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Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationship using mitochondrial ND5 partial sequences in three cattle breeds

Aslinda, K.^1,4*, Wan Somarny, W.M.Z.¹, Mat Tasol, S.¹, Fadzlirahimi, I.², Mohd. Hafiz, A.W.³ and Siti Azizah, M.N.^4,5

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43000 Serdang, Selangor, ²Kemaman MARDI Station, P.O.Box 44, 24007 Kemaman, Terengganu, ³Muadzam Shah MARDI Station, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang, ⁴School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, ⁵Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 7-12

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Partial sequences of mtDNA ND5 (404 bp) were determined for 107 bovine samples from three cattle breeds: Kedah-Kelantan (KK, n=86), Yellow cattle (YC, n=18) and Banteng (n=3). Seven haplotypes (Hap01-Hap07) were generated with Hap01 having the highest frequency shared by KK and YC populations, whilst Hap03-04, Hap06 and Hap07 were unique to KK cattle from Pahang (KKB), YC and Banteng, respectively. The YC was the most diverse (h= 0.3072, ?= 0.003899) than other populations. Among the Kedah-Kelantan cattle populations, KKB (h= 0.1871, ?= 0.002438) was the most diverse, while KK cattle from Kelantan (KKA) was the least (h= 0.0690, ?= 0.000171). Low genetic distance between KKA and KK cattle from Terengganu (KKC, 0.0002) showed it to be more closely related in maternal lineage than between KKA and KKB cattle (0.0014) and KKA and YC (0.0022). The NJ tree differentiated B. taurus from B. indicus with 99% bootstrap support indicating distinct evolutionary lineages. B. indicus further bifurcated into KKA, KKB and KKC populations and YC populations revealing its maternal relationship with B. indicus.

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Separation of Y-chromosome bearing bull’s spermatozoa using an albumin gradient technique

Somarny, W.W.M.Z.¹*, Tan, Y.J.², Mat Tasol, S.¹, Jasmi, Y.³, Musaddin, K.¹ and Johari, J.A.¹

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre MARDI P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
²MARDI Research Station, P.O. Box 62, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang, Malaysia
³MARDI Research Station, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 13-19

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This study was conducted to separate the X- and Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa based on an albumin gradient technique. A modified but simple procedure was performed to minimize pressure on the spermatozoa. Two treatments consisting of two-phase albumin gradients which were 12.5% over 20% (Treatment 1), and 15% over 20% (Treatment 2) bovine serum albumin (BSA) were carried out to separate the X- and Y-chromosome bearing bull’s spermatozoa at room temperature. Subsequent analysis by FISH using a single labeled TSPY probe (specific for detection of Y-chromosome) showed that the albumin gradient technique was not effective (P>0.05) to separate the X- and Y- chromosome bearing spermatozoa. The percentage of Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa recovered following separation by Treatment 2 was higher but not significant (P>0.05) compared to Treatment 1.

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Assessment of mating behaviour associated with fertility in Boer bucks

Mariani, N.S.¹*, Yaakub, H.² and Shanmugavelu, S.³

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, Station MARDI Kemaman, Terengganu.
²Department of Animal Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.
³Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 21-24

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A study on the mating behavior of Boer bucks using the serving capacity test was conducted. Ten healthy Boer bucks with no previous experience of sexual activity were randomly selected and kept in individual pens. Each buck was allowed to mate naturally with a restrained female in oestrus for 30 minutes. Data on the serving capacity test were collected every 2 weeks for 5 consecutive weeks. All occurrences of mount attempts, mounts with and without ejaculation and the frequency of each event occurred were recorded. Latency to first mount and first ejaculation and refractory period were calculated. Buck efficiency was calculated by dividing the total number of ejaculations by the total number of mounts with and without ejaculation. Results showed that there were significant differences (P<0.05) between weeks for the mean latency to first mount, number of mounts and mount attempts, latency to first ejaculation, refractory period, number of ejaculations and mating efficiency. The number of ejaculations and mating efficiency increased in the beginning of the study. It was noted that experience had a decisive effect on the ability of bucks to properly mount and successfully ejaculate. Sexual experience might have provided the opportunity for bucks to learn and recognize important behavioural cues from the females.

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Effect of colostrum feeding on the serum immunoglobulin level in Saanen crossbred kids

M. S. Suraya and H. Yaakub*

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 25-30

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Generally the immune system of ruminant neonates is poorly developed and even during the pregnancy period maternal antibodies are unable to pass to the fetus. The offspring will be protected from the diseases if they received enough immunoglobulin present in the colostrum. The objective of the study was to determine the serum immunoglobulin G concentration in kids fed with single or divided doses of good quality colostrum. Ten newborn Saanen crossbred kids were divided equally into two groups fed with 200 ml of colostrum once within the first hour (0 hr) post kidding (C200-1, n=5) or 100 ml colostrum twice within the first hour and eight hours post kidding (C100-2, n=5). The amount of colostrum collected from the doe offered to the kids was calculated based on 10% of the kid’s body weight. Results showed that the mean body weights of kids were not significantly different (P>0.05) among the feeding groups. There was also no significant difference (P>0.05) between C200-1 and C100-2 groups for Ig G concentration in blood serum at kidding, 8, 24, 40, 192, 288, 360 and 720 hours post kidding and calculated Apparent Efficiency Absorption (AEA) after 40 hours of first feeding. Concentration of Ig G in blood serum and AEA after 40 hours of first feeding of C100-2 group were higher (P>0.05) than those of C200-1 group. This study recommends that Saanen crossbred neonates be fed with colostrum twice (0 and 8 hours) on the first day of their life to make sure they received adequate amount of Ig G for their later immunity.

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Influence of diets supplemented with different nitrogen sources on rumen microbial protein synthesis and protozoa numbers in steers

Yusof Hamali, A.¹* and A. R. Azizan²

¹Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor,
²Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI HQ, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 31-42

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An experiment with ruminally and duodenally cannulated steers was undertaken to determine how type of diets affected the ability of rumen fermentation to respond to different sources of nitrogen in the diet. Four steers received diets of corn or hay grass supplemented with either urea or casein in a 4 x 4 Latin Square Design with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Measurements of protozoa numbers, rumen fermentation and microbial protein synthesis were made on the third week of each 21-day period. Ruminal pH was higher (P<0.01) for steers fed hay than corn diet. Concentrations of ruminal NH3-N were higher for steers supplemented with urea than for steers supplemented with casein. Steers receiving corn or hay diets supplemented with casein had higher ruminal amino acid-N and peptide-N concentrations than those supplemented with urea. Nevertheless, steers receiving hay had 33% greater (P<0.01) MOEFF than steers receiving corn (18.61 vs. 14.03 g of microbial N/kg of OM digested). Total N flow to the duodenum was similar among treatments but non-ammonia non-microbial N flow to duodenum was higher (P<0.0002) in corn-based diet than hay-based diet. Despite having a lower (P<0.01) ruminal pH (6.21 vs. 6.52), steers fed the corn-based diet had greater ruminal organic matter digestibility than steers fed the hay-based diets, presumably reflecting a difference in the source of fiber in the two diets. Ruminal concentrations of total protozoa were higher (P<0.01) for corn-fed steers than hay-fed steers but holotrichs were more prominent in hay-fed steers. The source of N or peptides had no influence on protozoa numbers and MOEFF in the rumen. No benefit was noted in terms of ruminal or total tract digestion of organic matter or starch when a dietary source of peptides (casein) replaced dietary urea. Protozoa population in greater in corn based diets but their role in reducing rumen microbial synthesis is unclear in this experiment. Nevertheless, microbial efficiency was 32% greater with a hay-based than a corn-based diet.

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Effects of Cymbopogon citratus leaf and Zingiber officinale rhizome supplementation on growth performance, ileal morphology and lactic acid concentration in broilers

Thayalini, K.¹*, Shanmugavelu, S.¹, Saminathan, P.M.², Siti Masidayu, M.S.¹, Nor Idayusni, Y.¹, Zainuddin, H.¹, Nurul Akmal, C.A.¹ and Wong, H.K.¹

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur,
²Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 43-50

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The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of feeding Cymbopogon citratus leaf and Zingiber officinale rhizome on growth performance, digestibility, ileum morphology and ileal lactic acid concentration in broilers. A total of 108- day-old male Cobb broiler chicks were randomly assigned to three treatment groups with six replicates in each treatment. Dietary treatments were no supplementation (control) and supplementations with 2% dried Zingiber officinale rhizomes and 2% dried Cymbopogon citratus leaves, respectively. Growth performance, feed consumption, ileal lactic acid concentration and villus height and crypt depth of the ileum were measured at the end of study period of six weeks. The results obtained showed that the final body weight and body weight gain of the birds fed Zingiber officinale were similar to the corresponding figures of the birds fed the control diet. Overall, broilers fed with Cymbopogon citratus, showed poorer performance as compared to birds in the other two treatments. Digestibility and villus height: crypt depth ratio were not significantly different between treatments. It can be concluded that supplementing broiler feed with either Zingiber officinale or Cymbopogon citratus did not improve bird performance despite the higher lactic acid content observed with the bird fed the Zingiber officinale supplemented feed.

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Growth response of crossbred village (kampung) chickens to starter diets of differing energy contents

Engku Azahan, E.A.¹*, Azlina Azma, I.A.² and Noraziah, M.²

¹Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor,
²Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, GPO Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 51-56

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A study was carried out on crossbred Malaysian village (kampung) chickens to investigate the effect of dietary energy in the starter feed on growth performance. The dietary treatments were 13.5, 12.5, 11.5 and 10.5 MJ apparent metabolisable energy (AME)/kg feed, imposed from day one until the termination of the trial on day 21. All diets were iso-nitrogenous at 21% crude protein level. Energy efficiency (energy intake per kg body weight gain) was significantly lower (p<0.05) with treatment 10.5 MJ/kg than with other treatments, with a trend of increasing efficiency values with increasing dietary energy levels. Between treatments, differences in body weight gain and feed conversion efficiency were not significantly different while differences in feed intake were inconsistent. It is concluded that for the crossbred kampung chicken during the starter phase, low dietary energy levels in the vicinity of 10.5 MJ/kg might prove to be relatively economical as compared to the use of dietary energy level of 12.5 MJ/kg or higher as usually practiced for commercial broiler starter feeds.

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Dressed yield and edible parts of crossbred village (kampung) chickens as affected by restrictions in feed

Azlina Azma, I.A.¹ and Engku Azahan, E.A.²*

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, GPO Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur,
²Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 57-60

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A study was carried out to determine the effect of feed restriction on carcass yields of crossbred kampung chickens at a slaughter age of 12 weeks. The two feed-restricted feeding regimes studied were provisions of commercial feeds amounting to 80% and 50%, respectively, of ad libitum feeding. The birds restricted to 50% of ad libitum feeding were reared in a fenced-in open area with surrounding oil palms and other vegetation, while the 80% feed restricted birds and the ad libitum-fed control group were housed in open sheds. Carcass yield and the yields of breast, thigh and drumstick parts as percentages of live weights were significantly higher in the control than in the feed-restricted groups. Between the two feed-restricted groups, differences in all carcass yield parameters were not significant. It is concluded that restricted feeding regimes at levels of 50 - 80% of ad libitum intake adversely affected the development of edible carcass parts of crossbred kampung chickens as a consequence of insufficient supply of nutrients.

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Production of polyclonal antibody against tetracycline using KLH as a carrier protein

Siti Noraini, B.* and Nur Azura, M.S.

Biotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, P.O. Box 12301, 50747 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 14(1): 61-66

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The production of polyclonal antibody against tetracycline was described using tetracycline - KLH conjugate (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin). Tetracycline was conjugated with KLH as a carrier protein because it was small molecule and unable to stimulate an immune response by itself. The UV absorbance reading of the tetracycline-KLH conjugate and KLH alone slightly shifted the reading of UV absorbance. Ammonium sulphate precipitation and Protein A affinity column were used in the antibody purification. Two peaks were obtained from affinity Protein A column. Peak 1 indicated the unbound material from serum sample and peak 2 was bound antibody with protein A which was eluted with elution buffer. Peak 2 was collected for titer antibody determination using ELISA method. Antibody level was higher at the fourth bleed which reached 1.2 absorbance (UV/nm) and equivalent with 1 mgmL-1 concentration. The entire antibody level declined dramatically at dilutions greater than 0.0001 mgmL-1 protein. The optimum and significant antibody concentration was at 0.00001 mgmL-1 for use in ELISA or other assays

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Analysis of ovine uterus Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs)

Suhaimi, A.H.M.S ¹*, I.A. Azlina Azma², A.R. Roziatul Erin¹, W. M. Z. Somarny¹, M. N. Mat Isa³, Z. A. Rabiatul Adawiah⁴ , S. Md Tasol¹ and K. Musaddin¹

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.
² MARDI Research Station Muadzam Shah, Muadzam Shah, Pahang.
³Malaysian Genome Institute, Bangi, Selangor.
⁴⁵ Biotechnology Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 1-12

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The aim of this paper was to explore the different analyses available to examine Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs). ESTs were generated from the uterus of indigenous sheep, Malin. A total of 675 unigenes were identified of which 603 were singletons and 72 were consensus sequences. Seventy nine of the unigenes had significant match to genes in SwissProt database while the remaining unigenes had to be converted to coding regions (CDS). Fifty seven of the CDS had significant matches to the SwissProt database. Upon functional annotation to both unigenes and CDS, binding and catalytic activity were the two most common molecular function while the most common biological processes were related to cellular processes. Enzyme commission pathway related to DNA, purine and primidine metabolism pathway had the most abundant number of genes Subjected to KEGG pathway mapping. Pfam protein family related to electron transport process towards the production of ATP family, was additionally identified among the ESTs. Analysis of ESTs with Pfam revealed the importance of ATP generation in the uterus. Albeit minimally, the different analyses performed in this project provide some light in the function of ovine uterus and can be applied to other indigenous species that have no or limited genome data availability to discover novel and unknown genes and proteins.

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HaeIII-RFLP Polymorphism of growth hormone gene in Savanna and Kalahari goats

Amie Marini, A.B.¹*, K. Aslinda¹, R. Mohd. Hifzan², A.B. Muhd. Faisal² and K. Musaddin¹

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
²Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Station, Kluang, Johor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 13-19

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Growth hormone (GH) plays an important role in several biological processes such as reproduction, lactation, metabolism and growth of livestock animals. The objectives of this study were to screen growth hormone (GH) gene variants and to identify the polymorphism of GH gene in Savanna and Kalahari goats using PCR-RFLP technique. Genomic DNA was obtained from goat blood samples and amplified by PCR-RFLP using five growth hormone genes. The present study showed two variations were present in growth hormone (GH1 and GH5) of goats. The analysis of 422 bp GH1 fragment revealed polymorphisms with three genotypes (AA, AB and BB). The AB genotype was identified as with the highest frequency in Savanna and Kalahari goats with values of 0.88 and 0.64, respectively. GH5 revealed three genotypes (GH, GG and HH) which differed in patterns from GH1. The highest genotype frequencies of GH5 in Savanna goats were 0.57 and 0.37 for GG and GH genotypes, respectively. Observed genotypes and frequencies in Kalahari goats differed from Savanna goats. The highest frequencies of GH and HH genotypes were found in Kalahari goats with value 0.5 and 0.36, respectively. Further sequence analysis showed that two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found in GH2 in exon 4 that caused a change in amino acid coding. One SNP located in exon 3 in GH6 was identified but did not change the amino acid coding.

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Ovarian responses after superovulation with different dosages of oFSH in goats

Abdullah¹*, R.B., Shariffah², N.Y., Rahman¹, M.R. and Wan Khadijah¹, W.E.

¹Animal Biotechnology-Embryo Laboratory (ABEL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
²Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia, 62530 Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 21-25

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A total of 35 crossbred goats (Capra hircus) were used to evaluate the effect of oFSH dosages on ovarian responses during superovulation. A controlled internal drug release (CIDR) was inserted for 14 days in each goat. The animals were divided into 3 groups. Groups M1 and M2 received 8.8 mg and 14.08 mg, respectively, of oFSH through multiple intramuscular (i.m.) injections starting from 2 days before the CIDR removal and Group S received 8.8 mg of oFSH through a single i.m. injection upon CIDR removal. Ovarian responses of all treatments were evaluated during laparotomy session on Day 3 or 7 after CIDR removal. All of the does (100%, 22/22) of Groups M1 and M2 responded positively to the treatments by ovulating at least 1 tertiary follicle. On the other hand, only 69% (9/13) of the does of Group S responded correspondingly to the treatment. The total ovarian responses (CL plus anovulatory follicles) among the treatments were significantly higher (P<0.05) in Groups M1 and M2 compared with Group S. There were no significant differences between multiple-administration groups for CL per doe (high dosages vs. low dosages: 16.9±3.9 vs. 11.6±1.0, respectively). The percentage of anovulatory follicles was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Group S followed by Groups M1 and M2. The structure (embryo plus oocyte) recovery rate per doe was significantly the highest (P<0.05) in Group M2 followed by Group M1 and Group S (5.4±2.4, 3.2±1.2 and 0.5±0.5, respectively). The numbers of embryos per doe were 0.1, 2.4 and 2.0, for Groups S, M1 and M2, respectively. It is concluded that multiple injection at high dosage (14.0 mg) of oFSH in goat superovulation protocol gives better structure recovery than multiple injection at low dosage (8.8 mg) as well as single injection (8.8 mg) of oFSH. However, more detailed research is needed to optimize the dosage of oFSH for viable embryo recovery during superovulation of Malaysian crossbred goats.

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Ranchers? knowledge towards sustainable swiftlet ranching

Vaiappuri,S.K.N.¹, Nitty, H.K¹*., Ismail.A.L.¹ and Kamaruddin, M.I.²

¹, Department of Agribusiness and Information Systems, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia,
²Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 27-35

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The recent drastic increase of swiftlet bird houses can pose a serious threat to the sustainability in swiftlet ranching. The possible outcomes need proper attention, so that further growth of the swiftlet industry will not be constrained. The sustainability of this industry therefore is strongly associated with the rancher?s knowledge of it. Thus, this study was aimed to investigate the knowledge of swiftlet ranchers towards sustainable swiftlet ranching. A total of 136 ranchers from Johor were selected as the respondents for this study. Results revealed that 71.3% of the respondents were highly knowledgeable about sustainable swiftlet ranching. Age, educational level, frequency of attending courses or seminars, years of operation and yield were found to be significantly related to the knowledge level of the respondents towards sustainable swiftlet ranching. The study recommends that both the government and private extension agencies need to play a vital role in contributing sustainable ranching knowledge to the ranchers. Their role in extension services need to be optimised in order to maintain and update the ranchers as highly knowledgeable players and thus keeping the industry sustainable for the long term.

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Effect of Sapindus mukorossi as herbal feed additive for ruminants

N. Sultana¹*, K. S. Huque² and A. R. Alimon¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor
²Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 37-44

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Sapindus mukorossi, a herbal plant source of saponin, was tested for its effects on defaunation, ruminal ammonia production and subsequent impact on growth performance of cattle. Twelve bulls were equally divided into two groups: Control group fed ad libitum with urea-molasses straw supplemented with concentrate mixture (UMS) and Treated group fed with UMS and S.mukorossi herbal additive for growth performance test. Two rumen fistulated bulls about 400 kg live weight were used to determine the degradability of pericarps of S. mukorrosi. There was no significant difference in final live weight in the Control and Treated groups (160.7 kg vs 174.0 kg, respectively) or in average daily live weight gain (483.2g vs 612.0g/head, respectively). The pericarps of S. mukorossi fruits had defaunating effects but without hampering intake and digestibility of nutrients (especially of fiber) and N balance in cattle. Moreover, Sapindus mukorossi reduced the NH3-N concentration by maintaining an acceptable range for optimum microbial fermentation in the rumen, which might assure the better utilization of N in lower gut. However, these effects did not produce any significant effect on growth of the animals.

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Anthelmintic resistance in selected goat farms in Kelantan

Basripuzi, H.B.¹*, Sani, R.A.² and Ariff, O.M.³

¹Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Locked Bag 36, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia,
²Research Centre for Ruminant Diseases,
³Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 47-56

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The widespread use of chemical anthelmintics to control goat gastrointestinal nematodes has resulted in the occurrence of resistant nematode populations that has become a global problem including Malaysia. Faecal samples were collected from 202 goats from eight farms in Kelantan for the confirmation of gastrointestinal nematode infection. A total of 161 goats were chosen for the Faecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT) to detect resistance to four anthelmintics: albendazole, ivermectin, levamisole and closantel. Varying levels of resistance were detected for each anthelmintic where resistant nematode populations to albendazole, ivermectin, levamisole and closantel were observed in goats in six, five, two and two farms, respectively. Resistance was suspected against albendazole, ivermectin and levamisole in one farm. Nematode populations in two farms were found to be susceptible to levamisole while those in only one farm was susceptible to albendazole. In the present study, levamisole was found to be the most effective anthelmintic. Pre-treatment faecal cultures revealed Haemonchus contortus (73%) as the predominant infective larvae followed by Trichostrongylus spp. (26%) and Oesophagostomum spp. (1%). Based on the present study, the anthelmintic resistance status in Kelantan is of critical concern as the current anthelmintic based nematode control in goat farms may not be effective on a long term basis. There is an urgent need to evaluate non-chemical methods to control parasitism in local goats.

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Comparison of growth rate of four Pleurotus fungi species on wheat straw and date palm leaf substrates

A. Kabirifard¹, A., Fazaeli²* H. and Kafilzadeh³ F.

¹Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center, Bousher, Iran
²Animal Science Research Institute, P.O. Box 31585-1483, Karaj, Iran
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 55-63

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In a 4?3 factorial completely randomized experiment, four Pleurotus species of cultures, namely P. florida, P. ostreatus A., P. ostreatus M. and P. ostreatus T., were cultured on wheat straw (WS), date palm leaves (DPL) and potato dextrose agar (PDA) substrates. Growth rate of the mycelium was measured for two weeks of incubation. At the end of second week, all plates were removed from the incubator and the biomass was dried and analyzed. During the first week of fermentation, growth rate of P. ostreatus A. and P. ostreatus M. were significantly higher (P<0.05) than P. florida and P. ostreatus T., whereas it was inverse during the second week of incubation. A significant interaction effect (P<0.05) was found between cultures with substrates. During the first week of incubation, the highest amount of mycelial growth rate was shown by P. ostreatus A. and P. ostreatus T. on PDA followed by P. florida. In addition, P. ostreatus A. and P. ostreatus T. had significantly higher growth rate (p<0.05) on DPL than WS. However, at the end of second week, the cumulative growth rate was not significantly different among the cultures or the substrates. Regarding the dry mater (DM) and organic mater (OM) losses, significant differences (P<0.05) were found between the substrates after two weeks of fermentation but no significant variation was shown among the cultures. However, there was a significant interaction effect (P<0.05) of cultures with substrates for DM and OM losses. Crude protein (CP) content was significantly different (p<0.05) among the cultures on the different substrates.

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Electrochemical sensors for detection of tetracycline antibiotics

Faridah, S.*, Hazana, R., Gayah, A. R., Norzaili, Z., Azima, A., Nur Azura, M. S., and Zamri, I.

Biotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 15(1): 67-80

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An electrochemical immunosensor based on screen-printed carbon working electrode with onboard carbon counter and silver?silver chloride pseudo-reference electrode for tetracycline antibiotic detection is described in this paper. A direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) format was first developed and optimized on the surface of a carbon screen-printed working electrode by immobilizing the capture antibody (polyclonal) using electro-deposition of gold nanoparticles conjugated with polyclonal anti- tetracycline antibodies. The detection reagent, tetracycline-Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP) conjugate was used as an enzyme label. Electrochemical detection was then carried out using 3,3?,5,5?-tetramethylbenzidine dihydrochloride (TMB) /H2O2 as the enzyme mediator /substrate system and conducted using chronoamperometry at 300mV vs. onboard screen-printed Ag-AgCl pseudo- reference electrode. Tetracycline detection of 10 ppb was achieved. The optimal sensor configuration was then compared to a commercial ELISA kit method for analyzing meat samples. The sensor was also capable to detect four derivatives of tetracycline tested such as Oxytetracycline, Doxycline, Chlortetracycline and Demeclocycline. The sensor showed good selectivity for tetracycline with higher recovery percentage (70 - 95%) in the presence of other antibiotics in the sample. It also showed very high sensitivity using the amplification strategy applied with the use of gold nano-particles. This makes the developed sensor a potential tool for a rapid, simple and sensitive detection of tetracycline residues in poultry products.

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Enzyme Inhibition Sensor for Malachite Green and Leuco- Malachite Green Detection in Tilapia Fish

Faridah¹*, S., Nurul Hidayah¹, A. P., Gayah¹, A.R., Fatimah², A. B., Nur Azura¹, M.S., Othman³ ,M. and Zamri¹ ,I.

¹Biotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Serdang, Selangor.
²Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
³Fishery Research Institute, Batu Maung, Penang, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 1-11

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Malachite Green (MG) and Leuco-Malachite Green (LMG) are chemicals extensively used as anti-fungal and anti-parasite agents in the aquaculture industry. Over dosage of these chemicals is hazardous to human health and environment. Detection of MG and LMG is essential for quality and safety monitoring of aquaculture products to meet international standards and to ensure acceptance by foreign markets. An electrochemical enzyme inhibition sensor on screen-printed carbon working electrode with onboard carbon counter and silver?silver chloride pseudo-reference electrode MG and LMG detection is described in this paper. The detection was based on the inhibition of MG and LMG towards butyryl-cholinesterase enzyme (BuChE) in the presence of butyryl- thiocholine substrate on the sensor surface. The mixtures of BuChE enzyme (4 UmL-1) and polypyrrole matrix (75 mM) were electro- polymerized on the sensor surface with a constant potential of 1.0V for 20 minutes. The sensor was soaked for 5 minutes with MG and LMG standard or sample containing MG and LMG before the electrochemical measurement was taken by adding butyryl- thiocholine substrate in KCl (0.08M, pH 7.5) which acts as the enzyme mediator/substrate system. The current measurement was conducted using chronoamperometry at 400mV vs. on board screen-printed Ag-AgCl pseudo- reference electrode. MG and LMG lowest detection limit of 0.25 ppb was achieved. The optimal sensor configuration was then compared to a conventional LC-MS/MS method for analyzing fish samples. The sensor showed good selectivity for MG and LMG with higher recovery percentage (60 - 80%) in the presence of other compounds in the sample matrix. It also showed very high sensitivity using the amplification strategy applied with the use of gold nanoparticles and conductive poly- pyrrole polymer. This makes the developed sensor a potential tool for the rapid, simple and sensitive detection of MG and LMG residues in the aquaculture industry.

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Fatty Acid Profile of Nile and Red Hybrid Tilapias Reared in Intensive and Extensive Systems

Siti Sarah, J., Ariff, O. M.* and Goh, Y. M.

Department of Veterinary Preclinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 13-21

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Long chain n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids which are present in many marine fish have long been found to confer beneficial effects on human health. As the world fish stock declines due to over fishing and depletion in the quality of marine environment, fish proteins are increasingly being sourced from fish farms using many water bodies. Information on fatty acid profile of farmed fish especially from aquaculture industry aids consumers to make pertinent dietary decisions. A study was conducted to examine the fatty acid composition of Nile and Red tilapia harvested from intensive culture system. Twenty two samples of Nile tilapia and 16 samples of Red tilapia cultured intensively were used in this study. All samples were subjected to total fatty acid extraction and their fatty acid composition was determined using gas liquid chromatography. Results showed that no significant difference in the total concentration of saturated fatty acids as a percentage of total fatty acids present between intensively (46.14%) and extensively (48.13%) cultured Nile tilapias and between Nile (46.14%) and Red tilapias (46.42%) reared in the intensive system. For monounsaturated fatty acids, the total concentration was lower (p<0.05) in extensively (19.76%) cultured compared with intensively (31.17%) cultured Nile tilapias. For n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, the concentration was higher (p<0.05) in tilapias from extensive system (19.57%) compared with those from intensive system (8.14%). But n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids concentration of intensively cultured Nile (14.35%) and Red (16.32%) tilapias were higher (p<0.05) compared with extensively cultured tilapias (12.55%). For n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ratio intensively cultured Nile tilapias had higher (p<0.05, 1.88 to 2.24) than extensively cultured Nile tilapias (0.74). Different concentration of fatty acid composition of Nile tilapias cultured in the different systems could be due to the different nutrient composition of the feed consumed by these fish. Manipulation of the sources of poly unsaturated fatty acids in the feed of farmed tilapias could be a novel approach to enhance the n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ratio of intensively cultured tilapias.

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A Direct Competitive Immunoassay for Fumonisins Detection in Maize Feed

Kadir*, M.K.A., Ishak, Z. and Awaludin, N.

Biotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 23-38

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The development of a direct competitive immunoassay formats for the Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was undertaken for fumonisins (Fms) determination in feed. The use of polyclonal antibody was conducted on the microtitre plate for a rapid and sensitive detection. The direct format assay was based on the competition between Fms labelled with houseradish peroxidase (HRP) and unlabelled Fms for binding sites first of immobilised antibody (AbFms) followed by precoating of secondary anti-antibody IgG (Anti-IgG). A spectrophotometric assay was developed as a first step procedure for optimization of concentrations and conditions using micro-titre plates. Optimal parameters established for direct assay were 20 ?g mL-1 of anti-IgG, 1:50 dilution of AbFms and 1:5 dilution of Fumonisins-HRP. The ELISA exhibited detection limit of 100 ?g?L?1 fumonisins with a dynamic range from 100 - 2000 ?g?L?1. The achieved detection range for Fms was within the required legislative limit of analyses. Samples analysis involved the rapid extraction (without clean-up) and pre-treatment using solid phase extraction (clean-up) before measuring using the developed ELISA. The results achieved were average of 97.6 % (clean-up extraction) and 77.9 % (without cleanup). The developed ELISA had a satisfactory agreement with HPLC (Confirmatory method). It also showed very high sensitivity and a potential method for a rapid, simple and sensitive detection of Fms in maize feed.

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Teratogenic Effects of Retinyl Palmitate during Early and Late Gestation Periods in Rats

Thannia¹, S. Y., Al- Muqamar², M., Yaakub³, H., Ganabadi³, S and Sukardi¹*, S.

¹Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
³Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 39-46

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Retinyl palmitate or vitamin A palmitate has been associated with dose-related developmental toxicity when administered orally to mice, rats, rabbits, and monkeys during critical stages of embryonic development. We report a study to determine the teratogenic effects of retinyl palmitate in pregnant Sprague Dawley rats during early and late gestation periods and to observe the toxic effects of retinyl palmitate in dams. Forty sexually mature fertile female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: Early control, Late control, Early gestation (Early) and Late gestation (Late) groups. Control groups were given a placebo of maize oil while treatment groups were given the same dosage of retinyl palmitate. Pregnant females were randomly assigned to the different groups and treated with retinyl palmitate during early pregnancy on gestation day (GD) 1-7 for Early group and GD 8-14 for Late group. The results obtained showed that retinyl palmitate treated groups had no significant difference in maternal body weights compared to control groups. Maternal kidney weights in early treated group showed significant difference (p<0.05) compared to early control group while liver weights had no significant difference in both control and treatment groups. Fetuses from both early and late treated groups showed a significant decrease in weight compared to control groups. For fetal skeletal anomalies, treatment with retinyl palmitate in Early and Late groups showed malformed wavy ribs and thoracic vertebrae, additional ribs, lumbar vertebral defect and extra ossification center. This preliminary experiment suggests that retinyl palmitate show significant teratogenic effects when fed to pregnant Sprague Dawley rats during early and late gestation periods.

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Isolation and Detection of PLC? (Sperm Factor Protein) in Testes of Rattus rattus diardii Using One-Step RT-PCR

Nasyriq, A.M.N., Fadzlina, A.S., Noor Faezah, M.N., Lee, L.H., Cheah Y.K. and Sukardi*, S.

Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 47-52

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The fertilization process in many species studied involves induction of Ca2+ oscillations in eggs. Prolonged time period of calcium oscillations is essential for regulating various kinds of events that will occur after fertilization. PLC zeta (PLC?) has been discovered as a novel isoenzyme of PLC which is responsible in promoting intracellular Ca2+ oscillation in oocytes. Until now, PLC? has been identified in many mammalian species. Although PLC? has been identified in the rodent family, such as the laboratory mice, rats and hamsters, no research has been carried out to identify PLC? in house rats. This study was carried out in order to identify the existence of PLC? in testes of house rats (Rattus rattus Diardii), one of the major pests in houses. Testes from ten male rats were subjected to RNA extraction using easy-BLUETM Total RNA Extraction Kit. One-step RT-PCR technique was chosen to identify PLC? using forward and reverse primers from published sequence of PLC-zeta. PCR amplicons were extracted from Agarose gel, purified and further subjected to sequencing. Sequences obtained were aligned using NCBI Blast search at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/blast to check for identification from published PLC-zeta sequences. Results from this study showed that PLC? from the testes of house rat was successfully amplified by using One-step RT-PCR technique. The sequence also showed strong homology to published sequence of Rattus norvegicus PLC?. We hope that with the understanding of molecular properties of PLC? in house rats could lead to development of contraceptive vaccines, an alternative approach to control the rat population.

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Determination of Follicular Wave Development in Oestrus Synchronised Beef Cows

Azizah*¹, A., . Wahid ², H. Ariff³, O.M. Yaakub⁴ H. and Ahmad⁵ J.,

¹ Strategic Livestock Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
² Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies,
³ Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor.
⁴ Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor.
⁵ Strategic Livestock Research Centre, Malaysia Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Kluang Research Station, Locked Bag 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 53-66

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A study was conducted to determine the follicular wave development in terms of dominant follicles size, number of follicular waves and follicles existing at pre- and post-ovulation stage, and length of oestrous cycle in oestrus synchronised beef cows. Thirty cows consisting of 3 breedtypes: KK (n=10), Brakmas (n=10), and Charoke (n=10), were inserted with controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) device containing 1.38 g progesterone for 7 days and given intramuscular injection of a synthetic prostaglandin analogue of 25 mg prostaglandin two days prior to CIDR withdrawal. It was shown of BK, CK and KK cows had 45%, 35% and 20% 3-follicular waves pattern, respectively. BK cows had higher number of cows having 3-follicular waves (P<0.05) compared with KK and KK had a higher (P<0.05) percentage of cow having 2-follicular waves pattern, compared with BK and CK cows. In pre ovulation stage, the number of follicles at emergence was significantly higher (P<0.05) in KK (4.4 ? 0.6) followed by CK (2.6 ? 0.4), and BK (3.2 ? 0.4). However there was no significant difference (P>0.05) observed in terms of mean diameter of follicle at emergence stage in the three breedtypes. The mean diameter of ovulatory follicular development was significantly larger (P<0.05) in BK (14.2 ? 0.1 mm), followed with the other two breedtypes, CK (12.2 ? 0.1 mm) and KK (11.8 ? 0.5 mm), and was also significantly faster to become dominant (P<0.01) compared to the other two breedtypes. In post ovulation stage or at first follicular wave development, the number of follicles at emergence of KK, BK and CK was 3.8 ? 0.9, 3.2 ? 0.5 and 2.7 ? 0.7, respectively. The first dominant follicle reached maximum diameter of 11.4?0.08 mm; 13.1?0.08 mm and 13.1?0.07 mm in KK, BK and CK, respectively with no significant difference detected among the breeds studied (P>0.05). Similarly, there was also no significant difference (P>0.05) of the dominant follicle diameter was observed in the second and third (ovulatory follicle) follicular waves patterns among the three breeds of cows studied. The mean diameter of ovulatory follicle in KK was 10.2?0.1 mm, BK 11.6?0.10 mm and CK 10.7?0.1 mm, in KK, BK and KK cows, respectively. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) found among the three breeds of cows studied for mean length of oestrous cycle. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated there was no difference on the follicular wave development in terms of dominant follicles size in pre-ovulation, first, second and third follicular wave development; follicles existing at post-ovulation stage, and length of oestrous cycle in KK, BK and CK cows. However, in terms of the number of follicular waves, BK and CK cows had a higher proportion of 3- and 2-follicular waves development than KK cows. and the number of follicles existing at pre-ovulation stage in KK and BK cows were predominantly higher CK cows.

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Performance of Layer Birds Supplemented with Herbal Antistress Product Ayucee and Synthetic Vitamin C under Physiological Heat Stress

Jadhav¹, N .V., Awati², B., Kulkarni³, S., Waghmare⁴, P. G., Suranagi⁴,M. D., Saxena⁵, M. J., Ravikanth⁵, K., Dandale⁵, M. and Shivi Maini⁵*

¹Department of Livestock Production Management,
²Department of Veterinary Microbiology,
³Department of Veterinary Biochemistry,
⁴Department of L. P. M., College of Veterinary Sciences, Bidar, Karnataka state, India,
⁵R and D Center, Ayurvet Ltd, HP

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 67-78

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Heat stress exerts high deteriorating impact on the poultry industry which could be ameliorated by dietary incorporation of synthetic vitamin C. Certain herbs either alone or in combination thereof are also a rich source of ascorbic acid in natural form. Thus, a 12-week experiment was conducted to determine the effects of high temperature and relative humidity on production performance in layer chickens supplemented with herbal antistress product and synthetic vitamin C. A total of 90 layer birds of 55 weeks age were divided in 3 equal groups (T0, T1 and T2) of 30 birds in each. They were exposed to a heat stress of daily temperature 39?8?C, and temperature humidity index (THI) of 81.33?1.20. To curb the losses incurred due to heat stress, birds in group T1 and T2 were treated respectively with synthetic vitamin C @ 100 g/tonne and herbal premix Ayucee containing natural Vitamin C and bioflavonoids @ 100 g/tonne of feed on daily basis for a period of seven weeks. Group T0 was not treated by any supplementation and kept as control. High ambient temperature and relative humidity resulted in high serum cortisol level (mg/L) (3.47?0.20 to 3.64?0.15) in all groups. It was significantly optimized and lowered down in both the treated groups. A significant difference existed between the initial and after treatment values in both the treatment groups while serum cortisol level was on a continuous rise in untreated T0 control group. Treatment with herbal Ayucee premix and synthetic vitamin C successfully optimized the increased ALT and AST levels and total protein, albumin and globulin in treated birds. Better growth and performance in terms of higher body weight, egg production % and egg weight was resulted from dietary incorporation of antistressor product containing vitamin C. Thus considering the cost benefit ratio herbal natural product Ayucee premix can replace synthetic vitamin C.

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The Effect of Feeding Primalac Probiotics on Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Ostriches

Hasan Rezaei ¹, H., Khorshidi¹, K. J. and Fallah²*, R.

¹Department of Animal Science, Islamic Azad University Ghaemshahr Branch, Iran
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 79-86

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This study investigated the effect of feeding primalac probiotics on growth performance and some blood parameters of ostriches from hatch until 8 wk of age. A total of 48 day-old ostriches were randomly divided into 4 equal treatment groups: 1) Control group fed with a basal diet, 2) 0.035% Primalac group: a basal diet supplemented with 0.035% primalac probiotic, 3) 0.095 % Primalac group fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.095 % primalac probiotic and 4) 0.135% Primalac group fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.135 % primalac probiotic. The results showed that inclusion of the primalac probiotics added to the basal diet improved body weight, FCR and blood parameters (glucose, cholesterol, uric acid and urea) with the 0.135% Primalac group registering the highest body weight, lowest FCR and lowest amounts of blood cholesterol, uric acid and urea (all p<0.05).

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Nutritional Evaluation of Cattle Rumen Epithelial Tissue Scrapings Meal for Growing Rabbits

Oladunjoye, I. O. ¹* Ojebiyi, O. O.,² Adeleke, J.,¹ and Famakinwa, B. ¹

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B.4000 Ogbomoso Oyo State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 87-95

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An eight week study was conducted in which cattle rumen epithelial tissue scrapings meal (CRETSM) was substituted for fishmeal in growing rabbit diets to reduce feed formulation cost and environmental pollution. One hundred and twenty growing rabbits were divided into six groups of twenty rabbits each which was assigned to six diets that had 0, 20, 40, 60 80 and 100 percent fishmeal in it replaced with CRETSM in a Completely Randomized Design. Data collected were feed intake, weight gain, feed : gain ratio, production cost, carcass characteristics and nutrient digestibility. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. Weight gained by the rabbits fed 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 percent fishmeal in their diets replaced were similar but were higher (p<0.05) than that fed only CRETSM. Similar trend was observed in carcass weight and protein digestibility. Feed cost decreased with increase level of CRETSM in the diets while production cost was lower for the rabbits fed diets that contained CRETSM. Poor feed utilization was observed in the rabbits fed only CRETSM. Feed intake, organ weights and nutrient digestibility were unaffected. It was concluded that CRETSM can replace 80% fishmeal in growing rabbit diet.

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The Effects of Effective Microorganisms (EM) on the Nutritive Values of Fungal-Treated Rice Straw

Samsudin*, A.A, Masori, M.F. and Ibrahim, A.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 97-105

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A study to improve the nutritive values of rice straw by means of biological treatment was conducted. The rice straw was subjected to three treatments: plain rice straw (T1), rice straw treated with Aspergillus niger for 10 d (T2) and fungal-treated rice straw inoculated with EM (T3). All samples were subjected to proximate analysis to determine the dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), acid detergent fibre (ADF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), cellulose and hemicellulose content of rice straw after eight days of fermentation. The effect of fermentation days of T3 on the nutritive values and dry matter degradability (DMD) of the three treatment groups were also carried out on nine fistulated goats using nylon bag technique and data were recorded at six different fermentation times. No significant (p>0.05) difference was observed on the chemical composition of rice straw treated with A. niger except the CP content increased significantly (p<0.01) when compared with untreated rice straw (T1). However, when the fungal-treated rice straw was inoculated with EM, significant (p<0.01) difference was observed in CP, OM, NDF, ADF and cellulose content of the rice straw compared with T1. It was suggested that the optimum duration of fermentation by the EM on the fungal-treated rice straw was 6 d of fermentation as hemicellulose content was recorded higher than other days of fermentation, while NDF, ADF, ADL, and cellulose content were relatively lower than previous days. DMD of rice straw was improved when fungal-treated rice straw was inoculated with EM.

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Effect of Sex and Birth Type on Kid Performance of Sudanese Taggar Goats

Bushara¹, I., Abdelhadi ², O. M .A. , Mekki², D. M., Idris³, A. O., Elemam ⁴, M. B. , Muna Ahmed⁵, M. M. , Abu Nikhiala⁶, A.M. and Alimon, A. R⁷

¹Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Dalanj University, Sudan,
²Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Natural Resources & Environmental Studies, University of Kordofan, P.O. Box 716, Khartoum, Sudan,
³ Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources , University of Kassala, P.O. Box 12, New-Halfa, Sudan,
⁴Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Peace University, P.O. Box 20, El Fulla, Sudan
⁵Department of Environmental Physiology -Main library, University of Khartoum, Sudan
⁶Department Of Diary Production, Faculty of Animal Production, University of Khartoum, Sudan.
⁷Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(1): 107-116

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The study was conducted in Taggar goats to evaluate the effect of two different levels of protein and energy in the rations on some reproductive and productive traits. Sixty two (62) kids of Taggar goats were allocated to sex and birth type in a complete randomized design according to live body weight. The results indicated that supplemented does secured higher litter size 1.50 and 1.33 compared to control group 1.2. Kidding rate was high in supplemented groups 100% compared with control group 93.8%. Body weight was heavier at time of kidding and weaning for supplemented does compared with control does. These results indicated that supplementation reduced body weight losses throughout the lactation period. The kidding interval for the supplemented does was shorter for does in group B (247.81?8.38 days) and group C (242.60?7.88 days) compared to does in control group (288.94?6.84 days). Similarly, the service period had been reduced in supplemented does than those in control group. Results from milk analysis indicated that higher protein, lactose and total solid content in supplemented does whereby fat content was higher in control group. The supplementation had reduced the incidence of abortion and mortality rates compared to the unsupplemented does. In conclusion the investigated environmental factors showed an impact on both reproductive and productive traits of the Taggar goats under rangeland farming system.

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Genetic Variation of Four Goat Breeds in Malaysia Using Microsatellite Polymorphism Markers

Amie Marini^1,4*, A.B., Mohd. Hifzan², R., Johari³, J.A., Tan⁴, S.G. and Panandam⁵, J.M.

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
²MARDI Research Station, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia,
³Advanced Reproductive Biotechnology, KM16, Jalan Kluang - Kota Tinggi, 86000 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia,
⁴Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia,
⁵Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 1-8

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The characterisation of animals using PCR-based microsatellite markers is informative, economical and useful to elucidate genetic diversity within and among breeds. The determination of genetic variability in four goat breeds found in Malaysia, namely the indigenous Katjang goat and the exotic Jamnapari, Boer and Savanna goats, was successfully analysed using 30 microsatellite markers. Low levels of allelic variations were found in the four goat breeds. The mean numbers of observed alleles per locus were relatively low with values of 5.43, 5.73, 5.90 and 5.70 in Katjang, Jamnapari, Boer and Savanna goats, respectively. The mean observed heterozygosity was lower than the mean expected heterozygosity for the all four goat breeds. Katjang goats showed the lowest observed heterozygosity with a value of 0.36. The results showed that the Katjang goat population had a high level of inbreeding compared to the other goat breeds.

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First Follicular Wave Pattern of Kedah-Kelantan Cows Stimulated with Different Types of Gonadotropin Hormone Regimes for Transvaginal Oocyte Aspiration

Azizah*¹, A., Ariff², O.M., Ahmad³, J., Ajis³, H., Mashodi³, S., Izuan Bahtiar³, A.J. and Saadiah¹, J.

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Serdang, P.O. Box 12301, 81100 Serdang, Selangor,
² Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia,
³ Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Kluang Station, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 9-20

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The aim of the study was to compare the first wave pattern of follicular development in terms of mean number of follices and follicular size of Kedah-Kelantan beef cows stimulated with four different protocols of gonadotropin hormone regime. Twenty four Kedah-Kelantan (KK) beef cows were treated with four different regimes: A) Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) administered a total of 18 NIH units in a dividing dose at decreased volume twice a day for 3 consecutive days beginning on day 4 of controlled internal drug release (CIDR?) insertion, B) FSH, administered a total of 18 NIH units in a dividing dose at decreased volume twice a day for 4 consecutive days begining on day 4 of CIDR? insertion, C) Pregnant Mares? Serum Gonadotropin administered 2500 iu intramuscularly on day 4 of CIDR? insertion, and D) FSH injected a total of 18 NIH units intramuscularly in a dividing dose at decreased volume twice a day for 4 consecutive days beginning on day 9 of prostaglandin injection. Ovaries were visualized with a 7.5 MHz linear array transrectal transducer attached to a portable ultrasound scanner. In regimes A and B, a higher number of follicles was available on days 1 and 2, and on days 0 to day 2, respectively. However, the medium size follicles of regimeB and C were mostly available in greater number on day 1, and day 1 to day 2, respectively. Similarly in regime C, availability of higher number of medium follicles was on day 1 to day 2, small follicles on day 0, and total number of follicles was in greater number on day 2. While in regime D, a greater number of follicles was available on day 2. The results showed that regimes A and B had significantly higher (P<0.05) total number of follicles compared to C and D. The trend of follicular development with various types of gonadotropin hormone regimes was similar for all regimes with small follicles were in greater number at the early part of the growth phase and subsequently followed by an increase in medium and larger follicles. As a conclusion OPU could be done on day 1 for regimes A and B and day 2 for regimes C and D, or the whole duration of OPU could be conducted from day 1 to 3 after CIDR? removal or the last injection of PGF for all four gonadotropin hormone regimes.

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Effects of Varying Energy Levels on Follicular Development and Time of Ovulation in Kedah-Kelantan Crossbred Cows

A. Azizah¹*, H. Yaakub² and J. Ahmad³

¹ Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Serdang, Selangor,
² Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor,
³MARDI Kluang Research Station, Kluang, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 21-28

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Nutrition element such as energy can influence reproductive performance, and the difference in energy provided will lead to changes in follicular development in cows. Therefore a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of varying energy levels on the size of preovulatory follicles and ovulation time of Kedah-Kelantan (KK) crossbred cows. The cows were assigned into two treatment groups: 1M in which the cows were fed to meet their full daily metabolizable energy requirement above maintenance (n=15), and 2M in which the cows were fed twice the level for daily metabolizable energy requirement above maintenance (n=15). The diet contained protein level ranging from 13-15%. Cows were inserted intravaginally with controlled internal drug releasing device (CIDR), containing 1.38 g of progesterone for 7 days. Intramuscular injection of 25 mg prostaglandin was administered 2 days prior to CIDR removal. Each cow had their ovaries scanned at 6-hour intervals from the time of CIDR removal until ovulation (loss of dominant follicles). The day of ovulation at the beginning of emergence of new follicles was designated as Day 0. The ovaries were then scanned at 2-day intervals to determine the follicular wave development (FD). No significant difference (P>0.05) in preovulatory follicle size of 10.5 ? 0.07 mm and 11.1 ? 0.06 mm and ovulation time of 92.0 ? 3.63 h and 89.8 ? 4.08 h of cows fed the two energy levels of 1M and 2M, respectively. The number of follicular waves, length of oestrous cycle, growth and regression rates of dominant follicules and post-synchronized progesterone concentration were not significantly different (P>0.05) between 1M and 2M energy diets. The length of oestrous cycle was 20.6 ? 0.49 days, and mean growth and regression rates of dominant follicules were 1.4 ? 0.02 mm per day and 1.7 ? 0.03 mm per day, respectively. The cows in the present study were in active oestrus cycle evidenced from the presence of active corpus luteum as indicated by the serum concentration of progesterone of 1.3 ? 0.19 ng/ml and 1.5 ? 0.31 ng/ml in the 1M and 2M groups, respectively. The findings from this study seemed to suggest that cows that were offered higher levels of energy above their maintenance requirement would not develop preovulatory follicle of larger size, increase the diameter of the dominant follicles, reduce the number of follicular waves, and the time of ovulation to occur earlier. It may be concluded that the energy levels offered in this study were not sufficiently adequate to alter and affect the follicular development, particularly the preovulatory follicle diameter and time of ovulation of KK crossbred cows in a tropical condition.

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Effects of Two CIDR-based Oestrus Synchronization Protocols on Oestrus Response in Boer Goats

Abdul Muin¹, H.B., Hasbudie¹, B., Suraya¹, M.S., Panandam¹, J.M., Yaakub¹*, H., Theivanai², J. and Quaza Nizamuddin³, H.N.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Infoternak, Department of Veterinary Services, Sungai Siput, Perak.
³Perak Department of Veterinary Services , Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 29-35

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Sixty fertile and healthy female Boer goats were divided equally and randomly into two groups (n=30). The first group received CIDR treatment for 14 days (T14) with 400 IU PMSG and 0.05mg cloprostenol injection (i.m.) prior to CIDR removal and the second group received CIDR treatment for 9 days (T9) with 0.05 mg cloprostenol injection (i.m.) 24 hours before CIDR removal. The number of does with oestrus and the time of oestrus sign were recorded every 6- hour interval and the observation was conducted from 24 hours after CIDR removal and terminated 66 hours after CIDR removal. Blood samples were taken from all of the does before CIDR insertion and 48 hours after CIDR removal. The results showed all 30 does (100%) in T14 and 28 does (93.3%) in T9 came to oestrus. The mean time of does showing signs of oestrus for both treatments were significantly different in tail flagging and standing to be mounted (P<0.05). However, the progesterone concentrations between T14 and T9 after 48 h CIDR removal were not significantly different (P>0.05). The current study suggests that CIDR treatment for 14 days with 400 IU PMSG and 0.05 mg cloprostenol prior to CIDR removal gave better result in oestrus synchronisation compared to CIDR treatment for 9 days with 0.05 mg cloprostenol given 24 hours before CIDR removal.

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Yield and Nutritive Quality of Nine Napier Grass Varieties in Malaysia

Halim*¹, R. A., Shampazuraini², S. and Idris³, A.B.

¹Department of Crop Science,3Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang Selangor Malaysia
²Universiti Teknologi MARA, Negeri Sembilan Branch

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 37-44

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Napier grass was first introduced in Malaysia in the 1920?s from East Africa and is currently the most popular fodder grass in dairy and feedlot production systems. Nine varieties of Napier grass were grown in a randomized complete block design with five replications to characterize and compare their growth, agronomic performance and nutritive quality. Based on the data obtained, six of the varieties could be grouped as the tall or medium height (>130 cm) varieties and three were short or dwarf types (<95 cm). The shorter varieties had a higher (P<0.05) overall nutritive quality (CP about 12%, ADF < 37%) compared to the taller varieties (CP 10%, ADF>37%) mainly because the former had a higher leaf-to-stem ratio (1.4 in dwarf and less than 0.8 in tall varieties, P<0.05) On the other hand the tall varieties gave higher (P<0.05) cumulative dry matter yield than the shorter varieties over a 12-month period with the tallest varieties giving more than 60 t/ha while the short varieties yielded less than 60 t/ha. Farmers who place a premium on yield would be advised to use the tall varieties while those with livestock that has special needs for higher quality feed such as for dairy production would benefit from using the dwarf Napier grass varieties.

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Nutrient Composition and Forage Yield, Nutritive Quality of Silage Produced from Maize-Lablab Mixture

Amole^1,2,*, T.A., Oduguwa¹, B.O., Jolaosho², A.O., Arigbede², M.O., Olanite², J.A., Dele², P.A. and Ojo², V.O.A.

¹Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research,
²Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240 Alabata, Ogun State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 45-61

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Trials were conducted at the Teaching and Research farm, UNAAB in 2008 and 2009 to evaluate the effect of undersowing Lablab (Lablab purpureus cv. Rongai) in maize on grain yield, and to evaluate the nutritive quality of the silage in the dry season using calves. A 2 ha piece of land was used for the experiment. In both years, maize was undersown with Lablab two weeks after planting (2WAP) the maize. At harvest (10WAP), fresh weights and number of cobs, shelling percentage and weight of 1000 grains of maize were determined. Silages of sole maize and maize-lablab in ratio 70:30 were made at harvest in plastic bags. After 4 months of conservation, twelve cross-bred (White Fulani x N?dama) calves weighing 71-72 kg were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: grazing + sole maize silage, grazing + maize-lablab silage and unsupplemented grazing as control for 84 days. A seven day trial was also conducted to find out the digestibility and utilization of the maize ? lablab and sole maize silage fed to cross-bred calves as supplement in the dry season. Undersowing increased grain yield in subsequent year. Nitrogen retention was higher (P<0.05) in maize-lablab and lower in natural pasture. Calves supplemented with maize-lablab silage (70:30) had the highest (P<0.05) metabolic weight gain (50.03 g/kgW0.75) while calves without supplementation had the lowest gain (42.76 g/kgW0.75). It was concluded that maize- lablab silage (70:30) could be used as supplements to enhance the growth and survival of calves during the dry season.

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Effect of Feeding Cassava Wastes on the Performance and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens

Bukola B. Babatunde*

Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry, Fiji National University, Koronivia, P.O Box 1544, Nausori, Fiji Islands

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 63-73

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Utilization of cassava waste meal (CWM) by broilers may increase poultry meat production in the developing countries by reducing cost of production. A completely randomized design feeding trial of 120 Cobb chicks aged 22 d was conducted to evaluate the effect of CWM-based diets on carcass quality of broilers and to determine the cost effectiveness of CWM in the diets of broilers. Four diets comprising control and three CWM-based diets containing 10, 20 and 30% CWM graded levels, respectively, were fed to chickens for 24 d. Daily feed intake and weekly body weight of chickens were measured throughout the feeding trial. A metabolic trial was conducted at the end of the trial to determine utilization of nutrients, followed by carcass evaluation of treated chickens. Total cost of feeding per weight gain of chickens was also computed. Feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratios of broiler chickens fed CWM based diets were comparable (P > 0.05) to control chickens. Similarly, increasing CWM levels in finishing diets did not affect (P > 0.05) the utilization of dry matter, ash, crude fibre and dressing percentage. None of the treatments significantly influenced (P > 0.05) breast cuts, drumstick, liver and lung weights. Supplementation of broiler finisher with CWM significantly reduced (P< 0.05) total feeding cost and cost of producing broiler meat compared to control diet. CWM supplementation of broiler finisher diets optimized the profit from broiler production. This study showed that inclusion of CWM up to 10% in the diets of broilers supported their growth performance, and carcass characteristics. The supplementation of broiler finishing diets with CWM was profitable than feeding maize based finisher diets.

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Effects of Inoculating Lactobacillus plantarum, Molasses and Urea on the Fermentation of Whole Crop Rice Silage

Ghazali¹*, H., Wan Mohtar², W.Y. and Wan Zahari³, M.

¹Animal Feed Programme, Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Kluang, P.O.Box 525, Kluang, Johor,
²Bioscience and Biotechnology Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia 43600, UKM, Selangor,
³Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan P.O.Box 36, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu Kelantan

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 75-82

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A study was conducted to examine the effects of inoculating Lactobacillus plantarum and adding molasses and urea on the fermentation of whole crop rice silage (WCRS). Three treatments were included in the study: Treatment 1 - a total amount of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) 1x105 CFU/g L. plantarum isolated from WCRS was sprayed onto whole crop rice chips, Treatment 2 - L. plantarum, 5% molasses and 0.5% urea were added to whole crop rice chips, Treatment 3 - Chikuso (containing L. plantarum) was added to the whole crop rice chips and Treatment 4 (Control) - no L. plantarum and additives were added to the whole crop rice chips. All samples were ensiled for 60 days and analyses of water soluble carbohydrate, buffer capacity, pH, lactic acid and acetic acid were conducted at 10-day intervals. LAB Treatment 1 showed the lowest pH value throughout the ensiling period with pH values of 3.50 and 3.80 at days10 and 60, respectively. The water soluble carbohydrate of Chikuso of Treatment 3 recorded the lowest value (0.38% DM, P < 0.05) followed by Treatment 1 (0.66% DM). Buffer capacity of Treatment 2 of LAB with urea and molasses increased significantly from day 0 (1.98 meq/L) to day 60 (10.33 meq/L) of the ensiling period. Lactic acid content in Treatment 1 was higher (P>0.05) than those of Treatment 2 and the Control treatments. Acetic acid content of the Control treatment recorded the highest value at day 60 (1.38% DM) compared to the treatments using LAB (1.32% DM) and LAB with urea and molasses (1.24% DM).

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Development, Establishment and Current Achievement of Animal Traceability System in Malaysia

Salina*, A.B. and Azmie, M.Z.

Department of Veterinary Services, 62630 Putrajaya, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 83-98

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The animal traceability system works as a complement to animal disease control program. Malaysia has been serious in developing the animal traceability system in order to control diseases, to get disease free declaration from The World Organisation of Animal Health (OIE) and to meet the importation regulations of other countries. This action will also help in increasing the competitiveness of Malaysia?s livestock industry. Three main components in animal traceability system are animal identification, premise and owner registration and animal movement control. Malaysia has developed the system modularly and the implementation was conducted in stages involving state and federal territory. The data were obtained from various modular databases including the ePermit1, eQuarantine, ePermit2, Pet Passport, eBreed, BurungWalit, TAC Online, ADIC and ipVEINs database which consists of premise, animal and pet registration, import/export, inter- and intra-state animal movement, quarantine management and disease index management. After five years of implementation, the Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia (DVS) is able to locate more than forty thousand premises, trace back and forward more than three hundred thousand animals and pets, identify more than fifteen thousand transports used for animal and animal product movement and monitor more than 700,000 movement consignments between and within the countries. The implementation of the Malaysia?s animal traceability system is being carried out in accordance with acts, regulations, state enactments, veterinary and import protocols, and standard operating procedures in force. This well-designed traceability system has advanced Malaysia?s performance veterinary services to a higher level and will continue doing so till the near future.

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The Effect of Slaughter Age on the Bacterial Number, pH and Carcass Weight Loss of Japanese Quails Stored at 4⁰C for 14 Days

Jamaludin*, M. H, Aisyah, W. S. K., Shazani, S. and Amin, M. R.

Faculty of Agro-Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 16(2): 99-103

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The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of slaughtering age on the bacterial profile, pH, and carcass loss of dressed Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) stored aerobically at 4^oC over a period of 14 days. Quails at 3 weeks (n=15), 9 weeks (n=15) and 36 weeks (n=15) were slaughtered and divided into triplicate samples at storage time of 0, 3, 7, 10 and 14 days. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in total aerobic bacteria, pH and carcass weight loss percentage between the birds of different slaughtering age at the respective sampling days. Except for quail dressed weight, sampling age did not affect bacterial numbers, pH and carcass weight at the respective sampling day during the aerobic chilled storage of Japanese quails. Future studies should consider other meat quality parameters to include the various biochemical and physical changes of carcass during storage.

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Improving Nutritional Values of Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) as Poultry Feeds: A Review

Sharmila¹, A., Alimon^1,2, A.R., Azhar¹, K., Noor³, H.M. and Samsudin^1,2*, A.A.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
²Institute of Tropical Agriculture,
³Department of Pre-Clinical Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 1-18

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Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) is a by-product of palm kernel oil extraction and provides moderate nutrition with approximately 16-18% of crude protein (CP) and 13-20% crude fiber (CF). Usage of PKC is common in ruminant diets, but limited in the non-ruminant diets especially in poultry diets due to the high fiber content of PKC. Numerous works have been conducted to increase the nutritional contents of PKC as one of the measures to reduce and/or eliminate the constraints of utilizing PKC in poultry diets. The method used to achieve this target is either through physical, chemical, biological or combination of these treatments. However, only chemical and biological treatments of PKC seem to improve the nutrient values of PKC. Recent works cite solid-state fermentation (SSF) using fungi to increase the nutrient values of PKC. This method is considered as the most suitable treatment for PKC. Through solid-state cultures of PKC, the concentration of CP has increased while the CF has decreased. Furthermore, this method is considered practical because the whole end product will be utilized for animal feeds. Hence, emphasis should be given to improve nutritional values of PKC in order to reduce feeding cost of poultry.

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Assessment of Genetic Diversity on Goat Breeds in Malaysia Using Microsatellite Markers

Amie Marini, A.B.^1,3*, Hifzan, R.M.², Tan, S.G.³ and Panandam, J.M.⁴

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
²MARDI Research Station, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia,
³Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences,
⁴Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 19-26

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Genetic characterisation of goat populations in Malaysia is essential for conservation strategy as well as for genetic improvement. The goat populations in Malaysia comprise the small-framed original Katjang goats and the larger framed exotic goats: the Jamnapari, Boer and Savanna. With continuous importation, these exotic breeds are slowly replacing the indigenous Katjang, which is in danger of extinction if there is no concrete plan to conserve the breed. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of goat breeds in Malaysia using microsatellite markers for proper utilisation in breeding program. Thirty microsatellite markers were used successfully to amplify caprine genomic DNA using a PCR-based technique. Low levels of number of alleles per locus were found in the Katjang, Jamnapari, Boer and Savanna breeds. The mean number of alleles per locus was 5.69. All four breeds and loci showed significant (p<0.05) deviations from HWE except for three loci. The results of the F_IS determinations, together with the low number of alleles indicate the occurrence of inbreeding in all four breeds.

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Effects of Strain, Sex and Age on Growth Performance of Malaysian Kampong Chickens

Engku Azahan¹*, E.A., Azlina Azma², I.A. and Noraziah², M.

¹Department of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Tembila Campus, 22200 Besut, Terengganu.
²Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, P.O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 27-33

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The effect of strain (genotype), sex and age on growth performance was evaluated in kampong chickens reared in individual cages. One hundred and fifty day-old North strain chicks and the same number of South strain were utilized. Significant strain effects were observed, with the North strain being significantly superior to the South strain with respect to body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake while the difference in feed conversion ratio (FCR) between strains was significant only for the 14-wk rearing age. Sexual dimorphism was exhibited, with males consuming more feed, gaining more weight and recording lower FCR than females (p<0.01). Significant interaction effects of strain by sex were observed for BWG and feed intake over the rearing age of 10 wk but not over 14 wk, while no such interaction occurred for FCR over all rearing ages. With increases in rearing age from 10 to 14 wk, BWG, feed intake and FCR increased significantly while productivity index consistently declined.

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Pre-weaning Body Measurements and Performance of Desert Sheep (Tribal Subtypes Hamari and Kabashi) Lambs of Kordofan Region, Sudan

Mohamed Ali¹*, M.A., Abdella², H.O., Elimam², M.E., Sulieman², A.H. , El-Hag³, F.M., Neama Adam Eshag⁴ and Jadalla¹, J.B.

¹Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, University of Kordofan, Sudan.
²Faculty of Animal Production, University of Gezira, Sudan.
³Agricultural Research Corporation, Elobeid Station, Sudan.
⁴Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agricultural Studies, University of Dallanj, Sudan.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 35-45

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Hamari (n=20) and Kabashi (n=20) tribal subtype male lambs were used for a study to evaluate the pre-weaning period (4 months) growth performance and body measurements. These parameters were measured soon after birth and every two weeks thereafter. No significant differences (P>0.05) were found in birth weight and body measurements at birth, with the exception of head length between the two subtypes (18.40 vs 19.13 cm for Hamari and Kabashi lambs, respectively). Kabashi lambs had relatively higher birth weight (4.49 vs 4.38 kg), height at withers and heart girth but their heads were significantly longer (19.13 vs 18.40 cm, P<0.05). Hamari lambs were higher for the length of body, ear, neck and tail. Subtype had no significant effect on body weight during the pre-weaning period but Hamari lambs showed higher growth rates during the first two month of age and slight increase in total weight gain (19.95 vs 19.76 kg) and weaning weight (24.33 vs 24.25 kg). All lambs recorded increased body measurements with increasing age and Hamari sheep had higher values for most of the investigated traits than Kabashi sheep. Positive correlations were found between age of lambs, body measurement and body weight. The later parameter was positively correlated with most of the body measurements especially height at weathers. Significant (P<0.05) regression coefficients were recorded between age, body measurements and body weights in the two animal groups.

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Fatty Acid Composition of Breast and Thigh Muscles of Broilers Fed Diets Supplemented with Candle Nut Kernel Meal Subjected to Different Heat Treatments

Rohaida, A.R., Alimon*, A.R. and Sazili, A.Q.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 47-60

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An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of heat treated candlenut kernel meal (CNKM) supplementation in broiler diet on fatty acid profiles in breast and thigh muscle of broiler chickens at grower-finisher stage. A total of 270 male broiler chickens (Cobb500), 21 days of age , were given six dietary treatments (control, control supplemented with unheated, oven-heated, roasted, boiled, and autoclaved ground candlenut kernel meal). Feed intake and body weight were measured over three weeks. There were no significant effects of different types of heat treatment on the chemical composition of CNKM. However, there were significant differences on the saponin content, in which roasted, boiled and autoclaved CNKM had significantly lower (p<0.05) saponin than untreated or oven-heated CNKM. Fatty acid composition of CNKM was not significantly affected by the heat treatment for some fatty acids. Birds fed diets supplemented with autoclaved candlenut meal showed the highest growth rate amongst the treatments. In conclusion, supplementing either treated or untreated candlenut meal at 2% level in broiler diet increased the omega-3 fatty acids, and the presence of saponin in the diet due to CNKM had no major influence on meat fatty acid profiles.

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Performance of Growing Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Fermented and Unfermented Cassava Leaf: Peel Meal Mix as Replacement for Maize

Adeyemi¹*,O.A., Adesanya², P.A, Eniolorunda², O.O., Sogunle¹, O.M., Egbeyale¹, L.T. and Njoku¹, C.P.

¹Department of Animal Production and Helath, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Production, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 61-72

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The effects of feeding diets containing fermented and unfermented combinations of cassava leaf meal and peel meal mix (CLM-PM) on performance and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits were investigated in a derived savannah vegetation zone of South West Nigeria. Fifty 6-week old growing rabbits of mixed breed (New Zealand White x Chinchila) and sexes with an average weight range of 600-610 g were randomly distributed into five groups to assess five treatment diets: Diet A (Control) 50% maize, Diet B 25% and Diet C 50% replacement of dietary maize with unfermented cassava leaf meal and peel meal mix (UCLM-PM) and Diet D 25% and Diet E 50% replacement of dietary maize with fermented cassava leaf meal and peel meal mix (FCLM-PM in a completely randomized design. The rabbits were individually caged. The trial lasted for 56 d after which the rabbits were starved overnight and slaughtered. Performance data indicated that body weight gain and feed to gain ratio were significantly higher (P<0.05) for FCLM-PM compared with UCLM-PM. A similar trend was observed for digestibility and carcass attributes. Dietary treatments however did not influence (P>0.05) liver and kidney weights. Diet D showed consistent superior performance in dressing out percentage, primal cuts of fore and hind parts compared to the control and other dietary treatments. The superiority of Diet D was further emphasized as the cost of producing a kg of rabbit using the diet was 16.88% lower compared to Diet A. It was therefore concluded that replacement of 25% of dietary maize content of rabbit diet with fermented cassava leaf meal and peel meal mix can result in superior performance over the control diet.

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Verification of Caprine Sexed-separated Spermatozoa by Real Time PCR

Somarny, W.W.M.Z¹*, Aslinda¹,K., Md. Tasol¹, S., Mohd. Hifzan², R., Nasir², J.M., Mohd Hafiz³, A.W., Ab Rashid⁴, B. and Musaddin¹, K.

¹Strategic Livestock Research Center, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²MARDI Muadzam Shah, Pahang.
³MARDI Kluang, Johor.
⁴Faculty of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Food Science, Universiti Islam Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 73-83

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Sexed spermatozoa could contribute to increasing profitability of the dairy and beef industries worldwide by producing offspring of predetermined sex. Various methods have been designed to separate sperm population into X- and Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa. In this study, the caprine semen sample from Savanna (n=2) and Boer (n=4) breeds were sex-separated using free flow electrophoresis. In order to determine the efficiency of sex-separation procedure, a rapid and accurate technique real time PCR (qPCR) was used to validate the X- and Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa following separation. The primers and probes were developed to detect the X- and Y- chromosome bearing spermatozoa of Capra hircus based on ZFX and SRY genes, respectively, using TaqMan qPCR assay. The amplification of ZFX and SRY genes produced a single fragment of 93 bp and 137 bp, respectively. The primers used in separated spermatozoa by free-flow electrophoresis technique showed that the mean ratio of X- and Y-chromosomes bearing spermatozoa from the cathodic and anodic fractions were 36:64 and 44:56, respectively, compared to unseparated semen was 51:49. Thus, these primers can be used to validate the gene copy of X- and Y-chromosome bearing spermatozoa in caprine semen.

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Comparison of Bovine Embryonic Development of Parthenogenetically Activated Oocytes by Different Combinations of Chemical Treatments

Siti Khadijah, I., Rahman, M. M., Abdullah*, R. B. and Wan Khadijah, W. E.

Animal Biotechnology-Embryo Laboratory (ABEL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 85-94

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Oocyte activation is the efficient method or step for successful animal cloning. This study was carried out to evaluate the embryonic development for both parthenotes and fertilised embryos according to the oocyte grades (Grades A, B and C). Recovered oocytes according to the oocyte grades were divided into various combination treatments: (i) A23187+6-DMAP, (ii) Iono+6-DMAP, (iii) EtOH+6-DMAP, (iv) Iono+CHX, and (v) IVF (control). Treatment with combination of 10 ?M Iono+2 mM 6-DMAP indicated the highest embryonic development rates for 8-cell, morula and blastocyst stages compared to the other combination treatments. There were significant differences between combination of Iono+6-DMAP and IVF control at morula (24.3 vs. 3.4%) and blastocyst stages (7.1 vs. 0.0%), respectively. There was no consistent relationship between oocyte grades and embryo development rates. The data also showed that no differences were observed in blastocyst rates for each oocyte grade for all activation treatments including IVF control. In conclusion, to activate bovine oocytes for later embryonic development stages (8-cell, morula and blastocyst), the best combination treatment obtained in this study was the combination of 10 ?M Iono (5 min)+2 mM 6-DMAP (4 h), regardless of the grades of oocytes, including the importance of the optimal combination of chemical activation to produce bovine embryos in vitro.

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Progesterone and Luteinising Hormone Profile of Saanen Crossbred Goats Synchronised with CIDR and PMSG

Salleh, S.M., Yaakub*, H. and Panandam, J. M.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 95-102

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A better understanding of the hormonal profile of oestrus synchronised Saanen crossbreds would guide appropriate timing of Fixed Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI). This study was conducted to determine the progesterone hormone (P4) and luteinising hormone (LH) concentrations from the end of oestrus synchronisation treatment until the estimated time of ovulation. The LH peak would help in estimating the time of ovulation and appropriate time for FTAI. Twenty three Saanen crossbred does aged 2 to 4 y were allocated to three treatment groups: i) CIDR for 14 d and PMSG and PG at CIDR removal (CIDR14++; n=8); ii) CIDR for 9 d and PMSG and PG at CIDR removal (CIDR9++; n=8); iii) CIDR for 9 d and only PG at CIDR removal (CIDR9+; n=7) intramuscularly. Oestrus signs were recorded and blood samples were collected every 4 h beginning at 24 h post CIDR removal for 24 h. The serum samples were analyzed for P4 and LH concentration using ELISA kits. The CIDR9++ does had shorter (p<0.05) interval between CIDR removal and onset of oestrus than the other two treatment groups. All protocols showed declining P4 hormone concentration after 24 h of CIDR removal. The CIDR14++ does had highest mean LH concentration at peak (8.03?2.07 mIU/ml), followed by CIDR9+ does (7.32?1.07 mIU/ml); these values were higher (P<0.05) than the mean for the CIDR9++ does (4.94?0.80 mIU/ml). The LH peak occurred at 42.0?1.15, 41.0?1.91, and 43.0?1.00 h after CIDR removal for the CIDR14++, CIDR9++, and CIDR9+ treatments, respectively. The use of the intravaginal CIDR for oestrus synchronisation may be shortened in goats to 9 d while there was no significant difference in the time of occurrence of LH peak.

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Relationship between Coccidiosis Infection and Hematological Profile, Body Weight and Famacha Scores in Dorper Sheep

Nurzaty Ewani, A.H., Ariff¹*, O.M., Sani², R.A. and Rasedee³, A.

¹Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences,
²Department of Veterinary Pathology & Microbiology,
³Department of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 103-110

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Imported Dorper sheep raised in the Tropics are subjected to endo-parasitic infestation which may affect their morbidity and total productivity in lamb production. Few reports are available to provide guidelines in the efficient husbandry of these sheep, especially those raised in this country. A study was conducted to examine the association between hematological parameters, body weight and Famacha scores and coccidia infection from Eimeria spp. in Dorper lambs managed in an oil palm holding in Lepar, Pahang. Fresh faecal samples of purebred Dorper (n=20) and crossbred Dorper-Damara (n=20) lambs aged 2 to 3 mo were taken twice at 7-day interval for assessment of coccidial infestation as measured by number of oocysts per g of faeces (OPG). Blood samples were collected for hematological profile. The mucosa colour of the eyes of the sheep was scored using the Famacha chart. Eimeria oocysts were present in all purebred and 90% of crossbred Dorper lambs. The frequency of Eimeria species identified were E. parva (31%), E. marsica (18%), E. weybridgensis (17%), E. pallida (12%), E. bakuensis (11%), E. faurei (5%), E. ahsata (4%) and E. granulosa (2%). OPG and body weight showed no significant difference between breed groups. Significant correlation between body weight and OPG (r = -0.49, P<0.01) was detected. The severity of coccidiosis as measured by OPG when classified as low-medium, high and very high showed a significant correlation (r=0.48, P<0.01) with FAMACHA score. Packed cell volume (PCV) and plasma protein (PP) did not differ significantly (P>0.05) between breed groups. However, significant differences between breed groups for electrolyte parameters (Na, K and Cl, P<0.05) were found. In conclusion, purebred and crossbred Dorper lambs do not show significant difference in pre-weaning body weight, PCV and PP levels while coccidiosis appears to affect body weight, Famacha scores and electrolyte levels.

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Statistical Analysis of Traditional Practices of Fermented Camel Milk in North Kordofan State, Sudan

Ahmed¹*, A.I., Blanchard², L., Abdelhadi³, O.M.A., Bakheit³, S.A. and Faye⁴, B.

¹Department of Biochemistry & Food Science, Faculty of Natural Resources & environmental Studies, University of Kordofan, Sudan.
²Ecole Nationale V?t?rinaire De Nantes, Nantes, France.
³Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Natural Resources & Environmental Studies, University of Kordofan, Sudan.
⁴CIRAD, UR 18, Campus International de Baillarguet, 34398 Montpellier cedex 5, France.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(1): 111-122

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The present work was conducted to study the preparation process of fermented camel milk (locally named as gariss) according to camel herders. A questionnaire was designed to collect information including methods for using starter, daily type of starter used, use of spices as well as duration of the fermentation. In addition, supplementary variables which had a potential effect on the quality of gariss were taken in account. The results indicated four types of farms according to gariss preparation process: 1) use of gariss without any added spice (27.59%), 2) addition of spices at least once per month and use of previous day gariss (41.38%), 3) use of gariss and spices with less than 12 h for fermentation (13.79%) and 4) use of a spices for the preparation of the first gariss and fermentation time exceeding 12 h (17.24%). The study indicated three types of farmers according to the quantity of camel milk transformed to gariss: 1) transformation of almost all milk and a preference for bitter or acidic taste (48.28%), 2) expected consistency of the gariss which was a major criterion to judge the quality of gariss (17.24%) and 3) low quantity or variable amount of gariss prepared by a single operator (34.48%). The study concluded that gariss preparation differs according to method adopted by the camel herders and farms.

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Frequency of Oestrus Signs and Pregnancy Rates in Oestrus Synchronised Kedah-Kelantan Crossbred Cows Offered Two Metabolizable Energy Levels

Azizah¹*, A., Ahmad², J., Ahmad Nazri³, A.R., Saadiah¹, J. and Yaakub⁴, H.

¹ Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Serdang, Selangor,
² Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Kluang Station, Johor,
³ Ruminant Section, Livestock Commodity Development Division, Department of Veterinary Services, Putrajaya,
⁴ Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 1-9

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Synchronisation of oestrus in cattle can facilitate the use of artificial insemination by reducing the time needed for detection of oestrus compared to cows entering oestrus spontaneously. The purpose of the study was to determine the oestrous signs characteristics and pregnancy rates in Kedah-Kelantan crossbred cows offered two levels of metabolizable energy. The study was conducted on 30 Kedah-Kelantan crossbred cows (of mean age: 3-5 y, average body weight: 300 kg, parity: first to third). Cows were allocated into two diet groups based on maintenance energy (ME): single (1ME) and double (2ME) dietary energy requirement (0.02 Mcal /kg body weight) with crude protein level of 15% based on ARC (1980) recommendation. The results showed that the proportion of cows expressing standing oestrus in first and second oestrous cycles were 73.3 and 66.7% (p>0.05), and 80 and 53.3% (p>0.05) in 1ME and 2ME diet groups, respectively. The percentage of cows expressing oestrus was not significantly different between the first and second cycles of oestrus. There was a decrease in the percentage of cows pregnant for 1ME diagnosed at day 30 (78.6%) and day 90 (57.1%) post AI whereas cows on 2ME showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in percentage of pregnancy at day 30 (66.7%) and day 90 post AI (53.3%). However, the percentage of cows pregnant in the 1ME group was not significantly different compared with 2ME group (p>0.05). In conclusion, the diet formulated to provide twice the metabolizable energy requirement for maintenance was not able to accelerate the frequency of cows showing oestrous signs and pregnancy rate of Kedah-Kelantan crossbred cows.

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Pregnancy Rate from Timed-artificial Insemination and Natural Service of Oestrus Synchronized Kedah-Kelantan and Crossbred Cows in Two Management Systems

Azizah¹*, A., Ariff², O.M., Ahmad Nazri³, A.R., Wahid⁴, H., Ahmad⁵, J. and Saadiah¹, J.

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Serdang, Selangor,
²Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor,
³Ruminant Section, Livestock Commodity Development Division, Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia, Putrajaya,
⁴Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor,
⁵Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI Kluang Station, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 11-21

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Improved reproductive efficiency is the outcome of herd management and could involve a decision to choose between artificial insemination (AI) and natural service (NS). The objective of the present study was to determine the time of ovulation and pregnancy rate (PR) following timed AI (TAI) and NS, and frequency of TAI of two different management systems in oestrus synchronized Kedah-Kelantan (KK) and KK crossbred (CB) cows. Cows were assigned to two management systems: pen (A, n=80) and pasture (B, n=70). The cows were synchronized with controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device for 7 d, and injected intramuscularly with 500 ?g of synthetic prostaglandin (PGF) analogue 2 d prior to CIDR withdrawal. Seventeen KK and 47 CB cows were scanned for follicular mapping to determine the ovulation time. Cows were later bred in A using NS (n=20) or TAI at 56 h (ATAIS56, n=20), 65 h (ATAIS65, n=20) and 72 h (ATAIS72, n=20) and in B using TAI at 56 h (BTAIS56, n=16), 65 h (BTAIS65, n=18) and 72 h (BTAIS72, n=16) following CIDR withdrawal. KK and CB cows were then compared for number of AI services conducted: one service (S56S, n= 20) and two services (S56D, n= 20) of TAI. Mean ovulation time of the cows studied was 85.1?1.6 h. Cows managed on pasture and inseminated at a fixed time of 65 h showed higher (22%, p>0.05) PR compared with the other groups studied. The percentage of pregnant cows managed on pasture was higher (p>0.05) for cows bred with TAI at 65 h than at 56 h and 72 h and all groups under NS kept in the pen. There was no significant difference between TAI and NS groups managed on pasture. Pregnancy rate of cows with one-service TAI (25%) was higher than those with two-service TAI (20%) done at 56 h and 96 h. It can be concluded that ovulation occurs at 85.1 h after CIDR withdrawal, and the pregnancy rate is not affected by the management system and the number of services of TAI.

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Semen Quality of Brakmas Bulls Under Short Term Feeding Regimes

Tan, Y.J.¹*, Zaidi, S.², Mohd. Firdaus, O.¹, Roslan, O.³, and Shanmugavelu, S¹.

¹Strategic Livestock Research Centre, MARDI, P. O. Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
²Muadzam Shah MARDI Research Station, MARDI, P. O. Box 62, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang, Malaysia,
³MARDI Research Station, MARDI, P. O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 23-30

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Nutritional status of a bull is an important consideration in ensuring its semen is of high quality. A study was carried out to evaluate the effect of feeding regime on semen quality of Brakmas bulls. Nine mature bulls of 3-5 y of age were selected and assigned to three feeding regimes: complete ration (CR) as pellets at 3% of body weight (BW) in individual pens, CR at 1% of BW plus fodder offered ad-libitum in individual pens and grazing on Brachiaria decumbens grass supplemented with CR at 1% BW fed twice a wk and all bulls were monitored for three mo. The bulls were weighed and their semen collected using artificial vagina fortnightly. No significant difference was detected in the semen quality of the bulls given the different feeding regimes. Similar results in semen quality were observed before and after 61 d of spermatogenesis. The mean BW of bulls grazing B. decumbens grass and supplemented with complete ration significantly decreased (p<0.05) compared to bulls kept in individual pens and fed with CR at 1 or 3% BW. The study suggests that bulls which are raised on B. decumbens grass and supplemented with a complete ration at 1% of BW is sufficient to maintain good semen quality while at the same time it contributes to a reduction in maintenance cost with reduced feed cost.

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Agronomic Properties, Dry Matter Production and Nutritive Quality of Guinea Grass (Megathrysus maximus) Harvested at Different Cutting Intervals

Jusoh*, S. , A.R. Alimon and M.S. Kamiri

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 31-36

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Response pattern of guinea grass to defoliation interval was assessed for about four months from July to October 2012 to investigate the morphological response, in terms of agronomic properties, dry matter production and nutritive value, of guinea grass (Megathrysus maximus) towards cutting interval. A newly planted guinea grass plot was divided into sub-plots and subjected to three cutting intervals, namely 3, 4 or 5-week-intervals. The experimental design was RCBD with 3 treatments (cutting intervals) with 4 replicates in each treatment and assessed for agronomic properties, DM production and nutritive quality of the harvested grass. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in DM yield where 5-week interval was the highest, crude protein was the highest at 3-week interval, and similar trends with neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and acid detergent lignin content of the grass. Guinea grass harvested at 5-week-interval appeared to have the highest DM yield with 1.32 of leaf to stem ratio.

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Performance of Laying Hens Fed High Copra Meal-based Diets With or Without Exogenous Enzyme Supplementation

Diarra*, S.S., Saimone, M. and Olofia, L.

School of Agriculture and Food Technology, University of the South Pacific, Alafua Campus, Samoa

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 37-42

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The effect of enzyme supplementation of a high copra meal based diet on the performance of laying hens was investigated. A total of 60 Shaver Brown pullets aged 18 weeks were allotted to 12 floor pens in a completely randomised design. A control diet based on fish meal and 2 experimental diets containing 20% copra meal with or without supplemental Allzyme? were fed each to birds in 4 randomly selected pens for a period of 10 weeks. Data were collected on feed intake and egg performance (hen-day production, egg weight, egg mass, and feed: egg). Results showed significantly higher (P<0.05) feed intake, hen-day production, egg weight and egg mass on the non-enzyme supplemented copra meal diet. There were no dietary effects on final body weight and feed conversion ratio. It was concluded that at the level 20% of dietary copra meal, the enzyme supplementation is not required. This will beneficially reduce cost of egg production in the study area due to the readily availability and low cost of the test material.

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Effects of Sex and Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Some Physiological Traits of Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

Ayoola, A. A., Adeyemi*, O. A., Egbeyale, L. T., Sogunle, O. M and Ekunseitan, D. A.

Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 43-53

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The performance and some physiological traits of male and female Japanese quails stocked at three different stocking densities were examined in a 21-day trial. A total of 216 three weeks old quail birds comprising 108 males and 108 females were used. Each sex was divided into three groups and randomly allotted to three stocking density groups of 40, 50 and 60 birds/m2 achieved by altering floor spaces. Thus, making six treatment groups of 36 birds each with each group comprising of three replicates of 12 birds each. Data were collected on performance indices (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality), some physiological indices (respiration rate and rectal temperature) and litter moisture content. Stocking density had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the growth performance indices (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and mortality) of the birds. Female quails had significantly higher (P<0.05) feed intake (3.33 vs 2.60 g/bird/day) and weight gain (69.93 vs 54.60 g/bird) with better feed conversion ratio (6.26 vs 7.79) than male quails. Significant (P<0.05) differences observed in weight gain and FCR as sex and stocking density interaction revealed that sex was majorly responsible as each sex shared similar (P>0.05) values regardless of the stocking density groupings with females showing the best weight gains (71.53, 70.30 and 67.97 g at 60, 50 and 40 birds/m2 groups, respectively) and FCR (6.33, 6.24 and 6.24 at 60, 50 and 40 birds/m2 stocking densities, respectively). Rectal temperature (range of 41.63 to 41.77 oC) and respiration rate (from 65.67 to 68.83 per min) did not differ significantly among the various stocking densities. Litter moisture (27.48, 30.52 and 31.13% across the group) increased numerically (P>0.05) with increased stocking density. Litter moisture was higher (P<0.05) in females (37.12%) than in males (22.30%). In conclusion, growing male and female quails can be stocked as high as 60 birds/m2 without any resultant poor performance. Female quails are heavier with better feed conversion ratio than the males.

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Effects of Adding Edible Bird Microparticulates on the Oxidation of Chicken Burger

Ravisangkar, R., Nurfatin, M.H., Etty Syamila, I.K., Masitah, M., Norhasidah, S. and Babji, A.S.*

School of Chemical Sciences and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 17(2): 55-72

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This study was carried out to determine the effect of adding micro-particulates of Malaysia?s edible bird nests (EBN) on the shelf life and nutritional quality of chicken burger. Four treatments of chicken burger were prepared for this study and all samples were stored at 4?C for 12 d. The EBN of various sizes was evaluated for their antioxidant activities through 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide radical scavenging activity and metal chelating methods. Analyses of physiochemical and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) were conducted on the samples to study the shelf life quality of chicken burger. TBARS analysis showed that samples added with EBN 300 ?m and 38 ?m size had lower (p<0.05) TBARS values at the end of storage period. The addition of smaller sized EBN lowered (p<0.05) the cooking loss of chicken burger. The addition of EBN of varying sizes into chicken burger did not affect the sensory acceptance of chicken burger (p>0.05). EBN is a potential natural antioxidant and it increases the antioxidant activities with the reduction in particle size of EBN. It is effective in reducing the rate of lipid peroxidation without affecting most of the physicochemical characteristics and sensory attributes of chicken burger.

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Feed resources for small ruminants in Libya: A review

R. M. Al-Mabruk¹ and A. R. Alimon²*

¹Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tripoli, Libya.
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang 43400 Selangor Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 1-21

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The livestock sector in Libya, in particular the small ruminants, plays an important role in the social economy of rural areas. Sheep and goats are primarily raised in traditional systems contributing to the production of meat, milk, wool and skin. Local goats and Barbary sheep use feed efficiently and provide good quality meat. In harsh climatic regions, local plants, bushes or agro-industrial by- products are used as feeds, sometimes mixed with concentrate. However, the main and the major natural resource supporting the livestock production in Libya is the rangeland. In Libya most of the common feed ingredients are imported including a large proportion of forage which are necessary as feed for ruminant animals. Therefore, alternative sources of feeds produced locally have been investigated together with current research efforts to improve the dry matter intake and the average daily gain. The strategies for feeding livestock in Libya are always to concentrate on available feedstuffs, and how they can be used intensively and efficiently. Research and development of technologies have been adapted to improve feed quality for animal feeding for different categories of production systems. Some selected studies are reported in this review. Almost all the research reported in in this literature are studies based on the locally available feed resources

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MtDNA diversity and genetic lineages of four cattle breeds in Malaysia

Somarny¹*, W.W.M.Z., Ruzainah², A., Aslinda³, K. Mohd. Hafiz⁴, A.W., Md Tasol¹, S., Fadzlirahimi⁵, I., Amie Marini¹, A.B. and Siti Azizah³, M. N.

¹Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Serdang, Selangor.
²Bio-Engineering Section, University Kuala Lumpur ? Institute of Chemical and Bio-Engineering Technology (UniKL-MICET), Alor Gajah, Melaka.
³Aquaculture Research Group, School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang.
⁴Muadzam Shah MARDI, Pahang.
⁵Kemaman MARDI, Terengganu.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 23-33

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There is lack of comprehensive studies on the genetic diversity or phylogenetic analysis of beef cattle breeds in Malaysia. In this study, the partial sequence of mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b gene (cyt b) was analysed from blood samples obtained from 25 Chinese Yellow Cattle (CY), 33 Kedah-Kelantan (KK), 32 Brakmas (BM) and 30 Bali cattle (BC). Based on these 120 individuals, 19 mtDNA haplotypes (GenBank Accession No. GU67340 - GU67358) were identified by polymorphisms at 31 sites. Hap19 was predominant in BM (78%), KK (82%) and CY (100%) indicating similar origin or gene flow between breeds whilst Hap11 was exclusively for BC. However, there were only two nucleotide differences between these two major haplotypes. These results can be interpreted that these representative cattle in these haplotypes are admixtures of B. indicus or B. javanicus through maternal ancestry. Conversely, the CY cattle investigated are highly inbred where no variation could be observed in the short segment investigated.

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Relationship between body weight and body measurements of Aceh cattle

Putra¹*, W.P.B., Sumadi², Hartatik², T. and Saumar³, H.

¹Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Indonesian Institute of Sciences Bogor, West Java 16911, Indonesia.
²Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Science, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia.
³Indrapuri Breeding and Forages Centre (IBFC) of Aceh Cattle, Aceh 23363, Indonesia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 35-43

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Data on body weight (BW) and measurements: withers height (WH), body length (BL) and heart girth (HG) of 79 (39 males and 40 females) of Aceh cattle (average 550 days of age) were collected at the Breeding Station in Indrapuri district, Aceh Besar, Indonesia to estimate the BW from body measurements. The data were subjected to standard statistical analysis using SPSS 16.0 software and linear regression analysis was applied by keeping BW as dependent variable and body measurements of WH, BL and HG as the independent variables. The overall means (+ SD) for BW, WH, BL and HG of Aceh cattle over the sexes were 129.37 + 30.84 kg, 96.59 + 7.11 cm, 93.10 + 11.77 cm and 118.15 + 11.08 cm, respectively. Predicted BW based on C, E, F and G regression models showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) with the means of actual BW. The study revealed that HG was the best predictor of BW estimate and this alone contributed more than 80% of the variation in the BW of Aceh cattle. It is concluded that a simple linear regression involving HG as the predictor variable has a high accuracy in predicting BW.

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Estrus response and pregnancy rate of Rusa timorensis following estrus synchronization with prostaglandin analogue

Mahre², M.B., Wahid¹*, H., Rosnina¹, Y., and Jesse¹, F.F.A.

¹Department of Veterinary Clinical studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Department of Veterinary Physiology, Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, P.M.B. 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 45-53

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The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cloprostenol in inducing estrus in cycling Rusa timorensis hinds by assessing circulating progesterone (P4) concentration, occurence of estrus and pregnancy rate. Estrus was synchronized in eight cycling hinds with 500 ?g cloprostenol given intramuscularly at 10 days apart. Eight other R. timorensis hinds were not-synchronized and served as control. Blood samples, collected every three to four days for 29 days from 24 hours prior to the first cloprostenol injection, were analyzed for plasma progesterone concentration. Estrus was recorded based on observation of estrus signs during the period of blood sampling and all hinds were subjected to transrectal ultrasonography to assess pregnancy status. On the basis of changes in plasma progesterone concentration, cloprostenol induced estrus in only 63% of the treated hinds. The other three treated hinds showed progesterone values (0.8 ng/mL) which appeared to be too low to indicate presence of corpus luteum for the drug to act on. Spontaneous estrus occurred in 50% of the untreated hinds. Five of the 8 treated hinds and four control hinds displayed standing estrus. Pregnancy rate to cloprostenol induced estrus following natural mating was good with 50% of the treated hinds conceived. In the present study, estrus synchronization had been successfully achieved using prostaglandin analogue.

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Effect of repeated laparoscopic ovum pick-up on yield and quality of oocytes in goats

Nor Farizah, A.H., Rahman, M.M., Wan Khadijah, W.E. and Abdullah, R.B.*

Animal Biotechnology-Embryo Laboratory (ABEL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 55-59

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Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) is a less invasive surgical technique for oocyte recovery from antral follicles seen as ?pimple-like? protrusion on the ovarian surface. LOPU can be repeated several times without ovarian damage or reducing the doe?s fertility. This study investigated the effect of LOPU cycles on yield and quality of oocytes in goats. Three repeated cycles (oocyte retrieval 1 (OR1), oocyte retrieval 2 (OR2) and oocyte retrieval 3 (OR3)) of LOPU procedure were performed on 16 donor Boer crossbred does. The oocytes obtained were classified based on cumulus oocytes complexes (COC) layer criterion into 5 grades: grades A, B, C, D and E. OR1 gave a higher number of quality oocytes (P<0.05), followed by OR2 and OR3 of 5.47, 3.94 and 3.09 oocytes per ovary, respectively. Number of oocytes with grades B and D was not significantly different (P>0.05) among the OR cycles. The number of grade A oocytes obtained in OR1 and OR2 was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that in OR3 whereas the number of grade C oocytes obtained in OR1 was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those in OR2 and OR3. Grade E oocytes were significantly higher (P<0.05) in OR2 and OR3 compared to OR1. Percent recovery of grade C oocytes was higher (P > 0.05) than for grades A and B oocytes with mean oocyte recovery rate of 153 versus 106 and 91%, respectively. In conclusion, LOPU is a reliable procedure to provide consistently high quality oocytes of grades A, B and C and its usage can be repeated on the same donor doe for up to 3 times. However, the number of oocytes is reduced following each oocyte retrieval cycle.

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Level of nutrition affects semen characteristics and freezability of Malaysian bucks

Abdullah*, R. B., Syazwan, A. M., Rahman, M. M. and Wan Khadijah, W. E.

Animal Biotechnology-Embryo Laboratory (ABEL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 61-66

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Feeding is a major problem in goat production in Malaysia particularly it affects reproductive efficiency of goats. This research was aimed to confirm the effect of improper nutrition and management practice on the buck?s fresh and frozen-thawed semen quality. Bucks were challenged nutritionally by the standard feeding (standard-nutrition) and underfeeding (under-nutrition), i.e. inadequate daily requirement of Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and pelleted compound feed. Bucks from three different breeds (Jermasia n=4, Boer n=1 and Katjang n=1) were used for semen collection and semen freezing. The fresh semen quality was used as control. Fresh semen qualities, i.e. volume (ml/ejaculate), mass movement, concentration (?109/ml) and motility (%) were 0.48, 3.92, 3.97, 82.5 for Jermasia, 0.62, 4.00, 4.20, 86.00 for Boer, 0.55, 3.5, 5.35, 87.50 for Katjang, respectively while the values for frozen-thawed sperm motility for Jermasia, Boer and Katjang were 55.83, 66.00 and 67.50%, respectively. In comparison of the different nutritional regimes, for fresh semen qualities, i.e. volume (ml/ejaculate), mass movement, concentration (?109/ml) and motility (%) were 0.56, 4.00, 4.34 and 86.00 for standard-nutrition and 0.38, 3.50, 3.57 and 76.25 for under-nutrition, respectively, while the values for frozen-thawed sperm motility for standard-and under-nutrition were 63.33 and 46.25%, respectively. It is imperative that adequate nutrients in proper feeding be given serious attention to ensure the success of semen collection and semen freezing.

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Utilisation of cassava products-copra meal based diets supplemented with or without Allzyme SSF by growing pullets

Diarra, S. S.

The University of the South Pacific, School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, Apia, Samoa.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 67-76

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The utilisation of cassava root-leaf meal (CRLM) and copra meal with or without enzyme by growing pullets was investigated. A total of 180 six week-old Shaver 579 pullets (549.79 ? 0.39 g/bird) were allotted to 12 floor pens containing 15 birds each. A commercial grower diet (control) and 2 diets based on CRLM and copra meal with or without added Allzyme? SSF (test diets) were fed each to 4 replicate pens in a completely randomized design. Growth performance, age at first egg, feed cost of rearing and the count of floor primary feathers formed the major response criteria. Birds fed the control commercial diet consumed more feed and gained more weight (P<0.05) than those fed the test diets. Age at first egg did not differ (P>0.05) between the control and enzyme supplemented CRLM groups. There was no dietary effect (P>0.05) on the weight of the first egg among the 3 groups. Feed cost of rearing was reduced (P<0.05) on the test diets compared to the control diet. The count of floor primary feathers was higher (P<0.05) in the group fed the control compared to the test diet without enzyme but did not differ (P>0.05) between the two test diets as well as between the enzyme supplemented and the control diets. It was concluded that CRLM and copra meal can be used as major energy and protein sources respectively in growing pullets? diets. Enzyme supplementation may however, be needed to maintain performance of the birds.

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Growth performance of free-range village chickens fed dehydrated processed food waste

Hossein, S. and Dahlan, I.*

Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, 43300, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 77-86

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The effect of dehydrated processed food waste (DPFW) inclusion in the diets on the growth performance (feed intake, body weight gain, body weight change and feed conversion ratio) of free-range village chickens was investigated. Food waste collected from 20 different restaurants of Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang Selangor was processed into DPFW containing 89.3% dry matter, 16% crude protein, 7.1% crude fat, 3.7% crude fiber, 7.4% crude ash, 3.07% NaCl, 1.56% Ca, 0.87% phosphorous and 4053 kcal/kg GE. A total of of 180 village chickens of the Arabian breed were randomly allocated into four dietary treatments of 0 (control), 20, 40 and 60% DPFW for 5-9 week grower and 10-14 week finisher periods with three replicates (15 birds for each replicate). The results showed that the highest feed intake in grower and finisher phases was observed in the control group by 634.0 g and 2,722.1 g, respectively, while the lowest was in 60% DPFW with 586.3 g for grower and 2,542.6 g for finisher phases (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was elucidated between control group and 20% DPFW in grower and finisher periods of 630.7g and 2,707g, respectively (P>0.05). Body weight gain and body weight change declined linearly with increasing levels of DPFW of more than 20% in the village chicken diets during both grower and finisher rearing phases. FAR increased (P<0.05) with increasing DPFW inclusion (of more than 20%) during the grower period. Accordingly, higher amount of DPFW of more than 20% in the diets decreased the consumption of nutrients and metabolisable energy by the birds and consequently, the chickens grew considerably less, leading the birds to apply a higher amount of the dietary energy and nutrients for maintenance. Feed conversion ratio was only influenced by increasing DPFW by more than 20% (P>0.05). In conclusion it seems that the dehydrated processed food waste could substitute 20% of formulated feed in grower and finisher phases of free-range village chickens without any adverse effects on growth performance.

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Feed intake, growth performance and digestibility in goats fed whole corn plant silage and Napier grass

Khaing¹, K.T., Loh¹, T. C., Ghizan², S., Halim², R. A. and Samsudin¹* A. A.

¹Dept. of Animal Science,
²Dept. of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 87-98

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Shortage and inconsistent quality of forage in developing countries are the major constraints to the development of ruminant sector. To overcome these problems, feeding of ruminants with conserved forages is an important feeding strategy to ensure the success of ruminant production in the third world countries. The use of whole corn plant as silage has drawn many attention due to high protein efficiency, relatively high digestible energy and total digestible nutrients. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine feed intake, growth performance and nutrients digestibility in goats fed different inclusion level of whole corn plant silage to Napier grass based diets. Fifteen male Boer cross goats around six months old and approximately 18.54 ? 1.83 kg of body weight were used as experimental animals. The goats were assigned into five treatment groups consisted of different proportions of Napier grass (G) and whole plant corn silage (CS) ?T1:100/0 G/CS; T2:75/25 G/CS; T3:50/50 G/CS; T4:25/75 G/CS and T5:0/100 G/CS. The increase of corn silage to Napier grass proportion demonstrates increase in dry matter intake and growth performance in the goats. The highest nutrient digestibility was observed in T5:0/100 G/CS and T3:50/50 G/CS. It can be concluded that high proportion of corn silage to grass diets had resulted in increases in feed intake and growth performance of goats. Feeding the animals with T5 and T3 resulted in high nutrient utilization compared to other treatments. However, the highest growth performance was observed in animals that were fed with T5 diets.

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The antibacterial activity of diluted Tualang honey

N. A. Roslan¹*, H. N. Mohammad Rashed², N. H. Harun², M. H. Jamaludin², Z. Abdul Kari² and A. R. Alimon¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Faculty of Agro Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, Locked Bag No. 100, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(1): 99-104

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Tualang honey (TH) is a Malaysian jungle honey obtained from the wild. The honey is produced by the rock bee (Apis dorsata), which builds hives on branches of tall Tualang (Koompassia excelsa (Becc.) Taub) trees located mainly in the north-western region of Peninsular Malaysia. Limited information is available on the antibacterial mechanism of local honey. The present study was conducted to determine the antibacterial activity of diluted ?Tualang? honey against Escherichia coli (E. coli). Three different Tualang honey concentrations, namely, 20, 30 and 40% were used to examine the effect of diluting Tualang honey on its antibacterial effect towards E. coli. The 40% diluted honey was the most effective in inhibiting the growth of E. coli, followed by honey diluted at 20 and 30%. The high antibacterial activity of honey towards E. Coli was thought to arise from the production of hydrogen peroxide, but requires further study to validate the action.

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Status of beef industry of Malaysia

Ariff, O.M.¹*, Sharifah, N.Y.² and Hafidz, A.W.³

¹Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang Malaysia,
²Department of Veterinary Services, Putrajaya, Malaysia,
³Animal Science Research Centre MARDI Kluang Johor Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 1-21

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Within the livestock sector in Malaysia the beef sub-sector lags in percentage contribution to domestic supply of red meat. Many attempts in beef production in the past, from extensive ranching to intensive feedlotting, have yielded variable results in sustaining the beef industry. The targeted self sufficiency level of beef of 33% by 2020 entails the annual slaughter of 0.7 million cattle. Existing beef smallholdings are characterized by their small herd size (less than 10 head), low production inputs, lacking in husbandry innovations and poor marketing network, and adoption of KK cattle as the breed of choice. With 5.2 million hectares of oil palm of various ages Malaysia has the input endowment to maintain a sizeable population of a million breeding cows created from the existing cattle population of 0.75 million head as well as through importation of selected breeding stock assembled in an integrated beef and palm oil production system. Besides the once valuable buffalo is an important genetic resource often neglected and can be harnessed to compliment the domestic beef supply. Smallholder dairy enterprises could be promoted to generate dual produce strategy of milk and feeder cattle for fattening. Oil palm byproducts such as palm kernel cake and oil palm fronds have the potential to fully feed cattle and buffalo in semi-intensive cow-calf production and intensive feedlotting of feeder cattle and buffalo. Strengthening the value chain from breeding stock use to marketing of animals and retail products is a much needed approach to promote and expand the beef industry in this country.

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Influence of in vitro maturation duration on embryo yield in goats

Phua, A.C.Y., Rahman, M.M., Wan Khadijah, W.E. and Abdullah*, R.B.

Animal Biotechnology-Embryo Laboratory (ABEL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 23-28

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Oocytes retrieved from goat ovaries are usually still in immature stage and thus, are not ready for fertlisation. Hence, the oocytes need to be cultured in maturation medium for certain duration before they fertilise. In this experiment, the effect of in vitro maturation duration on laparoscopic oocyte pick-up (LOPU)-derived caprine oocytes towards embryo yield (4-cell stage taken as the minimum criterion) was investigated. Separate batches of oocytes were matured for 18 to 20 h, 21 to 23 h, 24 to 26 h and 27 to 29 h, respectively, at 38.5?C under 5% CO2 in humidified air before they were in vitro fertilised and cultured. LOPU-derived oocytes matured for 18 to 20 h improved (p<0.01) embryo yield (42.6%). In conclusion, appropriate IVM duration will improve the in vitro fertilsation performance in goats.

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Association of growth hormone gene polymorphisms with pre-weaning growth traits in Savanna goats

Amie Marini, A.B.¹*, Syarifah N. Hanis, S.H.¹, Shuib,M.M.M.², Firdaus, O.M.¹ and Ariff, O.M.³

¹Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), GPO Box 12301, 50774 Kuala Lumpur.
²MARDI Kluang, 86009 Kluang, Johor.
³Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 29-36

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Expression of characteristics between generations depends on heritability and selection differential. The objective of this study was to determine inheritance of growth hormone gene (GH) and to evaluate the relationship of GH gene polymorphism and pre-weaning growth in Savanna goats. A total of 133 Savanna goats used in this study were obtained from MARDI Research Station, Kluang, Johor. From this group 63 does with GH1 and GH2 combinations were selected for breeding based on body condition score of 2.5 and above, history of kidding and reproductive soundness. The does were bred with three superior ABGG bucks in a natural breeding programme. F1 progeny were evaluated for their genotypic patterns and growth performance. Two variants: GH1 and GH5 were identified. The GH1 gene revealed polymorphisms with two genotypes: AA and AB; and GH5 gene with three genotypes: GH, GG and HH. The combination of GH1 and GH5 genotypes of P1 Savanna parents revealed four genotypic variants of ABGG, ABGH, AAGH and AAHH with frequencies of 0.47, 0.39, 0.06 and 0.08, respectively. F1 progeny with genotypic variants of ABGG and ABGH at frequencies of 0.60 and 0.40 were observed, respectively. The four parental combinations of GH1 and GH5 genes produced F1 genotypes which followed the Mendelian inheritance. The birth weight of ABGG F1 Savanna kids was higher (p<0.05) than ABGH genotype. The genetic polymorphism of growth hormone genes can be a potential marker in genomic selection and breed improvement of the goats in line with good management and environmental condition.

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Describing growth pattern of Brakmas cows using non-linear regression models

Mohd. Hafiz, A.W.¹*, Mohamad Hifzan, R.², Izuan Bahtiar, A.J.² and Ariff, O.M.³

¹Animal Science Research, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang
²Animal Science Research, MARDI Kluang, 86009, Kluang, Johor
³Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 37-45

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the best fit non-linear regression model to describe the growth pattern of Brakmas cows. Estimates of asymptotic mature weight, rate of maturing and constant of integration were derived from Brody, von Bertalanffy, Gompertz and Logistic models which were fitted to cross-sectional data of body weight taken from 279 Brakmas cows raised in MARDI Muadzam Shah. Coefficient of determination (R2) and residual mean squares (MSE) were used to determine the best fit model in describing the growth pattern of Brakmas cows. Logistic model was the best model among the four growth functions evaluated to determine the mature weight of Brakmas cattle as shown by the highest R2 and lowest MSE values (0.973 and 1037.4, respectively), followed by Gompertz (0.973 and 1050.4, respectively), von Bertalanffy(0.972 and 1067.1, respectively) and Brody (0.912 and 1037.4, respectively) models. The correlation between rate of maturing and mature weight was found to be negative in the range of -0.528 to -0.874 for all models, indicating that animals of heavier mature weight had lower rate of maturing. The use of non-linear model could summarize the weight-age relationship into several biologically interpreted parameters compared to the entire lifespan weight-age data points that are difficult to interpret.

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Effect of honey supplementation into Tris Extender on Cryopreservation of Bull Spermatozoa

Yimer, N.*, Muhammad, N. , Sarsaifi, K. , Rosnina, Y., Wahid, H., Khumran, A.M. and Kaka, A.

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 47-54

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of using honey as a supplement into Tris extender in comparison with a commercial Bioxcell? extender on bull semen cryopreservation quality. Semen samples from four fertile bulls, which comprised of two Friesian Sahiwal, one Braford and one Kedah-Kelantan breeds, were collected using an electro-ejaculation method. Collected samples were freshly evaluated physically and microscopically before divided and diluted using four Tris-based extenders containing 0% (control), 2.5%, 5% and 10% honey, and a commercial Bioxcell? extender. The processed semen was equilibrated at 5?C for 3 h (chilling), packed into straws (0.25 ml), frozen and stored in a liquid nitrogen tank for 24 h before thawing and assessment of quality. Semen quality parameters used for evaluation and comparison after chilling and thawing included general and progressive motility (analyzed using a computer assisted semen analyzer), livability and sperm morphology (done using eosin-nigrosin staining technique). The experiment revealed that among all Tris-based extenders, improved post-cryopreservation semen quality was obtained from Tris+2.5% honey; comparable to Bioxcell? which was superior to all other extenders. Use of honey at concentrations of 5 and 10% however, were not suitable and showed significantly poor semen quality following cryopreservation. Therefore, Tris extender with 2.5% honey could be considered as a cheaper alternative to Bioxcell? as it could be prepared in the laboratory whenever needed.

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Evaluation of physical and ultra-structural attributes of bulls' semen with variable freezing potential

Khumran, A. M., Yimer, N.*, Rosnina, Y., Ariff, O.M., Wahid, H., Ebrahimi, M., Kaka, A. and Mahre, M.B.

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor,Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 55-65

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This experiment was conducted to determine the physical and ultra-structural attributes of fresh bull semen and assess their potential use for freezing and AI. A total of 40 semen samples collected from 4 mature bulls (10 samples per bull) were analyzed. The semen samples were examined for colour, volume, concentration, pH, general and progressive motilities, morphologically normal spermatozoa, acrosome and DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was also performed to evaluate the ultra-structures of the spermatozoa. Results showed the semen colour varied from bull to bull from creamy-white in bull #1, to milky in bulls #2 and 4, then cloudy in bull #3. Highest sperm concentration, lipid peroxidation and pH were recorded from bull #4. Highest volume, progressive motility, morphology, less acrosome damage and viability were from bull #2. While best values for general motility and DNA damage were obtained from bull #1. TEM revealed 92.5, 90.0 and 82% of intact heads for bulls #1, 2 and 3, respectively, much higher than 62.5% for bull #4 and 32.5, 25.0, 37.5% of total defective spermatozoa for bulls #1, 2 and 3, respectively, much better than 80.0% in bull #4. Conclusively, bulls #1, 2 and 3 were consistently satisfactory in most parameters evaluated and hence their semen can be used for freezing. On the other hand, bull #4 expressed higher (p<0.05) sperm concentration but yet was unsatisfactory in most other parameters assessed, including low live:dead ratio and high percentage of abnormalities recorded, manifesting poor potential of freezability.

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Yield and chemical composition of Pennisetum hybrid fertilized with animal manures and harvested at different times

Ojo, V.O.A. ¹*, Ogunsakin, A.O.¹, Dele, P.A.¹, Adelusi, O.O.², Olanite, J.A.¹, Adeoye,S.A.¹, Amole,T.A.¹ and Onifade,O.S.¹

¹Department of Pasture and Range Management,
²Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240 Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 65-80

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The experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria to evaluate the effects of animal manures and harvest times on the growth, dry matter yield and chemical composition of Pennisetum hybrid. The vegetative planting materials were sourced from a previously established plot and were planted in 5-litre capacity pots filled with a mixture of soil and manure at 3:1 ratio with the exception of the control that contained solely soil. The experiment was a 5x3 factorial design with four animal manure types: cattle, swine, poultry, goat and a control and three harvest times of 4, 8 and 12 wk after planting. The grass was evaluated for growth and proximate, fibre and mineral composition. The interaction effects of manure type and harvest interval were significant for all the parameters evaluated. Leaf and tiller numbers of grass fertilized with animal manures were higher (p<0.05) at 12 wk than unfertilized grass. Dry matter yield at 12 wk was lower (p<0.05) for unfertilized grass (4.94 kg/stand/pot) compared to grass fertilized with cattle, goat, poultry and swine manures at 12 wk (9.45, 16.02, 10.11 and 6.32 kg/stand/pot, respectively). The grass fertilized with goat and swine manures had higher (p<0.05) ash content than other treatments at 4 wk. The crude protein contents of Pennisetum hybrid grass fertilized with cattle, goat, poultry, and swine manures were higher (p<0.05) at 4, 8 and 12 wk than the control. The fibre contents were higher in unfertilized grass at 12 wk than in grass fertilized with animal manures. The grass fertilized with cattle manure had the highest (p<0.05) Na (0.62 %) and Mg (1.12 %) contents while grass fertilized with poultry manure had the highest (p<0.05) Ca and K contents (1.37 and 1.4 %, respectively) at 12 wk. Harvesting at 12 wk resulted in increased dry matter yield and mineral compositions while harvesting at 4 wk resulted in increased CP, EE and ash values for grass fertilized with animal manures. Application of animal manure improved the yield and chemical composition of Pennisetum hybrid.

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Fish offal meal as an alternative protein source of fish meal for Tilapia, Oreochromis sp.

Farahiyah, I. J.*, Wong, H.K., Zainal, A.A.R. and Ahmad, A.

Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 81-86

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The use of local feedstuffs to substitute conventional feedstuffs in fish nutrition has been widely studied. However, there is no report to date on the use of by-products from fish processing plants as feed for fish. The lack of locally available feedstuff for aquaculture feeds has encouraged the use of by-products from local sources, such as fish offal meal (FOM),a feedstuff derived from the discarded parts of fish obtained from the fish processing industry that are unfit for human consumption and can be a valuable protein source in aquaculture diets. This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of using FOM as a protein substitute of fishmeal (FM) in tilapia diets. FOM was prepared from discarded fish parts collected from a wet market in Serdang Selangor through the process of drying and grinding. A total of 480 red hybrid tilapia juveniles, Oreochromis spp. were allotted equally to four treatment groups: 50, 80 and 100% replacement of FM with FOM in the diet and a control diet of commercial feed. The data collected consists of weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), survival rate and water quality parameters. At 26 wk of culture, fish fed with 100% substitution of FM with FOM showed the best performance with highest body weight gain (p<0.05), feed intake, SGR, PER and lowest FCR. This study shows that substitution of 100% FM with FOM has no negative or detrimental effect on the growth performance of tilapia while producing the best result in term of body weight gain.

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Effects of ascorbic acid supplementation on broiler chickens stocked at two different densities in a humid tropical environment

Adeyemi, O.A.*, Adedoyin, E.O., Olaleye, O.O., Njoku, P.C. and Sanwo, K.A.

College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 89-101

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The quest to meet up with the high demand for poultry products has made farmers adopt new means of rearing birds without incurring more cost. One of these husbandry practices is by varying the stocking density. Increasing stocking density may however result in additional stress which may reduce production efficiency. Arising from this, a completely randomized design experiment was carried out to determine the effects of ascorbic acid (AA) supplementation on performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens stocked at two different stocking densities. A total of 150 day-old Marshall broilers were brooded for 2wk. and randomly allotted into 4 treatment groups of 3 replicates each: Treatment 1 optimal stocking at 7birds/m2, Treatment 2 double stocking at 14 birds/m2and no AA supplementation, Treatment 3 double stocking at 14 birds/m2and 150% AA supplementation and Treatment 4 double stocking at 14 birds/m2 and 300% AA supplementation. Feed intake, live weight, feed:gain ratio and livability differed (p<0.05) among treatment groups. Total and daily feed intake of birds on optimal stocking density (Treatment 1) and those of birds on double optimal stocking density with 300mg AA/litre of water were similar (3823.00 vs 3794.12 g/bird and 91.02 vs 90.34g/bird, p>0.05). Highest weight gain amongst birds on double stocking density was obtained from birds with 300mg AA supplementation/litre of water (1391.82 compared with 1161.48 and 1308.33 g/bird for Treatments 2 and 3, respectively. Dressed weight, dressing percentage, breast cut, drumstick, wing and liver weights as percentage of live weight were influenced (p<0.05) by stocking density and AA supplementation. Gross Margin analysis indicated that increasing the stocking density resulted in % gross margin changes of -56.73, +50.73 and 80.47% for birds produced on double stocking density without AA, double stocking density and 150mg AA/litre of drinking water and double stocking density and 300mg AA/litre of drinking water, respectively compared to the optimal stocking density. The findings of this study conclude that double stocking density of broilers at 14birds/m2and 300mg AA supplementation/litre of water can be adopted in the study location to improve production efficiency per unit space.

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Performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed graded levels of cassava peel meal based diets

Olaifa, R.O.¹*, Adeyemi,O.A.¹, Oloyede, S.T.², Sogunle, O.M.¹, Agunbiade, J.A.² andOkubanjo, A.O.³

¹Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, P. M. B. 2240, Ogun State, Nigeria,
²College of Agricultural Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, P. M. B. 2002, Ogun State, Nigeria,
³Department of Animal Science and Industrial Technology, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 103-112

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A total of 96 unsexed day-old broiler chicks (Arbor Acre breed) were used in a 28-day feeding trial to evaluate the effect of inclusion levels of rumen filtrate fermented cassava peal meal (RFFCPM) on the performance and carcass characteristics of finishing broiler chickens. The birds were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments formulated with the ratios of 100:0, 75:25, 50:50 and 25:75 maize:RFFCPM, respectively. Each treatment was sub-divided into four replicates comprising 6 birds each. The results showed that the inclusion of RFFCPM affected (p<0.05) the final weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and carcass characteristics which decreased with increasing levels of RFFCPM in the diets of broiler chickens among the treatments. Birds fed 25% RFFCPM competed favourably with those on control diet (0% RFFCPM) for most of the performance and carcass characteristics measured. However, feeding RFFCPM at 25% inclusion level in the diet resulted in best economy of production as this produced similar body weight gain with those fed control diet. Conclusively, finishing broiler chickens effectively utilized up to 25% RFFCPM as substitute for maize in their diet as they were superior in performance and carcass characteristics when compared with those fed 50% and 75% inclusion levels of RFFCPM.

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Evaluation of anticoccidial effect of Khaya senegalensis stem bark on the performance of three strains of egg type chickens

Lala, A.*, Okwelum, N., Bello, K. O. and Salami, W. A.

Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 113-124

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This study was carried out to evaluate the anticoccidial effect of Khaya senegalensis on growth and production performance of three strains of layer chickens. Three hundred and sixty day old commercial chicks were randomly allotted into 15 treatment combinations in a 5x3 factorial design with three strains of layer chickens: Isa Brown, Nera Black and Oba Blue and five coccidiostat treatments: control, 100 g/ton of conventional coccidiostat (sulphaquinoxaline), 100 g/ton of K. senegalensis in the basal diet between 21st -27th and 42nd -48th day, 200 g/ton K. senegalensis in the basal diet between 21st -27th and 42nd -48th day and 100 g/ton K. senegalensis in the basal diet continuously. Each of the groups had three replicates of 8 chicks raised in a deep litter system. Weight gain reduced (p<0.05) in chicks and pullets fed control diet in the three strains. Mortality was highest in Isa Brown chickens fed control diet while the lowest chick mortality occurred in Oba Blue birds with or without supplementation or medication. Egg weight was heaviest (p<0.05) in Isa brown birds with the lightest in Oba blue birds. From this study, K. senegalensis reduced oocyst count in all the strains and compared favourably with commercial anticoccidiostat. Isa Brown birds were more susceptible to coccidiosis, however more productive in terms of egg weight. It can be concluded that Khaya senegalensis can be used as an organic cocccidiostat in poultry production.

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Physiological response of growing pigs to qualitative and quantitative feed restriction in a humid tropical environment

Njoku, C.P.¹*, Adeyemi, O.A.¹, Sanya, B.J.¹, Akinola, S.O.¹ and Oluwatosin, O.O.²

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 125-140

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Feed restriction is a common management practice with market pigs to improve carcass quality and feed efficiency while decreasing production cost and carcass fat. But some scientists have argued that feed restriction poses stress on pig. Arising from this, a 3 x 3 factorial experiment was carried out to determine the physiological responses of growing pigs to qualitative and quantitative feed restriction. Fifty four mixed breed pigs with initial average weight of 6.72?0.38 kg were divided into 9 treatment groups. Treatments 1-3 consisted of pigs fed ad-libitum with rations containing 20, 18 or 16% crude protein, respectively, pigs on treatments 4-6 were fed 90% of ad-libitum with rations containing 20, 18 or 16% crude protein, respectively, while treatments 7-9 were fed 80% of ad-libitum with rations containing 20, 18 or 16% crude protein, respectively. Pulse rate and rectal temperature were monitored on weekly basis while blood samples were collected on the 12th week for haematological and serum analysis. Quality of feed offered had no significant effect (p>0.05) on the haematological and serum biochemistry parameters considered. Neutrophil, lymphocyte, neutrophil:lymphocyte, monocyte, total protein and cortisol values were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by quantity of feed offered. Rectal temperature and pulse rate were not significantly (p>0.05) influenced by the quality of feed, but they were significantly (p<0.05) affected by the quantity of feed offered. It can be concluded that quantitative not qualitative restriction had effect on some physiological (rectal temperature and pulse rate) and serum biochemistry parameters of growing pigs.

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Socioeconomic perspectives of broiler farming in Peninsular Malaysia

Gabdo, B. H.*, Mansor, M. I., Kamal, H. A. W. and Ilmas, A. M.

Institute of Agricultural and Food Policy Studies, Putra Infoport, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 18(2): 141-149

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The chief constraint in Malaysian broiler production has been the high cost of feeds; any attempt to explore avenues of increased productivity is indeed imperative. Farmers? socioeconomic attributes and agricultural productivity are related concepts; farmers? attributes are among the many factors that drive agricultural productivity. This study identified the pattern of socioeconomic attributes of the farmers and used the attributes to test for mean difference or association in broiler output and mortality. Cross sectional data were collected from 328 broiler farms in 9 states of peninsular Malaysia in 2013. Categories of farmers? socioeconomic attributes such as age, education, system of broiler production, broiler production experience, business status, farmland status and number of broiler farms owned were assessed against broiler output and broiler mortality. The majority (69%) of the farmers were more than 40 years, 91% male, 59% with above 10 years of production experience, 83% educated not beyond secondary level and only 10% produced at large scale. Except in Johor, states did not show significant association between the socioeconomic variables and broiler output and mortality, hence the data were pooled. We found evidence that 7 socioeconomic variables (production experience, farmland status and scale of production (p<0.01), production system, age and number of farms (p<0.05) and business status (p<0.10) affected broiler output. Similarly, the study found only 2 socioeconomic variables: system of production and education (p<0.01) affected broiler mortality. The study demonstrates that socioeconomic attributes are imperative in broiler production. We recommend that farmers adopt large scale broiler production, close production system, broiler contract farming and obtain at least secondary education as socioeconomic avenues to enhance broiler productivity.

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Body weight prediction of Brakmas and Bali cattle using body measurements

Mohd. Hafiz, A.W.¹*, Izuan Bahtiar, A.J.²,Mohamad Hifzan, R.² Ashraff, A.L.¹, Ariff, O.M.³ and Faezal Ashraff, A.L.¹

¹Animal Science Research, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang,
²Animal Science Research MARDI Kluang, 86009, Kluang, Johor,
³Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 1-7

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In the rural areas facilities for farm animal weighing are often difficult to find and the construction of such facilities is relatively expensive. Therefore a study was conducted with the objective to estimate body weight of Brakmas and Bali cattle using prediction equations of linear body measurements. Data of body weight and body measurements, namely withers height, body length and heart girth from 279 heads of Brakmas (age 1 to 10 y old) and 74 heads of Bali (age 1 to 10 y old) cows were collected. The animals were in average body condition of 3 (1= emaciated, 3= moderate fat cover, and 5= excess fat cover). The correlation analysis showed that body weight of Brakmas cattle was highly correlated with its body length, heart girth and withers height with the correlation coefficients of 0.967, 0.964 and 0.942, respectively, while body weight in Bali cattle had the highest correlation with heart girth followed by body length and height at withers with the correlation coefficient of 0.985, 0.954 and 0.945, respectively. Regression analysis showed that body length provided a good estimate of live body weight with high precision as it accounted for 91.6% of the variability in body weight in Brakmas cattle, while heart girth accounted 97.1% of body weight variability in Bali cattle. The combination of body length-withers height, body length-heart girth and body length-withers height-heart girth showed an improvement in terms of predictive precision with the changes of 0.21%, 0.21% and 0.44%, respectively, in coeficient of determination (R2) compared to a single measure of body length in Brakmas cattle. The combination of heart girth-body length did not show any change in R2 in Bali cattle compared to a single measure of heart girth. Combining heart girth-height at withers and the combination of all body measurements showed the increment in coefficients of determination at 0.41% and 0.51%, respectively as compared to heart girth. Although the combination of body measurements showed the highest coefficient of determination, the use of a single measure of body measurement - body length in Brakmas cattle and heart girth in Bali cattle -to predict the body weight is more practical under field condition as they accounted for most of the variability in body weight of Brakmas and Bali cows.

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Effect of feeding fractionated RBD palm stearin on milk yield and quality of dairy cattle

Norliza, S.¹*, Zahariah, I.¹, Ahmadilfitri, M.N.¹, Mohd Suria, A.Y.¹, Mardhati, M.² and Wong, H. K.²

¹ Sime Darby Research Sdn Bhd, 42960 Carey Island, Selangor,
²Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI)

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 9-13

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Energy intake of dairy cows is important during the peak of milk production to maintain consistency of milk yield. To overcome energy deficiency, diet with high energy density is required for lactating dairy cows which can be enhanced by incorporating fats. Therefore a feeding trial was conducted to determine the effects of supplementing fat with fractionated RBD Palm Stearin on feed consumption, milk yield, composition and fatty acid profile of dairy cows. A total of 35 lactating dairy cows in early and mid-lactating periods were used in this trial. The trial was conducted for 12 wk and individual milk yield was recorded twice daily. Daily milk yield was increased (p<0.05) from 8.18 l for diet without fat to 8.42 and 8.32 l of milk yield per day, for inclusion of 5% and 2.5% fractionated RBD Palm Stearin, respectively.

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Effect of different energy to protein ratios in starter diet with dehydrated food waste, superworms and unfertilized eggs on growth performance of village chickens

Nadia, N.¹*, Dahlan, I¹., Lokman, H.I.² and Tee, T.P.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
²Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 15-22

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A study was conducted using 144 day-old chicks of Arabian strain village chicken to determine the effect of dietary protein and energy ratios in starter diets with dehydrated food waste, superworms and unfertilized eggs on growth performance in closed confinement system. Dehydrated food waste was the main energy source, superworms and unfertilized eggs were the main protein sources. Six experimental diets were formulated to have 3 energy to protein ratios (134, 150 and 164) with 150 energy to protein ratio as the control.. Every ratio had two different protein sources with the same inclusion level. Each treatment had 2 replicates with 12 birds each in a complete randomized design. Feed and water were provided ad libitum from 0 - 42 d. Proximate analysis of the main ingredients in the diet showed dehydrated food waste had 4,500.54 kcal/kg of gross energy and 25.18% of crude protein while superworms and unfertilized eggs had crude protein of 46.54 and 46.33%, respectively. The study showed that a single diet of energy:protein ratio of 134 kcal ME/kg protein supported optimum growth rate of Arabian strain village chicken from 1 to 42 d of rearing. Feed conversion ratio improved with increasing dietary energy level. These findings have implications on ration formulation for village chickens in Malaysia.

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Performance characteristics of broilers fed graded levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal

Ayo-Ajasa¹*, O.Y., Abiona², J.A., Fafiolu³, A.O., Egbeyale¹, L.T., Njoku¹, C.P., Omotayo¹, I.G., Odeyemi¹, A.Y. and Abel⁴, F.A.S.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Physiology,
³Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria,
⁴Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), Lagos, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 23-31

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Cost of conventional protein sources is on the increase recently; hence, there is the need for cheaper alternative sources that will not compromise the performance characteristics of broiler birds taking into consideration the cost of production. Moringa leaf meal has been reported to increase the performance of broiler birds due to its rich protein content. Two hundred day-old broiler chicks were used to assess the effects of partial replacement of soya bean meal with Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf meal on broiler chickens in an 8-wk feeding trial. The birds were randomly assigned in equal numbers into five dietary treatments: 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 % Moringa leaf meal (MOLM). Each treatment was replicated four times with 10 birds per replicate. The results showed that final weight, weight gain, daily weight gain, total feed intake, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by inclusion levels of MOLM and the birds fed with 20% MOLM inclusion level had the highest values of 2490.00 g, 2445.00 g, 43.66 g, 5212.92 g, 93.09 g and 2.13, respectively. The dressed weight, eviscerated weight and dressing percentage of carcass yield were also significantly (p<0.05) enhanced with increase in inclusion levels of MOLM with the birds fed 20% MOLM inclusion level had the highest values of 2267.50 g, 1963.75 g and 89.49%, respectively. The incorporation of MOLM in the diets did not have any significant (p>0.05) effect on primal cut parts and relative organ weight. From the results of this study, replacement of soybean meal with MOLM up to 20% did not have any adverse effect on growth performance and carcass traits of broiler chickens.

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Effect of Gliricidia sepium leaves and molasses inclusion on aerobic stability, value and digestibility of Napier grass silage

Jusoh, S.*, Alimon, A.R. and Iman, M.N.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 33-42

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Most tropical roughage feeds are generally deficient in nitrogen, energy or some minerals and vitamins. A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of adding Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium) leaves and molasses to Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) silage. Silage were prepared from Napier grass and mixed with Gliricidia and molasses. There were four treatments involved which were NG, containing Napier grass only which was the experiment control, GS containing Napier grass mixed with 5% Gliricidia leaves, ML containing the Napier grass mixed with 5% molasses, and MG containing Napier grass mixed with 5% molasses and 5% Gliricidia leaves. The treatments were analyzed for aerobic stability, dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), and digestibility. There were no significant differences in aerobic stability of silage between treatments, and the treatments with Gliricidia were higher in crude protein (p<0.05) and had better digestibility (p<0.05) when compared to the control. In conclusion, Gliricidia leaves as additives to Napier grass silage can improve its nutritive value and quality.

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Growth performance, haematology and cost benefit of growing rabbits reared on different feed access times and restriction durations

Obasa, O.A.¹*, Adeyemi, O.A.¹, Akinola, O.S.¹, Sobayo, R.A.², Njoku, C.P.¹ and Olaifa, R.O.¹

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(1): 43-56

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Sixty growing rabbits of mixed breeds and sexes were used for 10 wk in a 4 x 3 factorial experimental design to test for the effect of different feed access times (2, 4, 6 and 24 h) and different restriction durations (2, 4 and 6 wk) on the performance, haematological parameters and cost benefits of growing rabbits. Data obtained were subject to a 2–way analysis of variance. Results showed significantly higher (p<0.05) final weight in rabbits maintained on 24-h feed access time (1875.4g) and 6-h feed access time (1822.0g) for 2-wk restriction duration, 6-h feed access time for 4-wk restriction duration (1821.0g) and 4-h feed access time for 2-wk restriction duration (1828.0g). Growing rabbits on 24-h feed access time (control) recorded a higher (p<0.05) feed intake when compared with other treatments. Feed conversion ratio and mortality were not significantly affected (p>0.05) across the feed access time and restriction duration. White blood cell was higher in growing rabbits on 2-h feed access time for 6-wk duration of restriction while all other parameters measured for haematology were not significantly affected by the feed access time and restriction duration. Total cost of feed consumed was highest in growing rabbits maintained on 24-h feed access time. Cost of feed per kg weight gain was not significantly influenced across the feed access times and the restriction durations. It was concluded that for a reduced cost of feeding without an adverse effect on the performance and haematological profile, growing rabbits should be raised on not less than 4-h feed access time for 2-wk restriction duration.

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Describing Growth Pattern of Bali Cows Using Non-linear Regression Models

Mohd. Hafiz A.W¹, Izuan Bahtiar A.J ², Mohamad Hifzan R ², Ariff, O.M ³, Faezal Ashraff A.L ¹

¹Animal Science Research Centre, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang,
²Animal Science Research Centre MARDI Kluang, 86009, Kluang, Johor,
³Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 1-7

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the best fit non-linear regression model to describe the growth pattern of Bali cows. Estimates of asymptotic mature weight, rate of maturing and constant of integration were derived from Brody, von Bertalanffy, Gompertz and Logistic models which were fitted to cross-sectional data of body weight taken from 74 Bali cows raised in MARDI Research Station Muadzam Shah Pahang. Coefficient of determination (R2) and residual mean squares (MSE) were used to determine the best fit model in describing the growth pattern of Bali cows. Von Bertalanffy model was the best model among the four growth functions evaluated to determine the mature weight of Bali cattle as shown by the highest R2 and lowest MSE values (0.973 and 601.9, respectively), followed by Gompertz (0.972 and 621.2, respectively), Logistic (0.971 and 648.4, respectively) and Brody (0.932 and 660.5, respectively) models. The correlation between rate of maturing and mature weight was found to be negative in the range of -0.170 to -0.929 for all models, indicating that animals of heavier mature weight had lower rate of maturing. The use of non-linear model could summarize the weight-age relationship into several biologically interpreted parameters compared to the entire lifespan weight-age data points that are difficult and time consuming to interpret.

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Determining Tocotrienol Rich Fraction Effects on Laying, Mortality and Egg Quality Parameters

Mardhati¹*, M., Farah Nurshahida², M.S., Osman³, A. and Wan Nooraida³, W.M.

¹Animal Science Research Center, MARDI Serdang, 43400 Selangor,
²Promotion and Business Development Center, MARDI Cherating, P.O Box 3, Pejabat Pos Balok, 26100 Kuantan,
²Energy and Protein Center, Malaysian Palm Oil Board, 26900 Keratong, Pahang

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 9-18

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The public interest and awareness in healthier lifestyle has increased the demand of functional food, nutraceuticals and designer foods, which has resulted in the creation of new foods in marketplace, for instance designer and specialty eggs. A feeding trial was carried out to evaluate the laying performance of H&N layer chickens fed diets supplemented with tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF), as well as to quantify tocopherol and tocotrienol accumulation in eggs and their effect on egg quality. A total of 300 H&N laying hens (17-wk old) were randomly allocated to 50 battery cages with 6 birds per cage. The birds were assigned equally to 6 different treatment diets; commercial diet (F1), corn-soy based diet (F2), corn-soy based diet added with 25ppm (F3), 50ppm (F4), 75ppm (F5) and 100ppm (F6) of tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF). Egg production and egg quality measurements were not significantly different (P>0.05) between treatments. Egg yolk from hens fed TRF supplemented diets contained more tocotrienol compared to those fed corn-soy based diet (P<0.05), however the accumulation of tocopherol in eggs between all the treatments was not significantly different (P>0.05). As feeding time progressed, the tocotrienol content tended to accumulate in the egg yolks (P<0.05).

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Effect of Tree Leaves on Rumen Fermentation, Microbial Count and Blood Urea Nitrogen of West African Dwarf Goats

Adelusi¹*, O. O., Isah¹, O. A., Onwuka¹, C. F. I., Afolabi², R. O., Aderinboye¹, R. Y. and Idowu³, O. J.

¹Department of Animal Nutrition,
²Department of Microbiology,
³Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 19-30

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This experiment was carried out to assess the effect of Azadirachta indica, Newbouldia laevis and Spondias mombin leaves on rumen fermentation, microbial count and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Sixteen WAD bucks (11.6 ? 0.9 kg in body weight) were allocated to 4 treatments: 1) Control and 2) 40 g/day of Azadirachta indica, 3) 40 g/day of Newbouldia laevis and 4) 40 g/day of Spondias mombin leaves arranged in a completely randomised design. The ground leaves were included in concentrate diets served on dry matter basis at 2% of body weight while Panicum maximum was fed ad libitum. The control diet had no tree leaves. Data were collected on chemical composition, rumen fermentation and microbial ecology, and BUN. Saponin was highest (P < 0.05) in S. mombin (8.14%) while A. indica and N. laevis had 5.78% and 1.56%, respectively. Rumen ammonia nitrogen was least (P < 0.05) in goats fed A. indica (8.35 mg/dL) while the highest (P < 0.05) total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) was obtained from goats fed S. mombin with 125.51 mM. Goats fed N. laevis yielded the highest (P < 0.05) acetate with 70.65 mol/100 mol while propionate production was highest (P < 0.05) in the rumen of goats fed S. mombin (27.15 mol/100 mol). Viable bacteria count was lowest (P < 0.05) in rumen of goats fed A. indica (3.95?1012 cfu/ml) while the least (P < 0.05) protozoa population was obtained from the rumen of bucks fed S. mombin (4.18?109 cfu/ml). All goats in the treatments containing tree leaves had higher (P < 0.05) and a rapid increase in BUN between 0 and 6 h post feeding when compared with the Control. It is concluded that feeding ground leaves of S. mombin to goats increases rumen total volatile fatty acid and propionate production and reduces the protozoa population.

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Giant Taro (Alocasia macrorrhiza) Root Meal with or without Coconut Oil Slurry as Source of Dietary Energy for Laying Hens

Diarra*, S.S., Oikali, C., Rasch, I.M.,Taro, L., Vatigava, M. and Amosa, F.

School of Agriculture and Food Technology, University of the South Pacific, Alafua Campus, Samoa

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 31-38

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The effect of feeding Alocasia macrorrhiza root meal (AMRM) with or without added coconut oil slurry (COS) on egg production and egg qualities was investigated in a 20-week experiment. A control diet based on maize and 4 other diets containing 10 and 20% AMRM with or without COS were fed each to 4 replicates of 10 birds in a completely randomized design. There were no significant dietary effects on feed intake (FI) and the intake of lysine, methionine and metabolizable energy (ME). Birds fed the 20% AMRM_COS added significantly less weight during the experimental period compared to the control fed group. Body weight change (BWC) did not differ among the AMRM fed birds. Per cent hen-day and feed conversion ratio were depressed on 20% AMRM and egg weight on 10% AMRM but these depressing effects were overcome by COS addition. Egg shape index, Haugh unit and per cent shell were not affected by the diet. It is concluded that AMRM can replace 10% dietary maize without adverse effect on laying performance but 20% replacement negatively impacts on hen-day and egg weight. These adverse effects are however, overcome by treating AMRM with COS at the ratio of 9: 1. More research into higher levels of COS treated AMRM in the diet is warranted.

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Evaluation of Local Feed Ingredients Based Diets on Growth Performance of African Catfish, Clarias gariepinus

Farahiyah*, I. J., Zainal, A.A.R., Ahmad, A., Mardhati, M., Thayalini, K. and Yong, S.T.

Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 39-46

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Formulating the right feed based on the requirements of the fish species is the main solver to reduce the high cost of aquaculture production. In formulating suitable diet, factors such as the sustainability or availability of the feed sources used, quality of the feeds and price of raw materials, need to be taken into account as well so that the diets can be formulated at least cost. Low cost diets using local feed ingredients were formulated in pelleted and extruded forms and fed to juvenile African catfish, Clarias gariepinus, to determine their effect on the growth performance of the fish. Two formulations were tested: Diet A - Formula 1 MARDI and Diet B - Formula 2 MARDI, which were formulated to be iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous with 32 % digestible protein and energy value of 14 MJ/kg. A commercial diet (Diet C) was included as a control. At 15 wk of culture, fish fed diet C showed the highest growth performance in terms of weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and specific growth rate (SGR). There were no significant differences (P>0.05) found among diets for weight gain and feed intake. However, FCR and SGR of Diet C were significantly better (P<0.05) compared to the experimental diets. The best FCR was recorded in Diet C at 1.17, followed by Diet A (1.42) and Diet B (1.46). Diet C also had the highest SGR with 1.99%/day followed by Diet B (1.70) and Diet A (1.67). Cost of both diets, A and B, was RM 2.50/kg compared to RM 3.50/kg for Diet C. Although the FCR of the commercial feed was lower than the experimental diets, the production cost of fish was RM4.11/kg for the commercial feed compared to RM 3.54-3.65/kg for the experimental diets. It is concluded that local feed ingredients can be used in formulating diets for catfish and they have no detrimental effect on the growth of African catfish.

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Effects of Dietary Supplemental Vitamins and Periods of Administration on Growth Performance and Antibody Titre of Broiler Chickens Vaccinated against Newcastle Disease

Odutayo¹*, O. J., Sogunle^1<, O. M., Adeyemi¹, O.A., Sonibare², A.O., Oluwayinka², E.B., Ekunseitan¹, D.A. and Safiyu¹, K. K.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production,
²Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture. P. M. B. 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 47-56

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This study investigated the effects of supplemental vitamins and varying administration periods on growth performance and antibody titre of broiler chickens vaccinated against Newcastle Disease (ND). A total of 300 unvaccinated against ND Arbor Acre day-old chicks were used for the study for 8 wk. Birds were brooded together on day 1 of age, and 30 chicks were selected randomly for evaluating the maternally derived antibody titre against ND. At 2 days of age, the remaining 270 chicks were divided based on weight equalization into 9 treatment groups and replicated thrice. The 9 treatments consisted of a factorial arrangement of 4 supplemental vitamins (A, C, E and combination of A, C, E) and 2 periods of administration (3 days pre- and post-ND vaccinations) with a control. The birds were managed intensively throughout the experimental period, ND vaccines were administered on the 5th (i/o) and 24th (Lasota) day of age, respectively. Supplemental combined vitamins A, C and E at 0.15, 16.67 and 3.03 mg/kg, respectively, resulted in higher (P < 0.05) final body weight of 1785.00 g/bird and better feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 2.89. Also, birds fed vitamin A supplemented diet 3 d pre-i/o vaccine had higher (p<0.05) serum antibody titre (75.20) against ND while higher (p<0.05) serum antibody titre (741.33) was also obtained in birds fed diet supplemented with vitamin E 3 d post-Lasota vaccination. Conclusively, broiler chickens diets can be supplemented with combined vitamins A, C, and E for better growth performance measured as final body weight and FCR, in addition, vitamins A (0.45mg/kg) and E (9.1mg/kg) dietary supplementation at 3 d pre-i/o and 3 d post-Lasota vaccines, respectively, can be adopted for improved antibody production.

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Effect of Different Levels of Terbutaline and L-carnitine on the Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Blood Parameters and Immune System of Broiler Chickens

Fallah¹*, R., Nazari² , P. and Mirzaei³, E.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
²Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran,
³Department of Veterinary Science, Boroujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Boroujerd, Iran

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 57-69

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This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels of Terbutaline and L-carnitine on the growth performance, carcass traits, blood parameters and immune system of broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day old commercial Ross 308 broiler chickens were used in a completely randomized design study with four treatments :(1) control diet (no supplement), (2) basal diet supplemented with 20 mg Terbutaline per kg diet, (3) basal diet supplemented with L-carnitine 250 mg per kg diet and (4) basal diet supplemented with 10 mg Terbutaline per kg diet+L-carnitine 100 mg per kg diet, with six replicates per treatment. Addition of Terbutaline and L-carnitine was found to increase (p<0.05) body weight of chickens at 42 d of age in comparison to chickens in the control group. Significant differences (p<0.05) in feed intake was also observed between control and Terbutaline + L-carnitine treatments. Furthermore, the addition of Terbutaline and L-carnitine decreased (p<0.05) FCR in comparison to the control group. Broilers receiving Terbutaline and L-carnitine had higher liver, gizzard, spleen and bursa of Fabricius and lower abdominal fat relative to body weight compared to the control group. Birds which received Terbutaline and L-carnitine had the lowest total cholesterol, HDL and LDL concentrations in comparison to the control group. Birds receiving Terbutaline + L-carnitine had the highest anti body Influenza and Newcastle titres at 18 and 28 d compared to the other groups. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that Terbutaline and L-carnitine and its combination improved broiler performance, carcass characteristics by decreasing abdominal fat and enhanced immune system of broiler chickens at 42 d of age.

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Effects of Andrographis paniculata and Orthosiphon stamineus Supplementation on in-vivo Rumen Fermentation Parameters and Microbial Population in Goats Fed Urea-treated Rice Straw

Roslan¹, N.A., Alimon¹, A.R., Yaakub¹, H., Jahromi², M. F., Shokri¹, J. and Samsudin^{1, 2}*, A.A.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
²Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 71-82

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Four fistulated Boer cross-bred bucks with 25 kg average body weight was used to test the effects of dietary treated rice straw supplemented with A. paniculata and O. stamineus on in-vivo rumen parameters and microbial population in goats. The study was conducted in 4 periods (4 x 4 Latin square design), where each period was for a duration of 22 d; 10 dof adaptation period, 5 dof sampling and 7 dof change-over. The animals were fed once daily at 0800 (3% body weight) with 60% of urea-treated rice straw and 40 % of one of four concentrate diets: T1-basal diet + 1% A. paniculata, T2-basal diet + 1% O. stamineus, T3-basal diet + 0.5% of A. paniculata and 0.5% O. stamineus (AO) and T4-basal diet without supplementation of herbs. Clean water was provided ad libitum and the animals were individually penned. Rumen contents were sampled at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 12 hafter the onset feeding and the pH was recorded. Rumen pH, VFA's, concentration of ammonia and microbial population in the rumen fluid were measured. The mean rumen pH was the highest (P<0.05) at 2 h in T3 after the onset feeding while the mean concentration (mg/L) of ammonia in the rumen fluid was the lowest at 6 and 12 h in T2 (P<0.05). The molar proportion of valerate was higher (P<0.05) at 6 h in T1. Meanwhile, the acetate to propionate ratio was affected by time where it was significantly higher at 12 h in T3. Significant reduction of total protozoa, methanogens, F. succinogens and R. albus number was observed in the herb-supplemented groups (P<0.05). The results suggest that urea-treated rice straw with herbs supplementation can be fed to goats without impairing their performance. However, further study could be done by increasing the supplementation of herbs in order to observe more effective results.

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Comparison between Urea and Goat Manure as Sources of Nitrogen for Napier Grass Grown on Terraced Hill

Rahman, M.M., Wan Khadijah, W.E. and Abdullah*, R.B.

Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 83-93

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Effects of two nitrogen (N) sources on dry matter (DM) yield and nutritive value of Napier grass were evaluated. The nitrogen (N) fertiliser (at rate of 300 kg N ha?1 year?1) was applied by dividing the terraces of a hill under two treatments: T1 (urea) and T2 (goat manure). There were three replicates of each treatment arranged within three blocks in a completely randomised design. Grass was cut at about 60?day interval. In the first to fourth harvests, grass receiving manure had higher plant height than those with urea application. Grass receiving manure had higher DM yield than urea in almost all of the cuttings. In the fourth harvest, grass receiving urea contained higher DM and organic matter (OM) than manure. Similar result was found for fifth harvest where urea gave higher crude protein (CP) than manure. Irrespective of harvesting frequencies, average DM, OM, CP and neutral detergent fibre contents were not significantly different between grasses fertilised with manure and urea. In conclusion, manure is recommended for economical cultivation of Napier grass on terrace of hill.

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In vitro Digestibility and Gas Production Characteristics of Four Napier (Pennisetum purpureum) Cultivars as Fresh Fodder

Zailan, M.Z., Yaakub*, H. and Jusoh, S.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 95-106

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Napier grass was first introduced to Malaysia in the 1920?s and there were many cultivars introduced in Malaysia since 1950?s. However, there is a need to have comparative evaluation of these Napier cultivars so that definite recommendations can be made in the choice and management of the respective cultivars. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the in vitro digestibility and gas production characteristic of four Napier (Pennisetum purpureum) cultivars, namely Common, Silver, Red and Dwarf Napier. Common, Silver and Red Napier are classified as tall cultivars while Dwarf Napier is a short cultivar. Gas production was determined at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 32, 36, 48, 72 and 96 h of incubation period and its kinetics was described using the equation p = a + b (1 ? e?ct). Dwarf Napier had the highest (P < 0.05) nutritive quality (16% CP; 75% IVDMD and 73% IVOMD) among the cultivars. Overall, tall cultivars were higher (P < 0.05) in NDF, ADF, and ADL content than Dwarf Napier cultivar. The potential gas production (A+B) at 96 h incubation period was higher (P < 0.05) in Dwarf Napier cultivar (65 mL/200 mg DM) compared to other tall cultivars (< 57 mL/200 mg DM). There were no significance differences (P > 0.05) in the rate of gas production (C) of Napier cultivars which ranged from 0.024 to 0.035 h-1. The metabolisable energy (ME) was significantly higher in Dwarf and Red Napier cultivars (8.7 MJ/kg DM) compared to Silver and Common Napier cultivars. The cumulative gas production within 32 h was highest (P< 0.05) in Red and Dwarf Napier cultivars. The total VFA concentration, acetic and butyric acid content of Napier cultivars (P>0.05) ranged from 52 to 73 mM, 88 to 70%, 6.2 to 6.8%, respectively.. Dwarf Napier cultivar had superior nutritional quality. Dwarf and Red Napier cultivars could be classified as high quality grasses due to their high digestibility, gas production and degradation rates compared to the other cultivars. The low quality of Common and Silver Napier cultivars is mainly reflected by the extensive lignification of their cell wall structure.

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Assessment of Reproductive Performance and Abortion Occurrence of Boer Goats as Influenced by Farm Systems and Feeding Practices

Norhazirah, A.H., Nulit, R., Shohaimi, S. and Shikh Maidin*, M.

Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 19(2): 107-115

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of farm systems (intensive and semi-intensive) and feeding practices on reproductive performance (kidding rate and abortion occurrence) of female Boer goats in Peninsular Malaysia. By using a survey-purposive sampling approach, a total of 212 goat farms were surveyed and 123 farms rearing Boer goats either in intensive or semi-intensive farm system with at least of a year of operation were included in the analysis. Data on feeding practices were also gathered. In both farm systems, majority of the goat producers fed their goats twice a day and about half of them (48.6%) provided feed supplement to the pregnant goat. This feeding practice was mentioned as a method to improve the kidding rate. However, no significant different was found between the two farm systems in kidding rate (P>0.05: intensive 1.19 ? 0.09; semi-intensive 1.10 ? 0.07). In addition, the abortion incidence was rare, particularly in early and late pregnancy in intensive and semi-intensive farm systems (p>0.05; X2 = 7.57 and 2.21, respectively). In conclusion, the rearing Boer female goats either in intensive or semi-intensive farm systems does not affect their kidding rate and abortion frequency.

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Manipulation of factors affecting phytate hydrolysis in enhancing phytase efficacy in poultry: A review

Noraini*, S.

Animal Science Research Center, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 1-26

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Phosphorus in phytate is largely unavailable to chickens unless they are provided with dietary phytase. Phytase was shown to increase phytate degradation in the crop and proventriculus-gizzard and very little phytate degradation occurred in the duodenum-jejunum or ileum. These previous investigations were conducted on chickens fed corn based diet but not with wheat based diet. Increase in digesta passage or mean retention time (MRT) along the gastrointestinal tract could enhance phytase efficacy as the prolonged reaction time between substrates and phytase may further facilitate phytate dephosphorylation. Dietary fat and fibre supplementation have been shown to influence intestinal MRT in chickens therefore it is expected that inclusion of both dietary fat and fibre could be manipulated to further improve phytase efficacy in broiler chickens. This paper provides a brief review of in vitro phytate hydrolysis, phytate hydrolysis in the gastrointestinal tract of broilers and factors that affect phytate hydrolysis that can be manipulated to enhance the efficacy of phytase in poultry diets.

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Breed and age of dams effects on calving and weaning rates of Brakmas and Bali cows

Mohd. Hafiz^1*, A.W., Izuan Bahtiar², A.J., Mohamad Hifzan², R.,Ariff³, O.M. and Faezal Ashraff¹, A.L.

¹Animal Science Research, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang,
²Animal Science Research MARDI Kluang, 86009, Kluang, Johor,
³Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 27-35

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Evaluation of animals reproductive capacity is very important to the animal breeders as it will be the turning point of gaining profit or loss in livestock enterprises. The objective of this study was to evaluate the breed and age of dam effects on the reproductive performance, namely calving and weaning rates of Brakmas and Bali cattle. This study involved a total of 384 Brakmas cows raised in MARDI Muadzam Shah with the age ranging from 3 to 15 y, and 85 Bali cows with an age range of 5 to 11 y originally obtained from Gorontalo, Indonesia. Purebreeding was carried out from 2008 to 2012 where the animals were divided into groups with bull to cow ratio at 1:25 and allowed to graze freely on Brachiaria decumbens pasture. The study showed that breed affected significantly (P<0.05) on calving and weaning rates where Brakmas cattle were superior than Bali cattle for calving rate, 0.88±0.02 and 0.78±0.08, respectively, while Bali cattle recorded higher weaning rate compared to Brakmas cattle, 0.63±0.11 and 0.58±0.03, respectively. Age of dam and production year also showed significant effects (P<0.05) on the reproductive traits studied. It is concluded that apart from the breeds themselves, production years also plays an important role in determining calving success and calf-crop weaned percentage as the breeds respond differently towards the environmental changes.

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Effect of vitamin E supplementation on semen quantity and quality of Local Kampong roosters

Mohamad Asrol, K. and Abdul Rashid*, B.

Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 37-43

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This experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of increasing dietary levels of vitamin E on semen quantity and quality characteristics of local kampong roosters. Forty-five roosters were randomly distributed equally to 3 treatment groups with each group consisting of 5 replicates of 3 roosters per replicate. The 3 treatment groups were no vitamin E (T0), 200 IU vitamin E (T1) and 400 IU vitamin E (T2) supplementations. DL a-tocopherol acetate was used as the source of vitamin E. Commercial broiler feed, crushed corn and water were given ad libitum. Semen quantity and quality were evaluated at week 2, 3 and 4 after the initial vitamin E supplementation. Improvement in semen production characteristics was only noticeable after 4 wk of vitamin E supplementation. Semen characteristics (sperm gross motility score, percentage of live sperm and colour score) at week 4 after supplementation were significantly higher (6.20 ± 1.10, 81.68 ± 5.39% and 2.80 ± 0.30, respectively) in T2 group (P < 0.05) compared to control group. Percentages of abnormal tail spermatozoa were significantly (P < 0.05) lower (3.84 ± 2.55) T2 group compared to control group. From this study, it can be concluded that higher supplementation of dietary vitamin E is beneficial in improving the semen characteristics of local kampong chicken after 4 wk of supplementation.

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Production of IgY by layers injected with Salmonella typhimurium

Hee, H. L. ¹, Abdullah, N. ^2*, Hamid, M³. and Ho, Y.W. ¹

¹Institute of Bioscience, ²Institute of Tropical Agriculture, ³Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 45-57

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In the present study, production of IgY and performance of layers immunised with Salmonella typhimurium were evaluated. Thirty 23-wk old layers (Lohmann Brown) with average body weight of 1.6 ± 0.03 kg. were randomly and equally divided into two groups. Both groups were placed in a specific pathogen free room equipped with an exhaust fan. The layers were placed in single battery cages with slightly tilted floor which allowed eggs to roll straight into the collecting tray. Lyophilized, attenuated whole cells of S. typhimurium strain [serotype: Somatic (O), antigen 1, 4, (5), 12, flagella (H) N12 phase I: 1; phase II: 1, 2 (Group B)] that were emulsified with Freund’s complete adjuvant were used to immunise the layers intramuscularly 3 times at 2-wk interval (treatment group). Layers in the control group were injected with a solution of sterilized phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) emulsified with an equal volume of Freund’s complete adjuvant. The experimental period lasted for 14 wks. Specific antibodies were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that the birds lost weight during the injection period, but the weights slowly increased in the following weeks. However, the weight of layers in the treated group remained lower (P<0.05) when compared to the period before injection. The loss in body weight of layers was the result of reduced feed intake, in particular during the injection weeks. Layers in the control group had a higher egg production, by about 10.1% than layers in the treatment group throughout the experimental period. The egg production for layers in treatment group showed a significant decrease (P<0.05) during the immunization period by 28.8%. The egg production significantly increased (P<0.05) to 71.9% after this period, but the production did not reach the level before immunisation. The weight of eggs of treated layers were significantly lower (P<0.05) than the control layers during the injection weeks. The egg mass was significantly reduced (P<0.05) in layers during the injection period, but increased during the postprandial period. IgY titre continued to increase after the first booster and reached a high level at about 4 wk postprandial and IgY level was maintained until the end of the experimental period. The specific IgY was about 9.6 mg/g of yolk, approximately 1% w/w of egg yolk. The present study showed that specific IgY antibodies were successfully raised against S. typhimuirum through injection of attenuated S. typhimurium whole cells to layers.

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Performance and cost-benefits of weaner rabbits fed graded levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal

Ayo-Ajasa*, O. Y, Egbeyale, L. T., Sanusi, G.O., Ibrahim, K., Hamzat, O. A and Falako, M. F.

Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 59-68

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Moringa has been acclaimed to be beneficial especially in livestock production. Its leaves and green fresh pods are said to be rich in carotene and ascorbic acid with a good profile of amino acids while its twigs are reported to be very palatable to ruminants and have appreciable crude protein levels. However, Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) has been observed to contain higher pepsin and total soluble protein than other parts of the plant which makes it more suitable to monogastric animals. MOLM has been widely used in poultry production but with limited use in rabbits’ diets; hence this study was conducted to determine the performance of weaner rabbits fed graded levels of MOLM. A total of 48 unsexed weaner rabbits of mean initial weight of 744.56±29.25 g were assigned to 4 experimental diets, namely T1, T2, T3 and T4 containing 0%, 15%, 30% and 45% MOLM, respectively, having 3 replicates and 4 animals per replicate. The results showed that the dry matter intake of T1-T4 ranged 53.17 - 55.31g/day. Though not significant, highest crude protein digestibility coefficient was recorded for experimental animals on diet T4 (71.36%) followed by diets T1 (69.67%), T2 (69.17%), T3 (68.25%), respectively. The keel length for T1, T2, T3, and T4 rabbits were 225.39, 201.64, 246.66 and 217.26cm, respectively Rabbits fed 30% MOLM were found to be most profitable numerically (N1320.10) while the least profit was obtained with 0% MOLM with N1305.40. Hence, it can be concluded that Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) can replace soya bean meal up to 45% in the nutrition of weaner rabbits.

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Growth performance, carcass yield and gait score of Marshal broiler chicken reared on intensive and semi intensive management systems

Oluwadiya¹, B. O., Adeyemi¹, O.A., Sogunle¹, O.M., Obasa¹*, O.A., and Ladokun², A.O.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 69-77

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The rearing system used in highly productive farms is often subjected to harsh criticism, one of the reasons being its failure to provide adequate welfare. A number of attempts have been made to introduce new technologies in rearing poultry for meat production aiming at improving rearing conditions, protecting the environment and enhancing the quality of poultry products. Given the above, one hundred and sixty eight unsexed 14-day old Marshall broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design study to compare the effect of management systems (intensive and semi intensive) on the growth performance, carcass characteristics and gait score of broiler chickens. The experiment lasted for 42 d. Data were collected on weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, carcass yield and gait score. Result showed that birds on the intensive management system recorded higher weight gain (P < 0.05; 1.83 vs 1.37 kg) while feed conversion ratio was significantly higher in birds on the semi intensive management system (P < 0.05; 2.32 vs 2.15). Dressing and thigh weight percentages were higher in birds on the intensive management system (P > 0.05; 66.94%, 11.44%) than those in semi-intensive system (54.55%, 10.92%, respectively). For the gait score broiler birds on semi intensive management system recorded reduced number of cases of severe and slight leg problems (P < 0.05, 25.76% vs 49.3%). It was concluded that broiler birds should be reared on intensive management system for better growth performance and carcass yield. However, birds reared on semi intensive management system had fewer leg problems compared to birds reared on intensive management system. The fewer severe leg problems observed in birds on semi intensive management system will help improve their market value thereby making birds more profitable to rear on semi intensive management system.

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Effect of Bambara nut and cowpea intercropped with maize at different times on nutritive quality of maize for ruminant feeding

Olanite, J. A., Muraina*¹, T. O., Ewetola, I. A., Dele, P. A., Ojo, V. O. A., Anochirim, C. G., Nwadike, N. F. and Saliu, T. A.

Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta Nigeria,
¹Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, P. M. B. 10, Igbo-Ora, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 79-87

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Effects of Bambara nut and cowpea planted with maize at different times on nutritive quality of maize forage were investigated. The study was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design and the treatments were combination of crop types (Bambara nut-maize (MB) and Cowpea-maize (MC) and planting times of legumes (2 wks before planting maize, 2WBPM and 2 wks after planting maize, 2WAPM), and sole maize (as control). An experimental field measuring 19 m × 11 m was divided into 3 replicates; each replicate was sub-divided into 5 plots of dimension 3 m2 each, with 1 m and 2 m inter-plots and inter-blocks spacing respectively. Maize forage samples were harvested on each plot at 10 wks after planting, oven-dried, milled and analyzed to evaluate the chemical composition, mineral composition, in vitro gas production and post-incubation characteristics. Results revealed significant differences (P<0.05) among treatments with the highest (95.00%) and least DM (92.12%) values were recorded for MB 2WBPM and MC 2WAPM, respectively. CP values ranged from 10.36% in MB 2WBPM to 15.67% in MC 2WBPM but not significantly different from 14.19 % recorded for sole maize. Ash ranged from 7.00% in MB 2WAPM to 10.00% in sole maize. MC 2WBPM and sole maize had the highest (50.63%) and least (38.40%) in ADF content (P<0.05). ADL value (7.25%) observed in MB 2WBPM was the highest, compared to the least (5.00%) in sole maize. Sole maize recorded the least (40.40%) and highest (25.91%) cellulose and hemicellulose contents, respectively while MC 2WAPM had the highest (50.88%) and lowest (15.80%) values for cellulose and hemicellulose, respectively. Ca content (4.55g/kg) of MB 2WAPM was lower than the other treatments. P content ranged from 3.54 g/kg in MB 2WAPM to 12.02 g/kg in MC 2WAPM. Gas production rates only varied (P<0.05) at the 3rd, 6th, 24th and 48th hours of incubation. MB 2WBPM yielded highest values of short chain fatty acids (0.09 µmol) and metabolizable energy (3.08 MJ/kg) while MB 2WAPM recorded the lowest values (0.01 µmol and 2.57 MJ/kg) for the same parameters. MC 2WAPM and MB 2WAPM produced highest values of OMD (31.60 %) and DMD (37.50 %), respectively. In conclusion, sole maize had desirable CP, Ca, P with least fibre constituents. OMD and DMD of the sole maize were not significantly different from most of the legume mixtures. Better SCFA and ME also make MB 2WBPM treatment desirable.

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The performance of growing goats fed urea treated rice straw supplemented with Incum (Klienhovia hospita) foliage

Jusoh, S*. and Amalina M. Y.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(1): 89-98

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The usage of locally available forages such as agricultural by-products and native trees is the crucial thing for goat farmers to obtain good quality feed and to reduce cost of feeding. A study was conducted to investigate the performance of crossbred goats fed urea treated rice straw supplemented with different levels of Klienhovia hospita foliage, in particular to determine the nutrient feeding value of experimental feed diets, evaluate the growth performance, feed intake and digestibility of the diets by goats. The feeding trial conducted was divided into two sections: digestibility and animal performance. The digestibility test was performed using total faecal collection method. The treatment diets were based on urea treated rice straw (RS) supplemented with commercial concentrate (C) and Klienhovia hospita (KH) herbage: T1 with 85% RS and 15% C, T2 with 85% RS and 5% KH and 10% C, T3 with 85% RS, 10% KH and 5% C, and T4 with 85% RS and 15% KH. The feeding trial used 12 6-mo old crossbred male goats divided into 4 groups with the diets offered ad libitum and had access to clean drinking water. The left over feed was removed and weighed daily to determine voluntary DM intake. The initial average body weight of goats used ranged between 20.14±1.03 kg and 20.29±0.18 kg. The animals were placed in individual metabolic crates on slatted floor of 0.8 m above ground for 100 consecutive d. The results showed that there was no significant difference observed on body weight of goats among the treatments. ADG of goats was significantly higher in goats on diets T3 and T4 than those on control diet. Significant higher feed intake was observed in goats fed diet containing KH foliage than those fed with diet T1. Results for ASH, CP and ADF digestibility among different treatments were not significantly different whereas NDF digestibility was significantly higher in T2 treatment in comparison with T1, T3 and T4. The dry matter digestibility values of T1 and T2 diets were significantly higher than that of diet T4. Thus the study indicated that feeding goats with urea treated rice straw supplemented with KH foliage gave a positive effect on growing goats replacing concentrate fed with rice straw basal diet. It is concluded that the inclusion of KH foliage in the diet of goats has improved their growth performance and feed intake.

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Local emission factors estimates for methane emission from cattle enteric fermentation using IPCC tier-2 methodology

Azizi, A.A.*¹, Mardhati, M.¹, Mohd Fairuz, M.S.², Shaidatul Azdawiyah, A.T.², Nurul Ain, A.B.², Fauzi, J.², Mohamad Hariz, A.R.² and Reisinger³, A.

¹Animal Science Research Center,
²Biodiversity and Environment Research Center, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Serdang, Selangor,
³New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Center, Wellington, New Zealand

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 1-10

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Understanding the magnitude of consequences of climate change caused by greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions largely relies on GHG inventory stocktaking and emission estimates that aggregate activity data and emission factors (EF). For that matter, a specific EF to calculate methane (CH4) emission from mature beef cattle enteric fermentation has been devised using IPCC Tier-2 methodology for breeding cows and breeding bulls based on local production parameters, which in this case, from local beef breed of Brakmas cattle. EF generated for breeding cows and breeding bulls were 51.6 and 65.7 kg CH4/animal/year, respectively. The values are higher than the default IPCC value of 47 kg CH4/animal/year for similar region. Average value for the generated EF, which was 58.65 kg CH4/animal/year, with an uncertainty range of ±30% was used in the calculation of emission using IPCC Tier-1 methodology. The use of this value resulted in 24.8% higher estimates than when using the default IPCC EF. This EF value is suggested for use in emission estimates for the national GHG inventory reporting.

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Analysis of profitability of small-scale catfish farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria

Ashley-Dejo¹*, S.S., Olaoye², O.J and Adelaja³, O.A.

¹Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria,
²Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria,
³School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 11-24

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The study examined some parameters affecting profitability of small-scale catfish farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 222 catfish farmers from all the four agricultural extension zones of Oyo State using structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, profitability indices and multiple regression models. Benefit cost ratio, rate of return, gross revenue ratio, net profit margin and expense structure ratio were 1.69, 0.69, 0.59, 0.41 and 0.15 respectively, indicating that catfish farming is profitable in the study area. Multiple regression estimates revealed that the model was a good fit and age, farming experience, educational qualification, household size and source of income were the important and significant (P>0.01) socio-economic parameters affecting the gross margin of catfish farms in the study area. Results emanating from the findings revealed that preservation/storage/processing facilities, non-availability/high cost of quality fish seed, poaching/predators and high cost of fish feed were some of the constraints facing catfish farmers in Oyo State. Policies that intended at encouraging youth, input supply at subsidized rate (feed), and also provision of credit facilities with flexible means of repayment and affordable interest rates should be advocated for so as to increase catfish production in the State.

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Effect of mating ratio on the laying performance, hatching characteristics, feeding and housing cost of Japanese quails

Ayoola¹*, A.A., Adeyemi¹, A.O., Egbeyale¹, L.T., Sobayo², R. A. and Yusuf³, A.O.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health,
²Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, P.M.B 2240,
³Department of Animal Science, North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 25-37

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A total of 438 4-wk old Japanese quails (288 females and 150 males) grouped at different mating ratios were used to evaluate the laying performance. The birds were divided into 4 mating groups: 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4. Each group comprised of 72 females while males were varied according to the mating ratios, i.e., 72, 36, 24 and 18 males, respectively. Birds were replicated thrice (24 female birds each) in a Completely Randomized Design and raised in colonies. A total of 50 eggs were collected for incubation from the respective mating ratio groups. Data were collected on laying performance, hatching characteristics and feeding and housing cost. Results revealed that the age at first lay of the birds, weight of the birds at first lay, egg weight at first lay, average number of eggs laid per bird, hen day production, average weight of eggs and feed : egg ratio were not significantly influenced by the mating ratios. Total feed intake per mating ratio group, total feed cost (N9025.13, N7136.30, N6104.62 and N5753.83), floor space per mating ratio group and housing cost per group (N4500, N3375, N3000 and N2812.50) increased as the mating ratio increased. Incubation weight loss and fertility were similar (P>0.05) among the mating ratios. However, hatchability was better in 1:1 (73.43%) and 1:2 (74.26%) than others. It can be concluded that mating ratio did not influence laying performance and egg fertility, however, hatchability declined as male to female ratio reduced beyond 1: 2.

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Optimum protein requirement for the growth of Jelawat fish (Leptobabrbus hoevenii)

Farahiyah, I.J.*, Zainal Abidin, A.R., Ahmad, A. and Wong, H.K.

Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 39-46

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A study was conducted to evaluate the growth performance of juvenile Jelawat fish, <i>Leptobarbus hoevenii</i>, fed 4 levels of crude protein (CP): 25, 32, 38 and 44% with isocaloric diets of 15.20 MJ/kg. All experimental feeds were formulated using digestible protein values of local feedstuffs; namely poultry offal meal, palm kernel expeller and rice bran. The fish were reared in 1000-litre circular polytanks with 3 replicates with 50 fish per replicate per diet. The feeding trial was conducted for 168 d from fingerling stage of 7.62 cm to 25.40 cm in size. Fish fed 38% CP showed the best growth performance in terms of weight gain (39.86 g), feed conversion ratio (1.70) and specific growth rate (0.72) but were not significantly different (P>0.05) from fish fed 32% and 44%. Lower protein levels used in the experimental diets resulted in lower performance of the Jelawat fish. The lowest protein efficiency ratio (PER) was found in fish fed with 44% CP, and as the protein level in the diet increased, the PER value decreased. Feed formulated with 38% CP was found to be the optimum protein level needed for the growth of Jelawat fish.

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Nutritive assessment of four local herbal plants as animal feed supplements

Hamzah, S.F,¹*, Alimon, A.R,² and Yaakub, H.³

Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 47-59

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Many local herbal plants are generally rich in secondary metabolites and contain high amount of essential nutrients.. A study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant content and antimicrobial activities of 4 selected herbal plants: Andrographis paniculata (Hempedu Bumi), Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing), Euphorbia hirta (Ara Tanah) and Boreria latifolia (Boreria) that are widely available in Malaysia. Proximate analysis, phyto-chemical determination and in vitro technique were used to evaluate nutritive value of the herbal plants. Fatty acid profile and 2,2diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DDPH) free radical scavenging activity were also explored. A. paniculata had the highest content of crude protein (18.13±0.18%), calcium (11.92±1.66%), saponin (18.73±1.13%) and flavonoids (1.25±0.21%). while, E. hirta contained highest tannin (0.24±0.007%), phenol (0.02±0.004%) and antioxidant content (9.22±0.02%). For antimicrobial activity, E. hirta, A. paniculata and O. stamineus methanol extracts at 500 mg/ml concentration showed moderate antimicrobial activities. The methanol extracts of all herbal plants exhibited stronger antimicrobial activities against the test pathogens compared to the herbal water extracts. Among the 4 local herbal plants examined, A. paniculata contained the lowest total saturated fatty acids (26.53±0.19 g/100g FAME) and highest unsaturated fatty acids (73.47±0.19 g/100g FAME) and E. hirta had the highest total gas production (49.10±8.97 ml), rate of gas production (2.05±0.37 ml/h). All herbal plants studied have their own potential as animal feed supplements.

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Effect of varying levels of garlic (Allium sativum) powder on growth, apparent nutrient digestibility, rumen ecology, blood profile and cost analysis of feeding West African Dwarf goats

Ikyume¹*, T.T., Sowande², O.S., Dele³, P.A., Yusuf², A.O., Monday², S., Egunjobi², O.K. and Fatoba², O.

¹Department of Animal Production, College of Animal Science, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria,
²Department of Animal Production and Health, ³Department of Pasture and Range Management, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 61-74

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The study was designed to investigate the feeding effect of garlic powder supplementation on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, rumen micro organisms and blood profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. For this purpose, 20 WAD bucks with mean average weight of 6.92±0.02 kg were balanced for weight and assigned to 4 treatment groups, i.e., Control, GP0.5 (0.5%/100 kg garlic powder supplementation), GP1.0 (1.0%/100 kg garlic powder supplementation), GP1.5 (1.5%/100 kg garlic powder supplementation). Animals were managed in individual pens and fed Panicum maximum as basal diet and concentrate (Treatment diet) at ratio 70:30 for 98 d after 21 d period of acclimatization. Results of this study showed that final weight, daily weight gain, concentrate intake, grass intake, total feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by inclusion of garlic powder up to 1.5%. Crude protein digestibility significantly (p<0.05) decreased with increased garlic powder supplementation. DM, CF, EE, Ash, NDF and ADF were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by garlic powder supplementation. Rumen pH and NH3-N were significantly (p<0.05) affected by garlic powder supplementation. TVFA, acetate (A), butyrate (B) propionate (P) and A:P ratio were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by garlic powder supplementation. Garlic powder had inhibition effect on gram positive bacteria. Also haematological parameters measured in this study were not significantly (p>0.05) different with garlic powder supplementation. Total protein (TP), glucose and albumin decreased significantly (p<0.05) with higher levels of garlic powder supplementation. Findings of this present study reveal that garlic powder supplementation up to 1.5% in concentrate diet did not exert any adverse effect on performance of WAD goats.

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Oxidative stability of polyunsaturated fatty acids of n-3 designer eggs under different cooking methods

Maroufyan¹, E., Fadil,² M., Bello³, A.U., Ebrahimi¹, M., Goh¹, Y.M., and Soleimani, A.F.³*

¹Department of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²International Medical School, Management and Science University, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia,
³Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 75-81

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Variation in the extent of cooking time, temperature and heating source may greatly affect the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) double bond stability in eggs. A study was carried out to determine the oxidative stability of PUFA content of designer eggs subjected to different cooking methods. A total of 160 eggs of 4 commercial brands were obtained: A: conventional, B: DHA GoldTM, C: LTK^TM, and D: Safegg^TM, and equally and randomly assigned to 4 cooking methods: (i) no cooking, (ii) boiling, (iii) frying, and (iv) microwaving. The results showed that brand and cooking method significantly influenced the PUFA content in the eggs. B had the highest n-3 and n-6 PUFA contents, and the lowest n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio compared to brands A, B, and D. The brand B had the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration compared to other brands. All methods of cooking increased MDA content (P<0.05). The n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio was not affected by cooking method only in brands C and D (P>0.05). In conclusion, boiling appeared to be the most and microwaving the least suitable method of cooking for eggs, as measured by PUFA and MDA content.

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Effects of baker's yeast as a growth promoter supplemented at different levels on growth performance, gut morphology, and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens

Nabila¹, M., Yaakub¹, H., Alimon¹, AR. and Samsudin¹*, AA.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 83-93

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A study was performed to determine the effects of varying levels of baker’s yeast supplementation on growing performance, nutrient digestibility, gut morphology, and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of 200 day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were used and divided equally into 5 dietary treatments: T1 (control), T2 (control + 0.1% baker’s yeast), T3 (control + 0.2% baker’s yeast), T4 (control + 0.4% baker’s yeast), and T5 (control + 0.8% baker’s yeast) with 4 replicates per treatment and 10 birds per replicate. All birds were given the same management and environmental conditions. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed, with T4 (71.26±0.03 g/d) showed the highest value in weight gain compared to control diet (66.59±0.50 g/d). In FCR, T4 (1.86±0.08) showed the lowest value compared to control diet (2.07±0.08). Also in ileum villus height T4 (1226.1±0.81 µm) showed the highest value compared to control diet (1080.7±0.48 µm). However, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed for cryptal depth, dry matter and metabolizable energy among all treatments. Meat, bone, and fat ratios recorded significant differences (P<0.05) between dietary treatments and control group. However no significant difference was observed in the dressing percentage among all dietary treatments. The study indicates that dietary supplementation of 0.4% baker’s yeast in the diet increases the growth performance and carcass characteristics, and also improves intestinal morphology and nutrient absorption of broiler chickens.

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Growth performance and cost benefit of broiler chickens raised on mash and pellet diets accessed at different feeding periods

Obasa¹*. O.A., Oyeleke¹, A.M., Adeyemi¹,O.A., Egbeyale¹, L.T. and Olukomaiya,^1,2 O.O.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria,
²Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent Istvan University, Godollo, Hungary

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 95-103

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A total of 160 7-day old Marshall broiler chickens were used in a 2 x 4 factorial experiment to evaluate the effects of different feed forms and feed access times on growth performance and cost benefits of broiler chickens. The birds were weighed and randomly distributed into 8 treatments with 4 replicates of 5 birds each, subjected to 2 feed forms (mash and pellet) and 4 different feed access time (2, 4, 6 h, ad libitum) for 3 wk. After this period, all birds were returned to ad libitum feeding until 8 wk of age. Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality, cost of feed consumed and cost per g weight gained. Results indicated that pellet fed birds on ad libitum, 4 and 6 h feed access time recorded higher (P<0.05) weight gain of 1883.50 g, 1851.75 g and 1906.50 g, respectively. For cost benefit analysis, pellets fed birds on ad libitum recorded the highest (P<0.05) cost of feed consumed per bird (N588.74). It was concluded that for a reduced cost of production without compromising growth performance, broiler chickens should be raised on pellet diet and should not be subjected to less than 4 h feed access time for a 3-wk duration out of 8 wk of production.

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Influence of dietary palm kernel cake on growth performance, carcass composition, meat quality, volatile fatty acids, intestinal bacteria population and villi histology of Cherry Valley ducks

Samsudin¹ *, A.A., Sharmila¹, A., Jahromi², M. F., Shokryazdan², P., Mohd Nor¹, A.A. and Hendry¹, N.

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia, ²Agriculture Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII), East and North-East Branch, P.O.Box 91735, 844 Mashhad, Iran.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 105-120

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The effects of feeding palm kernel cake on growth performance, carcass composition, meat quality, volatile fatty acids, intestinal bacteria population and villi histology of Cherry Valley ducks were investigated. A total of 36 one-day old Cherry Valley ducklings were randomly allocated to 3 dietary groups, namely T1: basal diet (control); T2: basal diet + 15% palm kernel cake (PKC) and T3: basal diet + 35% PKC. After 56 d of experiment, results showed that dietary PKC had no significant effect on final body weight and weight gain of ducks. However, ducks fed T3 had higher feed intake and lower feed conversion ratio compared with other treatments. Dressing percentage and weight of liver and heart decreased as the level of PKC increased, while gizzard weight increased. Dietary PKC had no significant effect on the color coordinates, tenderness, drip and cooking losses and pH of muscle. Bacterial population varied significantly among gut sections, except for jejunum. Ducks fed T2 had highest villus height and crypt depth, while the ratio of villus height to crypt depth was the highest for control ducks. Our findings suggest that PKC can be incorporated in the diet of ducks up to 35% to improve their gut health without any adverse effect on growth performance or meat quality.

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Fermented unripe plantain (Musa paradisiacal) peel meal as a replacement for maize in the diet of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings

Obasa,¹* S. O., Taiwo I. O, Bamidele,¹ N. A, Babalola¹, E. O., Odebiyi,¹ O. C., Adeoye,² A. A. and Uzamere,² O. V.

¹Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, Federal University of Agriculture, PMB 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria, Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, Federal University of Agriculture, PMB 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria,
²School of Biomedical and Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 20(2): 121-130

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A feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effect of fermented unripe plantain peel meal (FUP) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and economic indices of production of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, fingerlings. A total of 150 Nile tilapia fingerlings (mean 1.70±0.1g) were stocked at 10 fingerlings per plastic tank. Five isonitrogenous diets containing 40% crude protein in which maize meal was replaced by FUP at 0% (FUP0), 25% (FUP25), 50% (FUP50), 75% (FUP75) and 100% (FUP100) were formulated and prepared. The fingerlings were fed at 5% body weight per day for 56 d. There was no significant difference (p> 0.05) in all growth parameters among the treatments. Feed conversion ratio of 1.35 in fish fed diet FUP25 was not significantly different (p>0.05) from 1.42 of fish fed diet FUP0. Apparent protein digestibility of 86.94% in fish fed diet FUP100 was significantly higher (p<0.05) than 70.37% in fish fed diet FUP0 while apparent carbohydrate digestibility of 88.34% in fish fed diet FUP0 was significantly different (p<0.05) from 70.29% of FUP100. Red blood cell (4.30 ml/mm3) of fish fed diet FUP100 was not significantly different from 4.13 ml/mm3 of fish fed diet FUP50. The highest percentage profit of 88.85% in fish fed diet FUP100 was significantly higher than 66.68% in fish fed diet FUP0 while the profit index of 1.89 in fish fed diet FUP100 was significantly different from 1.67 in fish fed diet FUP0. Therefore, fermented unripe plantain peel meal can completely replace maize in the diet of O. niloticus fingerlings.

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Identification of myostatin gene on Kacang and Peranakan Etawah goats in Deli Serdang District, North Sumatera, Indonesia

Hasyim, A.R.^1*, Tafsin, M.² and Batubara, A.³

¹Graduate Magister of Animal Science Program, Faculty of Agriculture, University of North Sumatera, Medan-Indonesia,
²Animal Science Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universty of North Sumatera, Medan-Indonesia,
³Loka Research Center Kambing Potong Sei Putih, North Sumatera, Indonesian

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 1-10

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One of the important genes that affects the growth of goats is the myostatin(MSTN) gene. The purpose of this study was to detect the polymorphism of the MSTN gene and identify SNP in the fragment target MSTN gene exon 1 in Kacang and Peranakan Etawah goats in Deli Serdang District, Sumatra Indonesia. The number of samples used was 60 goats consisting of 30 Kacang goats and 30 Peranakan Etawah (PE) goats from Galang, Hamparan Perak and Namorambe, Deli Serdang district. The MSTN gene forward primer was 5?-AGA ACA GCG AGC AGA AGG AA-3? and reverse primer 5?-CGT CGT AAC GTG GTA GTC AT-3?, the enzyme for restriction HinIII. To determine Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium status, both allele and genotype frequencies were analyzed. To align sequencing results BioEdit and MEGA6 softwares were used. The results showed that there were MSTN gene exon 1 found and SNP in 53 points in Kacang and PE goat populations in the district sampled and was monomorphic. Only one genotype from MSTN exon 1 was discovered, that was AA. Heterozygosity and HW equilibrium was 0, because only one genotype was found in MSTN gene in this study. Myostatingene at Kacang and PE goat populations in Deli Serdang District is therefore found to be monomorphic.

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Non-linear growth pattern for body weight, height at withers and body length of Dorper sheep

Hifzan^1*, R.M., Mohd Hafiz², A.W., Izuan Bahtiar¹, A.J., Nasir¹, J.M., Taufikurahman³, B., Fadzlirahimi³, I., Noraini, I³., Nor Amna, A. M.N⁴ and Nooraisyah², S.

¹Animal Science Research Centre, MARDI Kluang, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor.
²Animal Science Research Centre, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang.
³MARDI Cherating, P. O. Box 3, Pejabat Pos Balok, 26100 Kuantan, Pahang.
⁴Economic and Social Science Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 11-17

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There is a dearth of information on age-weight relationship in indigenous and imported sheep breeds raised in tropical region especially in South East Asia. Growth curve parameters estimated from non-linear function are useful to determine optimum market and slaughter weights. The objective of this study was to estimate mature size for body weight, body length and height at withers of Dorper ewes using Brody and Gompertz growth models. Cross-sectional data of body weight, height at withers and body length of 126 Dorper ewes (birth to 6 y of age) were collected and fitted to growth models for estimation of mature size (A), constant of integration (B) and rate of maturing (k). Gompertz model showed higher R2 values for body weight, body length and height at withers (96.4, 99.6 and 99.6, respectively) compared to Brody (87.7, 88.3 and 90.0, respectively). Mature size for body weight, body length and height at withers estimated by Brody model were 62.81+1.833 kg, 67.18+0.5771 cm and 66.90+1.609 cm, respectively, while Gompertz model estimated 60.34?1.486 kg, 67.06+0.551 cm and 66.90+1.596 cm for body weight, body length and height at withers, respectively. Both models estimated negative correlation between parameter A and k for body weight, body length and height at withers, indicating that animals with faster rate of maturing grow faster towards their mature sizes but with smaller sizes compared animals of slower maturing rate.

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Comparison of growth pattern for body weight in Brakmas and Bali cattle using non-linear regression models

Mohd. Hafiz^1*, A.W., Mohamad Hifzan², R., Ariff³, O.M., Izuan Bahtiar⁴, A.J. and Faezal Ashraff¹, A.L.

¹Animal Science Research, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang,
²Animal Science Research MARDI Kluang, 86009, Kluang, Johor,
³Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor,
⁴MARDI Johor Bahru, Lot 6313, Jalan Taruka off Jalan Datin Halimah, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 19-28

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The objective of this study was to compare the growth curve parameters derived from non-linear regression models using body weight data of Brakmas and Bali cattle. Four non-linear models, namely Brody, von Bertalanffy, Gompertz and Logistic, were fitted to the body weight data collected from 279 Brakmas (range in age from 1 to 15 y) and 74 Bali (range in age from 1 to 10 y) cows. Coefficient of determination (R2), residual mean square (MSE) and mean of absolute deviation (MAD) were used to determine the best model to describe the growth pattern of the cattle. For both cattle breeds, the Logistic model showed the highest R2 value at 0.967, followed by Gompertz, von Bertalanffy and Brody with R2 values at 0.966, 0.966 and 0.964, respectively. Logistic model also showed the lowest MSE at 1057.1, followed by Gompertz, von Bertalanffy and Brody that yielded 1080.5, 1094.7 and 1138.7 of MSE, respectively. Supporting these results, Logistic model showed the lowest MAD at -6.17 compared to Gompertz (-5.78), von Bertalanffy (-1.65) and Brody (1.82). Brakmas cattle showed higher mature weight compared to Bali cattle of 328.8?4.917 kg and 270.4?4.419 kg, respectively, as estimated by Logistic model. However, Bali cattle showed higher rate of maturing at 0.109?0.011 compared to Brakmas cattle (0.089?0.005) which indicated that Bali cattle would likely attain its mature weight earlier than Brakmas cattle. This was further explained by the negative correlation between mature weight and rate of maturing where Brakmas cattle showed higher negative correlation coefficient compared with Bali cattle. The correlation between mature weight and maturing rate of Brakmas and Bali cattle were -0.528 and -0.170, respectively. It is concluded that the use of non-linear model is useful as it could summarize the weight-age relationship into several biologically interpreted parameters compared to the entire lifespan weight-age data points that are difficult to interpret.

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Carcass characteristics of Dorper ram lambs weaned at different ages

Norhayati, Z.^1*, Wan Zahari, M.² and Shanmugavelu, S.³

¹Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, 88460 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
² Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
³Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 29-39

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Two aspects that are always considered as emphasis in farm production are body weight of live animals and their carcass characteristics. The carcass characteristic determines the market price of meat and carcass yield affects the farm profit. The carcass characteristics of Dorper ram lambs weaned at different ages were evaluated at similar slaughter age of 270 d. A total of 27 newborn Dorper ram lambs were selected randomly and divided into three groups of 9 animals each. Animals in groups 1, 2 and 3 were weaned at 30, 60 and 90 d, respectively. Group 3 served as a control group based on the current weaning practice. Creep feed containing 18% CP and 12 MJ/kg ME was provided to the respective groups of lambs at 3.5% of the animal mean body weight before weaning followed by grower feed containing 14% CP and 10 MJ/kg ME after weaning at 3.5% of the animal mean body weight. The average live weight of groups 1, 2 and 3 before slaughter were 42.17?8.01 kg, 43.83?3.33 kg and 45.00?6.25 kg, respectively. However, the mean weight was not significantly different among the treatment groups. The cost of production of groups 1, 2 and 3 were RM1.35, RM1.15 and RM1.57, respectively. Compensatory growth from not getting the dam?s milk showed that group 1 ate more feed given to them compared to group 2 but less than group 3. The different ages at weaning did not influence carcass yield (live weight, carcass weight, carcass length, dressing percentage, meat weight, bone weight and meat to bone ratio) or body composition (organs and fat) of Dorper ram lambs. From this experiment, the cost of production was minimal when the animals were weaned at 60 d because the mortality was highest when the animals were weaned at 30 d. Therefore, it is concluded that Dorper sheep can be weaned as early as 60 d of age to maximize farm profit.

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Performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chicken fed diets containing palm oil mill effluent with or without enzyme supplementation

Oladunjoye, I.O.

Department of Animal Production and Health, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 41-51

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An 8-wk feeding trial was conducted using 320 broiler chicks of Arbor Acre strain to evaluate the effect of replacing maize with Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) with or without enzyme on the performance and carcass characteristics of broilers. Four diets were formulated in which POME replaced either 25% (diet 2), 50% (diet 3) or 75% (diet 4) maize in the control diet (diet 1). Each diet was fed to any of the eight groups of forty broiler chicks with or without Maxi grain enzyme in a 4 x 2 factorial experiment. Each experiment was replicated four times with each replicate consisting of 10 birds. Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality, and nutrient utilization and carcass characteristics. Data were analyzed by two- way analysis of variance using General Linear Model procedure of SAS. Results revealed that live weight gain and feed conversion ratio were similar in birds that were fed 25% POME and control diet but these parameters were adversely affected in birds that received diets that contained 50% and 75% POME. Addition of Maxi grain enzyme improved the growth performance of the birds that received diet that contained 50% POME. Feed intake and livability were not adversely affected by the diets. Inclusion of POME in the diets decreased the utilization of dry matter and crude protein while fibre utilization was increased and ether extract unaffected. Addition of Maxi grain improved the utilization of all the nutrients considered except ether extract. Abdominal fat pad decreased with increased level of POME in the diets and was not affected by enzyme inclusion. Carcass yield and primal cuts were neither affected by POME inclusion nor enzyme supplementation. It was concluded from this study that POME can replace 25% maize in broiler diet but with Maxi grain enzyme supplementation it can be increased to 50%.

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Influence of Guinea hen weed (Petiveria alliacea) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood indices of growing pullets

Sobayo, R.A., Muhammad*, S.B., Oso, A.O., Sogunle, O.M., Ayoola, A.A., Oke, E.O and Abotinde, R.O.

Department of Animal Nutrition, Department of Animal Production and Health, Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 53-71

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A total of 450 ISA Brown growing chicks were used to evaluate the effects of feeding diets incorporated with Petiveria alliacea leaf meal (PLM) and Petiveria alliacea root meal (PRM) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, haematological indices and serum biochemistry. The birds were divided into 10 treatment groups of 45 growing chicks with 3 replicates of 15 chicks each. The diets contained PLM and PRM at 5 five levels of inclusion; 0 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, 1500 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg and 2500 mg/kg. The experiment was arranged in a 2 ? 5 factorial layout in a Completely Randomized Design. Amidst varying inclusion levels, superior (P<0.05) final live weight, weight gain and feed-gain was obtained in birds fed diets added with 1000 mg/kg of PLM. Reduced (P<0.05) Packed Cell Volume was recorded in birds fed diet containing 1500, 2500 mg/kg of PLM and 2500 mg/kg of PRM in comparison to control. When compared to birds fed control diets, least (P<0.05) haemoglobin was obtained in birds fed with 1500 mg/kg of PLM. Among varying inclusion of PLM and PRM, Red Blood Cell was reduced (P<0.05) in birds fed diets included with 2500 mg/kg of PLM and 1000 mg/kg of PRM. White Blood Cell in birds fed diets included with 2000 and 1000 mg/kg of PLM was lowered (P<0.05) to other dietary groups. Eosinophil and monocyte differentials were decreased (P<0.05) in birds fed diets added with 2500 mg/kg of PRM. Serum total protein and albumin content were superior (P<0.05) in birds fed diets containing 2500 mg/kg of PLM in comparison to 1500 mg/kg of PLM. Globulin was best (P<0.05) in birds fed diets incorporated with 2500 mg/kg of PLM across the dietary groups. Serum ALT enzyme was increased (P<0.05) in birds fed diets incorporated with 1500 mg/kg of PLM than that fed with 1000 mg/kg of PLM. When compared to birds fed diets containing 2500 mg/kg of PRM, least (P<0.05) serum uric acid was obtained in birds fed 2000 and 2500 mg/kg of PLM. It could be concluded that incorporation of PLM at 1000 mg/kg improved weight gain, feed/gain and protein efficiency ratio. Better MCV and MCHC were recorded at 1000 mg/kg of PRM while inclusion of 2500 mg/kg of PRM increased serum total protein, albumin and globulin of the growing birds.

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Mannan extract from palm kernel cake to control Salmonella thypimurium in broiler chickens

Tafsin*, M., Hanafi,N.D., Nur'aini, N, and Yusraini, E.

Animal Science Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatra Utara, Medan, North Sumatera 20155, Indonesia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(1): 73-83

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Palm kernel cake has a high content of mannan that has the potential to be used as a supplementary feed through an extracting process which functions to inhibit the colonization of bacteria that harm poultry. The purpose of this research was to examine the capability of mannan extract from palm kernel cake to control Salmonella thypimurium in broilers. The effect of mannan extract from palm kernel cake was done by agglutination, resistance and inhibitory tests in liquid medium. In vivo test was carried on 3-day old broilers which were orally infected with 105 CFU Salmonella thypimurium. Levels of mannan extract given were 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4%. The results showed that mannan extract from palm kernel cake had no bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity, but showed the agglutination ability when evaluated microscopically. The utilization of mannan extract from palm kernel cake at 0.3% and 0.4% showed significantly (P<0.05) higher number of Salmonella thypmurium (cfu/g) on feaces compared to the control (7.00 and 6.91 vs 6.69, respectively). Increasing level of mannan extract significantly (P<0.05) decreased the total number of bacterial colonies in caecum and the numbers of Salmonella thypmurium (cfu/g) at the levels of 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4% were 4.56; 4.51; 4.37; 4.13; 3.62, respectively. The utilization of mannan extract from palm kernel cake had no significant effect on caecal pH and the average daily gain of broiler chickens. It is concluded that mannan extract from palm kernel cake has the ability to reduce colony of Salmonella thypimurium in broilers so that it can be used as a feed supplement in broiler chickens diet.

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A Review: Should small holder dairy farms rear own young stock?

Ang Xin Tong¹, Norhariani Mohd Nor¹*, Dikky Indrawan^2,3 and Nurul Aisyah Mohd Suhaimi⁴

¹Department of Veterinary Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²Business Economics, Department of Social Sciences Wageningen UR, Hollandseweg 1 (Building 201) P.O. Box 8130, 6700 EW, Wageningen, The Netherlands,
³Business School, Bogor Agricultural University, Jl. Raya Pajajaran, (SB-IPB Building) 16151, Bogor, Indonesia
⁴Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kampus Besut, 22200, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 1-6

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In South-East Asian countries, including Malaysia, most dairy farm owners (62%) are small holders. Consequently, the current self-sufficiency of fresh milk in Malaysia was reduced from 127.98% (2012) to 60.91% (2016) within the 5-year period. The government has adopted production strategy to improve the production and economics of small holder dairy farms. The average number of dairy cows was reported at 85 dairy cows per farm while on average, 30% of dairy cows are culled each year. To replace the culled dairy cows, on average 26 first calving dairy heifers are needed per farm. Poor young stock management is one of the major problems in most small holder dairy farms that cause replacement heifers not to be available. Inability to perform proper young stock management occurs to farmers who fail to realize that management throughout the rearing period directly influences income of the farm. Thus, rearing young stock is an expensive investment that needs attention, but farmers in Malaysia are less aware on costs of rearing. Young stock rearing could be viewed as a profit (or loss) centre for the small holder dairy farms which entail decision to outsource. This decision can be supported using partial budgeting and cost benefit analysis methods and needs inputs such as costs of rearing and price of heifers. Estimating costs of rearing a young stock in dairy farms in Malaysia could improve awareness to farmers, improve the decision making either rearing own young stock or purchasing dairy heifers, and could increase economic sustainability and milk production of dairy farms in Malaysia.

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Weaning induced expression changes of genes associated with lactation and oestrogen signalling in the hypothalamus of postpartum cows

Ainu Husna M.S. Suhaimi ^1,2,3,5,*, Traute Flatscher-Bader ^1,2, Sigrid A. Lehnert ^1,3, Antonio Reverter^1,3, Eva Chan ^1,3, Nancy J. Phillips ^1,4, Michael McGowan ^1,4 and Michael J. D?Occhio ^1,2

¹CRC for Beef Genetic Technologies, CJ Hawkins Homestead, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia 2351,
²The University of Queensland, School of Animal Studies, Gatton Campus, Gatton, Queensland, Australia 4343,
³CSIRO Livestock Industries, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia 4067,
⁴The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia 4072, ⁵Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, P.O. Box 12301, General Post Office, 50740 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 7-26

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Weaning influences the hypothalamic control of reproduction. To understand how weaning affects hypothalamic gene expression patterns in beef cows, RNA samples from the anterior and ventral posterior hypothalamic regions of suckled and weaned primiparous cows were hybridized to Agilent bovine microarray to reveal possible interactions. In total, 199 differentially expressed genes were observed between suckled and weaned cows. Among these genes, gene ontology-molecular function terms hormone activity and signal transducer activity and KEGG pathway neuroactive?ligand receptor interaction were significantly over-represented as a response to weaning. Ten genes associated with physiological processes characteristic of lactation, namely osmolarity and stress, energy balance and suckling were revealed differentially expressed. These genes included angiotensin receptor 1 (AGTR1), arginine vasopressin (AVP), calcitonin-related polypeptide beta (CALCB), corticotrophin releasing hormone binding protein (CRHBP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), growth hormone (GH), growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), agouti related protein homolog (AGRP), oxytocin receptor (OXTR), prolactin (PRL). In addition, 37 genes encoded transcription factors, hormones and proteins that were either modulated by oestrogen or involved in oestrogen signaling in various tissues. ESR1 and 9 of these genes had the same regional expression where eight of these genes coded for either a hormone or receptor. The significant differential expression of AGRP, NPY, ESR1 and PRL that was observed with microarray showed the same trend when verified by qRT-PCR. In summary, the altered expression of genes associated with lactation and oestrogen signaling in the hypothalamus upon weaning could be important in the control of postpartum reproduction.

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Effect of different rumen protected fat from palm oil on testosterone level and testicular traits in Malin rams

Mohd Hafizal Ahmad¹, Loh Teck Chen¹, Mashitah Shikh Maidin², and Anjas Asmara Samsudin^1,*

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia
² Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 27-38

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Rumen protected fat (RPF) have been used to increase the energy density of the animal feed and most RPF product used in animal feed come from palm oil. RPF are widely used in dairy cows because it can compensate for the energy deficiency during lactation. However there is lack of knowledge on the effect of RPF on testosterone level and testicular traits in Malin rams. Most common RPF type used in animal feed is prilled fat and calcium soap of fatty acid (Casa). Both prilled fat and Casa have been chemically treated to be protected from hydrolysis and biohydrogenation in the rumen. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of RPF on testosterone level and testicular traits in Malin rams. Twenty adult Malin rams were randomly and equally assigned to four treatments: T1: Control, T2: 2% prilled fat, T3: 2% calcium soap fatty acid and T4: 2% canola oil. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in plasma testosterone level of rams among the different treatment groups. Mean scrotal circumference and total weight of testis were also not significantly different (P>0.05) among treatments. Seminiferous tubule score, Leydig cell score and seminiferous tubule diameter were also not significantly (P>0.05) affected by fat supplement studied. In conclusion, supplementation of rumen protected fat from palm oil to Malin rams does not improve their testosterone level and measurements of testicular traits.

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Combined vitamins, minerals and amino acid supplement improves eggshell quality but not egg weight in Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

Christopher Jay M. Tanduyan and Santiago* T. Pe?a Jr.

College of Veterinary Medicine, Visayas State University, Visca, Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines, 6521-A

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 39-48

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The Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) is remarkable in terms of production potential for meat and eggs and as an alternative model for poultry research. Just like the layer chickens, the quail industry can also suffer from poor eggshell quality resulting in serious economic losses. While there are commercially available supplements manufactured to promote egg performance for chicken layers, these are often difficult to find specific for quails. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the effect of combined vitamins, minerals, and amino acid supplement on the external egg quality of Japanese quail eggs which can be used as baseline information to formulate supplements tailored for quail layers. Twenty birds per treatment were given different levels of supplement via the drinking water and external egg quality parameters were measured weekly and after supplementation, respectively. Our study clearly demonstrated an interaction between the levels of supplementation and the amount of time (in wk) the birds were on supplement on egg shell thickness (p ? 0.05). Egg shell thickness was highest between 1.5 g/L and 2 g/L at the fourth wk of supplementation and decreased after two wks the supplementation was withdrawn. Similar results were observed on the egg shell weight except for the overall egg weight which remained relatively unchanged.

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Response of broiler chickens to frequency of dietary inclusion of neem leaf meal

Egbeyale*, L.T., Adeleye, O. O., Ayo-Ajasa, O. Y., Shekoni, T. E., Ayoola, A. A., Sulaiman, O. M. and Shobukola, K.

Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 49-58

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A 5-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of 180 2-week old broiler chicks of Cobb strain fed diets containing neem (Azardirachta indica) leaf meal at different periods. The birds were allotted to 5 dietary treatments with each treatment consisting of 36 birds and were replicated 4 times with 9 birds per replicate. Feed and water were administered ad libitum. Birds in treatment 1 were fed control diet all through the period of experiment, birds in treatment 2 were fed diet containing 0.5 % neem leaf meal, birds in treatment 3 were fed diet containing 0.5% neem leaf meal for 3 d in a wk, birds in treatment 4 were fed diet containing 1% neem leaf meal, birds in treatment 5 were fed diet containing 1% neem leaf meal for 3 d in a wk. The best feed conversion ratio was in the birds in treatment 3 which was similar to the response of birds in treatment 5 at starter phase while only feed intake was significantly (P<0.05) influenced at finisher phase. Results on nutrient digestibility indicated that birds on 0.5% neem leaf meal for 3 d in a wk had better (P<0.05) nutrient utilization than their counterparts in other groups. Carcass characteristics was not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the treatments. It was concluded that 0.5% neem leaf meal inclusion in the diet of broiler chickens for 3 d in a wk improves performance of broiler chickens.

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Effect of local medicinal herbs as feed additives on production performance and faecal parameters in laying hens

Ooi, P. S.¹, Rohaida, A. R.¹*, Nur Hardy, A. D.¹, Devina, D.¹, Borhan, A. H.¹, Kartini, S.¹, Jupikely, J. S.¹, Abdul Rahman, M.¹ and Alimon, A. R.²

¹Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Locked Bag 3, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
²Universitas Gadjah Mada, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 59-68

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Medicinal herbs are gaining importance in both human and animal nutrition due to their bioactive components that possess a wide range of beneficial effects on body health enhancement. To concord with the banning of antibiotic growth promoters in animal nutrition, research was carried out to utilize phytogenic feed additives in poultry nutrition as the alternative to improve their overall performance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of the three selected herbs at the level of 1% on production performance and faecal parameters in laying hens. In this study, a total of 96 Bovans Brown layers of 32 wk old were subjected to four dietary treatments in the form of CRD, namely (T1) control, (T2) basal diet + 1% of turmeric rhizome powder, (T3) basal diet + 1% of Vietnamese coriander leaf powder, and (T4) basal diet + 1% of Dayak onion powder. The layers were given 7-d adaption period before the feeding trial started which lasted for 12 wk. The results showed that there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the means of overall feed intake, egg mass, feed conversion efficiency as well as body weight gain among the treatment groups. The hen-day egg production and egg weight of birds in treatments T2 and T4 showed significant differences (P<0.05) compared to control group. Besides, the birds in the treatment groups supplemented with medicinal herbs (T2, T3 and T4) also showed significant reduction in faecal pH and faecal Entero bacteriaceae counts (P<0.05) compared to the control, while significantly improved (p<0.05) the faecal lactic acid bacteria counts as compared to those in the control group. Thus, the present study suggests that dietary supplementation of 1% of turmeric rhizome powder, Vietnamese coriander leaf powder and Dayak onion powder in layer diet can achieve better performance in terms of hen-day egg production and egg weight associated with favourable intestinal environment without any adverse effect.

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Nutritive value, palatability and selectivity of 10 different legume herbages by rabbits

Jusoh*, S. and Nur_Hafifah, C.S.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 69-76

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This experiment was conducted to determine the nutritive value, palatability and selectivity of 10 legume herbages by rabbits. Chemical analyses and legume intake by rabbits were evaluated for the suitability to fully or partially replace commercial rabbit diet. Ten species of legumes: Desmodium triflorum, Clitoria ternatea, Stylosanthes guianensis, Calopogonium mucunoides, Albizia falcate, Albizia saman, Centrosema pubescens, Leucaena leucocephala, Indigofera zollingeriana and Arachis pintoi were analysed for nutrient content. The legumes were analysed for proximate analysis which included dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE) and ash (OM). Two methods of feed preference testing were carried out to evaluate the acceptability and preference of the 10 legume species by the rabbits. Five New Zealand White female adult rabbits aged more than 1 year old were allocated to individual cages. The first trial was a single bowl test in which one legume species was offered to each rabbit daily and evaluated for acceptability. The second trial was a double bowl test in which two species of legumes were presented to each rabbit at the same time and evaluated for preference. The testing period for each method lasted for 9 to 10 d, preceded by one week of adaptation. The proximate analysis results showed that all legume herbages had high nutrient, such as CP content. Indigofera zollingeriana had the highest CP content and Calopogonium mucunoids had the highest CF content compared to other legumes and commercial pellet feed. Meanwhile from the feed preference trials, Arachis pintoi, Indigofera zollingeriana and Centrosema pubescens were the most preferred legumes while Albizia saman was the least preferred by the rabbits. It can be concluded that not all legumes are suitable to fully replace commercial diet in rabbits, thus suggesting that legumes can be combined with other forages, and both forages and commercial feed can be included in diets for a successful rabbit production.

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Nutritive values of selected Malaysian agricultural by-products commonly used in cattle rations

Predith¹*, M., Chung², E.L.T, Muhammad Hazwan³, M., Marini⁴, A.M. Mohamad Hifzan¹, R. and Noor Atirah¹, M.A.

¹MARDI Kluang, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
³MARDI Muadzam Shah, KM 5, Jalan Rompin, 26700, Muadzam Shah, Pahang, Malaysia
⁴MARDI Kemaman, KM18, Jalan Air Puteh, P.O. Box 44, 24007, Kemaman, Terengganu, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 77-90

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A total of ten agricultural by-products commonly used in cattle rations in the central and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia were evaluated. They included broken rice (BR), rice bran (RB), wheat bran (WB), copra cake (CC) , malt barley (MB), wet brewers grain (WBG), tofu by product (TBP), soy sauce by product (SSBP), sago pith (SP) and palm kernel expeller (PKE). All samples were subjected to chemical analyses followed by in sacco digestibility study using 3 adult male fistulated Brahman crossed bulls. SSBP and WBG had highest CP content of 24.62% and 24.25%, respectively. SSBP also had the highest metabolised energy (p<0.05) of 17.49 MJ/kg and also the highest sodium content of 3.26%. WP and RB had significantly higher degradation (P<0.05) than other samples at 51.02% and 47.85%, respectively, after 12 h in sacco fermentation. At 24 h in sacco fermentation, WP had significantly the highest (P<0.05) degradability at 62.53% followed by RB (58.43%), MB (54.72%), and BR (53.37%). At 48 h, BR had the highest degradation (P<0.05) of 73.39% compared to all other samples. It was concluded that different protein and energy sources vary in degradability. A proper combination of these feed sources to meet the ruminant nutrient requirements would increase feeding value of the feed formulation.

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Lactic acid bacteria as microbial inoculant for Acacia mangium silage

Nasyatul-Ekma, M.H.¹*, Rosly, M.S.¹, Marini, A.M.², Nor-Idayusni, Y.² and Hazirah, A.¹

¹Animal Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²Animal Science Research Centre, MARDI Station Kemaman, 24000 Chukai, Terengganu, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 91-98

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Acacia mangium trees are widely distributed in Malaysia. It is a good protein source for animal feeding and contains about 14-17% dry matter of crude protein. However, this plant also has high amount of anti-nutritional factor, especially condensed tannins (more than 3% DM). This compound is able to bind to other macromolecules such as proteins and carbohydrates that lead to feed indigestibility in ruminants. The objectives of this experiment were to evaluate the effects of lactic acid bacteria inoculation on the reduction of condensed tannins in Acacia mangium silage, and their effects on the proximate and fibre composition of the silage. In this study, several species of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with tannin-tolerant characteristics were isolated from rumen of Kedah-Kelantan cattle and were identified by molecular analysis. The tannin-degrading activity of the isolated LAB was determined between silage method and untreated silage. The amount of condensed tannin, proximate composition and fibre content were measured in percentage of dry matter (% DM) basis. A highly significant reduction (p<0.05) of condensed tannin in A. mangium silage was shown after inoculation with LAB. Approximately about 40% DM of condensed tannin was reduced with no significant reduction in protein and fat contents. The amount of NDF, hemicellulose and cellulose reduced (P<0.05) with the inoculation of LAB in the silage about 10.64%, 11.80%, and 29.59%, respectively. In conclusion, results demonstrate that the LAB inoculation used in this study has CT-degradation activity as well as cellulytic activity that is preferable to be used as microbial inoculation for tanniferous plant silage like Acacia mangium.

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Effects of using puffed feather meal on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of red hybrid tilapia

Farahiyah, I.J.*, Mardhati, M. and Yong, S.T.

Animal Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 99-108

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A study was conducted using juvenile red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) for a 112-day feeding trial to evaluate the growth performance and carcass characteristics of the fish after been fed with practical diets containing 10 and 15% puffed feather meal. All the experimental feeds were formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous using digestible values of the raw material. For growth parameter of weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER), no significant difference was found (p>0.05) indicating that inclusion of up to 15% had no adverse effect on the growth performance of the red hybrid tilapia. Highest average weight gain and SGR were recorded in the control with 197.31?25.43g and 2.19?0.15%, respectively. Lowest FCR was also recorded in the control with a value of 1.55?0.12. Carcass analysis results of fillet percentage and whole body composition did not show significant different (p>0.05) among the test groups. This study showed that inclusion of up to 15% puffed feather meal in the diet of red hybrid tilapia has no detrimental effect on the growth and carcass quality.

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Milk composition and fatty acids profile at different stages of lactation in Jamnapari crossbred goats

Zailan, M. Z.¹ and Yaakub, H.²*

¹Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90509, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, ²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 109-122

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Milk is one of the essential products in the human diet, rich in nutritive components. The interspecific differences of goat and cow milk composition clearly show that goat milk is rich in beneficial fatty acids content. The composition and fatty acids of milk is affected by various factors including stage of lactation. Thus, the objectives of this study were to evaluate milk composition (fat, protein, lactose and total solid) and fatty acid profiles at different stages of lactation in the dairy goats. Milk yield and samples were obtained from 33 lactating Jamnapari crossbred goats, aged between 2 and 4 y, from a dairy goat farm. Does were fed with the same diet (cut fodder and soy wastes) throughout the lactation period. Milk samples were taken from each goat on 10-15, 42-63 and 98-112 d postpartum and named as early, mid, and late lactation stage, respectively. Milk samples were analysed to determine milk composition and fatty acids profile. Results revealed that milk yield was the highest (P<0.05) during mid-lactation (785 mL) and consequently low in fat (F) and total solid (TS) content. The milk yields were higher (P<0.05) in F and TS content at early (5.10% F; 14.65% TS) and late (4.56% F; 14.71% TS) lactation stages. The protein (3.57%) and lactose (5.29%) content remained unchanged (P>0.05) throughout this study. Low level of cholesterol-raising fatty acids in human nutrition known as myristic and palmatic acids were detected at early lactation stages (P<0.05) compared to mid and late lactation stages. However, the value of individual medium-chain triglycerides in particularly caproic and caprylic acids were also at low value (P<0.05) during early lactation stage. Oleic acid had a higher value at the beginning of lactation (P<0.05) until the mid-stage of lactation. The fat content which coincided with oleic acid was concentrated during early lactation stages with the expense of caproic and caprylic acids which were also beneficial in human nutrition. In conclusion, milk yield, composition and fatty acid profiles of Jamnapari goats were altered by the stage of lactation. Low levels of individual MCT, especially caprylic and capric acids, and including myristic and palmatic acids (long chain fatty acid) in goat milk during the early stage of lactation. The highest value of rumenic acid and the decrease in stearic and oleic acid levels in goat milk occurred during mid-stage of lactation.

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A Short Note: A study in determining the correlation between cortisol concentration in vaccinated and non-vaccinated clinically infected pneumonic goats

Jesse, F.F.A. ^{1, 4}, Chung, E.L.T. ^{2, 4}*, Muniandy, K.V. ¹, Tan, A.H.A.R. ¹, Maslamany, D.¹, Lila, M.A.M. ³ and Norsidin, M.J. ¹

¹Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
³Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
⁴Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 21(2): 123-128

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In Malaysia, pneumonic pasteurellosis is one of the major problems in the small ruminant industry. Small ruminants especially goats are more susceptible to the disease that usually occurs due to stressful conditions. Cortisol plays an important role in the disease development of pneumonic pasteurellosis. The main objective of this study was to determine the correlation between cortisol concentration in vaccinated and non-vaccinated pneumonic goats. A total of 15 normal goats and 9 clinically infected pneumonic goats were selected from 2 vaccinated farms, whereas 15 normal goats and 31 clinically infected pneumonic goats from 2 non-vaccinated farms were selected for this study. Goats with clinical signs of nasal discharges, coughing with crackle lung sound were diagnosed as pneumonic goats. Blood samples were collected from the selected goats for cortisol evaluation. The study revealed that non-vaccinated clinically infected pneumonic goats exhibited a slightly higher (p>0.05) cortisol value compared to the other experimental goats. Therefore, it can be concluded that the use of plasma cortisol concentration as a measure of stress contributing towards pneumonic pasteurellosis in goats might not be the best way to confirm the influences of the disease.

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Dietary bromelain improves nutrient digestibility, digesta viscosity and intestinal villus height as well as reduces intestinal E. coli population of broiler chickens

Akit, H.^1,2*, Mohd Noor Zainudin, N.N.¹, Abdul Wahid, N.A.¹, Zakaria, S.N.¹, Foo, H.L.^2,3 and Loh, T.C.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
²Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia
³Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 1-16

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The effect of dietary bromelain at doses of 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.5% on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and faecal nitrogen content of broilers was investigated. Its effect on digesta viscosity, intestinal bacterial populations, intestinal morphology and blood biochemistry were also investigated. A total of 180 one-day old Cobb 500 chicks were randomly allocated to five treatment groups fed with commercial basal diet. At day 21 and 42, birds were slaughtered and ileal digesta was collected for nutrient digestibility, digesta viscosity as well as Lactobacillus and E. coli population analyses. Intestinal segments were collected to determine villus height and crypt depth under a light microscope. Excreta was collected to determine nitrogen content using the Kjeldahl method. Blood samples were collected at slaughter to determine biochemical parameters. Starter birds fed 0.05 and 0.1% bromelain had higher (P<0.05) fat and protein digestibility than the control, respectively. Finisher birds fed 0.05, 0.2 and 0.5% bromelain had higher (P<0.05) fat digestibility than the control. As a result of the improved protein digestibility, bromelain showed a trend to decrease faecal nitrogen content (P=0.096). However, it seemed that the improved digested protein was not utilized for lean gain as bromelain did not improve the body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (P<0.05, respectively). Bromelain improved intestinal villus height and reduced digesta viscosity in the starter birds (P<0.05). Bromelain might have reduced the negative effects of dietary anti-nutritional factors that led to improvement of intestinal villus height and digesta viscosity. Bromelain reduced intestinal E. coli populations and increased Lactobacillus populations (P<0.05). Bromelain had no effect on serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level (P>0.05) and it reduced serum alkaline phosphate (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (P<0.05, respectively), indicating no adverse effect on liver and kidney functions of broilers. In conclusion, dietary bromelain improved protein and fat digestibility resulting in reduced faecal nitrogen content, with no changes on body weight gain in broilers. Bromelain also increased intestinal villus height, reduced digesta viscosity and reduced intestinal E. coli populations.

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Effects of dietary oil supplementation on the rumen ciliate protozoa and fiberdegrading bacteria in goats

Nur Atikah I.¹, Alimon A. R.³, Yaakub H.² and Samsudin A. A.^2,*

¹Malaysian Palm Oil Board, Product Development and Technical Advisory Services Division, Selangor, Malaysia
²Department of Animal Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
³Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogjakarta, Indonesia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 17-24

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Oil supplementation in the ruminant diet has been proven to reduce the rumen protozoa population and maintain their low amount during supplementation. Majority of oil that contains medium chain fatty acids are also known to reduce cellulolytic bacteria. This experiment was conducted to study the effect of different types of oil supplementation on the protozoa and fiber-degrading bacteria population in goats. Sixteen male goats equipped with rumen cannula were assigned to four experimental dietary treatments. The first group acted as the control group (CON) and received the basal diet. The second group (OL) received the basal diet with the supplementation of olive oil, whereas the third group (SO) and fourth group (PL) received the basal diet supplemented with sunflower and palm olein oils, respectively. The rumen content of each animal was collected for pH measurement as well as enumeration of the rumen protozoa and fiber-degrading bacteria. The rumen pH level was affected by sampling days (P<0.05). The total protozoa counts were higher in the CON compared to the other treatments, which the OL group had the lowest rumen protozoa counts and were significantly affected (P<0.05) by the diet and day of sampling. Treatment groups did not affect Fibrobacter succinogenes, Ruminococcus albus and Ruminococcus flavefaciens populations, but there were significantly affected (P<0.05) by day of sampling and the interaction of treatment ? day. In conclusion, dietary oils supplementation affects the rumen protozoa population, but the effects on bacteria population are not extensive.

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The effects of varying dilution levels of wastewater on the cultivation of Spirulina sp

Ghofar, H. S. A.¹, Jahromi, M. J.¹, Ikhsan, F. N. M.³, Samsudin, A. A.²*

¹Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security (ITAFOS), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
³Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 25-33

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Spirulina sp. is a photosynthetic cyanobacteria containing excellent nutritional content to be used as food as well as source of feed supplement for animal. However, the key factor in developing a competitive process to produce Spirulina sp. as feed and as a source of added-value products is by using a low-cost medium to lower the cost production. Animal wastewater demonstrated to be one of the best nitrogen sources to produce a low-cost medium. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of four different types of wastewater: goat, poultry, seawater (30 ppt) and UPM farm supplied water at dilution rates of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% on the cultivation of Spirulina platensis TBSH1-5. The culture was randomly arranged between the treatments and wastewater with three replicates and was maintained for 30 days under 24 hours of light, together with aeration. Cultivation of Spirulina sp. in different wastewater types was found to be significantly (P<0.05) affected by different types of wastewater with higher growth of Spirulina was notified in goat wastewater and farm supplied water at 25% dilution, whereas, the dry weight was found to be significantly higher in seawater compared to other wastewater types at 0.27 g (25%), 0.29 g (50%), 0.18 g (75%) and 0.08 g (100%). In conclusion, dilution of media with farm supplied water and goat wastewater may be used as alternative sources for low-cost culture media for the biomass gain of Spirulina sp.

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Nutritive composition of oil palm empty fruit bunch fibers treated with mycelia culture of Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) as a potential ruminant feedstuff

Nur Nazratul², F.M.Y., Rakib^1,2, M.R.M., Zailan1,^{2 *}, M.Z. and Yaakub³¹Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
²Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysiasu

¹Sustainable Palm Oil Research Unit, Faculty of ¹Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
²Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 35-46

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Efforts were made to reduce the wide gap between requirement and availability of local feed by having a better utilization strategy of unconventional feed resources. Malaysia is one of the world?s largest palm oil producers. The process of extraction of palm oil produces empty fruit bunch (EFB), which is considered as waste product. Biological delignification using white rot fungi (WRF) was reported to enhance the feeding values of agricultural by-products used in ruminant rations by fungal degradation of lignin. Steam sterilization before fungi inoculation is known to affect substrate composition. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of steam sterilization of oil palm EFB fibres on the nutritive composition of oil palm EFB fibres treated with mycelia culture of Ganoderma lucidum at different incubation periods as a potential ruminant feedstuff. Shredded oil palm EFB fibres were prepared as sterilized substrate in polypropylene bags and inoculated with mycelia culture of G. lucidum. The uninoculated sterilized substrate was compared with unsterilized substrate. All inoculated substrates were incubated starting from week 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 with 4 replications for each period. All samples were analysed for their nutritive compositions. Result showed that only crude protein and cellulose content were significantly changed after steam sterilization process where crude protein was reduced from 6.07% to 1.97% and cellulose increased from 22.35% to 27.52%. All nutritive composition analysed (dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ash, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) for oil palm EFB fibres treated with G. lucidum showed significant changes across incubation period. Its lignocellulose components such as lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose were significantly reduced by 21%, 20% and 35%, respectively after 12 weeks of incubation. These results suggest that oil palm EFB fibres treated with mycelial culture of G. lucidum have potential to be utilized as ruminant feedstuff. Ganoderma lucidum was proven to have the ability in delignification of lignin in oil palm EFB fibres. Exploitation of this biological treatment could possibly maximize the use of locally available agro-industrial by-products to increase the production of local cost-effective feed for ruminants.

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Describing growth pattern of selected Kedah-Kelantan cows using non-linear regression models

Mohd. Hafiz¹, A.W, Marini², A.M., Rosly³. S.M., Mohamad Hifzan³, R., Izuan Bahtiar², A.J. and Shanmugavelu¹, S.

¹Livestock Science Research Centre, , MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang
²Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kemaman, 24007 Kemaman, Terengganu
³Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, P/O Box 12301, General Post Office, 50774 Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 47-54

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the best fit non-linear regression model to describe the growth pattern of Kedah?Kelantan (KK) cows. Estimates of asymptotic mature weight, rate of maturing and constant of integration were derived from Brody, von Bertalanffy, Gompertz and Logistic models which were fitted to cross-sectional data of body weight taken from 81 KK cattle with the age ranging from birth to 96- mo old. Coefficient of determination (R2) and residual mean squares (MSE) were used to determine the best fit model in describing the growth pattern of KK cows. Von Bertalanffy model showed the best goodness of fit as explained by its highest R2 and lowest MSE (0.9686 and 720.9, respectively), followed by Gompertz (0.9681 and 733.6, respectively), Logistic (0.9667 and 766.8, respectively) and Brody (0.8683 and 793.2, respectively). The correlation between rate of maturing and mature weight was found to be negative in the range of -0.7154 to -0.9213, indicating that animals of heavier mature weight had lower rate of maturing. The use of non-linear model could summarize the weight-age relationship into several biologically interpreted parameters compared to the entire lifespan weight-age data points that are difficult to interpret. The study of growth pattern also important to determine the optimum weight and age for replacement heifer and slaughter besides to strategize the feeding regime for maximum productivity.

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Measuring the impact of import liberalization on market prices for selected livestock products in Malaysia

Aimi Athirah,A.*, Roslina,A., Nik Rozana,N.M.M., and Rozita, M.Y.

Economic and Social Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 55-64

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Malaysia has moved towards import liberalization for selected agricultural primary products since 2016. Ruminant livestock products are among the country?s major concerns due to their relatively lower rate of self-sufficiency. Since the livestock sub-sector has encouraged value added agricultural based industry, liberalizing import quotas for livestock could expand both of the domestic and export markets as well as for economic growth. For many years, beef and lamb/mutton indicated increasing consumption trends while stagnating and even declining in domestic production. As a result, these products from local producers were short in supply in the market. This situation would negatively affect market equilibrium thus, saddling consumers with incredibly high market prices. This study aimed to analyze the factors affecting market prices of beef, lamb, and mutton in Malaysia. Monthly data which included import quota (import price) and market price, and exchange rate from 2016-2017 were analyzed using quantitative analysis. A Mann-Kendall trend test was initially employed to measure the trend and magnitude of the market prices. The results showed that market prices significantly (p<0.05) increased for beef and lamb/mutton with magnitudes of RM 0.20/kg and RM 0.04/kg, respectively. A multivariate regression analysis revealed that exchange rates and import prices significantly (p<0.1) influenced market prices of beef and lamb/mutton, respectively. As Malaysia relies highly on imported meat products to meet the shortfall in domestic production, a market diversification for imported livestock products could be a policy strategy to protect both the industry players and consumers. Perhaps, a tremendous increasing trend of global demand in the last two decades has surged the world prices of meat products, thus reflected in the livestock industry in Malaysia.

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A Case Study: Environmental stressor leading to reproduction problem in a cow

Eric Lim Teik Chung^1,2*, Faez Firdaus Abdullah Jesse^2,3, Mamat Hamidi Kamalludin^1,2, Mohd Farhan Hanif Reduan⁴, Anjas Asmara Samsudin¹, Teck Chwen Loh^1,2

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture,
²Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security,
³Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia,
⁴Department of Paraclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Pengakalan Chepa 16100, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 65-70

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Heat stress may have long-lasting effects on the reproductive physiology where the fertility will be reduced. During gestation, heat stress affects also the reproductive success of the cow through its direct effect on the early foetus development. The present case reports the incidence of heat stress causing abortion of a full-term foetus and a retained placenta in a cow. A 4-year-old KedahKelantan cross cow weighing 250 kg was presented with a primary complaint of abortion and a retained placenta. The cow was managed intensively on a dirt ground without shade. Physical examination revealed that the cow was pyrexic (40?C) with congested mucous membrane. However, the body temperature reduced after the cow was showered and transferred into a shade facility. The most noticeable abnormality was the fouled smelling placenta hanging from the vulva. The case was diagnosed as abortion due to environmental stress. Treatment of flunixin meglumine 1.1 mg/kg and oxytetracycline 20 mg/kg were administered accordingly where the cow responded well to the medication. The farm manager was advised to shift all pregnant animals into a facility with shade and practise good waste management in the farm to prevent the occurrence of abortion and other problems related to heat stress. The prognosis of the case was good with prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

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Effect of treated giant taro (Alocasia macrorhiza) tuber powder on growth performance of broiler quails

Rohaida*, A. R., Punimin, A. and Helary, J.

Livestock Programme, Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, 90509 Sandakan, Sabah. Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(1): 71-77

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A study was conducted to determine the effect of treated giant taro (Alocasia macrorhiza) tuber (GTT) in the diet on growth performance of broiler quails during grower-finisher stage. The experimental design used was randomized complete block design (RCBD) which utilized a total of 72 mixed sex quails. From day 21 to day 42, the quails were offered either one of the following dietary treatments: (T1) Basal diet containing no treated GTT powder, (T2) Basal diet containing 0.5% treated GTT powder, and (T3) Basal diet containing 1% treated GTT powder. Quails fed experimental diets containing 0.5% or 1% GTT showed no significant (p>0.05) difference on body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and mortality rate compared to the control of no GTT mixed in the diet.. In conclusion, supplementation of giant taro tuber up to 1% in the diet did not improve the growth performance of quails.

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Comparison of reproductive performance of Bali cows using different duration laser punctures and PGF2? hormone

Yendraliza^1*, Rahmi Febriyanti¹, Widia Setuti¹, Zumarni¹, Oksana¹, Rosmaina¹, Sudirman M Johan², Chairusyuhur Arman³

¹Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Science, Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau, Jalan HR Soebrantas KM 15 Panam Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia.
²Faculty of Syariah dan Ilmu Hukum, Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau, Jalan HR Soebrantas KM 15 Panam Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia.
³Faculty of Animal Science, Mataram University, Jalan Majapahit 62 Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 1-9

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A study was conducted to determine the estrus response and pregnancy percentage of Bali cows after different laser-puncture treatments with PGF2? hormone. One hundred fifty Bali cows that had previously been pregnant were used in this study. They were divided into three groups based on body condition score of 3, 3.5, and 4, into 3 treatments: 1) injected with the PGF2? hormone, 2) laser puncture for 5 sec and 3) laser puncture for 10 sec. The laser used was a soft Helium-Neon 50 Hz of 220 volt and 50 watt which obtained 20 MW of power. The parameters measured were estrus percentage, estrus duration, onset of estrus, estrus intensity, total pregnancy, non-return rate, and services per conception (S/C). The data were collected for four days after the experiment and analyzed using Chi-Square Independence Test. The results revealed that the estrus response and pregnancy percentage of the Bali cows after synchronization with PGF2? hormone (Treatment 1, Control) and laser-puncture for 5 sec and 10 sec were significantly different (p<0.05). The use of laser-puncture in Bali cows had increased pregnancy rate from 60 to 80%, with S/C of 1.6 -2.0, decreased non return rate 20 to 40%, with estrus intensity of 1.6 to 2.0. The use of 5-sec laser puncture has produced the similar reproductive performance as synchronizing the cows with PGF2? hormone.

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Effect of addition of propionic acid and fumigation with aluminum phosphide on the nutritive value of grain corn stored in silos six month

Telaumbanua, Y.*, Tafsin, M. and Hanafi, N.D.

Department Magister of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 11-26

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The use of corn for poultry feed is on average 50-60% of its portion. Corn has many advantages compared to other feed materials. Corn storage in silos is aimed at maintaining the quality of the stored grains by avoiding, reducing or eliminating various factors that can reduce their quality and quantity. A longer storage tends to reduces the nutritional value of corn. Corn without treatment (control) was found to reduce crude protein from 8.41 to 6.95%, crude fat from 4.28 to 3.69%, gross energy from 3390 to 3282 kcal after 6 months of storage. Total aflatoxin increased from 5.19 to 38.40 pbb and crude fiber increased from 1.32 to 2.67%. But the addition of propionic acid as preservative and fumigation material using anti-weevil (aluminum phosphide) could slow the damage process of corn.

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Growth performance and carcass characteristics of Japanese quail fed rations with inclusion of different levels of broken rice

Rahman, M. M.^1,2,*, Suniza Anis, B. M. S.¹ and Jennlelyn, A. J.¹

¹Faculty of Agro Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan. Malaysia.
²Institute of Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan. Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 27-33

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Rapid increase in poultry production is boosting the use of corn, since this ingredient is the main cereal grain for livestock feeding. Due to high demand, especially during off-seasons periods, corn price sometimes increases and it is necessary to reduce the dependency on imported corn. Therefore, this study was untertaken to investigate the feeding effects of different levels of broken rice inclusion as replacement for corn in the diet on the growth performance, survivability and carcass characteristics of Japanese quails (3-11 wk of age). A total of 180 unsexed quails (2 wk of age) were randomly divided into 3 experimental diets with 3 replicates of 20 birds each according to a completely randomized design. Experimental diets consisted of 3 levels (10, 20 and 30%) of broken rice for replacing the corn. The weekly body weight (BW), feed consumption and mortality were recorded. At the end of feeding trail, 5 male birds from each replicate were slaughtered. The carcass weight, dressing percentage, and yields of heart, liver, gizzard and feet were taken. Results showed that increasing levels of broken rice in the diets did not affect (p>0.05) feed intake, weekly BW, average BW gain and survivability, except for final BW. Birds fed diet containing 20% broken rice showed significantly (p<0.05) lower final BW than the brids fed diets containing 10 or 30% broken rice. Regarding to carcass characteristics, increasing levels of broken rice in the diets did not affect (p>0.05) dressing percentage or yields of heart, liver and fee, except for gizzard. Birds fed diet containing 30% broken rice showed lower (p<0.05) gizzard yield than the birds fed diets containing 10 or 20% broken rice. The results of this study indicated that broken rice can be used in growing quails? diet up to 30% without any adverse effects on their growth performance, survivability and carcass characteristics.

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Use of sweet orange peel meal (SOPM) in broiler chicken diet with and without Polyzyme

Sunmola, T. A.*, Tuleun, C. D. and Oluremi, O.I.A.

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science, University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 35-44

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A study was conducted to evaluate the use of sweet orange peel meal (SOPM) in broiler chicken diet with and without polyzyme?. An 8 week feeding trial was carried out using day old Abor Acre plus strain of broiler chickens. Four groups of 36 birds each were fed two diets that contained 20 and 25 % sweet orange peel meal with or without Polyzyme? in a factorial design. Data were collected on growth performance, nutrient utilization, carcass characteristics and intestinal tract length. Significant (p<0.05) depression were observed in average final weight (1976.64 to 1775.76 g), average daily weight gain (34.69 to 31.10 g) and average daily feed intake (79.98 to 70.65 g) when sweet orange peel meal was increased from 20 to 25 % in the diets. This effect was reversed when enzyme was added in the diet. Except on crude protein; increasing the sweet orange peel meal from 20 to 25 % did not have significant (P>0.05) effect on feed utililization and mortality. Birds fed 25 % sweet orange peel meal had lower (p<0.05) live weight and crude protein utilization than those fed 20 % which were improved when enzyme was added. Gizzard weight and gastrointestinal tract length of birds fed 25 % rice bran were higher (p<0.05). It was concluded that 20 sweet orange peel meal can be included in broiler diets but may be increased to 25% when polyzyme?is added.

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Growth performance, cost benefits, haematological and serum indices of gilts fed fortified ensiled cassava root-leaf blends as a replacement for maize

Amos, Adedoyin T.^1*, Adeleye O.O.², Oso O.A.¹, Idowu, O.M.O.¹, Durojaiye, O.J.¹, Adewumi, L.¹ and Saliu, K.G.¹

¹Department of Animal Nutrition
²Department of Animal Production and Health
Federal University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 47-54

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An 8-week feeding trial to investigate the inclusion of ensiled cassava root-leaf blends (ECRLB) fortified with no additive (ECRLB1), Allzyme? SSF (ECRLB2), amino acids (ECRLB3) and Allzyme + amino acids (ECRLB4) at 30% replacement value for maize in diets of gilts was conducted. Maize based diet (MBD) served as control. Twenty gilts (3?4 months old) were randomly allotted to dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with 4 pigs per treatment. Growth performance, haematological indices and serum chemistry were measured. Improved (P<0.05) weight gain was recorded for gilts fed ECRLB3 (433g d-1) and ECRLB4 (419g d-1) than others. Feed to gain ratio of fortified ECRLB group were similar to MBD but better (P<0.05) than ECRLB1. The feed costs (?155.34? ?162.17) kg-1 weight gain of gilts fed fortified ECRLB were lower (P<0.05) than MBD (?176.74). Haematological indices and serum chemistry values for gilts fed MBD and fortified ECRLB fell within the recommended range. It was concluded that fortified ECRLB could be used to replace maize in the diets of gilts for optimal performance.

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Supplementary: Proceedings of the 39th Malaysian Society of Animal Production Annual Conference, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia 26-28th November 2019

Multiple

Multiple

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 22(2): 59-127

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SUPPLEMENTS Proceedings of the 39th Malaysian Society of Animal Production Annual Conference, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia 26-28th November 2019 1 Recent advances in buffalo research: The Philippine experience Annabelle, S.S. 2 Is there any medicinal value in edible bird's nest? Lim, C.T.S. 3 Thailand 4.0: Future of livestock and poultry industry in Thailand Wattanachant, C. 4 Challenges in the Malaysian poultry industry Yap, T.C., Choo, P.Y. and Chang, K.W. 5 Mitigating enteric methane emission from livestock by plant secondary compounds Jayanegara, A., Samsudin, A.A., Ridla, M., Laconi, E.B. and Nahrowi 6 Processing technology and product development of sea cucumber internal organs as hydrosylate peptides in animal nutrition feed supplement and the agro-based food industry Babji, A.S., Lim, S.J., Nur'Aliah, D., Nurul Nadia, M., Chan, C.H. and Tey, C.C. 7 The bodyweight of Boer goats is highly heritable but reduced by gastrointestinal nematode infection Hayyan, B.N. and Matthews, L. 8 Influencing factors of artificial insemination usage among dairy cattle farms in Selangor Mogan, T. and Yimer, N. 9 Health performance and blood profile changes in commercial broilers supplemented with dietary monocalcium phosphate Chung, E.L.T., Lee, W.L., Mahzan, N.M., Henipah, N.N.M.M.A., Kamalludin, M.H., Samsudin, A.A., Loh, T.C. and Idrus, Z. 10 Prebiotic activity of glycan from edible bird's nest Daud, N.A., Yusop, S.M., Babji, A.S., Joe, L.S. and Sarbini, S.R. 11 Effects of edible bird's nest (EBN) on quality of chilled Arabian stallion semen using EquiPlus extender Al-Khaldi, K., Yimer, N., Wahid, H., Mark, H., Al-Bulushi, S. and Babji, A. 12 Influence of different sources of oil on growth performance and meat quality in broilers Nadim, A.R., Loh, T.C. and Kamalludin, M.H. 13 Effects of sodium selenite, selenium yeast and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia enriched bacterial protein (ADS18) on laying performance in hens Muhammad, A.I., Loh, T.C., Dalia, A.M., Akit, H. and Samsudin, A.A. 14 Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum postbiotic metabolites on growth performance of broiler chickens Chang, H.M., Loh, T.C., Chung, E.L.T. and Foo, H.L. 15 Effects of feeding paraprobiotic in mycotoxins contaminated diets on the intestinal morphology and immunoglobulin status of broiler chickens Shazali, N., Loh, T.C., Foo, H.L., Akit, H. and Kamalludin, M.H. 16 Effects of different levels of calcium and phosphorus on egg production of MARDI village chickens Siti Azimah, A., Nur Imanina, M.R.C., Mohd Nor Hisham, M.N., Norham, I., Sarah, R., Roziatul Erin, A.R. and Noraini, S. 17 Effects of dietary calcium and phosphorus levels on growth performance in pullet and pre-layer phases of Ayam Kampung MARDI (AKM) Nur Imanina, M.R.C., Siti Azimah, A., Mohd Nor Hisham, M.N. and Noraini, S. 18 Improving reproduction performance in goats by laser-puncture oestrus induction: An alternative of non-hormonal treatment Suyadi, S., Susilorini, T.E., Septian, W.A. and Furqon, A. 19 Re-strategizing local grain corn production in Malaysia Ainu Husna, M.S.S. and Noraini, S. 20 Livestock GHG emission in Malaysia: past and future Bastami, M.S., Talib, S.A.A., Rahman, M.H.A., Pauzi, M.A., Azman, M.A., Suptian, M.F.M., Azmin, A.A., Jumat, F., Mohammad, M., Bakar, N.A.A., Yusoff, M.F. and Rashid, M.A.A. 21 The potential of Belgian Blue crossbreds in the Malaysian beef cattle industry Ummi Noorhakimah, A., Amie Marini, A.B., Kamil, W.M. and Goh, Y.M. 22 Production of ?-mannanase by Bacillus subtilis ATCC 11774 using PKC as a sole carbon source: Medium screening Abidah, M.N., Wan Nooraida, W.M. and Nur Atikah, I. 23 The utilization of rice straw as animal feed in Kedah-Perlis Adil, I. and Siti Nurkhadijah. M Y. 24 A preliminary study on the protein content of locally grown grain corn during storage Nazri, A.M., Ismail, R., Hamidan, M.F.R., Mohamed, W.A.G., Ruslan, N.F.M.N., Sevagan, P. and Samat, N. 25 Effects of energy manipulation on body weight gain of Brakmas cows during flushing under breedlot system Dzulfazly, A., Mohd Rosly, S., Predith, M., Izuan Bahtiar, A.J., Ahmad, J., Ajis, H., Darus, A.R. and Mohd Norazmi, M.Z. 26 Feed efficiency and growth performance of red hybrid tilapia juveniles feeding on feed formulated with local sources of energy and protein Farahiyah, I.J., Nor Maisarah, R., Zainal Abidin, A.R. and Ahmad, A. 27 Helminth infection in Katjang hybrid goats raised in a semi intensive system Mohd Azlan, P., Mohamad Hifzan, R., Mohd Rosly, S., Predith, M., Mohd Azlan, M.S., Noor Athirah, M.A. and Baharin, S. 28 Growth performance and body composition of river catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) fingerlings fed with palm kernel meal Nor Maisarah, R., Farahiyah, I.J., Zainal Abidin, A.R. and Yong, S.T. 29 Effects of rice polish inclusion in Pangasius hypophthalmus formulated diet Nor Maisarah, R., Farahiyah, I.J., Zai

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Digestibility of nutrients of male Dorper sheep weaned at different ages

Norhayati Zaini*¹, Shanmugavelu Sithambaram² and Wan Zahari Mohamed³

¹Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
²Formerly Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Selangor
³Formerly Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(1): 1-9

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The nutrient digestibility is an important aspect to measure the feed efficiency of feed given to the animals. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the nutrient digestibility of male Dorper sheep at different weaning ages. A total of 27 new-born Dorper lambs (average body weight, 3.06±0.74 kg) were randomly divided into three equal (n=9) experimental groups namely, Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3, weaned at day 30, 60 and 90, respectively. Creep feed (ME, 12 MJ/kg and CP, 18%) and grower feeds (ME, 10 MJ/kg and CP, 14%) were fed at 3.5% of their mean body weight before and after weaning, respectively. Digestibility trials for Group 1, 2 and 3 were conducted 10 d before the animals reached 30, 60 and 90 d of age, respectively. The digestibility trial was repeated at 10 d before the animal reached the age of 270 d. Three animals were selected from each group for digestibility trial and the animals were individually housed in metabolism cage. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in digestibility of DM, CP, CF, EE and NFE among the treatment groups at pre-weaning and post-weaning stages. However, numerically weaning at 30 d of age was higher in nutrient digestibility at pre-weaning stage than weaning at 60 and 90 d of age. For post-weaning stage, all groups showed no significant difference in nutrient digestibility. As a conclusion, this study shows that the weaning age does not significantly influence the nutrient digestibility of male Dorper sheep.

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Blood profile and blood minerals concentration of Red Sokoto bucks fed diets containing graded levels of potato peels supplemented with Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus)

Shittu Hammed Abiodun*, Adole, Patrick Ojiya and Aireavbouan, David Ideyoma

Department of Animal Production, University of Agriculture Makurdi, PMB 2373 Benue State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(1): 11-20

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A total of 18 Red Sokoto bucks of about 7-9 mo, weighing between 7.0 - 12.0 kg were used in a completely randomized design in a feeding trial. Blood samples were obtained from the animals through the jugular venipuncture to evaluate the haematological parameters, serum indices and blood mineral concentration of Red Sokoto bucks fed diets containing graded levels of sweet potato peels supplemented with Gamba grass. Water was offered to the animals ad libitum. Four diets were formulated and compounded to contain 0, 50, 75 and 100% graded sweet potato peel meal, in a 12-wk feeding trial. The experimental diets did not have any effect on the haematological indices with the exception of the white blood cell differentials which differed significantly (P<0.05): such as lymphocyte (62.33-73.00%), neutrophil (24.67-32.67%), eosinophil (1.00-2.67%) and monocytes (1.33-4.67%). The results of the serum biochemical indices and mineral concentration showed that there was no significant effect (P> 0.05) of the diet on serum biochemical values. This result showed that the health status was not compromised. Therefore, sweet potato peels can replace maize offal in feeding ruminants at 100% successfully without any detrimental effects on the haematological parameters, biochemical indices and mineral concentrations of the animals.

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Use of kaolinite clay to promote productivity of Ouled-Djellal ewes in periparturient period

Kahouli¹*, A., Kaboul¹, N., Ziki², B., Hornick³, J-L. and Rekike⁴, F.

¹Food Sciences Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna, 05000 Algeria,
²National Higher School of Agronomy, El Harrach, 16200 Algeria,
³Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, B-4000 Liege, Belgium,
⁴Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna, 05000 Algeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(1): 21-29

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In order to promote animal performance in difficult areas, and to find an alternative to antibiotics for ruminants, twelve adult ewes of the Ouled-Djellal breed in 5th mo of gestation were alloted equally in two experimental boxes to quantify the effect of kaolinite clay on the dynamics of the body condition of ewes, lamb growth and milk production up to 70 days post-parturition. The experiment was conducted at the demonstration farm of the Technical Institute of Breedings of Ain M'lila Algeria. Oat hay dominated the basic ration with a limited distribution of barley straw. The control group (C0) received a complement with a control concentrate (without kaolinite), however, the other group (CL) received the same concentrate added with 5% of kaolinite. The data collected were subjected to statistical treatment based on the T test of Student and U test of Mann Whitney to visualize the differences existing between the variables studied using the STATISTICA V.6 program. The statistical analysis showed that the sheep of both groups had similar curve of body weight and body reserves dynamics from the 5th mo of pregnancy until 1st mo of suckling. Regarding milk production, milk quality was detected unchangeable in the presence of kaolinite clay, moreover, ewes of CL groupe produced significantly more of milk (+29.4% ; p<0.05) than those of control. Besides, the lambs mothered with kaolinite had faster growth with significant highest average daily gain compared to those of the control (+74% ; p<0.05), consequently, they were significantly heavier (+41% ; p<0.05) at 4 wk and at 70 days postlambing (+57% ; p<0.05) compared to those of control. Our results showed that the kaolinite clay can effectively have a role of additive growth promoter, however, to draw the maximum benefis from it, it is preferable to lead other in-vivo studies, preceeded by other in-vitro studies to characterize its effect on the dynamics of the ruminal ecosystem and animal performance with increasing doses.

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Haematological and behavioural responses of growing pigs to quantitative feed restriction

Njoku¹*, C.P., Adeyemi¹, O.A., Sogunle¹, O.M., Aina¹, A.B.J. and Oluwatosin², O.O.

¹Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(1): 31-40

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A study was carried out to assess the effects of feed quantity offered on haematological parameters and behavioural characteristics of pigs. A total of 48 Large White grower male pigs with initial average body weight of 7.15±0.55 kg were assigned to 3 treatment groups of 16 pigs per group and were further replicated in 2 pigs per replicate on the 8th, 14th and 20th weeks of the experiment. Two digital cameras were mounted above the pen to monitor the behaviour of the pigs. The results obtained for the study indicated that quantitative feed restriction had no positive impact (p>0.05) on the haematological parameters considered whilst it influenced (p<0.05) standing, sitting, lying inclined, lying lateral and walking behaviours of the pigs. Walking behaviour (11.93, 8.52, 4.55%) decreased significantly (p<0.05) with increasing levels of feed offered, conversely lying inclined (5.77, 5.77, 13.46%) and lateral (5.26, 6.58, 13.16%) increased (p<0.05) with increasing levels of feed offered. Conclusively, quantitative restriction had no significant impact on the haematological indices of growing pigs but enhanced some behavioural traits (standing, sitting, lying and walking).

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Influence of diets containing graded levels of raw and fermented malted sorghum sprouts on rumen ecology, apparent nutrient digestibility and nitrogen utilization of West African Dwarf goats

Saka¹, A. A., Sowande², O. S., Oni³, O. A., Yusuf², A. O., Adebayo³, K. O. and Oyebade⁴, A. O.

¹Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, P. M. B. 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan.
²Department of Animal Production and Health,
³Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
⁴Department of Animal Science University of Florida P.O. Box 110910 Gainesville, Florida 32611-0910 USA.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(1): 41-63

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A feeding trial was conducted to investigate the rumen fermentation parameters, digestibility and nitrogen utilization of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed diets containing graded levels of malted sorghum sprouts (MSP) in raw (RMSP) and fermented (FMSP) forms incorporated into the concentrate diet at 0, 25 and 50% to formulate six experimental diets using 2×3 factorial layout in a completely randomized design. A total of 24 WAD goats were randomly allotted to six dietary treatments for 12 wk, with four animals per treatment. Data were collected on rumen ecology, digestibility, and nitrogen utilization parameters. Results showed that processing methods and levels of MSP inclusion influenced (p<0.05) all the rumen environment parameters except rumen pH. Rumen ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration increased (p<0.05) from 6.32 to 7.45 mg/100mL across the dietary treatments as the MSP inclusion level increased. Inclusion level of MSP influenced (p<0.05) total bacteria count (TBC), total coliform count (TCC), total fungi count (TFC) and protozoan. Animals fed diet containing 50% MSP based diet recorded the highest values of TBC (7.26 × 106 cfu/mL), TCC (0.66 × 106 cfu/mL) and TFC (0.66 × 106cfu/mL). The main and interactive effects of the processing methods and MSP inclusion level significantly (p<0.05) influenced the nutrient digestibility. The main effect of the processing methods employed significantly influenced the digestibility values. Animals fed FMSP based diet recorded higher dry matter (69.61%) and crude protein (68.09%) digestibility values when compared with those fed RMSP based diet. Animals fed 50% FMSP based diet elicited the highest dry matter digestibility (74.48%) and crude protein digestibility (73.10%). The main effect of processing methods and levels of MSP inclusion significantly (p<0.05) influenced the nitrogen utilization in which goats fed FMSP based recorded higher value (61.28%) while goats in 25% FMSP or MSP recorded the highest value (60.89%). Significant (p<0.05) interaction effect was obtained for nitrogen utilization parameters observed. Goats fed 50% FMSP based diet recorded the highest nitrogen utilization value (70.01%). It can be concluded that fermented malted sorghum sprouts could be used up to 50% in WAD goats’ diet without any adverse effect on the rumen ecology, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen utilization of the animals.

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Baobab fruit pulp meal as an antioxidant: effect on physiological performance and semen quality of heat stressed rabbits in the tropics

¹Anoh, K. U., ² Iyeghe-Erakpotobor G. T. and ²Barje, P. P.,

¹Department of animal science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria
²National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) Shika

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 1-10

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The aim of the study was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of Baobab fruit pulp meal (BFPM) as an antioxidant on physiological performance and semen quality of rabbit bucks in an experiment that lasted for 90 days. A total of twenty-five (25) adult rabbit bucks of 12 months old were used. The rabbits were randomly allotted into five experimental treatment groups, with five (5) rabbits per treatment in a completely randomized design (CRD). The animals were fed diets containing graded levels [0.0% (Control), 2.5%, 3.5%, 4.5% and 5.5%] of BFPM. Temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated, rectal temperature, heart rate was recorded; feed intake and weight gain were determined and semen quality was evaluated. The results of the values of the THI of March to May showed that environmental conditions were stressful in these months to the animals. BFPM significantly (P<0.05) decrease rectal temperature and heart rate, increased feed intake and weight gain, and improved semen quality of the rabbit bucks. It was concluded that Baobab Fruit Pulp Meal had a positive influence in ameliorating heat stress and improving physiological conditions and semen quality of rabbits under a hot tropical environment.

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Comparison of sample preparation methods and chemical assays for determination of titanium, phosphorus and calcium in broiler diets and digesta

Samat, N.¹* and H. Miller^2'

¹Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²School of Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 11-19

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In understanding the effectiveness of phytase in improving nutrient digestibility, digesta samples from each segment of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) need to be analysed for several different nutrients which require a large amount of dry matter. This study aimed to develop a typical sample preparation that could minimize the amount of digesta samples required and enable sequential chemical analyses. The specific objectives were to compare the content of titanium (Ti), phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) in diet and digesta samples after being separately prepared using different acid digestion and analysed by different chemical methods. In this study, gizzard and terminal ileal digesta were collected from 20 d old Ross 308 male broilers fed with wheat/corn diets either with or without supplemental phytase at 1500 FTU/kg. Diets and digesta samples were digested in hydrochloric acid (HCl), and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and the contents of Ti, P and Ca were determined by colourimetry and ICP-OES methods. The present study showed that H2SO4 could be used to replace HCl in sample digestion before mineral analysis. Furthermore, digestion of diet and digesta using H2SO4 enabled sequential analysis of Ti, P and other minerals.

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Effects of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf meal on juvenile red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)

Farahiyah, I.J.* and Nor Maisarah R.

Livestock Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 20-28

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The effects of moringa leaf meal inclusion were investigated on growth performance, feed utilization and body composition of juvenile red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). Feeding trial was conducted for 12 weeks in a completely randomized design with five replications (3 treatments × 5 replicates × 30 fish per tanks). The fishes weighed ±31g were fed with isonitrogenous (32%CP) and isocaloric (13MJ/kg) diets containing moringa meal at the inclusion of 0%, 10% and 15%. The results showed that, during 12 weeks trial, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) observed on growth performance among treatments despite numerical increase in body weight ranged between 93.84 to 104.41 g. Meanwhile, it was found that the feed utilization was significantly affected by the feed given. The feed utilization of 10% moringa leaf meal was not significantly different to the control. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) recorded for the control, 10% and 15% of moringa leaf meal inclusion were 1.33±0.12, 1.44±0.13 and 1.75±0.15, respectively. The body composition also was not significantly different among treatments (p>0.05). The protein content of fish muscle ranged between 74.39±4.14 and 81.66±4.58%. In conclusion, moringa leaf meal could be incorporated in juvenile red hybrid tilapia diet with an optimum of 10% inclusion without any adverse effect on growth performance, feed utilization and body composition.

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Effects of garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder and their combination on antioxidant and hematological response in sheep

Afele, T., *Ikyume, T. T., Allu, R. P., Aniche, O. S., Onuh, M. E. and Agbo, E

Department of Animal Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, PMB 2373, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 29-39

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Garlic and ginger as herbs exhibit strong antioxidant and immunological properties, but their combination may have a complementary role on each other. This study was done to assess the complementary effect of supplementing garlic and ginger powder on the antioxidant status and physiological response of sheep. Sixteen (16) mixed breed rams were maintained on four experimental diets in a completely randomized design for 84 days. The four diets were Control (no garlic or ginger powder), GaP (garlic powder 2.5 g/kg diet), GiP (ginger powder 2.5 g/kg diet) GGP (garlic powder 1.25 g/kg diet + ginger powder 1.25 g/kg diet). A one-way analysis of variance as contained in the GLM of SPSS (version 23) was used to analyze data on hematological parameters, serum indices, serum mineral concentration, and oxidative stress biomarkers of the sheep. Findings from the results revealed a reduction (p<0.05) in red blood cell total protein and serum concentrations of sodium and calcium in the herbal groups. The reduction (p<0.05) in the concentration of manganese, iron, and zinc in the ginger powder group was enhanced (p<0.05) by its combination with garlic powder. Albumin, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde concentrations as markers of oxidative stress were enhanced (p<0.05) in the herbal combination group compared to only the garlic group. Nitric oxide concentration further reduced in the herb combination group compared to feeding garlic or ginger alone. The combination of garlic and ginger powder gave optimum immunological and anti-oxidant responses than feeding only garlic or ginger. The combination of 1.25 g/kg diet of garlic and ginger each would achieve an overall better anti-oxidant and immunological performance in sheep than feeding 2.5 g/kg diet of garlic or ginger singly.

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Estimation of body weight growth curve parameters of Katjang-Boer crossbred

¹Mohd. Hafiz, A.W, ²Mohamad Hifzan, R., ¹ Izuan Bahtiar, A.J. and ³Nurulhuda, M.O

¹Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang
²Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, P/O Box 12301, General Post Office, 50774 Kuala Lumpur
³Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kluang, 86009 Kluang, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 40-46

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The objective of this study was to determine the best non-linear regression model to describe the growth pattern of male Katjang-Boer crossbred goat, a new synthetic goat breed. Estimates of mature weight (A), rate of maturing (k) and constant of integration (B) as growth curve parameters were derived from four non-linear regression models, namely Brody, Logistic, von Bertalanffy and Gompertz. Monthly body weight data were collected from 66 male KatjangBoer crossbred from birth to 48-mo of age and fitted with the above non-linear regression models. Coefficient of determination (R2 ) and residual mean squares (MSE) were used to determine the best non-linear model to estimate the growth curve parameters. Von Bertalanffy model showed the best goodness of fit in describing the growth pattern as shown by the highest R 2 and the lowest MSE (0.951 and 22.42, respectively), followed by Gompertz (0.948 and 26.79, respectively), Logistic (0.941 and 30.32, respectively) and Brody (0.873 and 23.56, respectively). The correlation between parameters A and k were found to be negative, ranging from -0.87 to - 0.52, indicating that animals with lower rate of maturing tended to be heavier at maturity. The use of non-linear model is useful in summarizing the entire lifespan weight-age data points that is usually time consuming in their analysis. The study of growth pattern is important to determine the optimum weight and age for replacement does and slaughter.

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Haematological and serum indices, carcass traits and sensory evaluation of meat derived from broiler chickens fed Zymomonas mobilis treated corn cobs

Alade, A. A.¹*, Bamgbose, A. M.² , Oso, A. O.² , Akinbode, R. M.² , Oke, O. E.³ , Fafiolu, A. O.² , Sobayo, R. O.² and Obadina, F. J.⁴

¹Africa Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
²Department of Animal Nutrition, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
³Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
⁴Goverment Science and Technical College, Abeokuta, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 47-61

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A 56-day study was conducted to determine the effects of Zymomonas mobilis treated corn cobs (ZTCC) on haematological and serum indices, carcass traits and sensory evaluation of meat of broiler chickens. 375 one-day old broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 5 dietary treatments with 75 broiler chicks per treatment and replicated 5 times with 15 birds each. Diets were formulated to include untreated corn cobs (UTCC) and ZTCC at varying levels of 0, 50 and 100% to replace wheat offal weight for weight. Experimental design was completely randomized design. At the starting phase, UTCC and ZTCC decreased (p<0.05) the red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), but increased (p<0.05) mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The values of total protein, albumin and cholesterol (except in 100% ZTCC) were decreased (p<0.05) across the treatments. At the finishing phase, broilers fed with UTCC and ZTCC had reduced (p<0.05) packed cell volume, haemaglobin while RBC increased with 50% ZTCC. The birds fed 50% UTCC had highest (p<0.05) values for total protein, albumin, globulin, uric acid and alanine amino-transferase. The birds fed 100% ZTCC had highest (p<0.05) values for glucose, cholesterol, creatinine and aspartate amino-transferase. The dietary treatments influenced (p<0.05) the live weight, dressed weight, eviscerated weight and dressing percentage. Breast meat samples from 100% UTSD and 50% ZTSD showed improved colour, flavour and overall acceptability values. In conclusion, up to 100% UTCC and ZTCC can replace wheat offal in broiler chicken diets without deleterious effects on their health status.

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Pre-weaning growth performance of F1 and F2 Katjang-Boer crossbreds fed formulated creep feed

Predith¹* , M., Shanmugavelu² , S., Mohamad Hifzan³ , R. and Mohd Hafiz⁴ , A.W.

¹MARDI Kluang, P.O. Box 525, 86009 Kluang, Johor
²Department of Preclinical, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang,
³ Ibu Pejabat MARDI, Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor
⁴MARDI Muadzam Shah, KM 5, Jalan Rompin, 26700, Muadzam Shah, Pahang

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 62-71

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The local indigenous Katjang goat is highly prolific but has a small body size and poor growth performance compared to exotic breeds such as the Boer of South Africa. The need for an improved local breed to cater for local market led to a crossbreeding program between Boer and Katjang goats implemented through the 11th Malaysia Development Project. The objective of this study was to describe the pre-weaning growth performance of the F1 and F2 crosses of Katjang and Boer (KxB) goats fed diets formulated to meet their requirements. A total of 13 F1 KxB kids (6 males and 7 females) from the mating of selected purebred Boer females with Katjang males, were kept with their dams and fed formulated creep feed ad libitum. Following that, a total of 21 F2 KxB kids (12 males and 9 females) were sourced from the inter se mating program of selected F1 KxB goats. The weaning weight at 16 weeks for F1 was lower at 11.47 ± 3.92 kg compared to the F2 at 12.76 ± 3.27 kg, which indicated better performance of the F2 through inter se breeding however no significant difference were found. The lower feed intake in F2 compared to F1 also suggests better feed conversion ratio. Overall, the study demonstrated the improvements in the performance of the F2 via inter se mating and therefore certifying the objectives of the crossbreeding program.

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Use of clay as a growth promoter and rumen modifier : A Review

Kahouli, A¹

¹ Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna 1, 05000 Batna, Algeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 23(2): 72-93

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The main limiting factor of the optimal expression of animal genetic potential is the nutritional supply. The intensification and industrialization of livestock puts the animal under stressful conditions, and obliges the perpetual and increased use of concentrated feeds with the increasing use of nutritional additives who have a negative image in consumers. In this respects, the orientation towards more artisanal organic production has become an obligation in the breeding sector. This concerns the elimination of any chemical substance and antibiotics in this field by derogating to a new alternatives to improve animal performances. Clay, a natural product, cheap and very abundant has been the subject of several scientific work to test its usefulness as a growth factor in animals including the category of ruminants. In this case, we will carry out a bibliographic analysis to put into effect the state of knowledge in this axis.

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Feed intake and apparent nutrient digestibility of non-lactating Dorper sheep fed with total mixed ration based on local feedstuffs

Nurulhuda Md Ozman^1*, Wan Zahari Mohamed², Shanmugavelu Sithambaram³

¹Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
²Formerly Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Selangor
³Formerly Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, City Campus, 16100 Pengkalan Chepa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 1-10

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The deficiencies and imbalance of nutrients are aggravated furthermore by the fact that most of the high-quality feedstuffs are imported products, mainly corn and soya bean meal (SBM). Practical and cost-effective feeds must therefore be identified by using locally available feed resources, mainly from agro-industrial by-products. Some of the local feed resources that can replace imported raw materials, especially corn and SBM, are palm kernel cake (PKC), copra meal, rice bran and palm fatty acid distiller (PFAD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feed intake and apparent nutrient digestibility of Dorper ewes fed with TMR (Total mixed ration) based on local feed resources. Nine non-lactating Dorper ewes were randomly and equally allocated into three treatment groups: i) TMRA (purple guinea grass silage + concentrate based on local feedstuffs + 1% PFAD), ii) TMRB (purple guinea grass silage + concentrate based on local feedstuffs + 1.5% PFAD) and iii) TMRC (purple guinea grass silage + concentrate based on imported feedstuffs) in a 17-day feeding trial based on Complete Randomized Design. The respective groups were separately fed the three formulated TMR. All TMR were fed based on 2.5% of the mean live weight of the animals. The intakes of CP, CF and EE were higher in TMRA compared to the other two treatments. Whereas, the apparent digestibility of CP and EE in TMRA were higher (P<0.05) compared to TMRB and TMRC. It is concluded that TMRA that contain PKC, rice bran, copra meal and PFAD has higher digestibility in CP and EE compare to TMRC (based on imported feedstuffs). Thus, the inclusion of local feed resources in animal feed can improve nutrient digestibility particularly CP and EE in the ruminant

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Supplementation value of Mucuna seed powder on performance, antioxidant enzymes, meat cholesterol and peroxidation, and serum metabolites of broiler chickens

Ayodele, S.O.¹, Oloruntola, O.D. ^2*, Adeyeye, S.A.³, Jimoh, O. A.¹, Falowo, A.B.², Omoniyi, I.S.¹

¹Department of Agricultural Technology. The Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Science. Adekunle Ajasin University. Akungba Akoko. Nigeria.
³Department of Animal Health and Production. Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 11-22

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This study examined the effect of Mucuna seed powder (MSP) supplementation on performance, meat, and health status of broiler chickens. A total of 300 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 5 treatments with 6 replicates of 10 birds each, as follows: Diet 1 (control), Diet 2 (diet supplemented with 1.1% oxytetracycline, OXYT), Diet 3 (diet with 0.5% MSP), Diet 4 (diet with 1.0% MSP) and Diet 5 (diet with 1.5% MSP). The dietary MSP supplementation significantly (P<0.05) increased the daily body weight gain of the broiler chickens, compared to those fed the control diet at the starter phase and overall (1-42 days) period of the feeding trial. No significant differences were observed in the measured aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) among the treatments. The broiler chicken fed diets supplemented with MSP had higher (P<0.05) total serum glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase compared to those fed the control diet. The concentration of muscle cholesterol and lipid peroxidation reduced significantly (P<0.05) in the birds fed MSP supplemented diets compared to those fed the control diet. In conclusion, this study has shown that MSP can be used up to 1.5% as a potential phytogenic feed supplement in a broiler diet to enhance the growth performance, maintain the carcass traits, boost endogenous antioxidants and reduce meat cholesterol level and lipid oxidation.

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Effect of two levels of organic selenium supplementation on the nutrient digestibility of matured Boer bucks

Mariani, N.S. ^1,2*, Marini, A.M.¹, Wan Zahari, M.³, Shanmugavelu, S.⁴ and Yaakub, H.⁵

¹ Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kemaman, Terengganu.
² Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kelantan.
³ Formerly Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kelantan.
⁴ Formerly Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.
⁵ Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 23-32

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A digestibility trial was conducted at the MARDI Jeram Pasu, Kelantan, to determine the effect of two levels of organic selenium supplementation on the apparent nutrient digestibility, nutrient balance, total digestible nutrient, and metabolizable energy of matured Boer bucks. A total of nine matured bucks (age of two years) were selected and randomly and equally allotted to three different dietary treatments: Groups A and B were supplemented with 0.3 and 0.6 mg Se/kg DM, respectively, while group C with no Se supplementation (control group). The mean initial body weight was 31.67?0.60 kg. They were fed a basal diet with 60% formulated pellet and 40% Brachiaria dictyoneura grass (age of 6 weeks) at 3% DM of body weight. The bucks were placed in individual metabolic cages with separated faecal and urine collection facilities. The digestibility trial was carried out for five days using a completely randomized design (CRD). Supplementation of Se at 0.3 mg/kg DM significantly increased (P<0.05) the digestibility (%) of CP and Se and the Se balance (%). Se supplementation at 0.60 mg/kg DM had significantly increased (P<0.05) the digestibility of nutrients in the Boer bucks. Se supplementation at 0.60 mg/kg had improved (P<0.05) the digestibility (%) of ash, CP, EE, CF, ADF, NDF, P, Ca, Cu and Se, as well as CP, P, Ca, Cu and Se balances. Se supplementation at 0.60 mg/kg DM also had significantly increased (P<0.05) the dietary TDN (%) and ME. In conclusion, supplementation at 0.60 mg/kg DM can influence the nutrient digestibility of matured Boer bucks.

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Evaluation of principal component analysis in animal breeding and selection in the breed improvement program of male Katjang-Boer crossbred

Mohd. Hafiz, A.W.^1*, Mohamad Hifzan, R. ², Izuan Bahtiar, A.J.¹ and Nurulhuda, M.O.³

¹Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Muadzam Shah, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang
²Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, P/O Box 12301, General Post Office, 50774 Kuala Lumpur
³Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kluang, 86009 Kluang, Johor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 33-40

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The evaluation of body composition and growth performance is important to assess the animals? potential. Body measurements of animals have been widely used to assess skeletal growth and changes in animal conformation against age. Principal component analysis could be used to determine the factors that explain the highest variation in the dataset over the dependent variable. The objective of this study was to evaluate the principal component of the body measurements namely body length (BL), chest depth (CD), chest girth (CG), withers height (WH), width at withers, (WW), hip height (HH) and rump width (RW) and body indices namely length index (LI), depth index (DI), body index (BI), conformation index (CI), Proportionality (Pr), Relative depth of thorax (RDT), thoracic development (TD) and area index (AI) as selection criteria of 56 male Katjang-Boer goat. Two factors were extracted with a total variance was 86.87% where the first and second factor contributed to 48.05% and 38.82% after varimax rotation. The BL, CD, CG, HH and HW contributed the most for the first factor while the second factor mainly influenced by RW and WW. Three factors were extracted from body indices that accounted for 96.41% of total variance where the first, second third factor contributed to 42.70%, 27.55% and 26.16% of total variance, respectively. The LI, BI, Pr and AI contributed the most for the first factor while the second and third factor was influenced by CI, TD and DI, RDT, respectively. It is concluded that principal component analysis could be employed in animal breeding and selection as it can reduce the number of parameters to be considered in the breed improvement program.

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Genotype-diet effect on comparative semen parameters of chickens fed graded levels of Moringa oleifera seed meal

Akintunde, A.O.^1* Toye, A.A.² Ademola, A.A.² Chimezie, V.O.² and Ajayi, O.A.¹

¹Department of Agriculture & Industrial Technology, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 41-55

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Moringa oleifera seed meal is a novel feed ingredient that has attracted the attention of many researchers as it affects the utilization since it thrives well in almost all ecological zones. However, it is ascertained that there is variation within and across different genotypes of chickens. The study aimed to determine the genotype-diet effect on semen and spermiogramic parameters of chickens fed graded Moringa oleifera seed meal (MOSM). The study evaluated the comparative influence of dietary MOSM on semen and spermiogramic characteristics of Yoruba Ecotype Nigerian Local Chickens (YENLC) and Isa Brown chickens. Data obtained were subjected to correlation and forward-stepwise regression using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software Version 22. The findings of the study showed that the inclusion of MOSM in the diets of the birds of both genotypes affected the spermiogramic and semen parameters of the cocks. There was a significant high positive correlation (p<0.05) between body weight and spermatozoa reserves in the testes of YENLC. The positive relationship between body weight and spermatozoa reserves in the epididymis significantly increased (p<0.05) up to 10% inclusion of MOSM but significantly reduced at 15% inclusion. The relationship between body weight and sperm motility was negative but became positive and significantly low (P<0.05) at 15% inclusion of MOSM. Bodyweight can be significantly predicted (p<0.05) from spermiogramic parameters (R2=82.40%) and spermatozoa reserves in the testes can be significantly predicted (p<0.05) from bodyweight for YENLC but predictions of both body weight and spermiogramic parameters could not be done for Isa Brown cocks since the R2 values were significantly low (p<0.05) hence with very low reliability. However, there were associations between body weight and spermiogramic parameters and Body weights predicted sperm characteristics. These components could, however, be used in the selection for sperm characteristics in YENLC and Isa Brown Cocks.

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Using buffered formalin to preserve the bent-tail characteristic of goatspermatozoa for the hypo-osmotic swelling test

Sakdichod Kimsakulvech^1*, Sookruetai Boonmasawai¹, Arpron Leesombun¹, ChowalitNakthong², Yupaporn Lanamtiang³, Waraluk Oupala³

¹Department of Pre-clinic and Applied Animal Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya Campus, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. 73170.
²Department of Clinical Science and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Salaya Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. 73170.
³Veterinary Medical Center for Livestock and Wildlife Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Kanchanaburi Campus, Sai-yok, Kanchanaburi, Thailand. 71150.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 56-63

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The buffered formalin concentration and adding time for the hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test in goat semen have never been recommended. This study examined the different buffered concentrations for fixing bent-tail spermatozoa in HOS-treated goat semen for 5-120 minutes. In experiment 1, nine HOS-treated goat semen samples were incubated at 37?C for 60 minutes and bent-tail spermatozoa were evaluated as a control. At the same time, the different final concentrations (0.99, 4.76, 9.09 and 13.04% (v/v)) of buffered formalin were added and compared with the control. In experiment 2, nine HOS-treated goat semen samples were incubated at 37?C for 5, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes before being evaluated for bent-tail spermatozoa. At the same time, the different final concentrations (13.04, 16.67 and 20% (v/v)) of buffered formalin were added to the HOS-treated semen. All buffered formalin groups, samples were placed at room temperature for 24 hours before evaluation. The occurrence of bent-tail spermatozoa in the 0.99 and 4.76% (v/v) formalin groups was lower than the control and the 9.09% (v/v) trended to be lower than the control. The 13.04% (v/v) formalin group showed some periods of a decrease in bent-tail spermatozoa. The buffered formalin concentration of at least 16.67% (v/v) added to HOStreated goat semen had the relative stability of bent-tail spermatozoa for 5-90 minutes and was no different from the non-fixative group. These results recommended the use of an optimal concentration of buffered formalin at 16.67% (v/v) to fix the bent-tail spermatozoa in HOSs-treated goat semen during 5-90 minutes of incubation. This technique will be suitable for goat semen evaluation when there is a short period of incubation.

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Effect of different forms of rumen-protected fat from palm oil on body weight and sperm quality in Malin sheep

Mohd Hafizal Ahmad^1,2, Loh Teck Chwen¹, Mashitah Shikh Maidin², and Anjas Asmara Samsudin^1*

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, UPM
²Department of Veterinary Services, Malaysia
³Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, UPM

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 64-75

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The study purpose was to evaluate the effect of different forms of rumen-protected fat (RPF) that is high in fatty acid on body weight and sperm quality in male Malin sheep. Twenty male adult Malin sheep were randomly assigned to four treatment groups namely; CON: control, PF: 2% prilled fat, CS: 2% calcium salt fatty acid and CO: 2% canola oil respectively. No significant difference was observed in the body weight changes among the treatment group. Rams that received PF had the highest (P<0.05) semen volume while the animal received CO had the highest (P<0.05) sperm concentration than other treatment group. A significant increase (P<0.05) in the sperm membrane integrity in PF (44%) and CS (42%) than CON. Live sperm was also significantly higher in PF and CS group (79%) than control. No significant effect (P>0.05) was found in abnormal sperm percentage in animals with different dietary supplements with control. In conclusion, the result indicates that supplementation of rumen-protected fat from palm oil to adult male Malin sheep helped to improve the sperm plasma membrane integrity and live sperm.

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Effect of fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponge with oestradiol benzoate (OB) on oestrus response and behaviour in Dorper cross ewes

Hazlinda, H.¹, Salleh, S.M.¹, Panandam, J.M.¹, Mohd Nasir, S.² and Yaakub, H.^1*

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor.
²Sumobek Farm, Padang Ragut Kampung Juasseh Seberang, 72000 Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(1): 76-82

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The purpose of this experiment was to identify the most suitable oestrus synchronisation protocol using 30 mg fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponges with oestradiol benzoate (OB) for sheep. Thirtyfour Dorper crosses ewes, randomly allocated into three groups. Ewes in each group are eitherreceived FGA with i) corn oil (Control; n=11); ii) 0.05 mg OB (OB-L; n=11) or iii) 0.25 mg OB (OB-H; n=12). A day before FGA removal, one ml of prostaglandin (PG) was injected into each ewe regardless of their treatment groups. Oestrus behaviours observation was conducted with the involvement of four alternate fertile rams after 24 hours post-FGA removal and OB injection. Data of oestrus response and behaviour was analysed using one-way ANOVA. Results showed that all ewes in OB-L and OB-H groups had oestrus within 60 hours of observation, while only 36.4% in the Control group. Meanwhile, ewes with standing oestrus in OB-L and OB-H groups had a shorter interval compare to Control group. Moreover, ewes in OB-L and OB-H groups showed a significantly higher (p<0.05) percentage of ewes express their oestrus behaviour compared to ewes in Control group. The results suggested that synchronisation using intravaginal FGA with OB either low or high dose improve the oestrus response of Dorper crosses ewes compared to synchronisation with non-administration of OB.

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The Proximate Composition, Antinutritional Factors and Selected Minerals in Yellow and White Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Local Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Sunmola, T. A. * , Tuleun, C. D., Orayaga, K. T. and Ahemen, T.

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science, University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2373, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 1-14

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In Nigeria, white and yellow gingers (Zingiber officinale) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) are abundantly available, however, the nutritional composition of turmeric and yellow ginger effects had only been extensively investigated; there is the paucity of information on the nutritional benefits of white ginger. Therefore, this study investigated the nutritional potential of white ginger powder compared to turmeric and yellow ginger powder. Fresh yellow and white ginger and local turmeric were separately procured from the local market within Makurdi town, Benue State, Nigeria. The fresh rhizomes were washed in water to remove adhering soil and chopped into smaller pieces using sharp knives. It was sun-dried on a flat and clean concrete floor to save moisture content. The samples were ground using a hammer mill to obtain a powder of ginger and turmeric. 10 g of the milled samples each were extracted in 20 mL of absolute ethanol for 72 hours at room temperature on a flask shaker and filtered with Whatman No. 1 filter paper. The filtrates obtained were used to screen for the secondary metabolites constituents of the two samples. The result obtained for proximate analysis showed that white ginger powder contained a significantly(p<0.05) higher percentage of crude fibre and ash with the least value of nitrogen-free extract compared to yellow ginger and turmeric. Phytochemical properties of the extracts of the powder of yellow and white ginger and turmeric indicate the presence of saponins, tannins, oxalate, flavonoid, alkaloids and phytates with the significant (p<0.05) higher values recorded on white ginger though at the minimal level. Significant (p<0.05) higher value of calcium and phosphorus recorded for all the materials may qualify their potential source of the desired mineral in poultry diet. It is concluded that yellow and white ginger and local turmeric possesses nutritional qualities that can make them suitable feed additive in the poultry diet.

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Occurrence of Aspergillosis Infection Among Poultry in Northern Region of Malaysia from the Year 2014-2018

Azima Laili, H* ¹ , Humairak, S. ² , Mohd Azizul, O. ¹ , Zakirah, S. ,sup>2 , Saira Banu, M.R. ² and Mastura, Y. ³

¹Veterinary Research Institute, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 31400 Ipoh, Perak.
²Regional Veterinary Laboratory Bukit Tengah 14007 Bukit Mertajam, Penang.
³Regional Veterinary Laboratory Kota Bharu, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 15-21

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Aspergillosis is an assertive fungal infection spread through the air by a common mold known as Aspergillus sp. The disease develops when the host?s immune system is impaired or when birds are revealed to have an excessive amount of spores through the inbreathing of conidia or spores from adulterated feed, faeces or soil. This study was conducted to determine positive cases of aspergillosis infection among poultry in the Northern Region of Malaysia based on the poultry cases received by Regional Veterinary Laboratory Bukit Tengah (RVL-Bukit Tengah), Penang from 2014 to 2018. Over the 5 years, a total of 1,268 samples of sick poultry were reported under Bacteriology Section with 123 cases were reported positive with aspergillosis. Although these cases were accounted for only 9.7% of the total cases reported, the analysis is deemed important since information is scarce concerning the occurrence of aspergillosis among poultry especially in the Northern Region of Malaysia. Analysis of these data revealed that 58.5% of the poultry were infected with A. niger followed by A. flavus (24.4%) and A. fumigatus (17.1%). This study showed that aspergillosis due to A. niger is prevalent among the poultry in Northern Region and the infection occurs throughout the year at a low rate. In conclusion, necessary preventive measures should be undertaken to control aspergillosis among poultry in the Northern Region of Malaysia even though the infection rate is low as the infection could lead to high mortality among young birds which may induce significant production and economic losses.

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Effects of Natural Products Mixtures Based on Marl, Mild Paprika, Turmeric, Ginger and Garlic on the Performance of Laying Hens

Lombarkia, S. * , Ouachem, D. and Sahraoui, L.

Food Sciences Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, Batna1 University 05000, Algeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 22-30

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The effects of adding 3% of natural preparations based on marl and mild paprika mixed with garlic (MPGar), ginger (MPGin) and/or turmeric (MPT) on the laying performance and egg qualities were studied in laying hens from 48 to 53 weeks. One hundred and twenty-eight H&N strain laying hens were randomly allocated to 4 treatments (8 replicates and 4 hens per replicate). Hens were fed the following diets for six weeks, respectively: 1) basal diet (control group without any addition); 2) the basal diet added with 30 g/kg of MPGar complex; 3) the basal diet added with 30 g/kg of MPGin complex; 4) the basal diet added with 30 g/kg of MPT complex. Laying performance (number, egg weight, egg mass, feed conversion ratio), egg qualities (albumen and yolk weight, Haugh units, yolk colour) and the eggshell strength were evaluated weekly. The results of this study showed that mixtures of natural preparations significantly improve the laying percentage, the egg mass and feed conversion ratio (P?0.05). Moreover, compared to the control group, the yolk (%), the Haugh units and the yolk colour were impacted significantly in hens receiving the experimental diets (P?0.05). On the other hand, although not significant, the mixtures (MPGar) and (MPGin) seem to improve the shell thickness (+2.4% and +1.7%, respectively). Results of this experiment highlight the value of marl and spices mixture to improve the laying performances and egg qualities.

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Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Relative Organ Proportions of Weaner Rabbits Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Leucaena leucocephala Leaf Meal

Adedokun Olubukola O. ¹ , Ibe, P.C. ¹ , Safiyu, K.K.¹* and Onabanjo R.S.²

¹Deparment of Animal Production and Livestock Management, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
²Deparment of Animal Nutrition and Forage Science, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 31-38

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A total of twenty-four (24) un-sexed weaner rabbits were used to determine the effect of diets containing varying levels of Leucaena leucocephala leaf meal (LLM) on growth performance, carcass characteristics and relative organ proportions of weaner rabbits. The rabbits were purchased from a reputable rabbit farm and quarantined for a week before they were randomly allotted into four treatments of diets containing varying levels (0, 10, 20 and 30%) of LLM after balancing for body weight. Each treatment consisting of 6 rabbits was further subdivided into 3 replicates of 2 rabbits per replicate. The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. Data collected for growth performance, carcass characteristics and organ proportions were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance. Results showed average feed intake was significantly (p < 0.05) highest in rabbit fed diets containing 20 and 30% LLM. However, the average weight gain intake was significantly (p<0.05) highest in rabbits fed diets containing 10% LLM and lowest in rabbits fed diets containing 30% LLM. Similarly, the feed conversion ratio was (p<0.05) best in rabbits fed diets containing 10% LLM. The portion of thigh, back-cut and fore arm of rabbits were significantly (p>0.05) heaviest in rabbits fed diets containing 10% LLM. However, heart and lungs were significantly (p<0.05) lower in rabbits fed diets containing LLM when compared with their counterparts in the control. The kidney was significantly (p< 0.05) largest in rabbits fed diets containing 20 and 30% LLM while gall bladder was significantly (p< 0.05) highest in rabbits fed diets containing 10% LLM. Hence, the inclusion of 10% L. leucocephala leaf meal in the diet of rabbits will result in improved weight gain with excellent feed conversion ratio as well as enhanced the portion of thigh, back-cut and fore arm with increased production of bile.

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Impact of Processing on Cassava Root Tuber and Use as a Replacer of Maize in the Diet of Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

Obasa, S. O. * , Babalola, E. O., Akinde A. O., Idowu A. A., Ojelade, O.C., Nwekoyo V. E. and Oyetade Y. O.

Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 39-49

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This study was carried out to investigate the effects of processing methods on the nutritive quality of cassava root tuber and effects on the growth performance, nutrient utilization and nutrient digestibility in the diets of Oreochromis niloticus. Cassava tubers (IITA-TMS-I982132) were subjected to four different processing methods namely: sun-drying (SDC), soaking (SC), solidstate fermentation (SSF) and anaerobic fermentation (AFC). Five iso-nitrogenous (35% crude protein) diets were formulated in which maize was replaced at 50% level by each of the processed cassava root meals. Diet 1 (CTR), Diet 2 (SDC50), Diet 3 (SSF 50), Diet 4 (SC 50), and Diet 5 (AFC 50) were fed to 120 fingerlings (3.20?0.50g) ad libitum in three replicates. Ether extract (2.00?0.05) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in AFC, while cyanide content (3.02?0.03) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in SDC. Feed conversion ratio (1.49?0.20) in fish fed Diet AFC was significantly different (p<0.05) from the highest (1.61?0.02) in fish fed diet SC. Likewise, percentage weight gain (286.82?3.77%), protein efficiency ratio (1.94?0.24) and apparent net protein utilization (86.85?0.45) were significantly (p<0.05) better in fish fed AFC than other treatments. Protein digestibility was statistically higher in fish fed diet AFC50. The study concluded that processing had a significant impact on the nutritive value of cassava tuber while anaerobically fermented cassava root tuber (AFC) at 50% maize replacement among others exhibited better performance, feed utilization and digestibility in the diet of O. niloticus fingerlings.

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Effect of Different Sources of Red Meat Used in Preparing ?Serunding Daging? (Spiced Shredded Beef) on Physicochemical Characteristics and Consumer Perception

Shahrai, N.N.^1,2*, I. Dahlan, I.¹ and Rohaida, A.R.^1,2

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.
²Livestock Production Programme, Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 50-58

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This study was conducted to investigate physicochemical properties of ?serunding daging?(a Malay Cuisine made of spiced shredded beef, SSB) made from semitendinosus medius (SM) frozen block. Three sources of red meats used in this study were local supplied beef, imported carabeef, and ?imported beef? as claimed by the shredded beef factory. pH levels of SM from all raw beef sources were between 5.28-5.89; with local beef significantly higher than the other two (5.89; p0.05). Redness (a*) values of raw beef was comparable (13.28-13.73; p>0.05) but higher in cooked imported beef (9.18; p

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Is the Information on the Egg Label Claimed by Egg Producer True?

Anis Zahira, A. Salleh, S.M. and Yaakub, H.*

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 59-65

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As the egg consumers, it would be of interest if the information on the label claimed by the egg producer is true and safe food to consume. Information on the label of egg packaging has always been argued by consumers because some of them believe that the information stated on the label mislead. This study aims to validate the information on the label of the egg packaging claimed by the egg producer based on the best before date (BBD) with egg quality to help consumers to consume a quality and safe product. A study had been carried out where two egg grades, B and C were used as replicates. The weight of eggs was measured and divided into two groups. Then, they were subjected to storage at room (RT: 24?C to 26?C) and refrigerator temperature (FT: 1?C to 10?C) from the day bought until reached the best before date. Results were analysed using t-test and ANOVA using SAS software. The result proposed that the mean egg weight exceed the egg weight stated on the label of the packaging. There was a significant difference (p0.05) for shape index, yolk colour, shell weight (%) and shell thickness. Egg stored in refrigerator temperature showed better quality until best before date than the egg in room temperature. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of information on the egg label and for consumers to choose an egg with the longest best before date. The low temperature of storage also needs to take into account to maintain the egg quality.

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Development of Antibody-based Kit for the Detection of Ochratoxin A in Grain Corn

Noor, S.J., Norhafniza, A., Adlin, A.A.K., Faridah, S. and Nur, A.M.S.*

Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 24(2): 66-77

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The contamination of ochratoxin A (OA) in animal feed has become a huge threat to livestock and husbandry industries globally. Many countries had faced overwhelmed economic loss due to low feed and animal output productivities. This study reported the in-house production and characterisation of antibody IgG against OA. The performance of IgGs collected from two rabbits were investigated under titer and protein assay experimentation. Most IgGs exhibited good titer performance with high protein amount, especially during 2nd and 3rd bleeds. Further study was carried out using antibodies from the O1 3rd bleed. Direct competitive assay of OA antibody in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and corn matrix system was conducted at different OA standard concentrations. Good linearity (R 2 = 0.9533 in PBS and R 2 = 0.9903 in corn matrix) with a broad working range were obtained from both systems. The sensitivity of the developed optical immunodiagnostic was confirmed with a low limit of detection (LOD) achieved, which was lower than the permitted limit of 5 ppb (LOD = 4.03 ppb in PBS and LOD = 2.70 ppb in corn matrix). Intra and inter-species cross-reaction showed that the produced OA antibody was highly selective towards its specific target analyte. The developed immunodiagnostic was verified with chromatographic analysis and the results from both detection methods complemented each other.

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Effect of Pre-treating Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Powder with Graded Levels of Polyethylene Glycol on Chemical Composition and In-vitro Ruminal Fermentation

Matabane, A.N.¹, Setou, B.A.¹, Tshukudu, J.L.¹, Nthinya, S.K.¹, Mahlake, S.K.¹, Mhlongo, G.¹, Mbhele, F.G.T.¹, and Mnisi, C.M.^1,2,*

¹Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural Science, North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa
²Food Security and Safety Niche area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 1-12

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The study evaluated the effect of pre-treating green tea powder (GTP) with different concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG), a tannin-binding agent, on chemical composition and in vitroruminal fermentation. The PEG (Mr 4400) was applied at 0 (PEG0), 25 (PEG25), 50 (PEG50), 75(PEG75) and 100 (PEG100) g/kg (v/w). The PEG pre-treatment showed linear and quadratic trends for total soluble phenolics [R2 = 0.510; P = 0.029], but not for dry matter, organic matter, soluble condensed tannins and acid detergent lignin of GTP. Crude protein [R2 = 0.510, P < 0.0001] and neutral detergent fibre [R2 = 0.580, P < 0.0001] showed a linear decrease, but acid detergent fibre [R2 = 0.655, P < 0.0001] showed a linear increase with PEG levels. There were significant quadratic trends for fractions b [R2 = 0.475, P = 0.023] and c [R2 = 0.446, P = 0.001] as well as effective degradability [R2 = 0.474, P = 0.023] in response to PEG concentrations. PEG0 had similar (P > 0.05) potential degradability as PEG50, PEG75 and PEG100. The PEG25 treatment had the higher effective gas production (73.1 ml/g OM) than PEG75 and PEG100, which did not differ (P > 0.05). Organic matter degradability (OMD) linearly increased at 24-h [R2 = 0.344; P = 0.003], but declined at 36-h [R2 = 0.190; P = 0.190] post-incubation as PEG levels increased. Significant linear and quadratic trends were observed for 12-h [R2 = 0.389; P = 0.032] and 24-h [R2 = 0.637; P = 0.040] partitioning factors as PEG concentrations increased. It can be concluded that PEG pretreatment of GTP reduced total soluble phenolics, crude protein and neutral detergent fibre, and improved fermentation efficiency. Based on the quadratic responses for the degradation kinetics and partitioning factors, the optimum PEG treatment for maximum ruminal fermentation efficiency of green tea powder was determined to be 50 g/kg.

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Nutritive Potentials of Pterocarpus mildbraedii in Livestock Production

Akintunde, A.O.*, Olumide, M.D., Ndubuisi-Ogbonna, L.C., Fakunle, J. and Maduagwu, T.

Department of Agriculture and Industrial Technology, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 13-21

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Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaf is a common vegetable in the Southern part of Nigeria. It is available all year round hence the need to evaluate its potential in livestock nutrition. Leaves of Pterocarpus mildbraedii were air-dried at 25oC for 14 days and milled. The phytochemical analyses, proximate composition, vitamin and mineral concentrations were determined using standard procedures. Proximate analysis indicated that the leaves contained dry matter (74.20%), ash (6.30%), crude fibre (4.60%), crude protein (1.05%), crude fat (4.60%), ash (7.33%) and nitrogen-free extract (81.83%). The phytochemical evaluation revealed that Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaf contained saponin (23.24mg/100g), an alkaloid (12.58mg/100g), hydrogen cyanide (0.36mg/100g) and tannin (95.79mg/100g). Mineral and vitamin analysis showed that Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves contained macro minerals such as calcium (0.33%), magnesium (0.22%), potassium (0.15%), sodium (0.04%), micro minerals (mg/Kg) such as manganese (55.29) and iron (749.22) and high content of vitamins A (3528IU/Kg), B1 (2.03mg/100g), B2 (0.93mg/100g), B3 (4.62mg/100g), B6 (2.23mg/100g), B12 (1.77mg/100g) and C (12.58mg/100g). The results showed that Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves are of high nutritional quality especially in carbohydrates, minerals (as indicated in the ash content), micro and macro minerals, as well as vitamins but low in crude protein. There should however be some levels of caution in its inclusion in monogastric nutrition considering its high level of tannin thus it is recommended that it should be included in minute quantities and basically for therapeutic purposes.

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The Effects of Stingless Bee Honey in Tris Extender on Semen Quality of Boer Goat at 37?C

S. Siti Aisyah*, A. Sebastian

Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 90000 Sandakan, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 22-31

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Tris extender supplemented with honey sourced from honey bees is widely researched. However, alternative usage of stingless bee honey (SBH) as a semen extender is still scarce. Therefore, the objective of this research is to determine the effect of different concentrations of SBH supplemented in Tris extender on the semen survivability of goats. Semen samples from three male Boer goats were collected using an artificial vagina and pooled before being diluted into Tris Buffer Solution (TBS) as control and three different concentration of SBH extenders (0.5%; SBH1, 1.0%; SBH2, 1.5%; SBH3 respectively). Samples were prepared by volume per volume (v/v) of pure SBH, respectively. Semen evaluations were conducted every 2 hours for the first 10 hours, once during the 24 hours, and every 12 hours thereafter. Semen samples from each treatment were then assessed for sperm individual progressive motility, sperm viability and sperm abnormality through microscopic observation and eosin-nigrosin staining procedure. Throughout this period, the extended semen was kept in a water bath set at 37?C. Sperm individual progressive motility and viability when supplemented with 0.5% stingless bee honey are comparable to the control treatment which contain TBS only, and both can preserve sperm motility and viability for up to 24 hours. However, the addition of different concentrations of SBH does not have any effect on sperm abnormality parameters. This concludes sperm treated at 0.5% concentration prolonged the survivability until 24 hours compared to the higher concentration of 1.0% and 1.5% of SHB supplementation when treated at 37?C.

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Fresh, Chilled and Post-thawed Semen Characteristics of Dorper Rams Fed with Different Concentrations of Protein and Selenium

Julie Marzlinda M.R.^1,2*, Hazlinda H.³, Panandam J.M³, Alimon A.R.³, Shanmugavelu S.⁴ and Yaakub H.²

¹Livestock Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institution (MARDI), 86000 Kluang, Johor.
²Department of Animal Science,
³Formerly Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor;
⁴Formerly Livestock Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institution (MARDI), 43400 Serdang, Selangor;

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 32-43

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This study aimed to determine the effects of different levels of protein and selenium (Se) supplementation on semen characteristics of fresh, chilled and post-thawed Dorper rams. Seventeen rams between 15 to16 months of age were used and fed on either 180 g of protein (P1) or 270 g of protein (P2); supplemented without Se (S0) or with1mg/kg of body weight; of Selemax 2000 (S1). Semen was collected using an artificial vagina and cryopreserved using a Tris-egg yolk extender. All fresh, chilled and post-thawed semen samples have been evaluated for their quality. The wave motion was observed under a phase contrast microscope and sperm motility was analysed using a CEROS sperm analyser. Eosin-nigrosin stain was used to determine sperm viability and abnormalities, while Pope's stain was to determine sperm acrosome intact. The HOST solution was to determine sperm membrane integrity. The results showed wave motion score of fresh semen in P1 was higher (P<0.05) than in P2. Meanwhile, S1 showed an increment (P<0.05) in wave motion score, total motility and acrosome integrity of fresh semen compared to S0. However, there was no significant effect on the quality of chilled semen fed with different CP and Se. Nonetheless, S1 did show lower (P>0.05) head abnormalities in post-thawed semen than S0. It was concluded that Dorper ram fed with 180g per kg/DM of protein is recommended in maintaining reproductive performances while organic Se supplementation (1 mg/kg Se) did improve head damages in fresh and post-thawed Dorper ram semen.

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Effect of Organic Zinc Supplementation on Fertility of White Leghorn Hens Inseminated with Cryopreserved Semen

Shanmugam, M*, Kannan, A, and Mahapatra, R.K

ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, India

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 44-50

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Organic zinc supplementation in hens has been reported to improve fertility. The current study evaluated the effect of organic zinc supplementation in hens on fertility after insemination with cryopreserved semen. White Leghorn rooster semen was cryopreserved using 4% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in 0.5ml French straws. Different semen parameters and fertility were assessed in post-thawed samples. White Leghorn hens were divided into 5 groups with 30 birds in each group. Each group was further divided into six replicates of five birds each. The control group was fed a basal diet, other groups were fed with a basal diet supplemented with 40, 60, 120 and 160 mg/kg organic zinc (zinc proteinate). After two weeks of feeding, insemination was done in hens per vagina using thawed semen (200 million sperm/0.1 ml). Basal group hens were inseminated with fresh or cryopreserved semen and served as control groups. Sperm motility, live sperm, and acrosome intact sperm parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in post-thaw semen samples. Fertility from cryopreserved semen was significantly (P < 0.05) lower and organic zinc supplemented hens had fertility similar to that of cryopreserved semen inseminated into basal diet group hens. In conclusion, organic zinc upplementation in hens does not improve fertility after insemination with 4% DMSO cryopreserved semen.

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Effect of Two Groups of Scrotal Circumference on the Sexual Performance and Their Correlation in Boer Bucks

Mariani, N. S.¹*, Shanmugavelu, S.², Yusof, D.³, Zahari, W. M⁴ and Yaakub, H⁵

¹ Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kemaman, Terengganu.
² Formerly Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.
³Biotechnology Centre, Department of Veterinary Services Sabah, Keningau, Sabah.
⁴ Formerly Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Kelantan.
⁵ Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 51-57

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The study was conducted at the Goat Farm, Biotechnology Centre of DVSS Keningau, Sabah, to determine the effect of two groups of scrotal circumferences on sexual performance and the correlation between scrotal circumference and sexual performance in Boer bucks. Ten healthy Boer bucks aged 1.5 years with an average body weight of 61.15?1.87 kg were randomly selected. They were divided into two groups according to their scrotal circumference. The scrotal circumference between 25 to 28 cm was grouped as G-I (n=5), while G-II (n=5) consisted of the scrotal circumference between 29 to 32 cm. Bucks were fed with commercial pellets and Napier grass according to the farm?s routine practice. Data on the scrotal circumference and sexual performance, including latency to the first mount, number of mounts, latency to the first ejaculation, refractory period, number of ejaculations, and mating efficiency, were collected every two weeks for five consecutive weeks. Results indicated that Boer bucks with a scrotal circumference between 29 to 32 cm improved their sexual performance; the number of mounts significantly decreased (P<0.05), and the number of ejaculations and mating efficiency significantly increased (P<0.05) compared to the Boer bucks with a scrotal circumference between 25 to 28 cm. A high correlation was reported between scrotal circumference and the number of mounts (r= ?0.476, P<0.01), while scrotal circumference correlated with mating efficiency (r = 0.323, P<0.05). In conclusion, scrotal circumference between 29 to 32 cm can influence the sexual performance of Boer bucks.

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Agronomic Properties of Aleman Grass (Echinochloa polystachya), Para Grass (Brachiaria mutica), Setaria Grass (Setaria splendida) Mixtures and Their Palatability in Sheep

Jusoh, S. and Mohamad Hanif, M. N.

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(1): 58-65

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A study was conducted to evaluate the agronomic properties of Aleman grass (Echinochloa polystachya), Para grass (Brachiaria mutica) and Setaria grass (Setaria splendida) mixture and its palatability in sheep. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the agronomic properties in mix planting of Aleman grass, Para grass, and Setaria grass and to evaluate the palatability of their mixture by sheep. The grass was planted in monocrop, two grass species mixture and three grassspecies mixture in a research area, Department of Animal Science Universiti Putra Malaysia. The grass was planted for two months in a randomized complete block design and was cut about 15 cm above ground level for each grass and the data was collected weekly. Botanical composition and grass tiller count showed there was no difference (P>0.05) among the grass planted as single grass to the planted two and three grass species. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in grass height that decreased in two and three grass mixtures. The study on palatability was conducted using single-bowl and double-bowl methods. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in both tests that the single grass was more palatable than the mixture of two or three grasses. The mixture of three grass takes a long time for the sheep to finish grass compared to the mixture of two and single grass species. In conclusion, this result showed that different mixtures of planting and feeding to the animal affect agronomic properties and palatability in sheep.

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Effect of Several Hetero- and Homofermentative Lactic Acid Bacteria Inoculants on the Chemical and Proximate Composition in Corn Silage

Nasyatul, M.H.¹*, Faisal, A.B.², Julie-Marzlinda, M.R.², Sasyafezleen, M.Z.², Faiz,A.H.², Syafri-Famin, A.A.², Marini, A.M.³ and Noraini, S.¹

¹Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Serdang, Selangor
²Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kluang, Johore
³Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kemaman, Terengganu

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 1-11

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This study aimed to determine the effect of homofermentative and heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria on the chemical and nutritional components of corn silage. The variety of corn used in this study was GWG 4546 at the harvesting age of 110 days. It was ensiled with 105cfu of LAB for each gram of fresh material. The strains of LAB used to ensile were P. acidilactici (homofermentative LAB), L.plantarum (hetero-homofermentative LAB) and L. fermentum(heterofermentative LAB). The fresh stover was packed in 5L of HDPE plastic jar and kept at room temperature for 28 days. The silages were harvested every week for chemical and proximateanalysis. The experimental design was completely randomized design, with 5 treatments x 4 fermentative periods x 3 replicates. From the study, inoculation of homofermentative P. acidilacticiproduces more lactic acid at an early stage of ensiling, whereas heterofermentative L. plantarumproduce more lactic acid at later stages. Furthermore, the crude protein content and metabolizable energy of corn stover silage inoculated with homofermetative LAB were found to be constant throughout the 28 days of fermentation and the values were significantly higher than silages inother treatments. However, there were no significant differences in fibre content, ash content, pHvalues, dry matter, and fat content among all groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that the addition of homofermentative P. acidilactici resulted in better preservation with improved energy and protein values in 110-days of grain corn stover after 28 days of ensilation.

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Ethnoveterinary Plants Used by Local Farmers in the Promotion of Livestock Health in Selected Districts of Sarawak Borneo: A Preliminary Study

Mohammad Nasir, H.¹, Masnindah, M.¹, Kamil, L.¹, Lirong, L.A.¹, Noorasmah, S.¹, Suziana, H,.¹, Sharifah Salmah, S.H.², Suhaili, M.¹, M. Hakim, M.A.H.¹, Paul, B.T.¹, Herinda, P.⁴, Sarah, Al-Twain⁵ & Juriah, K.^1,3*

¹Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, Bintulu 97008, Sarawak, Malaysia.
²Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
³Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security,Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
⁴Faculty of Vocational Studies Airlangga University, Jalan Dharmawangsa Dalam 28-30, Surabaya 60286 Indonesia
⁵Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 12-25

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Ethnoveterinary plant medicines are an alternative method to treat various diseases in livestock. The majority of the world?s plant species are found in tropical forests. Thus, the present study aims to use a participatory methodology to identify livestock owner knowledge, attitudes and beliefs relating to the use of medicinal plants for animal treatments in selected districts in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. The data were collected using an online questionnaire and via phone interviews with 78 respondents. Only 39.7% of the respondents used this practice. The results showed that 22 plant species were used locally for treating various diseases in the studied area. Plant leaves were commonly used, crushed in water or feed and boiling, and administered topically and orally. Akar patawali (T. crispa) and sambong (B. balsamifera) were identified as potential plant-based remedies that can be explored in future studies. There were advantages of using plant-based remedies: low in cost, easy to cultivate and available locally. This documentation on the plant species associated with indigenous knowledge of small-scale farmers may, in the future, help educate younger generations and promote livestock health care. Further research is required to investigate other potential uses of plant-based preparations asmodern traditional drugs in this region.

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Nutrient Intake and Digestibility of West African Dwarf Rams Fed Selected Browse Plants and Megathyrsus maximus Hay

Adebisi, I.A.*, Okunlola, O.O., Oladepo, O., Ajibike, A.B., Amusa, H.O., Alalade, J.A. and Olorunkosebi, Z.A.

Department of Animal Health and Production Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, P. M. B 10, Igbo-ora, Oyo State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 26-34

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Browse legume plants generates a lot of underutilized leaves which if properly harnessed can be a cheaper source of nutrients for small ruminant animal production, during dry season feed shortages. In this study, the nutrient intake and digestibility of West African dwarf (WAD) growing rams fed selected browse fodders with Megathyrsus maximus hay basal diet for 70 days feeding trial. A total of sixteen (16) growing WAD rams between 6 - 9 months of age with an average body weight of 9.00 - 12.00kg were randomly allocated to four treatments with 4 rams each and two rams per replicate in a completely randomized design. The experimental diet was fed at 3% body weight of individual ram while G. arborea (GA), S. sesban (SS) and F. thonningii(FT) fodders were fed at varied proportions with Megathyrsus maximus (MM) hay. The compared treatment diets were: T1 (100%MM hay), T2 (70%MM hay: 30%GA), T3 (70%MM hay: 30%SS) and T4 (70% MM hay: 30% FT) and fed for each ram per day. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in all parameters determined on nutrient intake and digestibility across the dietary treatments. Ram-fed T4 diet recorded the highest values (256.19g/d) of DM intake, (55.97g/d) of CP intake, EE intake (7.44g/d), ash intake (30.75g/d) and (108.28g/d) of NFE intake while the lowest values of DM intake (184.29g/d), CP intake (19.60g/d), EE intake (3.11g/d), ash intake (16.70g/d) and NFE intake (75.07g/d) was observed in ram fed T1 diet. Ram maintained on T3 diet had the highest DM digestibility (73.68%), while the lowest value (67.25%) for DMD was recorded on ram fed T1 diet. Ram fed T1 diet recorded the least crude protein digestibility (78.01%) while the highest value (85.76%) was recorded in ram fed diet T3. The highest value for CF digestibility (68.45%) was recorded in ram fed T4 diet while the least value (64.87%) was recorded in ram fed T1 diet. It can be concluded that the combination of grass-based diet (Megathyrsus maximus) with selected browse fodders enhanced nutrient intake and digestibility in WAD growing rams fed 70% M. maximus hay + 30% S. sesban fodders combination.

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The Effect of Canola Oil Supplementation at Different Feeding Duration on Local Chicken, Ayam Saga Growth Performance, Carcass Composition and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content

Farahiyah, I.J.^1,2*, Mardhati, M.², Nurulhayati, A.B.², Yong, S.T.², Lokman Hakim. I.¹, and Noraini, S.²

¹Department of Veterinary Pre-Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor
²Livestock Science Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI), Persiaran MARDI-UPM, Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 35-43

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A total of 160 MARDI village chicken breed (Ayam Saga) at the age of 9 weeks were fed feed supplemented with or without 2% of Canola oil containing approximately 10mg/g of Alphalinolenic Acid (ALA) for 3 feeding durations; 3 weeks (T3), 2 weeks (T2) and 1 week (T1) before slaughter to evaluate its effect on the bird?s performance and accumulation of ALA in the breast and thigh meat. The control treatment (T0) was not supplemented with canola oil. All birds showed no negative effect on the growth performances with no significant difference when compared to the control (p>0.05). Birds fed with canola oil during T2 and T1 showed better feed intake and weight gain compared to the control (T0) during the same period. Carcass performance for all treatments showed similar results. Treatment with no addition of canola oil has the highest final weight gain (1378.53g/bird) at 12 weeks, however, it was not significantly different (p>0.05)with the other treatments. This indicates that the addition of Canola oil did not suppress nor giving an adverse effect on the total performance of the birds. ALA was present in the breast and thigh meat of all treatments except T1 of canola oil supplementation in the breast meat. In conclusion, from this study, it is found that two weeks of Canola oil supplementation is needed to enrich the breast and thigh meat of SAGA chicken with Omega-3 ALA.

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Evaluation of Peanut Cake Replacement with Soybean Curd Meal for Growth Performance and Haematological analysis in the Diet of Weaner Rabbit

Silas, A.F.A.¹*, Ayo-Ajasa, O.Y.², Afolabi, T.⁴ and Onyibe, J.³

¹Animal Toxicological Laboratories, Food Tech Dept, Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi. (FIIRO)
²Animal Production and Health Dept, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State (FUNAAB)
³Biotechnology Department, FIIRO; 4Analytical Department, FIIRO

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 44-52

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Six weeks-old heterogeneous hybrids (Chinchilla ? New Zealand White breeds crosses) weaner rabbits (n= 40) were used for the feeding trials to evaluate the replacement value of peanut cake with soybean curd meal (SCM) in the diets of weaner rabbits. Eight rabbits each were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments with SCM meal replacing peanut cake at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% (T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively). Eight rabbits were randomly assigned to each of the five treatments in a completely randomized design which lasted eight weeks. The rabbits in T4 recorded a significantly higher (P<0.05) weight at 1384.28g compared to the lowest value of 1367.41g in T1 group. The feed conversion ratio showed that treatment T4 had a significantly better feed conversion ratio value of 6.41 compared to 6.79, 6.57, 6.49 and 6.46 in T1, T5, T3 and T2 in that order respectively. The apparent nutrient digestibility of dry matter, crude protein and crude fibre in the treatment groups were comparable to those in control in all the groups, however, the ether extract digestibility was significantly highest in T1 and T4 (90.42% and 90.31%) while T5, T2 and T3 groups recorded lower digestibility values (87.77%, 86.34% and 86.06% respectively). There were significant differences (P<0.05) among the treatments for serum glucose with T4 having a significantly highest (P<0.05) value of 6.35mmol/L while 4.75mmol/L was recorded in T2. The creatinine and red blood cell values showed that T4 had significantly higher values compared to other treatments. The white blood cells ranged between 4.89 in T3 and 6.89 in T5. It was concluded that SCM is well accepted by the animal, it is readily digested and T4 treatment represents the best replacement level of peanut cake in the diet.

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Fish Diversity in the Tropical Nearshore-Coastal Waters of Bintulu, Sarawak

Aishyatul Fatrah, A., Nurdiyana, A.D. and Johan, I.*

Department of Animal Science and FisheriesUniversiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Bintulu Campus, Nyabau Road, 97008, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 25(2): 53-61

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A study was conducted to observe the diversity and composition of fish at two locations, Bintulu Waterfront (WF) and ABF Beach (ABF) in Bintulu, Sarawak. A standard three-layer mesh gill net of 2.5 cm, 5.0 cm and 7.5 cm mesh size with a length of 15 m were used to collect the fishes. A total of 18 families and 24 species of fish were recorded during the study period. The most dominant family was Carangidae (23.4%) and the most dominant species of fish was Leiognathus equula (26.5%). The number of species recorded at WF (15 species) were higher than at ABF (13 species). Nine fish species were recorded only at ABF where the dominant species is Leiognathus equula. There were 11 fish species present at WF where Megalaspis cordyla was the dominant species. The diversity index at WF (2.192) was higher compared to ABF (1.691). The evenness index was higher at WF (0.809) and ABF (0.659). Twenty-two species of fish recorded were of commercial importance. It was observed that more than 80% of fish individuals were at the juvenile stage indicating the role of coastal lines, to a certain extent as a nursery area. The findings of this study would help prior to conserve and manage the fishery resources of Bintulu coastal water in future.

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Uses of Agri By-Product in Inhibiting Ammonia and Methane from Cattle Slurry During Storage

Mohd Saufi B.*, Azizi A. A., Mohd Ghazali R., Syarol Nizam A. B., Nur Alyani S., Mohd Alif Omar M., Syuhaidah A. B., Rashidah A. M.

Climate Change Programme, Agrobiodiversity and Environmental Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI), MARDI Headquarters, Persiaran MARDI-UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 01-10

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Liquid manures storages produce significant amounts of ammonia (NH3) and methane (CH4) gas from biological anaerobic fermentation. Small-scale observation studies using 3 kg of slurry for each treatment were carried out to investigate a simple approach to mitigate NH3 and CH4emissions during slurry storage. There were five treatments using agriculture by-products. The agriculture by-products from rice husk, rice straw, cocopeat and wood chips were placed on top of cattle slurry filled inside a small container as physical cover to reduce NH3 volatilization and CH4 emission. During the forty-five days of the undisturbed storage period, an immediate reduction of CH4 and NH3 gas fluxes were observed after the application (day 1). The cumulative NH3 releases were lowered between 28.6% and 66.7% as compared to untreated (Ctrl) after 30 days of observations, and CH4 was inhibited by 4 to 33% after 45 days of storage. Ricestraw was found to be the best as a physical cover in inhibiting both gases (NH3 and CH4) with cumulative inhibition percentages of 31 and 33%, respectively. These preliminary findings provide insight into future manure management systems applicable as one of the greenhouse gas mitigation strategies.

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Nutrient Content and In-vitro Digestibility of Potato Waste Fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Muhammad, S.A., Hazwani Izzati, H., Suyub, I.B., Nobilly, F. & Yaakub, H.*

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 11-17

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A study was carried out to evaluate the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on fermenting potato waste (PW), and the in-vitro digestibility of the fermented potato via gas production. Potato waste was assigned to three treatments: PW plus zero media (P0), PW plus 5 % sugar solution (PS) and PW + 5 % sugar solution + yeast (PSY); the treatments were replicated six times and fermented for 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours in a two-factor factorial design (CRD) factorial. Because of higher crude protein, ether extract and lower crude fibre contents, fermented PW at 72 hours was used for the in-vitro gas production for determination of metabolizable energy (ME), in-vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in-vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). The results of PW fermentation over time revealed that there was no interaction (P>0.05) between treatments and the time of fermentation, hence main factors were separately analysed. The dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) of PSY were significantly (P<0.05) higher than values across P0 and PS. The proximate values and fibre components were highest (P<0.05) at 72 hours of fermentation. Similarly, the in-vitro gas produced by PSY at 2h was highest (P<0.05) across treatments. However, no difference (P>0.05) was observed during the remaining incubation periods. The IVDMD and IVOMD digestibility of P0, PS and PSY were similar (P>0.05). It was therefore concluded that inoculating potato waste with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and fermented for 72 hours improved nutrient contents and digestibility.

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Dietary Effect of Yellow and White Ginger (Zingiber officinale) on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Production Cost of Broiler Chicks

Sunmola, T. A.*, Tuleun, C. D., Orayaga, K. T. and Ahemen, T

Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi, P.M.B. 2373, Benue State, Nigeria
Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, College of Animal Science, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi, P.M.B. 2373, Benue State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 18-25

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The study was conducted to evaluate the dietary effect of yellow and white ginger (Zingiber officinale) on growth performance, nutrient utilization and production cost of broiler chicks. Four (4) week feeding trial was carried out using day-old Abor Acre plus strain of broiler chicks. Four groups of 36 birds each were fed diets that contained 0.25 and 0.30 % yellow and white ginger in a 2x2 factorial design consists of two inclusion levels (0.25 and 0.30 %) and two ginger varieties (yellow and white ginger powder). Data were collected on growth performance, nutrient utilization and economic of production. Significant (p<0.05) increased was observed in average final weight (815.19 to 846.23 g) and average daily weight gain (27.72 to 28.83 g) when white ginger increased from 0.25 % - 0.30 % in the diets. While for yellow ginger; the effect was not significantly (p>0.05) different as the levels increased from 0.25 % - 0.30 %. Except for nitrogen free extract; neither yellow nor white ginger had a significant effect on all the parameter observed while the increased levels of both yellow and white ginger from 0.25 % to 0.30 % significantly (p<0.05) improved the utilization of crude fibre and ether extract. Both yellow and white gingers usage in chicks? diet had no detrimental effect on the growth performance and production cost. It is concluded that supplementation of yellow and white ginger at 0.25 % improves the performance of broiler chicks but white ginger showed more superiority when added up to 0.30 % level as feed additives in broiler chicks.

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Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality Attributes of Broiler Chickens Administered Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa LINN) Calyx Extract

Awodola-Peters Omolade, O.¹ and Longe Oyebiodun, G.²

¹Department of Animal Production Technology, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, P.M.B 5029 Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Oyo state Nigeria
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 26-36

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A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of roselle (Hibiscus sabdraiffa LINN) calyx extract on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality attributes of broiler chickens. Five hundred and seventy-six Abor acre plus day-old broiler chickens were randomly assigned into six treatments with eight replicates of twelve birds each. The birds were fed daily with a basal diet and Roselle calyx extract was administered orally to the birds through drinking water for six weeks except for the controls. Treatment 1 had birds administered water only (negative control), treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5 were administered roselle calyx extract at 2000, 4000, 6000 and 8000 mg/L of drinking water and treatment 6 were on antibiotic growth promoter containing antioxidant which was administered at 2000mg/L of drinking water (positive control). Data were collected on growth performance, carcass characteristics, ileum histomorphometry, pH and microbial load count of the meat at days 0, 7 and 14. Results showed that fluid intake was not influenced by increasing roselle calyx extract levels at both the starter and finisher phases, however, feed conversion ratio (1.99) was improved at 8000mg/L roselle calyx extract inclusion. Optimal villus height:crypt depth (8.16) was obtained at 6000 mg/L. Percent crude protein of meat from broiler chickens administered 4000mg/L roselle calyx extract were significantly (P<0.05) higher (19.98%) than other treatments means. pH values on days 0 and 7 were not significantly affected by the oral administration of roselle calyx extract, however, the pH value at day 14 of broiler chickens administered roselle calyx extract were significantly increased compared to those administered water only. It was therefore concluded that oral administration of roselle calyx extract up to 8000mg/L in drinking water of broiler chickens, improved feed utilisation and did not show any negative effects in carcass characteristics and quality in terms of pH and microbial load count of the product.

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Exploring the Use of Inorganic Nitrogen Fertilizer at Different Levels to Improve the Yield, Nutrient Content and In-vitro Gas Production of Immature Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus)

Abdul Aziz, M.S.¹, Zailan, M.Z.², Jusoh, S.¹ and Yaakub, H.¹*

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 37-43

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Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a herbaceous plant in the family of Malvaceae, native to Africa and India and primarily produced for its fibre. It has been suggested that the immature kenaf is suitable to be used as fodder for ruminants. The crude protein content of the kenaf depends on the soil nutrient levels and other environmental and management factors. The study aims to evaluate the use of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer at different levels on the plant height, yield, nutrient content and in vitro gas production of immature kenaf. There were five different levels of additional inorganic nitrogen fertilizer (urea: 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 kg/ha) and were given to Kenaf V36 which was initially fertilized with NPK (15:15:15). Kenaf V36 seeds were obtained from National Kenaf and Tobacco Board and used as planting materials. The kenaf plants were watered twice daily and fertilized with inorganic fertilizer on day 10 and 20 after planting. On day 35 after planting, the dry matter yield (DM yield), plant height, proximate analysis, Neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and in vitro gas production were determined. The result shows that the DM yield ranged from 0.55 to 0.62 tonnes per hectare. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in CP, NDF and ash of kenaf fertilized with different levels of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer. There are highly significant differences (P<0.01) in plant height, DM content and gas production of kenaf fertilized with different levels of inorganic fertilizer application of immature kenaf fertilised with 40 kg/ha and harvested on day 35 post-planting was observed to reach the optimum performance and suitable as ruminant feed.

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Effect of Senna alata Leaf as an Alternative Anti-coccidian on Growth Performance, Oocyst Counts and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens

Yahaya, Mariam O*. and Bolu, S.A

Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation Ibadan Oyo State, Nigeria.
Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, Ilorin Kwara State Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(1): 44-52

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A sixty-three (63) days experiment was conducted to assess the effects of Senna alata leaf meal as an alternative anti-coccidian in the water of broiler chickens using one hundred and fifty, a day old Abor acre broiler chickens raised in a deep litter system in five treatments with three replicates each. Treatment one was the control which had only water, treatment two had 0.25ml of Diclosol (Diclazuril 10mg) per litre of water. Treatment three had 1.5g of Senna alata leaf meal per litre of water, treatment four had 1g of Embaccoc (Sulfametrazole 200mg + Trimethoprim 40gm + Vit K 20gm) per litre of water while treatment five had 1g of Prococc (Amprolium 200mg + Sulfaquinoxaline 200mg + Vit K 2mg) per 3 litres of water. Data on the growth performance, oocyst count of Eimeria spp and carcass characteristics were collected. Results obtained showed 1.5g of Senna alata leaf per litre of drinking water significantly reduced (P<0.05) the oocyst count of caecum in the third week from (483.30o/g) to (233.00o/g), and in the sixth week, from (1686.70o/g) to (166.67o/g) after administration. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the breast, wings, shank, proventriculus and liver with variations in the values obtained for the various treatments. It was concluded that Senna alata inclusion as an alternative anti-coccidian reduced the oocyst count of Eimeria species in the ileum and caecum of the broiler chickens.

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In situ Rumen Degradability of Treated Maize Stover by Wadara Bulls in Maiduguri, North Eastern Nigeria

Umar, S. J.*¹, Kibon, A.², Ocheja, J. O.³, Abdullahi, U.⁴, Salisu, S. G.⁵,Bukola, O. A.⁶, Lamido, M.⁷, Ikwunze, K.⁸

^1,3,6 Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State
²University of Maiduguri, Borno State
⁴Federal University of Gashua, Yobe State
⁵Ahamdu Bello University, Kaduna State
⁷Federal University of Dutsin ma, Katsina State
⁸Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture, Abia State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 1-7

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The study's goals were to see what effects urea and poultry dropping treatments had on the chemical profile and in situ rumen dry matter degradability and kinetics of maize stover in Wadara cattle. There were three treatments namely, untreated; urea (at 5%) and poultry droppings (at 50:50 ratio) treated maize stover. The stover was ensiled for 21 days. In the investigation, three Wadara bulls with permanent rumen cannulas were used. The maize stover was incubated for 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours in the rumen of the bulls. Crude protein (CP) percentage in the stover improved significantly (P<0.05) from 5.5% in untreated to 19.4% in poultry droppings treated stover whereas crude fibre (CF) content did not change markedly (P>0.05) across treatments. Rumen degradability increased with incubation time and was always higher (P<0.05) in treated than untreated stover. The extent of degradability of DM (c) was statistically (P<0.05) higher in treated stover. Outflow rate at 24 hours after incubation was 3.1, 3.0 and 3.2%/hr in untreated, urea and poultry droppings treated stover respectively. In conclusion, the use of urea and poultry droppings in treating maize stover affects the chemical composition and DM in situ rumen degradability and kinetics positively. Poultry droppings can be used instead of urea in stover ammoniation effectively.

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Feeding Values of Mixtures of Grass with Some Processed Nitrogen Fixing Multipurpose Tree Species at Varying Proportions

Ojo, Victoria O. A.¹*, Folorunso, K. O.¹, Adeyemi, T. A.², Ogidan, Faith O. ¹, Oyedemi, O. I.¹ and Dada, F. I.¹

¹Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta P. M. B. 2240, Ogun State, Nigeria
²Agri-Food Business Management Program, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Estonia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 8-14

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The nutritive value of mixtures of Megathyrsus maximus (MM) and leaf protein concentrates of Albizia lebbeck (AL) and Leucaena leucocephala (LL) the nitrogen-fixing multipurpose tree species (NFTS) were evaluated in this study. The treatment consists of M. maximus and each of the multipurpose tree species leaf protein concentrates ? MM100, MM90:AL10, MM80:AL20, MM70:AL30, MM90:LL10, MM80:LL20 and MM70:LL30 respectively. Results revealed an increase (P<0.05) in CP with an increase in leaf protein concentrate inclusion while there was a decline (P<0.05) in NDF contents of the mixtures with a decrease in grass inclusion. The highest CP values (P<0.05) were recorded in treatment MM85:AL15 and MM85:LL15 respectively and the lowest value of CP was recorded in MM100. The highest significant (P<0.05) value of NDF was recorded for MM100 while treatments MM90:LL10 and MM100 had the highest values of ADF. The DMD values of all the mixtures of the grass and leaf protein concentrates had higher (P<0.05) values compared with sole grass (MM100) which recorded the least value. Treatment MM85:LL15 had the highest significant (P<0.05) mean value of OM. The DMI, RFV and CC were significantly (P<0.05) higher in treatments MM85:AL15, MM90:LL10 and M85:LL15 respectively. The study concluded that nutrients and digestibility of mixtures of grass and leaf protein concentrates of NFTS investigated were higher than in the sole grass with mixtures of M. maximus 85: A. lebbeck 15 and M. maximus 85: L. leucocephala 15 having the highest nutritive value

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Effects of Sweet Potato (Ipomea batatas) Vines Inclusion to Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) on the Chemical Composition and Physical Properties of Silage Mixtures

Jusoh, S.¹*, Martini, M.Y.² and Safwah Najihah, B.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, ²Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Agriculture
Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 15-20

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Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) is renowned for its high yield as forage and is primarily cultivated by small-scale farmers to nourish their livestock. When harvested at the recommended age, it can offer premium-quality feed. Conversely, sweet potato vines (SPV) are often treated as agricultural residue due to being underutilized, despite their potential nutritional benefits. This disregard for Sweet Potato vines stems from a lack of interest in further processing them into feed. This study aimed to assess the chemical composition and physical attributes of ensiled napier grass mixed with different proportions of Sweet Potato vines for 30 days. The experimental groups included 100% NG, 75% NG:25% SPV, 50% NG:50% SPV, 25% NG:75% SPV, and 100% SPV. The research utilized ordinary Napier grass and Bukit Naga Sweet Potato vines, both harvested at 6 weeks old during the second harvesting cycle. The quality of silage was evaluated through physical characteristics such as colour and pH. All treatments displayed optimal pH levels for quality silage, falling within the range of 3.5 to 4.0. The colour assessment indicated that all treatments had a greenish-brown hue with a discernible structure. Chemical composition analysis was performed using proximate analysis procedures. In conclusion, incorporating SPV elevated OM and CP content, demonstrating the potential benefits of combined ensiling.

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Use of inoculant Sil-All and Macrotyloma axillare Legume on the Fermentation Characteristics and Quality of Maize Silage.

Chelopo Manakedi, G.M.^{1, 2}*, Ditabo Atharlia, A. B.^{1, 2}, Mokoboki Kwena, H. K.^{1, 2}, Lebopa Cornelia, C.K.^{1, 2}, Sipango, N.^{1, 2}, Mudau, H. S.^{1, 2} & Ravhuhali, K. E.^{1, 2}

¹Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, Mafikeng, South Africa.
²Food Security and Safety Niche Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, NorthWest University, Mmabatho, Mafikeng, South Africa.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 21-33

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Tropical forage legumes are known as a potentially valuable source of protein for ruminant animals. Many forage species are underestimated due to the lack of knowledge of their nutritional feeding value. This study investigated the effects of the biological silage additive (Sil-all 4 ? 4 inoculant) and Macrotyloma axillare legume inclusion on the fermentation quality, nutrient composition, and in vitro digestibility of whole crop maize silage. Sil-All provides rapid fermentation with maximum nutrient retention, it comprises four bacterial strains and four enzymes to enhance forage preservation during ensiling. Whole-crop maize (?665 g/kg DM) was ensiled for 45 days in a 5 kg air-tight polythene plastic bag. The bags were tied using twine to ensure airtightness and then stored at 22 ? 25 ?C. Three ensiling treatments were applied M: maize only, IM: inoculated maize and M+MA: maize + Macrotyloma axillare (80:20). The research was conducted at the North-West University research farm (Molelwane), Mafikeng area, North-West Province, South Africa. Both maize and Macrotyloma axillare legumes were planted as monoculture at North-West University research field. Replicate samples (n=5) were collected at pre-ensiling and post ensiling at day 45 for determination of fermentation and nutritive value. In vitro, DM degradability was determined using rumen cannulated Bonsmara cows. Inclusion of the legume Macrotyloma axillare in maize silage improved the nutritive value of the silage and,therefore, subsequently improved the fermentation substrate and lactic acid content. In all instances, the silages were deemed suitable for preservation based on their pH values ranging between 3.83 to 3.98. Crude protein was lower on IM, highest CP was observed on M+MA silage. Both Sil-All inoculant and Macrotyloma axillare legume were observed to reduce the fibre content of the silages. The inclusion of the legume improved the nutritive value and degradation of the silage compared to other treatments. An improvement in CP and OM content observed in M+MA silage suggested no necessity to supplement with concentrates and commercial minerals. Thus, Macrotyloma axillare (Java) legume qualified to compensate for the maize silage limiting nutrients without affecting its fermentation characteristics.

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Effectiveness of Garlic Powder as Nutritional in Ouled-djellal Ewes

A. Kahouli¹*, N. Kaboul¹, F. Rekike²

¹Food Sciences Laboratory, Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna 1, 05000 Batna, Algeria;
²Institute of Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna, 05000 Algeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 34-40

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The aim of this study is to try the effectiveness of garlic powder to promote ewes performances remplacing feed additives and antibiotics in livestock. Therefore, twelve Ouled-Djellal adult ewes at 5 months of gestation, clinically healthy, were allotted to two experimental lots to monitor their body condition, their milk production, and their growth. Ewes are fed with a basic ration dominated by oat hay and a limited share of barley straw. They were also supplemented with a control granular concentrate in the control group (C) and added with 2% garlic powder in the experimental group (E). The recorded data were processed with the STATISTICA V.6 program using a T-student test and its analogue test U-Mann Whitney to assess the effect of treatment. The treatment seems to have no significant effect on the body condition of ewes, lambs growth and milk composition. However, the cumulative milk yield during the first week and the first two months of suckling is significantly (P<0.05) higher in the experimental group compared to the control (+40 and +34%, respectively). In light of this finding, garlic fails to promote the performances of ewes at the end of gestation.

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Effect of Selenium-Enriched Bacteria and Other Selenium Sources on Meat Quality Parameters of Mid-Producing Lohman Brown Laying Hens

Muhammad, A.I.^1,3, Dalia, A.M.², Samsudin, A.A.¹*

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia;
² Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Production, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 321, Khartoum, Sudan;
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse. P.M.B. 7156, Jigawa State, Nigeria;

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 41-53

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The use of toxic and less bioavailable inorganic selenium can now be substituted with an alternative organic source obtained from bacterial species to benefit human and animal nutrition. This study investigates the effects of selenium sources on laying hen?s meat quality. A total of 144 Mid-Producing Lohman Brown Classic laying hens, aged 23 weeks, were divided into four experimental groups (each with 36 hens) based on the form of Se supplementation (no Se supplementation, 0.3 mg/kg of inorganic Se in the form of sodium selenite, 0.3 mg/kg organic Se from Sel-Plex, Alltech Inc., Nicholasville, KY), and 0.3 mg/kg organic Se from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (bacterial organic Se). The trial period was seventeen weeks, after which the hens were slaughtered and breast muscles sampled at week 40. The results showed that dietary Se supplementation enhanced (P<0.05) cooking loss, drip loss, and meat tenderness of breast muscles significantly in the enriched bacterial Se group compared to the inorganic and basal diet groups. Se sources also had a significant impact (P<0.05) on the colour (lightness, redness, and yellowness) of the breast meat. Bacterial organic Se supplementation reduced cooking loss and drip loss, and it improved the tenderness and breast meat colour of Lohman brown laying hens.

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Growth Performance, Carcass Composition and Alpha-Linolenic Acid Content of Ayam Saga Fed Different Dietary Sources

Mardhati, M.*, Farahiyah, I.J., Nurulhayati, A.B., Mohammad, F.R.H. and Siti Hajar, Z.

Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 54-62

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A feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of feeding different omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) sources on the growth performance and accumulation of alpha-linolenic acid content in the meat of Ayam Saga. The experiment was conducted between April to May 2022 at the poultry facility in MARDI Serdang using 90 male 7-week-old Ayam Saga. These birds were randomly assigned to 3 treatments of different sources of omega-3: 0% (control), flaxseed oil and flaxseed in a complete randomized design with 5 replications of 6 birds per treatment. They received feed and water ad-lib throughout the experiment. All feeds were formulated to be isocaloric (metabolizable energy - ~12 MJ/kg) and isonitrogenous (crude protein - ~19.0%). They were raised for 5 weeks and weighed every two weeks. Feed consumption was also recorded every 2 weeks. Results showed that the inclusion of omega sources did not affect final weight and weight gain compared to the control (P>0.05). However, treatments had a significant effect on the feed intake (P<0.01) and feed conversion ratio (P<0.01), with birds on diets containing flaxseed and flaxseed oil were lower than the control. The increment of alpha-linolenic acid was seen in the breast and thigh meat of birds which received omega-3 diets (P<0.01). It can be concluded that flaxseed and flaxseed oil can be good sources of alpha-linolenic acid, however, future studies need to be done to study the optimum inclusion level of flaxseed oil and flaxseed as these omega-3 diets have better FCR and increase the alpha-linolenic acid absorption in chicken meat.

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Assessing the Poultry Farmers' Intention to Adopt Insects as Alternative Chicken Feed

Wong, K.K.S.* and Khazali, N.F

Department of Agribusiness and Bioresource Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 26(2): 63-72

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Due to the weakening of the Malaysian ringgit and the rise in global feed prices, the cost of poultry feed has recently risen dramatically in Malaysia. This study investigates the elements that influence farmers' intentions to replace soybeans and corn with insects. The questionnaire survey was completed by 52 poultry farmers using the snowball sampling approach. The Theory of Planned Behaviour and factor analysis were used in this study to examine the impact of farmers' attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control on their intention to utilize insects as maize and soybean substitute feed. The component analysis revealed that farmers' views toward substitute feed, subjective standards, and perceived behavioural control are critical factors in explaining their intentions. This study suggested that farmers are eager to accept alternative feed for their farming if the insects used to replace conventional feed are ecologically benign, low-cost, safe, and sustainable.

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Impact of Solid-State Fermented Wheat Offal Inclusion on Egg Production and Quality in ISA Brown Hens Under Semi-Arid Conditions

Abdulazeez, H.¹*, Muhammad, A. I.², Yerima, J.¹, Shuaibu, A. Y.¹, Bislava, M. B. ¹ and Abubakar, A. M.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 1-19

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This experiment was conducted to determine the influence of solid-state fermented wheat offal (SSFWO) on the productive indices and egg quality traits of egg-type chickens using 180 ISA brown chickens aged 0 ? 42 weeks. The chickens were divided into six (6) treatment units of thirty birds with three replications of ten birds each following a completely randomized design (CRD). For the chick (0 ? 8 weeks); grower (9-16 weeks) and layer (30 - 42 weeks) stages, SSFWO was used to formulate six diets, which were included at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% of the diets. The results of the study showed an increase (P ? 0.05) in feed consumption, declining daily weight gain and final weight of the birds as the level of SSFWO increases at both chick and grower phases. Groups on the T1 (0% SSFWO) had a lower cost per gain than the groups fed 5-25% SSFWO. Hens on 25% SSFWO diet had delayed onset of lay. Feed consumption and feed conversion ratio were highest (P ? 0.05) in chickens on T6 (25% SSFWO). The group also had lower (P ? 0.05) hen-day egg production. Egg length, egg width, yolk height and width decreased while albumen weight and Haugh unit showed an increasing trend as the level of SSFWO advances. It was concluded that dietary SSFWO had no detrimental effect on productive performance and egg quality characteristics of egg-type chickens.

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Association Between Prolactin Receptor (PRLR) Gene Polymorphisms and Litter Size in Katjang-Boer Hybrid Goats

Poh, J. L.¹, Mohd Noor Hisham, M. N.*¹, Nurulhuda M.O.², Noor Athirah, A.², Mohd Firdaus O.³, Ainu Husna MS. S.³

¹Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
² Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Kluang, 86000 Kluang, Johor
³ Livestock Science Research Centre, Malaysia Agricultural Research and Development Institute, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 20-31

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Goat fertility is essential for farm productivity and economic viability. This study investigates the association between Prolactin Receptor (PRLR) gene polymorphism and litter size in Katjang-Boer hybrid goats. DNA from 43 goats was analyzed using five primers targeting different regions of the PRLR gene. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Single-Strand Conformation Polymorphism (SSCP) were employed to detect genetic variation. The association between litter size, breeding year, and PRLR polymorphism was determined using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results indicate a significant association between PRLR gene polymorphisms in intron 1 and intron 2 with litter size (p < 0.05). Specifically, the AH genotype in intron 1 was significantly associated with larger litter sizes (1.58 ? 0.19, p < 0.05). No significant associations were found for exon 9 and 3?UTR regions. Breeding year also significantly influenced litter size, with the highest numbers observed in the later parity. These findings provide insights for improving farm productivity through genetic selection.

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Impact of Yeast-Fermented Soybean Waste on Broiler Growth and Carcass Quality

Malahubban, M.¹*, FZakry, F. A.², Azemi, M. A.², Kamaludeen, J.¹, Hassan, M. N.¹, Leong, S. S.¹

¹Department of Animal Science and Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
² Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 32-42

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This study evaluated the effects of supplementing broiler diets with yeast-fermented soybean waste on growth performance and carcass characteristics. Ninety-nine three- week-old Ross-308 broiler chickens were assigned to three dietary groups: T1 (control diet), T2 (basal diet with fermented soybean waste without yeast), and T3 (basal diet with yeast-fermented soybean waste). From weeks 3 to 6, the fermented soybean waste either with yeast (T3) or without (T2) replaced 50% of the conventional soybean meal in the diet. At the end of the study, the chickens were slaughtered and analysed. Results indicated that final live body weight was similar (P > 0.05) between chickens on the yeast-fermented diet (T3) and those on the control diet (T1), while chickens on the non-yeast- fermented diet (T2) showed a significantly lower final body weight (P < 0.05) than the control group. By week 6, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in both the T2 and T3 groups compared to the control. Notably, chickens on the T3 diet had significantly heavier breasts, drumsticks, and wings (P < 0.05) than those on the control diet. Overall, the inclusion of yeast-fermented soybean waste in broiler diets demonstrated potential as a partial substitute for soybean meal during the grower phase, offering a viable strategy to support sustainable and efficient protein sources in poultry production.

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Effect of Trichantera gigantea leaves on growth performance of Ayam Saga

Kathiraser, T.*, Mohd Abdul Nasir, N.R.A., Mat Saad, S.M., Wan Md Zain, W.S. and Samat, N.

Livestock Science Research Center, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 43-50

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Poultry meat is a crucial source of protein for consumers in Malaysia. There is growing interest in supplementing natural feed additives for production of healthier chicken for consumers. This study delves into the potential for locally produced dried Ketum Ayam leaves (scientifically known as Trichantera gigantea), as a feed additive for improving growth performance of Ayam Saga. A total of 120 male Ayam Saga birds, aged 4 weeks, were selected at random and divided into four treatment groups (control, 1%, 3%, and 5% Ketum Ayam leaves) using a completely randomized design. Each treatment consisted of 6 replicates with 5 birds per replicate. They were subjected to an 8-week feeding trial until the birds reached 12 weeks of age. Data on body weight and feed intake were recorded for each group to calculate body weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Carcass yield was also similarly recorded. Results revealed that the Ayam Saga supplemented with 1% Ketum Ayam leaves and control group had significantly higher (p<0.05) final body weight and body weight gain compared to the higher inclusion rates of 3% and 5% Ketum Ayam leaves. For the feed conversion ratio, better efficiency was observed for the 1% feed supplementation and control group. Carcass yield showed the similar trend of significantly higher (p<0.05) yields for 1% and control group. Further investigations using larger sample groups and lower inclusion rates (<1%) is beneficial to provide further insights into factors influencing the optimal feed supplementation of Ketum Ayam leaves in improving growth performance of Ayam Saga.

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Assessment of Growth and Laying Performance of Local Village Chicken in Malaysia

Julie Marzlinda M.R.¹*, Azlina Azma I.A.³, Nooraisyah S.², Mohd Hafizzudin A.¹, Abdul Mu'in H.B¹ Azrikin Shah A.¹, Muhammad Syafri Famin A.A. ¹, Muhammad Khairul Azwan M.¹, Syahirah M. Y. ¹, Nurul Akmal C.A.¹, Muhammad Nazri I.¹

¹Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Kluang, KM 15 Jalan Kluang-Kota Tinggi, 86000 Kluang, Johor.
²Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Muadzam Shah, KM 5 Jalan Rompin, 26700 Muadzam Shah, Pahang.
³Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Headquarters, Persiaran MARDI -UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 51-58

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Local village chickens are vital for household food security in Malaysia but typically show lower egg production compared to commercial breeds. This study evaluated the growth and laying performance of three pure-line village chicken breeds (Lines A, B, and D) at MARDI Kluang. Body weight and pin bone width were measured to assess growth performance and reproductive maturity, while Hen-Day Egg Production (HDEP) was used to evaluate laying performance. Findings showed no significant differences in body weight between all lines. However, Line A tended to be heavier than Lines B and D during the grower stage (10-16 weeks) and the layering stage (24-52 weeks). Pin bone measurements taken at 20 weeks indicated that Lines B and D had pin bone spacings of 4.08 ± 0.19 cm and 4.17 ± 0.16 cm, respectively, while Line A reached a similar spacing at 22 weeks. HDEP analysis showed that Lines B and D were more productive, achieving peak production earlier at the age of 22 and 23 weeks, with values were 74.92% and 69.74% respectively, as Line A peaked at 67.37% at 28 weeks. These findings indicate that Lines B and D are more efficient for early egg production and reach sexual maturity earlier. This provides valuable insights for selective breeding strategies to enhance productivity among village chickens.

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Nutrient Composition and In Vitro Fermentation Characteristics of Common Vegetable Peels as Livestock Feed

Abigail, G.B.¹, Muhammad, A.I.^1,2*, Hemly, N.I.M¹,, Zainudin, N.N¹,., Khairul , A.B¹., and Samsudin, A.A.^1,3

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse. P.M.B.7156, Jigawa State, Nigeria
³Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(1): 59-74

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The study evaluated the nutritional composition and in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics of four common vegetable peels: cucumber, carrot, potato, and ginger as potential feed resources for livestock feed. The chemical composition and in vitro gas production, dry matter digestibility, and volatile fatty acid profiles of these peels were assessed in a complete randomized design (CRD). The results showed That cucumber peels exhibited higher (P < 0.0001) organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), acid detergent fibre (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL) content; 24.81%, 21.37%, 44.50% and 44.50%, respectively, whereas lowest DM content (5.50%). Carrot peels had the lowest CP (5.61%) and NDF (34.30%) content. Potato peels were characterized by higher DM (14.56%) content and lower OM (7.95%), ADF (25.68%), and ADL (26.67%) content. The ginger peels had the highest (P < 0.0001) NDF (86.64%) content. In vitro gas production studies revealed carrot peels had the highest cumulative gas production, while the lowest in ginger peels. Similarly, carrot peels exhibited the highest (P < 0.0001) in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and lowest in vitro neutral detergent fibre digestibility (IVNDFD). The potato peel volatile fatty acid (VFA) profile produced the highest concentrations of acetic, propionic, butyric acids and total VFA. In conclusion, cucumber, carrot, and potato peels have the potential to be used as potential feed resources for livestock. Further research (in vivo) is required to assess their effects on animal performance and health.

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Effect of Different Levels of Lysine and Fiber Degrading Enzyme on Growth Rate and Gut Development in the Starter Phase of Slow-Growing Ayam SAGA

Nor Izwan Hakimi, N. A.¹, Mohd Noor Hisham, M. N.*¹, Roziatul Erin, A. R.², Sarah, R.², Norham, I.², Muhammad Rusydi, R.², Harivanthan, M.² and Noraini, S.²

¹Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(2): 1-19

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This study investigated the impact of varying levels of the essential amino acid lysine and the fiber-degrading enzyme B-mannanase on growth performance and gut morphology in the starter phase of slow-growing Ayam SAGA. The study aimed to optimize the utilization of Palm Kernel Cake (PKC), which is rich in fiber, as a sustainable feed ingredient for monogastric animals. Utilizing a 3x3 factorial design with a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), the experiment involved nine treatment groups with three replicates each. The results revealed that the highest level of lysine (120% NRC) combined with 0.4% B-mannanase (T9) significantly enhanced gizzard weight, jejunal and ileal development (p < 0.05), which correlated with improved Body Weight Gain (BWG) and a reduced Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) in Ayam SAGA. However, Feed Intake (FI) was not significantly affected by the enzyme-lysine combination. These findings suggest that the optimized combination (120% NRC lysine, 0.4% B-mannanase) can improve nutrient absorption and growth efficiency, potentially enhancing the sustainability of poultry production using PKC-based diets.

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Conventional versus Green ZnO Nanoparticle Pre-treatment Effects on Mucuna pruriens utilis Seed Potential Nutritional Value for Beef Cattle

Gamedze, N.P.¹, Mthiyane, D.M. N.^1,2*, Mnisi, C.M.^1,2, Mavengahama, S.^2,3, and Onwudiwe, D.C.^4,5

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, P Bag x 2046, Mmabatho, South Africa.
²Food Security and Safety Focus area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa.
³Department of Crop Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, P Bag x 2046, Mmabatho, South Africa.
⁴Material Science Innovation and Modelling (MaSIM) Research Focus Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, P Bag x 2046, Mmabatho, South Africa.
⁵Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, P Bag x 2046, Mmabatho, South Africa.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(2): 20-38

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The utility of Mucuna pruriens utilis seed meal (MSM) in beef cattle nutrition is limited by high fibre content and antinutritional factors. Hence, this study investigated conventional (C- Nano-ZnO) and green (G-Nano-ZnO) ZnO nanoparticle pre-treatment effects (0, 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg) on the legume’s nutritional composition and in vitro ruminal fermentation. Both nanoparticle types differentially increased DM, OM, and EE (P < 0.001) and tended to increase ash (P = 0.055) whilst they decreased NDF, ADF, ADL, cellulose (P < 0.001), and hemicellulose (P < 0.01) contents of MSM, with 20 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO inducing greater effects. Also, they increased MSM’s Ca (P < 0.001), P (P < 0.001), Mg (P < 0.001), S (P < 0.001), Fe (P < 0.001), and K (P < 0.001), with 20 mg/kg C-Nano-ZnO generally inducing greater effects. However, both nanoparticle types generally induced no effects on MSM’s CP, Cr, Mn, Rb, gas production rate, in vitro ruminal gas production kinetics, and cumulative gas production (P > 0.05), except for increased 12 h post-incubation gas production rate induced by 20 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO (P < 0.001) and decreased immediately degradable DM fraction a (P < 0 .001) and 12 h post-incubation cumulative gas production (P < 0.001) induced by, respectively, 20 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO and 15 mg/kg C-Nano-ZnO. Interestingly, both nanoparticle types increased in vitro ruminal OM degradability and partitioning factors (P < 0.001), with 20 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO inducing greater effects. In conclusion, pre-treatment with 20 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO mostly enhanced potential nutritional value of MSM.

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Effect of Gonadotropin Hormones on Bovine in Vivo Embryo Production and Subsequent Conception Rates Following Embryo Transfer

Habsah, B.¹*, Ahmad, J.³, Muhammad, K. A. M.², Md Rizan, S.², Hairul, A. A. M.³, and Azrikin, S. A.²

^{1, 2}Advanced & Reproductive Technology Programme,
¹MARDI Serdang, 43300, Selangor, Malaysia.
²MARDI Kluang, 89000, Johor, Malaysia.
³Breed Development Programme, Livestock Science Research Centre, 89000, MARDI Kluang, Johor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(2): 39-52

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Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) has been established to mass produce in vivo embryos from high quality donor cows. Inducing superovulation using either follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH) or equine chorionic gonadotrophins (eCG) influences the number and quality of in vivo embryos that may be recovered from a single donor cow, making it an essential stage in the MOET process. Therefore, the objective of this study included (1) comparing the superovulatory responses of donor cows, the embryos production rate and quality of embryos collected from Charoke cows treated with either FSH or eCG hormones, and (2) evaluating conception and calving rates following embryo transfer. All donor cows (n=33) with at least one parity were hormonally treated either with FSH or eCG. All of the parameters in the FSH- and eCG-treated groups did not differ significantly (p >0.05) in the current investigation. However, cows treated with FSH had a larger percentage of donors with positive superovulatory response (56%) than the eCG group (44%). An average of three transferable embryos was collected per animal receiving either FSH or eCG hormones. The production of one life calf in the embryo transfer demonstrated that adequate progesterone levels during embryo development. Additionally, performing embryo transfer on day 6 following artificial insemination, with more than one embryo per recipient, could enhanced the conception rates. In conclusion, this study indicated that both FSH and eCG can be utilized to superovulate donor cows under local conditions, resulting in the birth of live calves.

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Pineapple Peel Bromelain Extract Improves poultry In Vitro Protein Digestibility

Zailani, N.S.¹, Foo, H. L.^1,2*, Abdul Aziz, M. F.³, Loh, T. C.³, Akit, H.1,³*

¹Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²Department of Bioprocess Technology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(2): 53-64

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This study aimed to assess the proteolytic activity of pineapple peel crude bromelain extracts using different extractants and its impact on in vitro protein digestibility, simulating poultry digestion. This study compared the proteolytic activity of bromelain extracted using deionized water alone and in combination with 0.02 M dithiothreitol (DTT), 0.02% sodium azide, and 0.02 M ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Subsequently, the effects of bromelain extracts on protein solubilization and digestibility using a poultry gut simulation model were evaluated. The findings indicated that bromelain extractions using deionized water (82.22 U/mg) and a combination of deionized water + sodium azide + EDTA (87.84 U/mg) exhibited the highest proteolytic activities compared to other extractants (P<0.05). Furthermore, pineapple peel bromelain extracts resulted in up to 24% increase in protein solubility and up to 6% increase in protein digestibility (P<0.05, respectively). Notably, bromelain extracted using deionized water (60.69 U/mg) proved to be the most effective in digesting protein in vitro.

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Assessment of Chemical Composition and In Vitro Rumen Fermentation of Tuber and Crop Peels

Muhammad, A.I.>sup>1,2, Sani, N. I. M¹, Zainudin, N. N¹, Hemly, N. I. M.¹, Khairul, A.B.¹, and Samsudin, A.A.*¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse. P.M.B. 7156, Jigawa State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 27(2): 65-79

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Tuber and root crops, rich in carbohydrates, are staple foods in Malaysia. However, theirpeels, often discarded, represent a potential feed resource for ruminants. This study assessed the nutritive value and in vitro gas production of various root and tuber crop peels as a sustainable feed ingredient for ruminant livestock. The root and tuber peels used in this experiment were potato peels (T1), taro peels (T2), sweet potato peels (T3), cassava peels (T4) and Chinese yam peels (T5). The proximate analysis (moisture, dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL)) was conducted on the peels samples to evaluate their nutritional profiles. The results showed that potato peels showed the highest (P < 0.05) moisture, CF, NDF, and ADL contents compared to other root and tuber peels. Conversely, taro peels showed the highest CP, ADF, and ADL contents. Cassava peels had the highest DM and ash contents. Significant (P < 0.05) differences were observed in the metabolisable energy (ME) content, estimated based on digestible dry matter (DDM) content, among the various root and tuber peels. The ME content of Chinese yam peels was higher than that of other root and tuber peels. At the 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th, 12th, 24th, and 72nd hours of incubation, there was a significant (P < 0.05) difference in the gas produced by different peels in the in vitro rumen fermentation analysis. The taro peels produced the least gas, while Chinese yam produced the highest. In conclusion, cassava and Chinese peels could improve rumen fermentation efficiency based on their DM and ME content in terms of in vitro gas production.

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Effect of Essential Oil Supplementation on Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Japanese Quail

Muhammad Hafizul Rahman, M.A.*¹, Muhammad Safwan Hafiz, Z.², Khadijah, S.², Wan. Zawiah, W.A², and Thayalini, K.¹

¹Malaysian Agriculture Research & Development Institute (MARDI), MARDI Kluang, 86009 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia
²Faculty of Fisheries and Food Science, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 1-10

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Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) has emerged as a cost-effective source of meat and eggs in Malaysia, prompting increased interest in optimizing their production. This study investigates the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils, specifically sesame (Sesamum indicum) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), on growth performance and meat quality. Fourteen-day-old quails were subjected to supplementation with either sesame or rosemary oils at varying doses (250 or 350 mg/kg) and compared against a control group in a randomized design (n = 16 quails per group). Results revealed that the 250 mg/kg rosemary oil supplementation significantly improved average weight gain, emphasizing its potential as a growth promoter. Quails fed with 250 mg/kg sesame oil exhibited the lowest lipid oxidation levels, highlighting its effectiveness in preserving meat freshness. However, essential oil-treated groups showed different effects on water-holding capacity compared to the control. This study provides valuable insights for further research into dosage optimization and the extended shelf life of quail meat, potentially revolutionizing quail farming practices in Malaysia.

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Examining the Changes in Rumen Bacterial Populations Associated with Improved Rumen Fermentation and Reduced Methane Production in Yankasa Rams Fed Fermented Hibiscus sabdariffa Seed Meal

Mustapha, K.*¹, Ashiru, R. M.², Muhammad, A. I.³, Ubali, S.⁴, Mustapha, Y.⁴, and Ndagi, A. M. ⁴

¹Centre for Innovation and Training in Animal Husbandry, Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Kabo, Kano State, Nigeria.
²Department of Animal Science, Kano University Science Kano State, Nigeria.
³Department of Animal Science, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria.
⁴Department of Animal Science, Sule Lamido University Kafin Hausa, PMB 048, Kafin Hausa, Jigawa State, Nigeria.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 11-25

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This study investigated the effects of dietary inclusion of fermented Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (roselle) seed meal (FRSM) on rumen fermentation parameters, methane emission, and microbial populations in Yankasa rams. Sixteen rams with an average body weight of 18.66 ± 2.84 kg were randomly allocated to four treatment groups receiving diets containing 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% FRSM for 84 days in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Fermented roselle seed meal was prepared by soaking cleaned seeds in airtight water-filled containers for 72 hours, followed by seven days of sun-drying and coarse grinding. The experimental diets were formulated with standard feed ingredients and analyzed for proximate and fibre fractions using AOAC and Van Soest methods. Rumen fluid was collected at 0 before feeding and 3-hours post-feeding for pH determination, microbial counts, and bacterial identification. Methane production was estimated using the model: CH? (L/day) = 0.34 × BW + 19.7 × DMI + 12. Results showed that dry matter content increased from 92.31% (control) to 94.63% (30% FRSM), and crude protein rose from 11.30% to 19.67% at 20% inclusion. Rumen pH ranged from 6.36 to 6.89, with no significant difference (P>0.05) between treatments or sampling times, maintaining optimal microbial conditions. Estimated methane output ranged from 34.98 to 38.52 L/day, with the 20% FRSM group showing a numerical reduction, though not (P>0.05) statistically significant. Rumen microbial counts increased post-feeding, ranging from 4.3 × 10? to 6.7 × 10? CFU/mL, and dominant bacteria identified included Escherichia coli, Ruminococcus albus, R. flavefaciens, and Salmonella spp. Inclusion of FRSM significantly (P<0.05) improved the nutritional composition of the diets without disrupting rumen fermentation or microbial balance. The study concludes that FRSM can be incorporated up to 30% in Yankasa ram diets, with 20% offering a potential methane mitigation effect while enhancing nutritional intake and supporting microbial stability in the rumen.

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Dietary Influence of Beta-Glucanase and Enziblend Energy on Growth, Haematological and Serum Biochemical Indices of Weaner Pigs

B. A. Makanjuola*¹, B. A. Boladuro¹, O. A. Adesehinwa², J. C. Moreki³, A. O. Sorunke¹, A. A. Bolaji¹, and A. O. K. Adesehinwa¹

¹Livestock Improvement Programme, Institute of Agricultural Research & Training, Obafemi Awolowo University, PMB 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria
²AK Research Farm, Eleyele, Ibadan, Nigeria.
³Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P/Bag 0027, Gaborone, Botswana.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 26-35

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This study investigated the effects of commercial enzymes in the diet of weaner pigs on growth, haematological and serum biochemical indices of pigs. Total of 54 weaned pigs which were Largewhite × Landrace crosses with average weight of 11.87±2.36 kg were used. They were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments T1 (Control/Basal diet), T2 (Basal diet + ?-Glucanase at 100g/tonne), and T3 (Basal diet + Enziblend Energy at 500g/tonne) with six replicates in each treatment in a completely randomized design. The results revealed that the feed intake and weight gain did not significantly (P>0.05) differ among the treatments. Weight gain was highest in T2 with 22.2 kg, 21.72 kg in T1 and 20.06 kg in T3. Similarly, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the addition of the enzymes to the diets. The erythrocyte counts, leukocytes counts, haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV) and other haematological indices assayed were not significantly (P>0.05) different among the treatments. The erythrocyte counts were 5.86, 5.55 and 5.91 x 106 ?/L in T1, T2 and T3 respectively. All serum indices showed no significant (P>0.05) difference across all treatments except in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). The AST concentration was highest in T3 (57.88 IU/L). Cholesterol and HDL levels were significantly (P<0.05) highest in T1 (144.41 mg/dL and 93.18 mg/dL respectively). The addition of enzymes to the diet of the pigs in this study did not compromise the growth nor adversely affect the hepatic function and health of the animals.

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Effect of Fruit Seeds on In Vitro Gas Production Analysis

Mazlan, N. A.¹, Muhammad, A.I.^1,2*, Hemly, N. I. M.¹, and Samsudin, A.A.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia;
²Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse. P.M.B. 7156, Jigawa State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 36-45

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The increasing demand for animal products requires a sustainable expansion of feed resources. This study explored the potential of fruit seeds as a non-competitive feed source, evaluating the nutritional composition of durian, champeden, salak, avocado, and jackfruit seeds. Proximate, Van Soest fibre, and in vitro gas production analyses were conducted. Proximate analysis revealed that durian seeds exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher dry matter (DM) and ash content and lower crude fibre (CF) compared to other seed sources. Avocado seeds had the highest crude protein (CP) content (P < 0.05), while jackfruit seeds had the lowest. Champeden seeds showed significantly (P < 0.05) higher neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and CF. A primary limitation for livestock feed use is the high moisture content of these seeds. In vitro fermentation data indicated that gas production was influenced by substrate degradability and rumen microbial activity. Cumulative gas production over 72 hours showed that salak seeds produced the highest volume, while avocado seeds produced the lowest.

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Detection of adulterant in raw cow milk and its impact on Total Solids (TS) using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy

Azima Laili, H.*, Mohammad Bohari, J., Mohd Zameer, M.Z., Mohammad Noor Dzuhri, S., Kalavathi, M., Hazliana, H., Faizah Hanim, M.S.

Veterinary Research Institute, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 31400 Ipoh, Perak.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 46-60

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Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is commonly used for milk analysis and the detection of certain milk adulterants. This study attempts to ascertain the accuracy of the FTIR machine in identifying adulterants as well as to detect the impact of adulterants in Total Solids (TS) value in raw cow milk samples. Milk samples were from samples received in Biochemistry Section, Veterinary Research Institute (VRI). Each adulterant's concentration set was based on the milk analyser’s Limit of Detection (LOD). The coefficient of determination (R²) between the actual (set of concentration) and predicted values showed that all adulterants achieved R² values greater than 0.99, with minimal error. Analysis showed that the TS value increased with increasing the concentration of the adulterant. Sodium bicarbonate, however, had the opposite effect. Coefficient corelation analysis between TS and adulterant having a high correlation value (more than 99.0%) for all adulterant tested. Overall, the FTIR machine proved a good accuracy in detecting a various of possible adulterants in milk. Additionally, this investigation demonstrates unequivocally that adding adulterants to milk significantly raises the milk's TS value. However, some adulterants are too dangerous to be ignored.

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Evaluation of Fungal Strains for Phytase Production Using Palm Kernel Expeller in Solid-State Fermentation

Siti Khairunnisa, A.¹, Mohd Noor Hisham, M. N.¹*, Shamarina, S.¹, Nasyatul Ekma, M. H.² & Noraini, S.²

¹Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
²Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 61-73

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Phytic acid, a major anti-nutritional factor in plant-based poultry feed, chelates essential minerals and reduces phosphorus bioavailability, leading to increased feed costs and environmental phosphorus loading. This study evaluated three fungal strains Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, and Rhizopus oligosporus for phytase production through solid state fermentation (SSF) using palm kernel expeller (PKE) as a low-cost substrate. Among the tested strains, A. niger exhibited the highest phytase activity (269.67 ± 13.52 FTU/mL), significantly surpassing A. oryzae (145.92 ± 13.55 FTU/mL) and R. oligosporus (88.42 ± 27.05 FTU/mL) (p < 0.05). Maximum enzyme production occurred between Day 3 and Day 4 of incubation, corresponding with peak fungal biomass (0.0557 ± 0.0054 mg/g). These findings demonstrate that A. niger effectively converts PKE, an abundant agro-industrial by-product in Malaysia, into a value-added product for poultry feed applications. Incorporating phytase produced via SSF could reduce reliance on inorganic phosphate supplements, enhance phosphorus digestibility, and mitigate environmental risks associated with phosphorus runoff. This approach supports sustainable poultry production and aligns with global sustainability targets, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The study highlights A. niger as a promising candidate for biotechnological applications in feed formulation, contributing to circular economy practices in the livestock industry.

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Effects of Social Dominance on the Behaviour, Production, and Physiological Performance of Lactating Dairy Cow

Du Xiaoxue ¹, Aimi N.H.^2,1*, Zulkifli I.^1,2, Nur Syazwan N.¹, Siti Norizati M.Z.¹

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
²Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 74-83

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This study investigated the effects of social dominance on behaviour, milk production, and physiological performance in lactating dairy cows under an intensive farming system in a tropical climate condition. A total of 52 Friesian × Jersey cows were observed for 14 continuous days to determine dominance hierarchy through social interactions. Dominance values (DV) were calculated using a win-loss ratio formula, and cows were categorised into dominant (D), mid-ranking (M), and subordinate (S) social groups. Behavioural observations, milk yield, composition (fat, protein, lactose), and stress biomarkers (Cortisol, Serum Amyloid-A, Haptoglobin, Immunoglobulin G) were analysed. Results showed that dominance was positively correlated with age (r = 0.453, P = 0.006) and ruminating duration (r = 0.451, P = 0.006), with D cows being older and ruminating 24 minutes longer than lower ranking cows (P = 0.0371). Lower ranking cows were found to have higher cortisol level compared to dominant cows (P = 0.0008) which may suggest that lower-ranking cows suffer from social stress more than their higher-ranking counterparts. However, no significant effects of dominance were found in this study on cows’ milk yield, milk composition, or other stress biomarkers. These findings suggest that while social dominance influences resting behaviour, it does not directly affect milk production or physiological performance in lactating dairy cows managed in an intensive system under tropical climate condition. In conclusion, farmers should consider the cows’ social dominance aspect to be included in their animal grouping management, to reduce social stress that could lead to poor welfare, especially in the lower-ranking cows.

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Analysis of Chemical Composition and Milk Production in Dairy Buffalo and Goat in Malaysia

Sikiru, Y. A., Che Roi D. A. S., Ibrahim, N. S.*

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut Campus, 22200, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 84-95

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Dairy buffaloes and goats contribute significantly to Malaysia's dairy industry, providing an alternative to cow milk with distinct nutritional profiles. This study conducted a preliminary analysis of the chemical composition and milk production of dairy buffaloes and goats, focusing on their yield, macronutrient content, and overall suitability for dairy farming. The research was carried out on selected dairy farms in Malaysia, with milk samples collected from 10 dairy buffaloes and 10 dairy goats over a six-month period. The samples were analyzed for key nutritional components, such as fat, protein, lactose, total solids, and mineral content, using standard spectrophotometric and chromatographic techniques. The findings indicated that dairy buffaloes achieve greater daily milk yields compared to dairy goats, with buffaloes yielding around 15,000 L at their peak (around Day 56 postpartum), whereas goat milk peaked at 952 L at day 70. Additionally, buffalo milk exhibited elevated concentrations of fat (6.47% compared to 2.97%), protein (3.51% compared to 2.87%), and solid non-fat (SNF) (9.53% compared to 7.84%) in the early lactation stage, rendering it more suitable for dairy products like cheese and butter. Conversely, goat milk exhibited enhanced digestibility, featuring a reduced lactose content (5.31% compared to 4.27%), thereby rendering it more suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. This study highlights the need for strategic improvements in genetic selection, feeding strategies, and dairy processing technologies to enhance buffalo and goat milk production. These findings provide crucial insights for optimising dairy farming in Malaysia and supporting the sustainable development of the local dairy industry. Further research and policy interventions are needed to fully harness the potential of these alternative dairy sources.

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Influence of Garlic, Synbiotic, Organic Acidifier and Synthetic Antibiotics on Blood Parameters of Funaab Alpha Broiler Chickens

Adewole, F. A.¹, Odutayo, O. J.²*,Opowoye, I. O.¹, Olanipekun O. E.², Ayo Ajasa, O. Y. ², Egbeyale, L. T.², Sogunle, O.M.²

¹Institute of Food Security, Environment Resources and Agricultural Research, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. P. M. B. 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
²Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture. P. M. B. 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 96-105

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This study evaluated the effects of garlic, synbiotic, organic acidifier, and synthetic antibiotics on hematological and serum biochemical indices of FUNAAB Alpha broiler chickens. Two hundred day-old chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: control, garlic, synbiotic, organic acidifier, or antibiotics; each with 40 birds in four replicates. At the starter phase, synbiotic and organic acidifier diets significantly increased hemoglobin concentration compared to the control (P?<?0.05), while garlic and organic acidifier diets raised serum albumin levels. Organic acidifier-fed birds had higher glucose and uric acid concentrations, and garlic reduced total cholesterol while increasing HDL levels compared with the control. In the finisher phase, garlic and antibiotics increased red blood cell counts, garlic elevated albumin, and both garlic and synbiotic reduced LDL concentrations relative to organic acidifier. Across both phases, changes in liver enzyme activities (ALT, AST) remained within normal physiological ranges, indicating no evidence of hepatic stress. These results suggest that garlic, synbiotics, and organic acidifiers can beneficially modulate selected blood and serum biochemical parameters in broilers, offering potential alternatives to synthetic antibiotics for improved health and productivity.

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Optimization of Solid-State Fermentation Parameters to Enhance Phytase Production by Aspergillus niger Using Palm Kernel Expeller

Ain Nazira, N. E.¹, Mohd Noor Hisham, M. N.1^*, Nasyatul Ekma, M. H.², Shamarina, S.¹ and Noraini, S.²

¹Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
² Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 106-119

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The production of microbial phytase through solid-state fermentation (SSF) offers a sustainable alternative to conventional enzyme production systems. This study aimed to optimize key SSF parameters using the one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach to enhance phytase activity by Aspergillus niger cultivated on palm kernel expeller (PKE), a nutrientrich agro-industrial by-product. Although initial screening included A. oryzae and Rhizopus oligosporus, only A. niger demonstrated the highest phytase activity of 269.67 ± 13.52 FTU/mL under non-optimized conditions and was selected for further optimization. Three critical SSF parameters: incubation temperature (28°C–50°C), moisture content (30%–60% v/w), and inoculum size (1%–15% v/w) were individually evaluated. Maximum phytase activity (299.42 ± 6.64 FTU/mL) was achieved at 28°C, 40% moisture, and 1% inoculum size. Under these optimized conditions, phytase production improved by 23% compared to the unoptimized set-up (116.92 ± 7.57 FTU/mL), confirming the significant influence of physical parameters on fungal enzyme biosynthesis. These findings support the valorization of PKE for local phytase production, contributing to improved phosphorus bioavailability in poultry diets while reducing reliance on imported feed additives. The results provide a foundation for further scaleup studies aligned with Malaysia’s circular bioeconomy goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 12.

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Molecular Regulation of Muscle and Adipose Tissue Development in Relation to Meat Quality

Ab Aziz, M. F.¹* and Parr, T.²

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
²Division of Nutritional Sciences, School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire LE12 5RD, United Kingdom.

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 120-148

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In agriculture production, meat yield and quality depend largely on growth of muscle anddeposition of fat. Skeletal muscle growth is governed by myogenesis, while adipogenesis contributes to the development of intramuscular fat, that significantly affects the overall quality of meat. Moreover, the processes of lipogenesis and lipolysis regulate the deposition and mobilization of fat of intramuscular fat. Recent evidence also suggests that muscle cells may transdifferentiate into adipocytes, further influencing fat content in the muscle. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms underlying myogenesis, adipogenesis, lipogenesis, lipolysis, and transdifferentiation of muscle to fat, with emphasis on their roles in regulating in meat production and quality.

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Evaluating Rice-Milling By-products and Palm Kernel Expeller as Alternative Feed Ingredients for Ayam Saga Chickens

Mohammad, M.*, Jamaludin, F.I., Abu Bakar, N., Zakaria, S.H., and Hamidan, M.F.R.

Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI Headquarters, 43400 Serdang, Selangor

Malaysian J. Anim. Sci. 28(1): 149-159

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The Malaysian poultry industry relies heavily on imported feed ingredients such as corn and soybean to fulfil the nutritional requirements for imported chicken breeds, such as Cobb and Ross. To address this, the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) introduced Ayam Saga, a chicken breed suited to local feed ingredients, which is high in fibre. This study evaluated growth, nutrient digestibility, carcass quality and economics of Ayam Saga chickens fed with rice-milling byproducts with a palm kernel expeller (PKE) based diet. Fifty 7-week-old grower Ayam Saga were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments with 25 per group: i) corn-soybean-based diet and ii) rice-milling-byproducts-based diet with 5% palm kernel expeller (PKE), both formulated to be isocaloric (~12 MJ/kg) and isonitrogenous (~19% crude protein). The study was conducted for five weeks. Performance results indicated that chickens fed the ricemilling-byproducts and PKE-based diet had lower feed intake (FI) but achieved similar weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) as those on the corn-soy diet. Carcass analysis showed no significant differences in dressing percentage and thigh weight between the diets, although breast weight was significantly higher in the corn-soy group (P < 0.0001). A nutrient digestibility trial demonstrated that the rice-milling-byproducts and PKE-based diet had better apparent metabolizable energy (AME, 12.68 MJ/kg) and dry matter digestibility compared to the corn-soy diet (AME, 10.77 MJ/kg; P < 0.0001). These findings highlight the potential of rice-milling-byproducts and PKE as sustainable alternatives for local poultry production, without adverse effects on the performances. Further research is needed to refine the inclusion levels of these ingredients to maximize their benefits.

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