does (1594.58 IU/L). Serum lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant activity and superoxide dismutase were statistically similar (P>0.05) in both sexes. Serum catalase was significantly (P<0.05) higher in bucks than in does. From this study, it can be deduced that serum biochemical indices in does and bucks are similar except for alkaline phosphatase and high density lipoprotein. Bucks recorded higher catalase than does.It could be concluded that during physiological and environmental stress conditions, antioxidant supplementation should be adopted to boost the antioxidant capacity of the does.

Sensory evaluation and acceptability of goat milk in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun state

This study was conducted to assess the sensory characteristics and acceptability of goat milk in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State. A total of seventy respondents were selected randomly. Milk collected from lactating West African Dwarf goats was pasteurized at a o temperature of 74 C for five minutes, cooled, packaged in small polythene and sealed withmachine and refrigerated. The milk was taken to various settlements in Odeda Local Government of Ogun state for sensory evaluation. Majority of the respondents were students 54.3% only a few 12.9% were traders with a high percentage between the ages of 21-30. Also, 67.1% and 70.0% of the respondents were Christian and Yorubas, respectively. Moreover, 65.7% of respondents were married, while 34.3% were unmarried. The married had a family size of ≤ 2. Majority of the respondents (88.8%) had tertiary education. The small number of respondents 37.1% involved in ruminant production had only 2 years ruminant farming experience and kept fewer than 5 goats. About 60 % of the respondent consumed milk on weekly basis while 6% consumed milk on daily. It was observed that 100% of the respondents preferred cow milk despite the fact that 78.6% of the respondents were aware of goat milk consumption. The taste, colour, odour and flavor of goat milk were rated as Very good by 55.7%, 37.1%, 41.4% and 41.4% of respondents respectively. Majority of the respondents had a favourable disposition towards the taste (75.5%), colour (62.9%), odour (80.0%) and flavour (61.4%) when compared with other milk products in the market. Thus, goat milkt could be taken as alternative to cow milk without any detrimental effect It then become imperative for this positive perception to be explored by the government and other relevant development agencies so as to increase food supply to alleviate protein deficiency and thereby improved the economy.

Isolation and antibiogram of aerobic nasal bacterial flora of apparently healthy West African dwarf goats and sheep in Abeokuta Area, Ogun State

Studies conducted on the bacterial flora of the respiratory tract in goats or sheep focused on the clinically ill, with fewer studies on the apparently healthy goats and sheep and the antibiogram of isolated organisms. This study was carried out on apparently healthy 54 goats and 43 sheep. A total of seven different bacterial species were isolated from the upper respiratory tracts of the apparently healthy small ruminants using colonial morphology, gram staining and biochemical characterization.Antibiotic sensitivity of the bacterial isolates was performed against 10 commonly prescribed antimicrobial agents and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the antibiotics was conducted. The overall occurrence rate of bacteria isolated are Pseudomonas spp (42.0% in caprine and 27.3% in ovine); Bacillus spp (36.9%, caprine; 40%, ovine); Mannheima spp, (9.2%, caprine; 23.6%, ovine); Escherichia coli (7.6%, caprine; 9.1%, ovine); Staphylococcus spp (2.5%, caprine); Pasteurellaspp(0.8%, caprine) and Streptococcus spp (0.8%, caprine). The isolation of Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica from the nasal cavity of apparently healthy goats and sheep in this study reflects their possible role in most common respiratory diseases encountered in these small ruminants. All the 174 (100%) isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin and 161 (92.5%) were resistant to Ceftriaxone. One hundred and sixty-eight (96.6%) isolates were sensitive to Ofloxacin and 140 (80.5%) were sensitive to both Gentamycin and Ciprofloxacin and 135 (77.6%) were sensitive to Perfloxin. Staphaureus was resistant to all the antibiotics used except Amoxicillin hence only Amoxicillin can be used for its treatment, while most isolates were susceptible to the antimicrobials tested, as demonstrated by higher MIC value. The emergence of antibiotic resistance to these pathogens may increase infectious disease burdens and make the rapeutic treatment more expensive.

Voluntary intake, digestibility, serology and testosterone level of West African dwarf bucks fed air-dried leaf meal-based diets

Evaluation of blood parameters, testosterone and digestibility serve as an index of general physiology and performance of animals. A total of twenty (20) West African dwarf ( WAD) bucks of about six (6) to eight (8) months of age with an average weight of 7.2±0.11 kg were used in the experiment for a duration of 98 days. The animals were allocated to 0,5, 10 and 15 % Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM)-based diets of three goats per treatment in a completely randomized design experiment. However, in 0, 5, and 15% MOLM, CP contents range from 7.93 to 8.54 %. All the experimental animalshad adequate total dry matterintake (DMI) which ranged from 382.59 to 391.39 g/animal/day (p>0.05). The mean percentage crude protein digestibility value tended to be lowest in 0 % MOLM-based diet and increased with increasing proportion of MOLM in the diets (p<0.05). Total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, creatinine, aspartate amino transferase, were similar (p>0.05) while Alanine amino transferase was significantly different (p<0.05). In the present study, inclusion level of 10% MOLMcaused the testosterone level to increase from5.16 ng/ml to 5.30 ng/ml which was the highest level. Conclusively, Moringa oleifera leaf meal improved nutrient intake blood, indices and digestibility in WAD bucks. Animal protein intake could be improved by the incorporation of MOLM-based diets for WAD goats.

Dietary effect of Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal on fibre fractions utilisation by the West African Dwarf goats

A 63-day study was conducted to evaluate the dietary effect of Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal diets on fibre fraction utilization of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats (aged 9 -12 months) with an average live weight of 6.31±0.3 kg. Six diets were formulated such that wheat offal was replaced with ensiled Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal at ratio 0 (A), 20% (B), 40% (C), 60% (D), 80% (E), 100% (F) in complete diets. The experimental diets were fed to 18 WAD goats in three replicates per treatment using completely randomized design. The determined parameters included; chemical composition of the diets, dry matter and fibre fractions intake, weight gains and feed to gain ratio. The dry matter of raw cocoa bean shells was 88.53% and dry matter of Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shells was 87.38%. The crude protein contents of raw bean shells and Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shells were 11.98 and 26.63% respectively. The dry matter of the diets ranged from 86.83 to 90.70%, diet B had the highest value while crude protein ranged between 19.73 (diet A) and 28.88% (diet F) and increased with increased inclusion of Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal in the diets. The nutrients intake was significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the treatment except dry matter and cellulose. The crude fibre and fibre fractions were efficiently digested. Nitrogen balance, apparent digestibility and weight gain were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the treatment. The goats fed diet A converted their feed to flesh better than other goats. However, goats fed diet F performed best compared to other goats fed diets B, C, D and E that contained Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal. It can be concluded that Pleurotus pulmonaris treated cocoa bean shell meal incorporated in goat's diet could supply energy and protein to sustain the growth without adverse effect.