African
Journals Online
Nigerian Agricultural Journal
Volume 34, 2003
ABSTRACTS
GENDER AND
RELATIVE PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY IN FOOD CROP FARMING IN ABIA STATE OF NIGERIA
J. C. NWARU
Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of
Agriculture, Umudike, PMB 7267 Umuahia Nigeria
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
In this study, food crop farmers
in Abia State of Nigeria were disaggregated based on sex, their production
efficiencies and returns to scale derived and compared. Primary data generated
from a random sample of 87 food crop farmers consisting of 40 females and 47
males were used. The additive multiplicative dummy variable approach was used
to compare the technical efficiencies between the farmer groups. Separate
production functions were fitted for each group in order to derive their
respective allocative efficiencies and returns to scale. Results from this
study show that both farmer groups are characterised by factor biased or
different production functions. None of the farmer groups achieved absolute
allocative efficiency in the use of any of the resources. The female farmers
achieved a lower level of technical efficiency, over utilised fertilizer and
under utilised other farm inputs, labour, farmland and capital. The male
farmers over utilised labour and fertilizer and under utilised other farm
inputs, capital and farmland. It was concluded that redistributing available
scarce resources in favour of the female gender would be uneconomical. Rather
agricultural policies and programmes that could enable both farmer groups
optimise their current levels of resource endowments should be implemented.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 1-10
EVALUATION
OF CASSAVA/SOYBEAN INTERCROPPING SYSTEM AS INFLUENCED BY CASSAVA GENOTYPES
E.U.MBAH, C.O. MUONEKE*and D.A.
OKPARA
Department of Agronomy, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,
Umudike,, P.M.B. 7267, Umuahia, Nigeria
*Corresponding author.
Abstract
The effects of three cassava
genotypes (NR 8212, TMS 91934 and TMS 30572) grown sole or intercropped with
soybean were investigated in two field experiments in 2000/2001 and 2001/2002
cropping seasons at Umudike in the lowland humid forest zone of south-eastern
Nigeria. The plant height, canopy diameter, number of leaves per plant and leaf
area index (LAI) of soybean and cassava were significantly (P<0.05) affected
by intercropping but days to 50 per cent flowering of soybean were not
affected. Canopy diameter, number of leaves per plant and LAI of cassava were
highest with TMS 30572 in sole or intercropping cultures and least with sole or
intercropped TMS 91934 genotype in both seasons. Soybean plants were taller
when intercropped with NR 8212 or with TMS 30572 than in sole soybean, which
had similar height with soybean in soybean/TMS 91934 mixture. The soybean
canopy diameter, number of leaves per plant and LAI were higher with sole
soybean. Within the soybean intercrops, canopy diameter, number of leaves per
plant and LAI were higher with soybean/TMS 91934 and soybean/NR 8212 than with
soybean/TMS 30572 mixture. The yield and yield components of cassava (total
number of tubers per plant, number and weight of marketable tubers per plant
and fresh tuber yield per hectare) were not affected by intercropping. The
number of pods per plant, pod dry weight per plant and grain yield of soybean
were significantly (P<0.05) affected by intercropping but 100-seed weight
was not. Grain yields of soybean in mixtures (449.28 and 387.85 kg/ha) were
lower than that in sole crop (670.10 and 566.35 g/ha). Among the soybean
intercrops, the highest soybean yields (533.67 and 462.00 kg/ha) were with
soybean/TMS 91934 whereas the lowest (385.91 and 339.52 kg/ha) were with
soybean/TMS 30572 mixture in 2000/2001 and 2001/2002 seasons, respectively.
Yield increment for cassava ranged from 1.42-3.43 per cent (2000/2001) and
3.72-7.74 per cent (2001/2002) for fresh tuber yield/ha while yield reduction
for soybean ranged from 20.36-42.41 per cent (2000/2001) and 18.43-40.05 per
cent (2001/2002) for grain yield/ha. There was yield advantage due to
intercropping. The productivity of cassava/soybean mixture showed yield
advantage of 59-84 per cent (2000/2001) and 64-90 per cent (2001/2002). The
highest monetary returns (N133,786.00 and N156,161.00/ha) were
achieved with TMS 30572/soybean intercropping system in both years.
Running Title: Evaluation of
cassava genotypes/soybean cropping system.
Keywords: Cassava, soybean,
intercropping, genotypes, productivity.
Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 11-18
Comparative
Effectiveness of Water, Calgon and Sodium Hydroxide in Soil Dispersion under
two Mechanical Agitation Methods
NWACHUKWU, O. I. (MRS.)
Dept. of Soil Science & Agro-climatology, Michael Okpara University
of Agriculture, Umudike
Abstract
Distilled water, 5% calgon and
sodium hydroxide were used as dispersion agents in the particle size analysis
of surface and subsurface soils of five Nigerian soils. Sampling depths were 0
15, 15 30 and 30 45cm and concentrations of sodium hydroxide were 0.2N,
0.4N and 0.6N respectively. Agitation methods were high speed mechanical
stirring for five minutes, and overnight shaking on a reciprocate shaker. Water
was found to be least effective in soil dispersion, regardless of sampling
depth or agitation method. There was no significant difference between the
effectiveness of calgon and different concentrations of NaOH (p= 0.2866). There
was also no significant difference between the two agitation methods within
each soil depth. There was however highly significant interaction between soil
depth and agitation method (p<0.01) and also between soil depth and
dispersion agent (p< 0.05). Overnight shaking was more effective on soils of
0 15 and 15 30cm depth, but mechanical stirring for five minutes was more
effective at 30 45 cm depth. NaOH was as effective as calgon at 0 15 and 15
30cm, but calgon was significantly more effective than NaOH at 30 45cm.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 19-26
EFFECT OF Dactyladenia
barteri (Hook. f. ex Oliv.), Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit, Gliricidia
sepium (Jacq.), and Senna siamea (Lam.) MULCHES ON EARTHWORM ACTIVITY
AND NUTRIENT TURNOVER IN CASTS
D. O. ASAWALAM
Department of Soil Science & Agroclimatology, Michael Okpara
University of Agriculture, Umudike [email protected]
W. O. ENWEZOR and N. N. AGBIM
Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Abstract
A two year field study was
conducted to investigate the effects of prunings of Dactyladenia barteri
(Hook. f. ex Oliv.), Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit, Gliricidia
sepium (Jacq.), and Senna siamea (Lam.) on the activity of
earthworms and soil and worm cast properties. Earthworm activity was measured
by quantifying worm casts deposited at the soil surface. Results of the study
showed that the effect of the different mulches on earthworm activity was
similar. The cumulative trend in surface cast production was also similar under
the different mulches. Irrespective of the type of mulch and the year of
sampling, the concentration of nutrient elements were significantly (P = 0.05)
higher in worm casts relative to uningested soil. Worm casts contain 2 3
times more Ca, 2 3 times more Mg, 3 4 times more K, 5 6 times more N and
2 5 times more organic C than the top 5 cm of the soil.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 27-35
MULCHING
EFFECT OF Dactyladenia barteri (Hook.
f. ex Oliv.), Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.)
de Wit, Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.),
and Senna siamea (Lam.) LEAVES ON
SOIL TEMPERATURE, MOISTURE REGIME AND YIELD OF MAIZE
D. O. ASAWALAM
Department of Soil Science & Agroclimatology, Michael Okpara
University of Agriculture, Umudike [email protected]
And
W. O. ENWEZOR and N. N. AGBIM
Department of Soil Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Abstract
A two-year field study was
conducted to investigate the effects of mulches of multipurpose trees on soil
properties and yield of maize. The field layout was a randomized complete block
design with five replicates. Results of the study showed that the mulching
effect of the prunings was highest with Dactyladenia
barteri and lowest with Leucaena
leucocephala. Moisture tension less than 50 hPa were more frequent under Dactyladenia barteri at 10cm and Senna siamea at 30cm soil depth. There
were significant increases in maize grain yield over the control in both years.
Mulching effect on grain yield was higher in the second season cropping than in
the first season cropping. The effect of mulch applied at the start of the
first season cropping on second season grain yield was highest under mulches of
Leucaena leucocephala and Dactyladenia barteri.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 36-43
CONTRIBUTION
OF LEGUMINOUS CROPS TO NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY AND PRODUCTIVITY OF YAM BASED
SYSTEMS.
A. O. ANO, G. C. ORKWOR and
J.E.G, IKEORGU
National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, P M B 7006 Umuahia, Abia
State, Nigeria.
Abstract
A trial was conducted at Umudike,
Nigeria in 2000/2001 and 2001/2002 to determine the contribution of leguminous
cover crops Voandzea subterranea
(bambara nut), Arachis hypogea
(groundnut) and Cajanus cajan (pigeon
pea) to the conservation of soil resource base and productivity of yam minisett
based systems. The systems studied were sole yam minisett, yam minisett/bambara
nut, yam minisett/groundnut, and yam minisett/pigeon pea. Intercropping yam
minisett with either ground nut or bambara nut decreased seed yam yield
relative to sole yam minisett. Highest seed yam yields of 4.70 t/ha and 4.67
t/ha were obtained with yam minisett/pigeon pea and sole yam minisett
respectively and these were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than 3.41 t/ha
and 3.84 t/ha obtained with yam minisett/bambara nut and yam minisett/groundnut
respectively. Highest benefit cost ratio of 5.76 was obtained with yam
minisett/pigeon pea followed by yam minisett/bambara nut with 2.55, sole yam
minisett with 2.11 and lastly by yam minisett/groundnut with 1.78.
Intercropping yam minisett with the legumes improved soil organic matter
content of the soil resource base and also ensured that large quantities of
biomass was left on the soil after crop harvest in form of legume haulms.
Largest amount of legume haulm of 4.57 t/ha was obtained with yam
minisett/pigeon pea followed by yam minisett/groundnut with 3.94t/ha and yam
minisett/bambara nut with 0.54 t/ha. Quantities of nutrients (N,P,K,Ca,Mg) in
legume haulms which could be released to a subsequent crop if these haulms are
incorporated into the soil were determined. For nitrogen the value was 89.52 kg
N/ha in yam minisett/pigeon pea system and 8.66kg N/ha in yam
minisett/groundnut system.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 44-48
EFFECTS OF
MUCUNA (MUCUNA UTILIS L.) RESIDUE INCORPORATION AND NITROGEN
LEVELS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF UPLAND RICE (ORYZA SATIVA L.)
ADIGBO, S.O, K.A OKELEYE, O.J.
ARIYO, and V.I.O.OLOWE,
Crop Production and Crop Protection Department, College of Plant Science
and Crop Production, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
Abstract
The field experiment was
conducted at two locations: University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB) and
Olowo-Papa (OP) in Ogun state both in Forest-savannah transition zone of
Nigeria to investigate the response of three upland rice cultivars (O.sativa)
to mucuna residue incorporation and Nitrogen (N) fertilizer and the effects of
residues incorporation on the soil chemical properties. The experiment was
split plot in randomized complete block design in which mucuna constituted the
main plot (factor A) i.e.non-mucna and mucuna plot and factorial combination of
N fertilizer rates (factor B) and rice varieties (factor C) as subplot factors.
Mucuna residue incorporation improved soil chemical properties such as Nitrogen
(N), Potassium (K), Organic Matter (OM), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) and
Acidity (pH) at both locations. Rice plant treated with mucuna residue alone
gave higher grain yield than control (no residue) at OP while there was no
significant difference at UNAAB. Fertilizer equivalent of the green manure used
was estimated to be 30kgN /ha at OP. Grain yield response of the rice varieties
to N-fertilizer were linear and curvilinear at OP and UNAAB, respectively. The
yield of the two improved varieties (ITA150 and ITA257) were significantly
higher than OFADA variety at both locations. Mucuna residue from the dry
season fallow appeared to improve soil chemical properties as well as grain
yield.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 49-57
EFFECTS OF
SIZE AND SPACING OF MINITUBERS ON YIELD OF THREE SELECTED YAM CULTIVARS IN THE
HUMID TROPICS OF NIGERIA.
J.E.G. IKEORGU
National Root Crops Research Institute Umudike, PMB7006 Umuahia, Abia
State.
Abstract
Studies were conducted in 2000
and 2001 at Umudike Nigeria Umudike (50 27N; 70 32E) to
determine the best spacing arrangement for growing minitubers for seed yam
production. Three yam cultivars (D.alata cv UM 680) and D.rotundata (cv
Abi and Obioturugo),3 intra-row spacings on 1m ridges (50cm, 75cm, 100cm) and
three minituber sizes (50g, 75g 100g) were arranged in 3 x 3 x 3 split-split
plot factorial arrangement of RCB design and replicated three times.
D.alata minitubers(6.91
t/ha) gave significantly (p=1%) higher seed yam tuber yield than the other two
cultivars of D.rotundata,(2.08 t/ha for Abi and 1.99 t/ha for
Obioturugo) irrespective of size of minituber or spacing used The results
suggest that 50g minitubers should be spaced either 50cm apart on 1m ridges
(4.63 t/ha) or 100cm apart (4.95 t/ha) while the 75g minitubers could be spaced
at any of the three spacings evaluated (50cm=4.79 t/ha; 75cm=4.37 t/ha and
100cm=4.95 t/ha). Similarly, the 100g minitubers should be spaced at 75cm (4.95
t/ha) or at 50cm (4.74 t/ha).
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 58-62
SEED YAM
PRODUCTION WITH MINITUBERS
J.E.G. IKEORGU and M.C. IGBOKWE
National Root Crops Research Institute Umudike, PMB 7006 Umuahia
Abstract
The performance of various sizes
of minitubers of both D. alata (UM680) and D. rotundata
(Obioturugo and Abi) were evaluated for size and yield of seed yams between
1998 and 2000. Minitubers are whole but small (30-100g) tubers that farmers
could simply plant directly into their farms, as is the case for seed potatoes.
D. alata minitubers performed better than D. rotundata
minitubers. D. rotundata minitubers weighing 10-25g produced 90% seed
yams (100-500g) while the 26-50g and 51-75g minitubers produced 36% and 68%
seed yams (200-1000g) respectively. Seed yams weighing 200-1000g are preferred
by most farmers. From this experiment, minitubers weighing 10-25g gave seed yam
yield that compared in size with those from 25g cut minisetts. Only 20% of seed
yams weighing 200-1000g were produced from 10-25g minitubers of D. rotundata
while D. alata gave 36.64% seed yams from 10-25g minitubers. Minitubers of
51-100g are hereby recommended as these give over 60% seed yams of 200-1000g,
which are preferred by most farmers
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 63-67
THE EFFECT OF
REMOVAL OF THE INNER CORTEX OF SEED YAMS OF TWO YAM (Dioscorea sp.)
CULTIVARS ON VINE GROWTH AND YIELD OF WARE YAMS
NDUBISI IGWILO
Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, University of Port
Harcourt, P. M. B. 5323, Port Harcourt
Abstract
The inner cortex of two yam
cultivars Obiaoturugo (Dioscorea rotundata Poir) and Um680 (D.alata
L.) were extruded, leaving a 1cm wall with the periderm. The two sett types
(hollow and intact) in both cultivars, gave similar fresh tuber yields. Growth
attributes of the yam vines were also fairly similar. It is suggested that the
1cm outer layer of ware tubers, usually thrown away, can be re-cycled the
following cropping season to raise ware tubers.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 68-73
PLANT HEIGHT
AND FRUIT YIELD OF OKRA AS AFFECTED BY FIELD APPLICATION OF FERTILIZER AND
BENLATE IN BIDA, NIGERIA
O.I, AJARI
Department of Science Laboratory Technology, The Federal Polytechnic,
P.M.B. 55, Bida Nigeria
And
E. K. TSADO; J.A. OLADIRAN and
E.A. SALAKO
Crop Production Department, School of Agriculture and Agricultural
Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna Nigeria
Abstract
A factorial experiment involving
variety, fertilizer application and fungicide treatment in randomised complete
block design was carried out at the Biological garden of the Federal
Polytechnic, Bida in the planting seasons of 1999 and 2000 to determine the
effects of NPK fertilizer and field benlate application on the growth (height)
and fruit yield of four okra varieties. Three seeds/hole were planted on
manually prepared ridges at a spacing of 0.30m X 1.00m. Fertilizer was applied
as 200Kg/ha NPK (20-10-10) at two weeks after planting (WAP) and 50Kg/ha Urea
(46-0-0) top-dressed at 50% flowering. BENLATE at the rate of 20g/20l (w/v) of
water was applied at 5WAP and then repeated forth nightly until the experiment
was terminated. By the 6,8 and 10 weeks after planting (WAP) the height of ten
tagged plants/plot were determined. The numbers of fruits harvested from these
tagged plants were also recorded. The results showed that plant height was
positively affected by field application of either or both fertilizer and
benlate over the control plants. Also, plants treated with both fertilizer and
BENLATE had a tendency for more continuous growth and significantly higher
fruit yield than those treated differently. This brings higher economic returns
to the farmer.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 74-80
Field
Evaluation Of Four Sweet Potato Cultivars For Yield And Sweet Potato Weevil
(Cylas puncticollis Boh.) Damage During The Early Cropping Season in South
Eastern Nigeria.
S. C. ANIOKE and O. K. OGBALU
Department of Biological Sciences, Rivers State University of Science and
Technology, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Abstract
Four sweet potato cultivars (TIS
87/0087, TIS 8441, TIS 2532 OP. 1. 13 and Ex Igbariam) were evaluated for yield
and damage of C. puncticollis during
the period June to October in 1999 and 2000, respectively. The trials were
conducted in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times.
Plants were sampled forthnightly for tuber yield and C. puncticollis incidence and damage. Marketable tubers were
recorded at 8 weeks after planting (WAP) and this increased with the age of the
plant. TIS 87/0087 consistently gave higher marketable tuber numbers at all the
different times of harvesting than other cultivars. There was no incidence of C. puncticollis on tubers between 8 to 14
WAP. However, C. puncticollis damage
was higher in 1999 than the year 2000 at 16 WAP. Although the percentage tubers
infested and severity of damage did not significantly differ among the
cultivars. TIS 2532. OP. 1. 13 showed consistent high incidence and severity of
damage.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 81-86
EFFECT OF
COMBINED USE OF UREA AND GOAT DUNG MANURE ON CELOSIA
S. O. OJENIYI, and A. A
ADEGBOYEGA,
Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B,
704, Akure, Nigeria
Abstract
Three field experiments were
conducted to investigate the separate and combined effects of urea and goat
dung manure on leaf nutrient contents, growth and yield of Celosia argentea in southwest Nigeria.
Each experiment involved 7
treatments namely: no treatment, 10t/ha goat dung, 125 kg/ha urea, 125 kg/ha
urea + 2t/ha goat dung, 125 kg/ha urea + 4 t/ha goat dung, 125 kg/ha urea +
6t/ha goat dung and 125 kg/ha urea + 8 t/ha goat dung, replicated three times
using a randomised complete block design. Goat manure increased height, number
of leaves, stem girth, root length, stem and leaf weight of celosia and leaf N,
P, K, Ca and Mg contents. Compared with urea or goat dung alone, combined
application of urea and goat dung increased growth and yield of celosia and
leaf nutrients contents. Addition of goat manure to urea increased leaf P, K,
Mg status. Leaf P and K increased with increasing amount of goat manure.
Compared with no treatment, 10t/ha goat dung, 125 t/ha urea and 125 t/ha urea +
6t/ha goat dung increased fresh matter yield by 66, 273 and 974% respectively.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 87-90
ASSESSMENT OF
SIX STORAGE METHODS FOR SEED POTATO STORAGE IN NIGERIA
J. C. OKONKWO, C.O. AMADI, H.N.
NWOKOCHA,
National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Nigeria.
And
J. O. WILLIAM and W.I. OKOYE
National Stored Products Res. Institute, PMB 1489, Illorin.
Abstract
Studies were carried out in 1997
and 1998 at Kuru, Jos Plateau, Nigeria to assess six storage methods for the
storage of seed potato. The methods were: Storage in jute bags, perforated
polythene bags, baskets, racks, crates and floor. Potato varieties used were
Nicola (medium to long dormancy) and B7716-2 (short dormancy). The seed tubers
were stored for six months during which daily maximum and minimum temperatures
of the storage environment, and the relative humidity were recorded. Tuber
weight loss, loss due to rots, sprout number and length per tuber at the end of
the storage were also recorded. Results showed that only polythene bag reduced
tuber weight loss, but resulted in highest tuber rots due to soft rot disease
of potato. Poor light condition in jute bags encouraged the development of long
and etiolated sprouts of seed potato. Sprout number per tuber was not affected
by the storage methods. Varietal differences in tuber weight loss, sprout
number and tuber rots were significant (P≤ 0.05). Due to dehydration,
tuber weight loss increased by 37 percent during the six months storage. Based
on the results obtained, storage is recommended in crates, racks and on floor
of well-ventilated stores for short-term (4 months) storage, since these
methods provided good ventilation of stored seed and tuber rots are low.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 91-96
Assessment of
Copper Levels in the Soil and Vegetation Following Repeated Application of
Bordeaux Mixture to a Cocoa Plantation in South Eastern Nigeria.
NZEGBULE, E.C.
Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Michael Okpara
University of Agriculture Umudike, PMB 7267 Umuahia, Nigeria.
Abstract
Copper concentration in an old
cocoa plantation annually sprayed with bordeaux mixture to control a fungal
disease was investigated. A nearby Gmelina plantation was used to obtain
some background information. Samples of leaf, seed and bark of cocoa and Gmelina
respectively as well as soil and some economic ground flora species from the
two plantations were collected and analyzed for Cu and Fe. The concentration of
Cu in the bark leaf, seed, ground flora and soil from Cocoa plantation were
significantly higher by 95%, 87%, 72.2% and 53.6% respectively than those of Gmelina
plantation. The highest concentration of Cu was in the cocoa bark (156.2mg
kg-1). Cocoa seed contained 18.5mg kg-1 of Cu. Cocoa and Gmelina plantations
had similar Fe concentrations only in their soil and ground flora samples. The
leaf sample contained the highest concentration of Fe in both Cocoa and Gmelina
plantations. The use of bordeaux mixture is gradually building up the Cu level
in the Cocoa plantation, and urgent control need to be introduced on the use of
the fungicide to reduce both the environmental degradation and the health risk
posed to the local populace.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 97-102
DIURNAL CLIMATIC PRESSURE ON HAEMATOLOGY AND BLOOD
BIOCHEMISTRY OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF SHEEP
ANYANWU,
D. O.
Department Of Agricultural Science,
Alvan Ikoku College Of Education, Owerri Nigeria
D. C.;
UMESIOBI
Department Of Animal Science And
Technology, Federal University Of Technology, Owerri Nigeria
and
ORJI, B. I.
Department of Animal Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Abstract
Twelve 2.5-year-old West African
Dward (WAD) sheep consisting of eight (8) ewes and four (4) rams with mean body
weight 19.4kg were used to study the effects of diurnal (morning and afternoon)
climatic variations on the haematological and biochemical responses in WAD
sheep. The animals were randomly assigned to two treatment groups with three
replicates for each treatment. Blood samples ((80ml) were collected from each
of the three replicates twice per day at 9am and 3pm for 12 weeks. A
significantly (p<0.05) higher diurnal relative humidity (57.805) and wind
velocity (3.03km/hr) were recorded in the morning hours, with a significantly
(p<0.05) higher ambient air temperature (32.360C) and radiation
intensity (0.87kcal) noticed during the afternoon period. Most of the climatic
factors were positively (p<0.05) correlated with ambient air temperature,
except the relative humidity 9RH) which had a negative relationship (ro.25)
with the air temperature. Most of important haematological and biochemical
parameters were fairly distributed throughout the diurnal periods, except blood
glucose, which was significantly (p<0.05) increased with increased diurnal
radiation intensity and relative humidity. Ambient air temperature exhibited
positive correlations with red blood cells (r=0.41), packed cell volume (r=0.50
vs 0.20) and negative correlations with white blood cells (r=-11), plasma
protein (r=-0.50) and blood glucose (r=-0.61). on the contrary, RH had positive
(p<0.05) correlations with plasma protein (r=0.97), blood glucose (r=0.50),
blood coagulation time (r=0.26) and specific gravity fo plasma/whole blood
(r=0.36 vs 0.280. red blood cell, haemoglogin, glucose and specific gravity of
plasma/whole blood showed positive relationship (p<0.05) with wind velocity
and radiation intensity, except packed cell volume and white blood cells which
had negative correlations with radiation intensity 9r=-0.91 and 0.40). The results
of this study suggested that WAD sheep have the inherent ability to tolerate
vagaries of diurnal tropical climatic conditions through prompt corrective
adjustments of their body haematology and blood biochemistry.
Keywords: Diurnal climate, haematological and biochemical responses
West African Dward Sheep, humid tropical climate.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 103-109
EFFECT OF
REPLACING COCOA HUSK FOR WHEAT BRAN ON INTERNAL ORGANS, CARCASS YIELD, SERUM
METABOLITE AND ECONOMICS OF PRODUCTION OF GROWING COCKERELS
S. S. ABIOLA
Department of Animal Production and Health, University of Agriculture,
PMB 2240,
Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
and
O. O. TEWE
Department of Animal Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Abstract
Carcass yield, serum metabolites
and economy of production of cockerels were studied for 12 weeks to determine
the effect of replacing wheat bran with cocoa husk at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%
levels. Results of eviscerated yield were statistically different (P<0.05).
Highest eviscerated yield of 70.52% was obtained from 25% wheat bran
replacement by cocoa husk that gave the best result of flesh/bone ratio of
2.73. The weight of the liver, gizzard and size of gastro-intestinal tract
increased with increase in the level of cocoa husk in the diet.
Total protein and serum urea
concentrations were higher than the reference values. Creatinine concentrations
were lower on all the cocoa husk diets compared with the control. Wheat bran
can be replaced by 25% cocoa husk in the finisher diet of cockerels to produce
good quality carcass at reduced cost without adverse effects on serum
metabolites.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 110-115
COMPARISON OF
THE SUPPLEMENTAL EFFECTS OF ROXAZYME-G ENZYME IN PALM KERNEL MEAL AND BREWERS
DRIED GRAIN BASED DIETS FED TO MALE TURKEY POULTS
OJEWOLA, G. S; OGUIKE, M. A;
AKOMAS, S. C; LIKITA, T; ONYIRO, O. M
and WOKOCHA, C.
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
College of Animal Science and Animal Health, P. M. B. 7267, Umudike, Abia
State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The influence of exogenous
enzymes on the utilization of agro-industrial by-products in poultry ration was
assessed. Palm kernel cake (PKC) meal and Brewers dried grain (BDG) based
diets were supplemented with Roxazyme-G enzyme and subsequently fed to male
turkey poults for 8 weeks. Diets 1 and 2 contained PKC, which supplied 2.4%
fibre while BDG supplied 2.4% fibre in diets 3 and 4. Diets 2 and 4 were
supplemented with 15g of Roxazyme-G enzyme, while Diets 1 and 3 were not, thus
acting respectively as controls for Diets 2 and 4. Roxazyme-G significantly (P
< 0.05) influenced the mean daily weight gain and feed-to-gain ratio but not
mean daily feed intake. The mean daily weight gain for birds fed diet 2 was
numerically higher (40.00g) than those birds fed diet 1 (37.20g), while that of
birds fed diet 4 was significantly (P < 0.05) depressed (37.63g). The
feed-to-gain ratio for birds on diet 2 (1.88) was better than that of birds fed
diet 1 (1.97) while those on diet 3 (1.72) were better than those fed diet 4
(1.89). The edible parts expressed as percent live-weight and cut parts were
not influenced by treatment except the drumstick. Enzyme supplementation also
resulted in a decrease in the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and the
percent Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of the poults. Congestion of central veins and
degeneration of the hepatocytes were also noted in poults fed Diet 2, 3 and 4.
There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in the percentage of
calcium and phosphorus elements in the bones of the experimental birds. Data
from the study also showed that the poults fed diet 1 significantly (P <
0.05) developed the shortest bone length (16.08cm). Economic analysis revealed
that cost/kg feed (N) was cheapest in diet 1 followed by diet 3 which
gave the best mean daily weight gain (44.67g) and feed-to-gain ratio (1.72).
Poults fed diet 3 also showed a significantly (P < 0.05) higher gross margin
than those in the other treatments. Since farmers always aim at maximizing
profit at reduced cost of production Diet 3 could be the best option for
raising male turkey poults, followed by Diet 2. In order words, supplementing
these diets with Roxazyme-Genzyme may not convey any tangible economic benefits
to a producer for now. More research work may thus be required.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 116-124
A COMPARATIVE
ANALYSIS OF CAPTURE FISHERIES ON THE WESTERN AND EASTERN SHORES OF KAINJI LAKE
BASIN, NIGERIA
RAHJI, M.A.Y
Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan
Abstract
The study examined fish catch on
Kainji Lake in Nigeria. The data for the analysis were obtained through a
sample survey of the lake basin.. A total of 252 fishermen were sampled.
Multiple regression analysis was adopted in analyzing the data.. The results
obtained indicate that on both shores of the lake, family labour, capital
expenses, motorized operation, credit and apprentiship or training are
significant factors affecting fish catch by the fish-folks.. Family labour has
a negative sign. This implies over utilization of this input. Family labour
input can thus be reduced without affecting the catch level. The pooled data
for the two shores produced a similar result. The catch functions are
characterized by decreasing returns to scale.. The Chows test for equality of
parameters of the catch functions indicated no significant difference between
the shores.. It is recommended that a reduction in family labour be encouraged
among the fishermen. They should be enlightened on the possibility of
over-fishing the lake. The provision of credit to the fishermen is also
recommended
Key - words: Catch function;
capture fisheries, returns to scale, Kainji Lake, Nigeria.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 125-130
EVALUATION OF
UDDER TRAITS AS INFLUENCED BY BODYWEIGHT AND REPRODUCTIVE STATUS OF RED SOKOTO
GOATS IN A GUINEA SAVANNAH ENVIRONMENT
O.A. AMAO1, O.A.
OSINOWO, C.F.I. ONWUKA, S.S. ABIOLA and M.A. DIPEOLU.
College of Animal Science and Livestock Production,
University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240,
Abeokuta, Nigeria.
1CorrespondingAuthor
(Present address)
Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke Akintola University of
Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
And
C.A.M. LAKPINI,
National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Ahmadu Bello
University, Shika - Zaria, Nigeria
Abstract
A study was conducted to evaluate
udder traits as influenced by liveweight and reproductive status of Red Sokoto
goats in a guinea savanna environment. One hundred and thirty (130) Red Sokoto
does were involved in the study. Effects of age, parity, lactation, pregnancy
and liveweight on udder traits were determined. Age, parity, lactation and
pregnancy had no significant (P > 0.05) effect on udder traits. Effect of
liveweight was significant (P < 0.05) on all udder traits measured when used
as covariate. Coefficients of regression for the effect of liveweight on udder
traits were for udder length (UL), 0.39 ± 0.03 ; udder width (UW),
0.20 ±
0.03 ; udder circumference (UC), 0.55 ± 0.06 and udder volume
(UV), 65.42 ±
6.42. Mean values of udder traits were adjusted to those of a 3 4 year old
lactating doe. The adjusted values were for UL, 14.33 ± 0.25; UW, 10.17 ±
0.20; UC, 28.17 ±
0.46 cm and UV, 1007.21 cm3. It was concluded that liveweight
constituted a major determinant of udder size in Red Sokoto goats. This study
also showed that although effects of age, parity, lactation and pregnancy on
udder size were not significant, the udder size increased with age and parity;
pregnant does had larger udder than non-pregnant ones, while lactating does
also had larger udder than non-lactating ones.
Key words: Udder traits, Red Sokoto
goats, bodyweight and reproductive status.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 131-137
BIOLOGIC AND
ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF INCLUDING DIFFERENT AGRO-INDUSTRIAL BY-PRODUCTS IN TURKEY
POULT DIETS
UKACHUKWU, S. N., OJEWOLA, G. S.,
ABASIEKONG, S. F. and UZUEGBU, C. P.
College of Animal Science and Animal Health, Michael Okpara University of
Agriculture, Umudike, P. M. B. 7267, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
Abstract
The biologic and economic effects
of including three agro-industrial by-products as ingredients in turkey poult
diets were investigated using 48 turkey poults in a completely randomised
design experiment. Diets were formulated to contain the three by-products
wheat offal, rice husk and palm kernel meal, each at 20% level of inclusion and
designated Treatment 2, 3 and 4, respectively. These were compared with a
control diet (Treatment 1) that did not contain any of these by-products.
Treatment 4 encouraged better performance (P<0.05) of the birds in terms of
their final body weight (3175g), urowth rate (42.83g/d), and feed conversion
ratio (1.03) than the other two experimental and control diets. Performance of
birds on Treatment 3 was statistically the same (P>0.05) as for birds on
control treatment in all the three biologic parameters investigated. These
results were better than performance of birds on Treatment 2. The economic
parameters (cost per kg feed, cost per kg weight gain and gross margin)
followed similar pattern as the growth parameters above. The poults on
Treatment 2 had higher (P<0.05) cost (N) per kg weight gain than
poults on diets 1 and 3 whose values were similar but significantly (P<0.05)
higher than that of birds on Treatment 4 which encouraged the best biological
performance and the least cost per kg weight gain.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 138-142
THE
POTENTIALS OF OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM, PENRGULARIA EXTENSA AND TETRAPLEURA
TETRAPTERA AS SPICE AND FLAVOURING AGENTS
DONATUS E. OKWU
Department Of Chemical Sciences, Michael Okpara University Of
Agriculture, Umudike.
P.M.B. 7267, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
Abstract
The work reports the chemical
evaluation, nutritional and flavouring properties of Ocimum gratissimum, Pengularia extensa and Tetrapleura tetraptera. The spices contain crude protein
(7.44%-17.50%), crude lipid (4.98%-20.36%), crude fiber (17%-20.24%),
carbohydrate (43.18%-49.06%) and food energy (234.42-379.48 g/cal). The spices
are sources of minerals (calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and iron).
Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, phenolic compounds,
saponin, alkaloids, steriods and flavenoids; these bioactive substances may be
responsible for the biological properties of the plants.
Keywords:
Chemical composition, Ocimum gratissimum, Pengularia extensa, Tetrapleura tetraptera, nutritional
value, spices.
Niger Agric. J. 34 (2003): 143-148
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