Animal Research International

5017 – 5029

Authors: IRABOR, Francis, EBOHON, Osamudiamen, ALEGUN, Olaniyi, OKUGBO, Tinuade Osarhieme and OMOREGIE, Sheena Ehimwenma

Malaria is a threat to the lives of below age five children and pregnant women living in sub-Saharan Africa. Oxidative stress is a key factor in malaria pathogenesis and artemisinin-based combination therapy with Vitamin C may protect human host against the toxicity of free radicals. In this study, we examined the alteration in biochemical indices and antioxidant enzymes gene expression in the bone marrow cells of Plasmodium berghei infected mice treated with artemether-lumefantrine and ascorbic acid. Five groups of six mice each categorized as basal control, untreated, ascorbic acid, artemether-lumefantrine and artemether-lumefantrine + ascorbic acid were used for this study. Biochemical assays and analysis of antioxidant enzyme gene expression were carried out. Artemether-lumefantrine co-administration with ascorbic acid resulted in complete parasite clearance day three post-infection; this same group had a non-significant increase (p>0.05) in superoxide dismutase activity and a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration of the liver when compared with the artemether-lumefantrine group. Similar trend was observed for H2O2 level in erythrocyte lysate. The levels of expression of catalase, Cu, Zn-superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase genes in the P. berghei infected mice treated with artemether-lumefantrine plus Vitamin C were up-regulated compared with the group treated with lone artemether-lumefantrine. This study has shown that artemether-lumefantrine co-administration with ascorbic acid may be beneficial in P. berghei infected mice because total parasite clearance, decrease in oxidative stress markers and up-regulation in antioxidant enzyme gene expression were observed three days post treatment.

5038 – 5046

Authors: PUKUMA, Micah Sale and IBRAHIM, Timothy

The use of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) is considered the most cost effective methods of malaria prevention in endemic areas. However the possession and utilization of ITNs determines the success and the benefits of the freely distributed ITNs. The study assessed the free distribution of insecticides treated nets in Nangere Local Government Area of Yobe between April to August 2021. Structured questionnaires and laboratory techniques were used for data collection. Structured questionnaire was administered to 752 respondents who are residents of the communities. Blood samples were also collected from each of the respondents for malaria parasite examination using microscopy. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS. Relationships between the variables were determined at 95% level of confidence. 696 of respondent agreed that there was free distribution of ITNs in the community, with 432 of them testing positive for malaria with prevalence of 62.1%. Whereas 56 of the respondent were of the view there was no free distribution of ITNs, with 40 of them testing positive (67.79%). Chi-square test reported no significant association between free distribution of ITNs and malaria prevalence (χ2cal = 0.354 < χ2tab =3.841, df = 1, p>0.05). 648 of the respondents sleep under ITNs with 58.49 positive for malaria. 104 respondents do not sleep under ITNs with 86.53% infected with malaria parasites. Age group 20 – 29(22.21%) was the most infected, while age ≥ 40 recorded had the least (3.72%). Males (34.04%) were more compared to females (28.32%).The possession and utilization of ITNs was associated with malaria infection.

5059 – 5067

Authors: UWA, Unyime Gideon, EYOH, Glory Dominic, EKPO, Joseph Sylvester and EKPO, Ubak Ekwere

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), is a member of the family zingiberaceae, which grow in tropical climate. The matured leaves used in this study were source from Obio Akpa, Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Sample of the leaves were analyzed in the laboratory for proximate, gross energy, minerals, vitamins, and photochemical compositions. Values obtained for the proximate analysis of C. longa leaf were; dry matter (88.13 ± 3.26%), crude protein (25.22 ± 1.67%), ether extract (4.03 ± 0.35%), crude fibre (16.73 ± 1.00%), ash (9.65 ± 0.62%), and nitrogen free extract (32.49 ± 1.40%) respectively. The gross energy value was 4110.00 ± 0.10 kcal/kg. Mineral and vitamin composition analysis of the leaves of C. longa gave the following values; calcium (0.26 ± 0.04%), phosphorus (0.38 ± 0.10%), potassium (0.89 ± 0.10%), magnesium (0.28 ± 0.00%), sodium (0.19 ± 0.10%), iodine (7.30 ± 0.54 mg/kg), zinc (48.74 ± 1.21 mg/kg), cobalt (0.41 ± 0.11 mg/kg), manganese (36.17 ± 1.04 mg/kg), vitamin E (31.38 ± 1.00 mg/100g), vitamin A (254.80 ± 2.80 mg/100g), vitamin B6 (1.27 ± 0.20 mg/100g) and vitamin B12 (0.07 ± 0.01 mg/100) respectively. Phytochemical compositions were, curcumin (0.006 ± 0.01%), demethoxycurcumin (0.004 ± 0.00%), bisdemethoxycurcumin (0.003 ± 0.00%), tannin (0.04 ± 0.01%), saponin (0.22 ± 0.02%), alkaloids (0.32 ± 0.10%) and flavonoid (0.01 ± 0.00%) respectively. The results of the current study indicated that turmeric leaf meal will be a good ingredient for livestock feed production.

5078 – 5087

Authors: KATONGE, Jackson Henry, KASWAMILA, Abiud Lucas and HAMISI, Mariam Issa

A study was conducted in Babati and Burunge lakes in Tanzania to assess the limnological characteristics and fishery resources from August 2022 to March 2023. Sampling was conducted from ten different stations in each lake using standard method ISO 5667-4:1987. 200 fishes representing ten different species were sampled at fishermen landing sites and measured. The results showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in limnological characteristics within seasons and between lakes. Limnological characteristics were within WHO agreed values except biological oxygen demand (10.7 ± 6.43 mg/l), Chloride (31.33 ± 0.88 mg/l), pH (9.8 ± 0.06) and turbidity (51.3 ± 0.88 cm) which were all higher than the accepted values. Chlorophyll-a contents were lower than recommended standard for both lakes in both seasons. Ten fish species were found, six found exclusively in Lake Babati and four in Lake Burunge. Oreochromis niloticus, Oreochromis urolepis and Oreochromis variabilis were restricted to dry season in Lake Babati, while the rest were found in dry and wet seasons in both lakes. Majority of fish species sampled had larger size in the dry than in the wet season. Most fish species sizes were within the reported size ranges for that particular fish species. Clarias gariepinus recorded maximum size (872.3 ± 15.38 g and 54.2 ± 1.96 cm) in Lake Babati, while Tilapia melanopleura recorded maximum size (443.3 ± 6.17 g and 25.7 ± 0.33 cm) in Lake Burunge. The study concluded that both lakes water met the requirements for fish production and requires effective management against pollution.

5095 – 5106

Authors: KATONGE, Jackson Henry, KASWAMILA, Abiud Lucas and HAMISI, Mariam Issa

This study investigated the abundance, distribution and diversity of planktonic organisms in Babati and Burunge lakes in Manyara region. Field sampling of phytoplankton and zooplankton were conducted in July and August 2022 followed by laboratory analysis. Phytoplankton communities were dominated by Bacillariophyceae (35.90%, 35.40%) and Chlorophyceae (32.10%, 24.00%) for Babati and Burunge lakes respectively. Among the zooplankton, Cladoceridae (37.70%) was most abundant in Lake Babati, while Cyclopidae (36.60%) was most abundant in Lake Burunge. Lake Babati had higher plankton species richness (S = 50) compared to Lake Burunge (S = 45). A slightly higher phytoplankton diversity, H = 3.14 was observed in Lake Burunge compared to Lake Babati, H = 3.04. Lake Babati had slightly higher zooplankton diversity, H = 2.61 compared to Lake Burunge, H = 2.30). Evenness (E) ranged 0.56 – 0.70 for phytoplankton and 0.77 – 0.80 for zooplankton indicating a moderate healthier and more diverse aquatic ecosystem. Phytoplankton and zooplankton typically exhibited a clear inverse correlation during various time intervals in different lakes. Sustainable management practices, protection of water quality and habitat preservation are needed in conservation of planktonic communities for maintaining the ecosystem health.

5119 – 5126

Authors: OKON, Loveday Samuel, SAM, Idorenyin Meme, USORO, Ofoninyene Okon and UDO, Akaninyene Friday

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between the coat colours with morphometric traits of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats raised in Akwa Ibom State. A total of three hundred and eighty four (384) goats comprising of 291 females and 93 males were sampled from the three senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom State. Sampled goats were classified into various coat colours; black (Bl), brown (Br), black-brown (Bl-Br), white (Wh), white-brown (Wh-Br) and white-black (Wh-Bl), and age groups (1 – <2 and 2 – <3 years) for males and (2 – <3, 3 – <4, 4 – <5 and 5 years and above) for females. The data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance. Results showed that goats with White-brown and black-brown coat colour combination had similar body conformation traits in body length. BL (53.78 ± 2.49 and 53.17 ± 2.59 cm respectively), height at wither, HW (44.45 ± 0.98 and 45.08 ± 0.92 cm respectively), heart girth, HG (61.48 ± 1.25 and 63.20 ± 3.22 cm respectively), rump height, RH (47.02 ± 1.08 and 48.33 ± 1.01 cm), body depth, BD (68.64 ± 0.36 and 71.39 ± 5.31 cm respectively) and body weight, BW (22.59 ± 0.69 and 21.69 ± 3.59 kg respectively). The least BL, HW, RH and BW were observed in goats with brown coat colour. It was concluded that coat colours have influence on morphometric traits and morphometric traits affected varied with age. Coat colours of goats above five years of age, had no significant effect on morphometric traits. However, white-brown goat should be selected if body weight is desired.

5135 – 5142

Authors: ADEDOKUN, Rahamon Akinyele Moshood, ALABA, Bukola Ayokunmi, AKINNIYI, Olumide Odunayo, OLAOGUN, Sunday Charles and OGUNDALU, Toluwalope James

Having proper knowledge of the pattern of diseases vis-à-vis the data of equine cases presented to the clinic over a period of time cannot be overemphasised for appropriate prevention and control of equine diseases in Nigeria. This study aimed to establish the occurrence of equine cases presented to the Large Animal Clinic of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria (January 1999 – December 2020). A total of 102 equine cases, comprising horses (78) and donkeys (24), were retrieved from the clinical case files of equine species presented to the clinic. The sex distribution of horses and donkeys showed a higher percentage of males compared to female. Cases in local breeds of horses were higher (82.05%), compared to exotic breeds (17.95%), while all (100%) donkey cases were recorded in the local breed. Adult animals’ cases were higher compared to young animals, with 87.18% and 58.33% compared to 12.82% and 29.17% in horses and donkeys, respectively. More cases were presented during the wet season, with 74.36% and 70.83% in horses and donkeys, respectively. Higher cases involving the cardiovascular system were presented in equids (52.51%). Among infectious conditions, parasitic cases were highest (92.6%), while transportation stress (23.8%) and colic (14.3%) were the highest cases in equids among non-infectious conditions. The study observed a diverse pattern of diseases in equids that affect several body systems in Nigeria. We therefore recommend regular training of owners of horses and donkeys as well as equine veterinarians on appropriate prevention, control, and possible management of diseases.

5153 – 5164

Authors: CHOTA, Andrew, NGONGOLO, Kelvin, NGUMBI, Anna, MMBAGA, Naza and MSUTA, Gilbert

Raising chickens is an important activity in many resources constrained households in developing countries, as it is an important source of economic resilience as well as nutrition and food security. Despite its importance, the poultry industry faces many difficulties, including diseases due to low biosecurity and a lack of knowledge on proper management. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted to study the management practices that influence the performance of chickens in the households raising them in the Dodoma region of Tanzania. The results showed that 89% of respondents were vaccinating their chickens against diseases like Newcastle, fowlpox, infectious bursal disease and salmonellosis. However, many chicken farmers had incorrect information on the vaccination programs, including the frequency of vaccination and the timing of vaccinations, versus the provision of drugs for prophylactic purposes. The results showed that 29.5% of the farmers vaccinated weekly and 63.5% provided prophylactic drugs weekly. Furthermore, raising different types of chickens (OR = 1.45; p<0.01), frequency of vaccinations, (OR = 1.23; p<0.04), larger flocks of chickens (OR = 1.7; p<0.01), small number of chickens per drinker (OR = 1.64; p<0.05) and per feeder (OR = 2.4; p<0.05) were management factors associated with positive chicken performance in terms of growth rate, egg production and weight gain. It is recommended that the farmers are equipped with the necessary information on best management practices like vaccination regimes, prophylaxis timing and proper ratios of chickens per feeder and drinker.

5175 – 5184

Authors: ANSA, Anietie Archibong, AKPERE, Odamesan and ONWUDINJO, Kenneth Ifechukwu

This study analyzed some of the secondary metabolites present in hydro-ethanolic extract of Newbouldia laevis (NBL) leaves and its potential protective effects on the haematological indices of glyphosate herbicide exposed rabbit bucks. To determine the protective effects of NBL against herbicide toxicity, 36 rabbit bucks were randomized into four treatment groups designated as control, glyphosate-only, glyphosate + NBL 100 mg and glyphosate + NBL 200 mg in a completely randomized design experiment. Result of phytochemical screening of NBL showed high presence of flavonoid, terpenoid and phenol. Saponin was found to be moderately present with slight presence of alkaloid, steroid, tannin and cyanogenic glycosides. Acute toxicity evaluation indicated that the extract had a substantial safety margin with a tolerance of up to 1000 mg/kg in Albino rats. The result of glyphosate on haematological indices showed that the herbicide did not significantly (p>0.05) alter most of the measured blood parameters. However, significant (p<0.05) effects were observed on the concentration of lymphocyte and platelet counts. The administration of NBL leaves extract appeared to counteract the adverse effect of glyphosate, as evidenced by the enhanced platelet count in the treated groups. These findings support the traditional use of NBL in herbal remedies due to its phytochemical composition. It also suggests that glyphosate has minimal toxicity on haematological profile and that NBL leaves may have potential applications in regulating haematological parameters.

5198 – 5204

Authors: MANGDEN, Tongpan Eliab, KUZAYED, Imaben Grace, TANKO, Polycarp Nwuniji and ADEYEYE, Adewale Ayodeji

Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum at the time specified for an animal species. The study was designed to determine the occurrence of cryptorchidism in bulls slaughtered at the Jos main abattoir. Out of 255 bulls examined, 3(1.18%) had cryptorchid testes. Unilateral cryptorchidism occurred more than bilateral and was majorly on the right. The condition was more prevalent in bulls 2≥ - <2½ years old than in other age groups, while subcutaneous testis was seen more than other abnormal types of cryptorchid testis. The longitudinal length, weight and mid-testicular circumference of the cryptorchid testes were significantly (p<0.05) smaller than the descended testes. The study showed a low prevalence of cryptorchid testis among bulls slaughtered at the Jos main abattoir. In addition, the cryptorchid bulls showed pathological lesions characterized by testicular degeneration suggesting the bulls may not be fit for reproduction. It is therefore recommended that further studies be carried out to determine the fertility and pathological differences among the various types of undescended cryptorchid testis.

4892 – 4898

Authors: NGWU, Godwin Ikechukwu, NWANKWO, Nazarene Chisom, NGWU, Maria Ifeyinwa, ONAH, Ikechukwu Eugene, NNAJI, Nnenna Favour and EZEH, Ikenna Onyema

African trypanosomiasis is a haemoprotozoan disease of animals and humans. In animals particularly, the disease directly hinders production and therefore impedes socio-economic development of Sub-Saharan Africa. The prevalence of trypanosome infection was investigated in trade goats and sheep sold at Obollo-Afor market in Enugu State, Nigeria. Wet and thin films, haematocrit test (HCT) and buffy coat methods (BCT) were used to detect trypanosomes in jugular blood of the animals. The packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), and white blood cell (WBC) counts were also determined. A total of 200 goats and 100 sheep were examined within four months (October 2019 to January 2020). The prevalence rates of trypanosomes in the 200 goats and 100 sheep examined were 0(0.0 %) and 2(0.7 %) respectively. The RBC, WBC, and Hb of the two infected animals were significantly (p<0.05) lower than the uninfected. The average PCV of infected animals (20.65 ± 5.44%) was also lower than that of uninfected (34.17 ± 0.29%) although, it was not statistically significant (p>0.05).

4905 – 4915

Authors: ERHUNMWUNSE, Nosakhare Osazee, PAJIAH, Timeyin James and OGODO, Victory Junior

Imidacloprid, a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide widely used across the world, has been discovered in numerous freshwater bodies. There are vast information available on the effects of imidacloprid on freshwater fish. This study further assessed the effects of acute doses (0, 10, 30, 50 and 70 mg/L) of imidacloprid on behaviour, swimming, hepatic and thyroid parameters of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) after 96 hours exposure. Imidacloprid caused significant behavioural alterations (gulping, abnormal surface distribution, under-reactivity, hypoactivity, reduced opercula activity and loss of buoyancy) in the fish. Reduction in swimming speed and distance travelled was observed in fish exposed to imidacloprid. The levels of amylase significantly increased, while alterations were also recorded in the levels of hepatic (ALT, AST, total and conjugate bilirubin and lipase) and thyroid (T3, T4 and TSH) biomarkers. The findings showed that imidacloprid has the potential to harm aquatic species, justifying restrictions on the use of imidacloprid-based pesticides especially near aquatic habitats.

4924 – 4939

Authors: OGBUEFI, Emmanuel Okwudili and ARIBODOR, Dennis Nnanna

Insects are beneficial to man, although, some like houseflies, tsetse fly and mosquitoes are vital players in the transmission of certain diseases. A twelve month longitudinal survey of the population dynamics of mosquitoes in Awka South, Awka North and Njikoka Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Anambra State, Nigeria was conducted to determine the predominant mosquito species composition and its breeding ecology between August 2021 and September 2022. Pyrethrum spray trap collections, Centre for Disease Control light trap (CDC-LT) collections, human landing catch (HLC) and larval collection method (LCM) were the methods adopted during the study. Chi-square test was used to check for relationships between mosquito’s abundance and other parameters. The total number of mosquitoes collected was 9346 and the highest number was collected in Njikoka LGA 38.2% (3568/9346), followed by Awka South with 34.4% (3215/9346) and Awka North LGAs with 27.4% (2563/9346). The vector density of 23.1% (741/3215) Anopheles spp., 31.1% (1001/3215) Aedes spp., 25.4% (817/3215) Culex spp. and 18.7% (656/3215) Mansonia africana were also recorded. Distribution of mosquito larvae across the three LGAs showed that mosquitoes breeding habitats includes: domestic containers (17.0%), catchment pits (16.4%), broken buckets and tins (14.7%). Recently, resurgence of yellow fever has been reported in some part of Nigeria which Anambra State is part of which suggests that a sustainable public health education campaign on vector management and control should be intensified which will assist in sensitizing the inhabitants on the public importance of mosquito species in Anambra State, Nigeria.

4947 – 4956

Authors: OLAYIWOLA, Kehinde Olubunmi, ATANSUYI, Adewale Johnson, FADAHUNSI, Adeyinka Ignatius, OLUSOLA, Damilola Joyce, AFESIMI, Ohiozua Jamiel, AHMED, Kehinde Fatima and CHINEKE, Clifford Adinma

The overwhelming impacts of coccidial infection on poultry production and profitability have been reported in many studies. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the variations in body morphometry of Abor Acre and FUNAAB Alpha chickens naturally infected with coccidial oocytes. Two hundred day-old chicks at 100 equal numbers were raised for eight weeks. Body morphometric data were collected weekly. At about week three, experimental birds came down with coccidiosis as birds were not pre-vaccinated against it. At the end, 40 birds at 20 per breed were randomly selected for the collection of carcass and organ data. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) between Abor Acre and FUNAAB Alpha chicken breeds for live weight and linear body traits except chest circumference. The Abor Acre breed significantly weighed (p<0.05) heavier (1.54 ± 0.02 kg) than the FUNAAB Alpha (0.65 ± 0.02 kg) breed. Variations in body traits of the chicken’ sexes showed that male chickens significantly weighed (p<0.05) heavier and were found longer in most linear traits than their female counterparts. The interaction between breed*sex indicated that live and dress weights were significantly different (p<0.05) especially for breast and thigh tissues which are major economic body parts. Similar trend was observed among carcass and organ variables were breed, sex and their interactions were significantly different (p<0.05) for most parameters. In conclusion, Arbor Acre breed had better growth carcass and organ performance than FUNAAB Alpha chickens when infected with coccidial oocysts. Abor Acre chickens should be recommended to poultry farmers in coccidial endemic locations.

4966 – 4972

Authors: SAM, Idorenyin Meme

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of hen age on internal and external egg quality indices of Isa Brown hen raised in the tropics. The external egg quality indices studied were egg weight, egg length, egg width, shell thickness, shell ratio and shell weight, while the internal egg characteristics were albumen weight, albumen height, albumen ratio, yolk weight, yolk ratio and Haugh unit. A total of 180 eggs were randomly selected and used for this study. The data were taken biweekly (weeks 31, 33, 35, 37 and 39) each age in weeks represented a treatment group. Data obtained from this study were subjected to analysis of variances and the relationship between egg weights with different egg parameters at different ages were determined by correlation analysis. The results obtained indicated that as the hen age increased, albumen weight, yolk weight albumen ratio, egg weight, egg length, shell thickness and shell weight significantly increased (p<0.05). While, albumen height, yolk ratio, Haugh unit and shell ratio were significantly decreased (p<0.05). The correlation coefficient obtained indicated that egg weight had positive correlations with shell thickness (0.869, 0.110, 0.482, 0.336 and 0.329), shell weight (0.286, 0.004, 0.598, 0.336, 0.723) and albumen weight (1.00, 0.480, 1.000, 1.000, 0.728) for weeks 31, 33, 35, 37 and 39, respectively. It was therefore concluded that the age of the birds affects both the external and internal egg characteristics, the older the hen, the lower the albumen height, yolk ratio, Haugh unit and shell ratio egg quality characteristics.

4988 – 5006

Authors: EGEDEGBE, Allan Oghenenyore, OJIANWUNA, Chioma Cynthia, ENWEMIWE, Victor Ngozi, OMOTAYO, Ahmed Idowu, EYEBOKA, Destiny Nyerhovwo and ESIWO, Eric

A thorough understanding of the malaria vector’s dynamics is a crucial strategy for preventing mosquito bites and vector control. This study assessed the species composition, wing length and biting behavior with respect to seasons in Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, Nigeria. CDC light traps were used to capture mosquitoes hourly, indoors and outdoors in four settlements (Ugono Orogun, Orhomuru Orogun, Emonu Orogun and Ovara Orogun) for 10 months (May 2022 – February 2023). Mosquitoes collected outdoor (187) and indoor (138) were significantly different (p<0.05), with most abundant indoor recorded in June and July (5.25 ± 0.48 respectively), and outdoor in June (6.75 ± 0.48). Monthly variation in mosquito species was not significant (F = 0.71, df = 9, p = 0.695). The biting peaks of mosquitoes in the outdoor and indoor were observed between the hours of 8 – 9 pm respectively, also 3 – 4 am for indoor and 4 – 5 am for outdoor mosquitoes. Furthermore, all Anopheles mosquitoes collected were Anopheles gambiae sensu lato and confirmed molecularly to species level as Anopheles coluzzii. Mosquitoes outdoor had wing length significantly longer (p<0.05) than the mosquitoes obtained indoor and this may justify the reason for more outdoor mosquitoes. More mosquitoes were recorded in the wet months (F = 9.70, p = 0.0002) than in dry months. In conclusion, in order to lessen the prevalence of malaria in the study area, focused control actions of An. coluzzii, a key vector that transmits malaria parasites, should be directed outdoors before the month of June.

4694 – 4704

Authors: BERROUK, Houda, NECIB, Asma, MERAIAHIA, Awatef, BOUMAZA, Nour-Elhouda and HMAIDIA, Kaouter

Earthworms are valuable soil invertebrate mainly used to monitor environmental quality. Thus, the present study was undertaken to provide insights on the individual and combined toxicological effects of two commonly used pesticides in Souk Ahras city (Northeast Algeria), namely Valette (fungicide) and Oscar (herbicide) on a soil invertebrate – earthworm (Lumbricus terresteris) as a bio-indicator of soil pollution. The invertebrates were subjected to increasing concentrations of each chemical (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/500 mg soil) for four treatment periods (24, 48, 72 and 96 hours). Physicochemical analysis revealed that the soil pH is alkaline, and water and KCl pH are respectively 8.05 and 7.72, in addition to a sandy-loamy soil texture with a saturation rate of 49.43%, and high level of organic matter (11%). Additionally, both chemicals caused a significant weight decrease (p˂0.05) from the concentration of 12.5 mg/mg soil, and noteworthy, no mortality was recorded during the entire experimental period, either for the individual or combined exposure. Furthermore, the histopathological observations showed no signs of alteration or damage to epidermal cells and muscle fibers during the treatment periods with either chemical.

4726 – 4733

Authors: BERROUK, Houda, NECIB, Asma, HAMAIZIA, Yousra, CHABI, Chaima-Batoul and HMAIDIA, Kaouter

Earthworms are effective bio-indicators of biodiversity, soil quality and the environmental impact on cropping systems. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the toxicological effect of Acetamiprid, a widely used insecticide by farmers in the region of Souk-Ahras (Algeria), on a biological model named Lumbricus terrestris using seven increasing concentrations 0, 5, 7, 9, 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/500 mg soil for four control periods; 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. The physicochemical soil analysis indicated that the soil pH was strongly alkaline, and the pH water and pH KCl were respectively 8.52 and 7.72. The soil texture was sandy loam with a high level of organic matter (OM = 12.9%). In addition, the LC50 and LC90 values were remarkably decreased (LC50 = 12.4, 10, 7.30 and 6.69/500 mg soil; LC90 = 18.52, 14.21, 9.50, 9.15 mg/500 mg soil, corresponding respectively for each LC values to the four exposure periods 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours). Furthermore, no significant change was noticed in body weight and growth of earthworms treated with Acetamiprid at various concentrations. The mortality rate was concentration-dependent; increased with increasing concentration, and this was supported by the histopathological observations showing cellular alterations in the epidermis and muscle fibers. Additionally, treatment with Acetamiprid at high concentrations caused marked morphological abnormalities in the earthworms as evidenced by the winding of the body, loss of pigmentation, cut of the posterior part, lesions, or bloody wounds.

4741 – 4747

Authors: NWIGWE, Vivian Nkechi, NWIGWE, Harriet Chinyelu, OKEREKE, Josephat Nwabueze, UBA, Bright Obidinma and DOKUBO, Chinweike Unoma

The potentials of agro-based industrial wastewater as an alternative substrate for bioelectricity were investigated. Piggery and poultry wastewater as well as 0.1 M potassium permanganate were collected, prepared and served as substrates in the anodic and cathodic chambers of the Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) set up. Standard analytical procedures were adopted in the physicochemical determination, while the generation of electricity was evaluated using current densities (mA/cm2) and power densities (mW/m2) respectively. The results revealed that the power density of the piggery wastewater reached a peak value on the 288th hour with a value of 151.98 mW/m2 with a BOD, COD, TDS and TSS values were 65.52, 52.22, 11.40 and 57.39% respectively, while the poultry wastewater reached a peak power density of 120.24 mW/m2 on the 240th hour with a BOD, COD, TDS and TSS values of 21.74, 40.06, 2.34 and 52.87% respectively. On the other hand, results on the current densities (mA/cm2) and power densities (mW/m2) showed that the poultry wastewater MFC had peak values of 50.52 mA/cm2 and 151.98 mW/m2 on the 10th day, while the piggery powered MFC peaked on the 12th day with peak values of 69.47 mA/cm2 and 234.48 mW/m2 respectively. Statistically, the power and current densities of piggery wastewater were significantly greater (p<0.05) than that of the poultry wastewater. There were significant positive (p<0.05) relationship between physicochemical parameters and power density with time. Thus, the excellent transformation of these liquid wastes using MFC for energy generation could be exploited as benign and environmentally friendly approach.

4758 – 4769

Authors: ADEBAYO, Oluwaseun Adetomiwa, FALADE, Bukola Yemisi, IBHAZE, Gladys Abiemwense, ADESIDA, James Aderemi and ONIBI, Gbenga Emmanuel

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of cheese made from milk of West African Dwarf (WAD) does fed diets containing guinea grass (Panicum maximum) substituted with leaves of mulberry (Morus alba) at varying levels. Sixteen lactating does of weight range between 15 to 19 kg were used for this experiment. The animals were divided into four groups consisting of four animals per group in a completely randomized design. The experiment lasted for eight weeks in which milk was collected from the animals and was used to produce cheese. The yield of cheese increased from 15.60 – 18.00% with increased M. alba leaves. Values ranged from 6.11 – 6.78 pH, 0.13 – 0.18% total titratable acidity, total solids declined from 28.79% in the control sample to 30.96% at 50% M. alba leaves proportion substituted cheese sample. Proximate composition of cheese was also influenced by increased substitution level of M. alba leaves in the diets of the does whose milk were used in the production of the cheese sampled. Moisture, protein, ash, and fat contents of cheese ranged from 69.04 – 71.21%, 11.59 – 18.89%, 1.08 – 2.15% and 1.43 – 1.98% respectively. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in mineral contents of cheese. Microbial analysis showed that the product was safe for consumption. Feeding of M. alba did not have any negative effect on the cheese produced from milk obtained from WAD goats.

4778 – 4790

Authors: OGUGUA, Akwoba Joseph and ONUNKWO, Joseph Ikechukwu

Brucellosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease prevalent in Nigeria. However there are few reports of it in local cattle breeds. In order to determine the prevalence and risk factors for the disease in Muturu and Ndama breeds of cattle in Nsukka Agricultural Zone, Enugu State, Nigeria, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Blood samples from the herds were collected via snowball sampling, and the characteristics of each herd observed and noted. Using the conventional and modified Rose Bengal Test (RBT), sera from the samples were tested for brucellosis and the positive samples retested with the cELISA. The standard RBT recorded zero prevalence. In contrast, the modified RBT indicated individual animal and herd prevalence of 34.78 and 42.10%, respectively and 45.3 and 42.10% of these were supported by the cELISA test. It was observed that the herd size (p = 0.019) and presence of calves (0.0049) were all significantly associated with the prevalence of brucellosis in the herds. The study found brucellosis to be prevalent in the herds screened. However, more research is required to determine why the reactive antibody levels in the positive animals were low. To get local herd owners to accept preventive health practices, it is necessary to educate farmers on brucellosis.

4817 – 4826

Authors: OLADUNNI, Hafsat Muhammad, ADAMU, Kabir Mohammed, BABA, John and DAVID, Diana Bmazazhin

The increased cost of fishmeal in compounding fish feed has prompted the use of cheaper and readily accessible animal protein (insect protein). The effects of garlic powder supplement in diets fed to the 3rdnymphal stages of Blattodea germanica and Supella longipalpa on bacterial activities were studied. Adult cockroaches with eggs were collected from Lapai town and reared under laboratory conditions for 10 weeks. The nymphs were stocked in groups of 50 nymphs each per replication in plastic containers. The cockroaches were fed formulated diets; A (Diet D plus 0.1 g garlic meal); B (Diet D plus 0.2 g garlic meal), C(Diet D plus 0.3 g garlic meal); D (experimental control; carrot, lettuce, milk, sorghum, flour and yeast); E (standard control; cabin biscuit)) during the study period. At the end of the experiment, cockroaches were sacrificed and assay for the bacterial population on the external body surface and in the gut. The bacteria load on the body surface of B. germanica ranged from 4.77 ± 0.15 to 9.50 ± 0.25 CFU/ml, while bacterial load in the gut ranged from 5.57 ± 0.29 to 9.80 ± 0.06 CFU/ml. Similarly, bacterial load in S. longipalpa ranged from 4.53 ± 0.32 to 9.57 ± 0.28 CFU/ml, while those of the gut ranged from 5.70 ± 0.25 to 9.33 ± 0.15 CFU/ml. Isolates identified include; Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus spp., Bacillus spp., Streptococcus spp., Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. This study supports the use of garlic as an effective antibacterial agent.

4834 – 4861

Authors: MGBEAHURUIKE, Anthony Christian, AGINA, Onyinyechukwu Ada, ANYANWU, Madubuike Umunna, EMEJUO, Nnenna Tochi, EKERE, Samuel Okezie, UGWU, Patience Chinasa, UJU, Chinelo Nnenna and ANDONG, Felix Atawal

Poultry feeds are made with ingredients from different raw materials; therefore contamination with microbial agents is very common. When contaminated poultry feeds are consumed by birds, they may serve as reservoirs for many human pathogens. Bacterial pathogens seem to be the most prevalent, viral and fungal pathogens are also hazardous in poultry feeds. When microorganisms colonize poultry feeds, they utilize the readily available nutrients in the feed, thereby reducing its nutritional quality. Therefore, information on the diversity of microbial contaminants in feeds is important in designing effective feed monitoring and hazard control strategies. Some of the established contaminants of poultry feeds are bacterial and fungal agents and their secretory products. These microbes are released in the feed through raw feed ingredients, stored feed products, during feed processing and handling as well as through other environmental sources. Contaminated poultry feed adversely affects feed intake, feed conversion ratio, weight gain, organ function and alters blood and clinical chemistry parameters of birds. This review provides background information on the various microbes that contaminate poultry feeds, their sources, the adverse impacts on the health and performance parameters of birds as well as their control strategies.

4876 – 4883

Authors: ASLAN ÇELIK, Burçak, ÇELIK, Özgür Yaşar, AYAN, Adnan, ORUNÇ KILINÇ Özlem, GÖRMEZ, Gül, OKTAY AYAN, Özge, ERCAN, Kerem and AKYILDIZ, Gürkan

Cryptosporidium spp. are one of the most common intestinal protozoan parasites in cats. This parasite can infect a wide range of hosts including humans and domestic animals. This aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in stray cats of Mardin province, located in the Southeastern Anatolia region of Turkey, using microscopic and molecular methods. The result of the microscopic examination and Nested PCR, 2.5% (1/40) were positive. Sequence analysis revealed that the positive sample showed 100% similarity with Cryptosporidium felis. The result of this study indicated that Cryptosporidium spp. was detected for the first time in cats in Mardin province. Further studies are needfull to investigate in details the epidemiological status of cryptosporidiosis in domestic and stray cat populations in Mardin province of Turkey.