Volume 1, Issue 1 (2026)
Current IssuePublished online: 9/19/2026
Table of Contents
Research Articles
IMPACT OF HEAT STRESS ON GROWTH, CARCASS TRAIT, MEAT QUALITY AND SENSORY EVALUATION OF ABBOR AND COBB BROILER CHICKEN STRAINS
This study evaluated the physiological responses, carcass characteristics, organ development, meat quality, and sensory attributes of Abbor Acre and Cobb 500 broiler chickens under heat stress. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Animal Science Teaching and Research Farm, University of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, using 120 day-old chicks assigned to four treatment groups in a completely randomized design, with exposure to either control (24°C) or heat stress conditions (35°C day/30°C night for six hours daily) from weeks 3 to 6 post-hatch. Birds were monitored for heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, growth performance, and carcass traits, while meat quality and sensory attributes were assessed post-slaughter. Results indicated that physiological responses showed no significant differences between strains, although Cobb 500 exhibited a slightly higher heart rate and rectal temperature, while Abbor Acre had a higher respiratory rate. Carcass and primal cut yields were comparable, with Abbor Acre showing heavier thighs and wings, whereas Cobb 500 had higher breast and back weights. Internal and external organ characteristics did not differ significantly, though Abbor Acre tended to have heavier visceral organs, while Cobb 500 had slightly heavier external body parts. Meat quality analysis revealed a significantly higher pH in Cobb 500 (6.20 vs. 6.02, p = 0.006), while oxidative rancidity and water-holding capacity were similar between strains. Sensory evaluation showed Cobb 500 scored higher in color and flavor, while Abbor Acre was rated better in juiciness and tenderness, with overall acceptability being equal (6.70) for both strains. In conclusion, both Abbor Acre and Cobb 500 broilers exhibit similar physiological, carcass, and organ responses under heat stress, with minor differences in meat quality and sensory traits.
Kaye Joshua, Oshibanjo Olusegun, Ja’afar Khadija Musa
EFFECT OF MODE OF ADMINISTRATION OF PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVE ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HEALTH PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKEN
Phytogenic feed additives, particularly turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and garlic (Allium sativum), have gained increasing attention as natural alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production. However, evidence remains limited regarding the influence of administration route on their physiological effectiveness. This study evaluated the effects of feed-based and water-based administration route of a phytogenic blend on growth performance, hematological indices, and serum biochemical characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of 540-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned to nine treatment groups in a 2 × 4 + 1 factorial arrangement, using varying combinations of turmeric, ginger, and garlic administered via feed or water. Growth indices, blood parameters, and serum biochemistry were measured over six weeks. Administration route significantly influenced performance (p<.05) with water-based supplementation improving hematological markers, including packed cell volume, hemoglobin, and white blood cell count. Combination effects showed that the triple blend (turmeric-ginger-garlic) enhanced weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, immune response, and gut health more effectively than dual combinations. The feed-based triple blend yielded the greatest final weight (1993.25 g) while water-based administration produced superior hematological values. Overall, both administration modes improved broiler performance compared to the control, but with differing physiological strengths. These findings highlight the strategic value of optimizing phytogenic delivery for sustainable broiler production.
Aloyinlapa R. A., Adebiyi O. A, Akanmu S. A., Bankole T. O., Adebiyi F. G, Onarinde O.E.
HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS WITH VARIOUS INCLUSION LEVELS OF ATILI (Canarium schweinfurthii) LEAF MEAL
This study was carried out to assess the health status of broiler chickens fed Canarium schweinfurthii leaf meal in a completely randomized design. A total of 150 two weeks old broiler chicks were used randomly distributed into five dietary treatments comprising 0% (control), 2.0%, 4.0%, 6.0% and 8.0% (Treatment 1 to 5, respectively) of Canarium schweinfurthii leaf meal (CSLM) inclusion. Each treatment contains thirty birds three replicates of ten birds. The haematological profile of the birds showed that pack cell volume (PCV) was significantly different (p< 0.05) across treatments, birds in T5 having the highest value (32.50). The haemoglobin (Hb) values were significantly different (p<0.05) across all treatments, treatment T5 having the highest value. The values for Red Blood Cell showed significant difference (p< 0.05) across treatment with the highest observed in T5 which was significantly different from T2 and T3. The serum albumin content was also significantly (p< 0.05) higher in birds fed 2.0%, followed by birds fed control diet, 8.0%, 6.0% and 4.0%. Total protein contents were significantly different (p< 0.05) across all treatments with birds in 2.0% showing the highest value. The aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were similar across all treatments, no significant difference was observed. Cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL, HDL were significantly (p<0.05) increased from control (0%) to T4 (6.0%). It could be concluded that Canarium schweinfurthii leaf meal, can be incorporated into diets of broiler chickens up to 8.0% inclusion level.
Adelowo Olayinka Victoria,, Oshibanjo Olusegun Debola, Shoaga Auwal Olalekan
DRIVERS OF ZOOPLANKTON DIEL VERTICAL MIGRATION
Vertical migratory behavior, a daily synchronized up-and-down movement practiced by zooplankton shaping the availability of zooplankton to fish as food, was studied in Liberty Reservoir in the Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State in August 2018, November 2018 and March 2019. The distribution of zooplankton at different times of the day was investigated alongside some physicochemical parameters. Water samples were collected at three hours intervals from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on sampling days. Data on zooplankton abundance was analyzed using the SPSS statistical package. A two-way analysis of variance showed that water temperature, pH, water transparency, and dissolved oxygen varied significantly (P<0.05) significantly during the daytime. Pearson correlation analysis showed that zooplankton abundance correlated positively with air temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. Variation in zooplankton abundance at different depths and times of the day revealed that vertical migration is taking place in these reservoirs. Abundance is more at the top by 6 a.m. and at 3 p.m. at the reservoir’s bottom. Temperature, water transparency, pH, and water transparency were attributed to the drivers of daytime migration in these reservoirs.
Oyedapo, F. A., Akpa, L.E., Mohammed M. Y, Oshibanjo, D. O.
EFFECT OF TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) EXTRACT ON THE TENDERIZATION OF SPENT LAYERS MEAT
The study investigated the impact of turmeric extract on the tenderness and overall acceptability of spent layer hen meat. Twenty hens were used, and their meat was marinated with different levels of turmeric extract (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). The higher the inclusion level of turmeric extract, the greater the improvement in meat tenderness. Specifically, the meat marinated with 15% turmeric extract exhibited the best tenderness and overall acceptability. The research also assessed other quality parameters, including cooking loss, water holding capacity, pH, temperature, oxidative rancidity, flavor, juiciness, texture, and color. The results showed significant differences among the treatments. For instance, the meat from 15% turmeric extract had the lowest cooking loss and highest water holding capacity. Furthermore, sensory evaluation by the panelists indicated that meat marinated with 15% turmeric extract scored highest in terms of flavor, juiciness, texture, tenderness, and overall acceptability. In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of turmeric extract as a natural meat tenderizer, providing valuable insights for improving the quality of spent layer hen meat for consumers. From the results obtained in this research, it was observed that greater tenderness and overall acceptability were achieved with 15% turmeric extract.
Kaye Joshua, Oshibanjo Olusegun, Selzing Dandam Nanvyek, Oyinlola, O. O, Timothy Meshach Gyang
INFLUENCE OF AQUEOUS GINGER EXTRACT AS EGG WASH AGENT ON INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL EGG QUALITY
This study investigated the effects of storage duration and aqueous ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract as a natural washing agent on the egg quality. A total of 300 eggs collected from a commercial farm at 44 weeks of hen age were stored at ambient temperature (28–31 °C, 55–60% RH) for 0, 5, and 10 days. Eggs were washed with ginger extract at 0 g/L (control), 25 g/L, 50 g/L, 75 g/L, 100 g/L, and 125 g/L, with an additional no-wash group and a chlorine-based disinfectant as a positive control. External and internal traits were assessed, and data were analyzed using the General Linear Model in SPSS 25. Storage duration significantly affected egg quality. Egg length increased from 51.82 mm at day 0 to 54.29 mm at day 10, while width rose from 40.19 mm to 43.38 mm. Albumen weight declined from 44.50 g to 41.49 g, yet Haugh unit improved from 89.50 to 94.86. Yolk quality deteriorated markedly with extended storage: yolk height dropped from 12.80 mm to 0.22 mm, whereas yolk diameter expanded from 37.03 mm to 42.03 mm. Ginger extract concentration also influenced egg quality. At 75 g/L, eggs exhibited the best external traits, including weight (57.30 g), width (44.63 mm), and albumen weight (47.08 g). Yolk percentage increased across treatments, reaching 46.81% at 50 g/L compared to 38.46% in the control. In conclusion, ginger extract—especially at 75 g/L—effectively preserves egg quality without any negative effects.
Oshibanjo D.O, Kaye J., Adelowo V.O, Oyinlola, O. O, Aboh Moses Salami, Abiola David Ejidare, Zungum Aliyu Garba, Babatunde Kolawole, Timothy Meshach Gyang
Influence of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peels meal in the diet of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings on the histology of the liver, small intestine and gills
This research assesses the histological changes in the liver, small intestine and gills of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings fed varying levels of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peels meal. Six different diets containing orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel inclusion levels of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% were compounded. Histological examinations of the liver, small intestine, and gills were conducted through standard hematoxylin-eosin staining procedures. The findings revealed no histological changes in the small intestine across all the treatment groups, which is an indication that orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel does not impair intestinal integrity. The liver, however, had varying levels of histopathological changes with increase in the level of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel inclusion. Mild hepatocellular degeneration with nuclear degeneration and cytoplasmic vacuolations were observed at 60% inclusion, with increased damage at (80% and 100%) levels of inclusion, including focal cellular infiltration and central venous congestion. Low to moderate levels of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel (20% and 40%) did not cause serious damage in the gills, while high concentrations (60%, 80%, and 100%) caused mild lamellar hypertrophy, interlamellar space occlusion, and severe lamellar cell depletion. These findings indicate that orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel could be included in the diet of C. gariepinus fingerlings up to 20% without affecting liver, small intestine, or gill health. This research shows the potential for orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) peel as an affordable and sustainable aquaculture feed ingredient at 20% level of inclusion.
L. E. Igoche, S. O. Musa, K.V. Absalom
EFFECTS OF CRUDE SEED EXTRACTS OF DESERT DATE (Balanite aegyptiaca) ON BLOOD AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETER OF CAT FISH (Clarias gariepinus) JUVENILES
This study investigates the effects of Balanites aegyptiaca crude seed extract on juveniles of Clarias gariepinus, as it affects the blood and biochemical parameters. The fresh fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca were collected from Jos, Nigeria, and processed to obtain a fine powder for analysis. Juvenile Clarias gariepinus, averaging 3g in weight and 9cm in length, were acclimatized to laboratory conditions for one week before exposure to varying concentrations (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 g/L) of the extract. Hematological results showed initial increases in RBC count and hemoglobin (HGB) at lower concentrations, with RBC peaking at 2.26±0.13 µL (0.05 g/L) and HGB at 189.00±1.00 g/L. Both parameters declined at higher concentrations, showing a non-linear pattern. WBC count exhibited a dose-dependent response, peaking at 97.00±1.30 µL at 0.10 g/L before declining at higher concentrations. Biochemical profiles showed dose-dependent changes in Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH). AST levels ranged from 17.50±0.50 µ/L at 0.05 g/L to 36.00±1.00 µ/L at 0.25 g/L, while ALT increased from 11.00±1.00 µ/L at 0.05 g/L to 26.00±1.00 µ/L at 0.25 g/L. ALP values were highest at 84.12±4.69 µ/L (0.25 g/L) and lowest at 54.67±4.46 µ/L (0.10 g/L). LDH increased with concentration, peaking at 418.75±6.85 µ/L (0.25 g/L). Overall, findings indicate that Balanite aegyptiaca extract can influence both biochemical parameters and fish health parameters.
Mohammed M. Y., Oshibanjo D. O., Ojutiku R. O., Sulaiman Y., Audu B. S., Abdullahi D., Oyero J. O., Lamai S. L., Oyedapo F. A., Igoche L. E., Fyneface M.
IN SILICO AND TOXICOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF OREGANO (Origanum vulgare) PHYTOCHEMICALS AS INHIBITORS OF METHIONYL-tRNA SYNTHETASE OF Brucella melitensis
Brucellosis remains a neglected zoonosis of major veterinary and public health importance in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa, and the long, relapse-prone antibiotic regimens currently in use have sustained interest in alternative antibacterial scaffolds. Methionyl-tRNA synthetase of Brucella melitensis (BmMetRS) has been experimentally validated as a drug target for the disease. This study screened ten phenolic and flavonoid constituents of oregano (Origanum vulgare) against BmMetRS and profiled their predicted pharmacokinetic and toxicological behaviour. Ligands were prepared with LigPrep and the crystal structure of BmMetRS (PDB ID: 4PY2, 2.15 Å) with the Protein Preparation Wizard in the Schrödinger Suite 2023. Docking was carried out with Glide, drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics with SwissADME, and fifteen toxicity endpoints with ProTox. All ten phytochemicals docked into the BmMetRS active site within a narrow affinity band of −6.35 to −6.59 kcal/mol, a range too small to rank the compounds reliably but sufficient to indicate that the flavonoid fraction of oregano engages the site as a class. Binding was anchored consistently at ASP 51, with MET 227, TYR 14 and TYR 228 recurring across ligands through hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking. Nine of the ten compounds showed high predicted gastrointestinal absorption, none violated Lipinski's rule of five, and bioavailability scores of 0.55–0.56 exceeded that of streptomycin (0.17). Predicted acute oral LD₅₀ values separated the compounds far more sharply than affinity did, ranging from 159 mg/kg (quercetin, class 3) to 5000 mg/kg (rosmarinic acid, class 5). Taking affinity, absorption and predicted safety together, kaempferol, apigenin, luteolin and rosmarinic acid emerged as the most balanced candidates. These are computational predictions and require in vitro confirmation, including assessment of selectivity against human methionyl-tRNA synthetase, before any therapeutic inference can be drawn.
Oshibanjo, Olusegun Debola, Ngurukwem, H. C., Igwe Kingsley, Oyinlola, O. O
ACUTE TOXICITY EFFECTS OF CRUDE SEED EXTRACTS OF DESERT DATE (Balanite aegyptiaca) ON CAT FISH (Clarias gariepinus) JUVENILES
This study investigates the toxicity effects of Balanites aegyptiaca crude seed extract on juveniles of Clarias gariepinus, as it affects the water quality and haematological parameters. The fresh fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca were collected from Jos, Nigeria, and processed to obtain a fine powder for analysis. Juvenile Clarias gariepinus, averaging 3g in weight and 9cm in length, were acclimatized to laboratory conditions for one week before exposure to varying concentrations (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 g/L) of the extract. Water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and carbon dioxide were monitored daily throughout the experiment. Results indicated that while pH levels remained stable across treatments, significant variations in carbon dioxide levels were observed. Haematological assessments revealed a dose-dependent response in red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels at lower concentrations, but a non-linear trend at higher concentrations. Overall, findings indicate that Balanite aegyptiaca extract can influence both water quality and fish health parameters.
Mohammed Musa Yahaya, Oshibanjo Debola Olusegun,, Ojutiku Rasheed Olakunle,, Oyero Johnson Olusegun,, Audu Bala Sambo, Lamai Solomon Lambuda, Abdullahi Dayyab, Sulaiman Yusuf
PERFORMANCE-BASED ASSESSMENT AS A BETTER ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE EDUCATION IN NIGERIAN HIGHER INSTITUTIONS
Assessment practices in Animal Science education should measure not only students' theoretical knowledge but also their ability to demonstrate practical competencies required in professional practice. However, assessment in many Nigerian higher institutions remains heavily dependent on traditional written examinations, which primarily evaluate cognitive achievement and provide limited evidence of graduates' workplace readiness. This paper examines performance-based assessment as a more effective alternative for evaluating Animal Science students. Drawing on contemporary literature and competency-based education principles, the paper compares traditional written examinations with performance-based assessment, highlighting their respective strengths and limitations. It argues that performance-based assessment offers a more authentic, valid, reliable, and comprehensive evaluation by integrating the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains of learning. The paper discusses the benefits of performance-based assessment, including improved practical competence, enhanced graduate employability, active and lifelong learning, fairer assessment, and stronger alignment with the National Universities Commission's Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS). It also outlines practical strategies for implementation, such as laboratory practicals, farm-based assessments, project work, portfolios, industrial attachment, oral presentations, observation checklists, and standardized assessment rubrics. Furthermore, the paper identifies key implementation challenges, including inadequate facilities, large class sizes, limited funding, insufficient lecturer training, increased workload, and concerns regarding assessment reliability. It concludes that while written examinations remain valuable for assessing theoretical knowledge, they should complement rather than dominate assessment practices. A balanced assessment system that prioritizes performance-based approaches will better prepare Animal Science graduates with the practical competencies, professional skills, and workplace readiness required to contribute effectively to Nigeria's livestock industry and broader agricultural development.
Clementina Hashimu Bulus (PhD)
PASTURE ESTABLISHMENT THROUGHs LINE PLANTING AND BROADCASTING TECHNIQUES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF METHODS, PRACTICES, EFFICIENCY, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Pasture establishment represents one of the most critical agronomic investments in livestock and ruminant production systems globally. The choice of planting method — whether line planting (drill or row seeding) or broadcasting (surface or aerial seed dispersal) — profoundly influences seedling emergence, stand density, uniformity, weed competition, long-term forage yield, and the overall economic sustainability of the pasture enterprise. This review critically examines the agronomic, ecological, economic, and management dimensions of both methods across diverse agro-ecological zones, with particular emphasis on tropical and sub-tropical production systems relevant to sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and South and Southeast Asia. Evidence from controlled experiments, farm surveys, and long-term agronomic trials is synthesised to evaluate the comparative performance of each method under varying soil types, rainfall regimes, species compositions, and management intensities. The review further discusses species-specific considerations, seeding rate optimisation, soil preparation requirements, post-establishment management, and the emerging role of precision seeding technologies. Findings indicate that line planting consistently delivers superior stand establishment, higher long-term forage productivity, and better weed suppression, while broadcasting offers cost-effective, large-scale application advantages particularly in rough terrain and when species diversity is prioritised. A decision framework integrating farm-specific factors is proposed to guide practitioners in selecting the most appropriate method. The review concludes with evidence-based recommendations for integrating the two approaches under complementary conditions to maximise pasture establishment success.
Agbenyi Emmanuel Omenka, David Adzoyi Abizi, Innocent Hyellakasiya, Benjamin Mafeng Bot, Hashimu Miracle Dadiyel, Haruna Monica Mabi, Wum'an Makkwoop Iliya, Danjuma Adikaba, Abdullahi Adeola Ariya, Ngurukwem Henry Chiebuka, Maduka Olive Onyinyechi, Rashida Abdulsalam Mustapha, Izang Jennifer Itse, Simon Jennifer Haruna, Moses Matilda Dabwel, Jecintha Oluchi Okoye, Samuel Moses, Sati Chamdat Daswan, Salihu Amos, Wumnokol Njukumnan, Paul Ayaka Agabi, Nwosu Ejike Peter, Titus Tuamlong Kwanmen, Sarah Nimbam, Oshibanjo Olusegun
Influence of onion skin waste on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physiological responses, and histological indices of broiler chickens
This study investigated the effects of dietary inclusion of onion peel waste (Allium cepa L.) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass traits, hematology, biochemistry, and intestinal histology of broiler chickens. A total of 200 day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments (0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 g of onion peel per 25 kg of feed) using a completely randomized design for 56 days. Results showed that moderate inclusion levels (2.5–5.0 g) significantly enhanced growth performance, weight gain, and carcass yield, while higher levels (7.5–10.0 g) reduced performance but improved feed conversion ratios. Nutrient digestibility, especially crude protein and ether extract, was positively influenced by onion peel supplementation. Histological examination revealed no adverse effects on intestinal morphology across treatments. Hematological parameters remained largely unaffected, while biochemical indices such as albumin, total protein, and globulin improved significantly at higher inclusion levels. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and tannins. The study concludes that onion peel waste can serve as a sustainable, functional feed additive that enhances broiler productivity and carcass quality without detrimental health effects. Further studies are recommended to optimize the dosage for maximum benefit.
Adelowo Olayinka V., Oshibanjo Olusegun D., Aka-Tanimo Akeem, Olaiya Olalekan D., Dampo Vivian Aron, Igwe Kingsley, Ashom Ezekiel Bitrus, Lukshik Freeman Phillip, Oso Cynthia, Nokshwan Timak Samuel
IN-SILICO AND TOXICOLOGY ASSESSMENT ON ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF HORNED MELON (Cucumis metuliferus) ON SALMONELLOSIS
This study investigates the antimicrobial potential of bioactive compounds from Cucumis metuliferus against antibiotic-resistant Salmonella, particularly in poultry, where resistance rates are alarmingly high. The Crystal structure of Penicillin-Binding Protein 1a (2OQO) was employed molecular docking using the Glide ligand docking in Schrödinger Suite 2023. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties were determined using in silico integrative model predictions at the SwissADME and ProTox-II online servers. Toxicity assessments were conducted using the Protox-II web servers. Natural ligands show superior docking scores, with isovanillic acid (-5.189) and gallic acid (-5.171) outperforming ciprofloxacin (-4.955). Toxicity classifications varied significantly, ranging from Class 3 for quercetin (LD50 = 159 mg/kg) to Class 6 for amoxicillin and catechin (LD50 ≥ 10,000 mg/kg). Molecular interaction analysis revealed that ligands primarily formed hydrogen bonds, salt bridges, and pi-cation interactions with key residues LYS 124, GLU 140, and ARG 132. ADME analysis reveal that enrofloxacin demonstrated high gastrointestinal absorption and blood-brain barrier permeability, whereas natural compounds showed limited BBB permeability despite high solubility. Bioavailability scores ranged from 0.11 (tetracycline) to 0.85 (flavonoids). Toxicological evaluation revealed hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and mutagenicity in antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and tetracycline, while natural compounds showed varying degrees of hepatotoxic and cytotoxic effects. In conclusion, natural ligands, despite certain limitations, offer promising therapeutic alternatives due to favorable docking interactions and generally lower toxicity profiles compared to conventional antibiotics.
Oshibanjo Olusegun Debola, Kaye J., Ugwe K., Alkali Abubakar Adamu
Editorials
CULTURE OF ROTIFERS USING DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIVESTOCK WASTES
A ten-day study was conducted to evaluate the suitability of different livestock manures as organic media for rotifer culture and to assess the associated water quality parameters. Twelve 6-L microcosms arranged in triplicate were assigned to four treatments: control (municipal tap water only), rabbit droppings (RD), poultry droppings (PD), and sheep droppings (SD), each supplemented with NPK fertilizer and soybean cake except the control. Rotifers were isolated from river water and inoculated into the culture media after three days of aeration. Baker's yeast was provided as feed throughout the culture period. Rotifer abundance was determined every other day from the second day of culture, while temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and alkalinity were monitored. Water quality remained within acceptable ranges for rotifer production: temperature (21–25°C), pH (6.7–7.5), dissolved oxygen (8.1–11.3 mg/L), carbon dioxide (9–14 mg/L), and alkalinity (90–111 mg/L). No significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed among the measured physicochemical parameters across treatments. Rotifer populations increased steadily and reached peak abundance on the eighth day of culture before declining slightly by the tenth day. The poultry droppings treatment recorded the highest mean rotifer yield (131.33 individuals/mL), followed by rabbit droppings (108.67 individuals/mL) and sheep droppings (94.00 individuals/mL). Although differences in rotifer yield among the organic media were not statistically significant (P > 0.05), poultry droppings demonstrated the greatest carrying capacity and sustained higher rotifer production throughout the culture period. The findings indicate that livestock manures can serve as effective and inexpensive nutrient sources for rotifer culture. Among the media evaluated, poultry droppings showed the greatest potential for large-scale rotifer production because of their superior productivity and ability to sustain rotifer populations over an extended period. The use of locally available livestock manure offers a practical and sustainable approach for producing live feed to support fish hatchery operations and aquaculture development.
L. E. Igoche, K. V. Absalom, P. O. Ujah