Sandip Banerjee

The objective was to evaluate feed intake, digestibility, body weight change and carcass characteristics of sheep fed a basal diet of hay supplemented with banana leaves and silver leaf desmodium. Thirty yearling lambs with an average initial body weight of 15.85 ± 1.6 kg were grouped into six blocks of five rams in each block. The treatments were: hay alone (T1), hay + 100% banana leaf (T2), hay + 67% banana leaf + 33% desmodium leaf (T3), hay + 33% banana leaf + 67% desmodium leaf (T4) and hay + 100% desmodium leaf (T5). Three hundred grams of treatment diets were offered daily on as fed basis. The feeding and digestibility trial lasted for 84 and 7 days, respectively, followed by carcass evaluation. The total dry matter (DM) intake for T3, T4 and T5 were greater (P<0.05) than those fed T1 and T2 diets. The lowest (P<0.05) organic matter (OM) intake was recorded in rams reared on T1 diet. The total crude protein (CP) intake was in the following order: T5 > T4 > T3 >...

... Titre du document / Document title. Correlations between some reproduction and production traits in Holstein Friesian X Sahiwal crossbred cows. Auteur(s) / Author(s). BANERJEE Sandip ;BANERJEE Some ; Revue / Journal Title. Indian veterinary journal ISSN 0019-6479 ...

... Titre du document / Document title. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MILK PRODUCTION TRAITS IN HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN X SAHIWAL CROSSBRED CATTLE. Auteur(s) / Author(s). BANERJEESandip ; Revue / Journal Title. Indian veterinary journal ISSN 0019-6479 Source / Source ...

Body weight at yearling stage and above may be correlated with the future production and reproduction potential of the cattle. This may act as an indicator for selecting animals early in their life even before they actually manifest these traits. Correlation between different traits help us in ...

Identifying the prevalence and major causing bacteria for mastitis are very important for further improvement of product and productivity of lactating cows. The objectives of this study were to assess and identify the prevalence and major causing bacteria species for existence of bovine mastitis in the study areas. The study was carried out in six districts namely Bedele, Didessa, Dega, Yayo, Mettu and Becho districts. A total of 474 households were participated in the study to carry out an interview and further examination of their cows. The summarized result of the study revealed that 92.9%, 4.4% and 2.7% of the interviewed households in Buno Bedele Zone and 81.1%, 15.7% and 3.2% of the respondents in Ilu Aba Bor Zone have been practicing extensive, semi-intensive and intensive rearing systems, respectively. In addition to this, an interviewed respondents living in Buno Bedele (88.9%) and Ilu Aba Bor (92.0%) Zones had ≤ 10 herd size whereas the remains had >10 herd size. The prevalence of mastitis ranges between 25.6% and 47.9%; the lowest obtained from Mettu district while the highest observed in Dega district. The Staphylococcus aureus was one of the major examined bacteria species from Bedele, Didessa, Dega,Yayo and Becho districts with isolation rate of 57.1%, 69.2%, 67.7%, 65.0% and 34.8% respectively, while Enterobacteriaceae and Micrococcus species were observed as a major causing bacteria in Mettu and Becho districts with isolation rate of 42.9% and 34.8%, respectively.

The study was conducted to morphologically characterize indigenous cattle breeds and to develop structural indices to assess type and function of indigenous cattle in Soro and Misha districts of Hadiya zone Southern Ethiopia. A total of 660 mature cattle (480 cows and 180 bulls) were selected for morphological description. Data was collection by using visual observation and linear measurements and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20), and compared at the significance level P<0.05. The result showed individual variation among cattle in both qualitative and quantitative traits. Most of the cattle in the study area have plain coat colour pattern, curved horn with upward orientation, small humped and straight facial head profile. The overall results of morphometrical measurements in Soro district had higher (P<0.05) values for their body weight and the chest girth for the bulls in age class 1 and 2PPI. However, body weight, chest girth, height at withers and height at rump were higher for Misha district when compared to those bulls at Soro district for age class 3 and 4PPI. For the cows within age group 1 and 2PPI reared at Soro district have higher (P<0.05) body weight, chest girth, height at withers, height at rump and rump length. The results of body indices of the bulls in Misha district were higher values (p<0.05) for body index for age class 1 and 2PPI and cephalic index and over increase index for age class 3 and 4PPI. While, body ratio was higher (p<0.05) for Misha district for age class 3 and 4 PPI. In contrast, body indices for cows in Soro district was higher (p<0.05) for height index, rump length index, body index, body weight index and body ratio, in contrasting cephalic index, body index, over increase index, body weight index, body ration and height slope were higher(P<0.01) for Misha district for age class 3 and 4PPI. The values for estimation of body weight using linear body measurements indicated that chest girth was best predictor body weight. In general, cattle linear body measurements in the current environmental condition were comparable with other indigenous breeds. Therefore, designing appropriate management and breed improvement programme with the participation of

The aim was to investigate genetic and non-genetic factors influencing fertility of rams. The fertility study encompassed 155 rams of different breed mated to 14,357 ewes over several years, seasons, locations and genotypes. Data were obtained from Amedguya Sheep Breeding and Multiplication center (ASBMC), Debre Birhan Sheep Breeding and Multiplication center (DBSBMC). The influences of genetic and non-genetic factors on fertility trait of the rams were analyzed using non-parametric tests. Animal model were used for the estimation of genetic parameters using WOMBAT®. The fertility rate of Awassi, Awassi x Menz, Menz and Dorper rams were 45.4, 53.4, 84.8 and 70.6% respectively. Fertility rate among the Menz rams was not influenced by season, contrary to the Awassi, Awassi x Menz and Dorper rams. Heritability estimates for fertility of Awassi, rams were 0.1. It can be concluded that, Awassi rams and Awassi x Menz crossbred had lower fertility across seasons and location studied. These indicated that further investigation would be needed to identify the cause of low fertility in Awassi breed.

The study was carried to characterize the Woyto-Guji goats reared in two districts (Nyangatom and Malle) of South Omo and also to assess the traits used to select the bucks and does traditionally. The respondents were selected using stepwise purposive followed by random sampling method. The collected data were analyzed using statistical procedures. The qualitative traits were evaluated using non parametric tests. The results indicated that the bucks and does are selected by the community members using traditional descriptors. The traits preferred for selection were those related with adaptation and disease tolerance. The bucks were selected for traits which correlated with their abilities to fend off predators while the does were selected for their mothering and nursing abilities. Coat colors were also considered as important attributes towards selecting the does and bucks, the preferred coat colors were those with white with patchy, red and red with patchy. The selection criteria of breeding doe's were more concerned on their maternal instincts and nursing abilities while body conformation and coat color were the traits preferred for selection of the bucks. Pastoral and agro pastoral preference of coat color patterns were white with patchy, red and red with patchy which were helpful for the goats of the area for the adaptation on the existing hot environment. Therefore, based on their adaptation traits, selection and breed improvement strategies should be developed for the existing environment.

The present study was conducted to estimate milk production performance and fit lactation curves
for groups of ewes of Local and of Awassi crosses, with a variable blood level, reared under farmer’s
environment. The Weigh-Suckle-Weigh method plus hand milking was used to estimate milk yield
for ewes. A total of 466 observations from 115 ewes were used. Estimated least-squares adjusted
means for the milk production over 120 days were 0.56 kg day−1 (Local), 0.67 (<30% Awassi),
0.86 (30–50% Awassi), and 0.96 (>50% Awassi). Groups with 30–50% Awassi and >50% Awassi
ewes produced significantly (p < 0.05) more milk than Local ewes. Significant differences were
observed between <30% Awassi and >50% Awassi crossbred groups. The best crosses (>50%
Awassi) produced over 70% more milk than the local ewes which demonstrates the potential
that exists in increasing milk production through the initiated crossbreeding programme with
sheep in Ethiopia.

Rearing of chicken plays important roles on both the rural and urban economy of Ethiopia. This study was conducted to assess urban poultry production system and productive performance of local and exotic chickens reared at Yirgalem and Hawassa towns of Southern Ethiopia. Stepwise purposive sampling method followed by random sampling was used to select the respondents. In total, 180 respondents were selected based on their experience in chicken production. The results of the study indicated that most of the respondents reared the chickens using backyard production system. Most of the respondents (77.8%) reared chicken using both free range and semi intensive management system. All the respondents provided supplementary feed, while majority of them provide water to their flock. The findings also showed only 38.3% of the respondents provided separate houses for their flock. The Major constraints in the study areas which affected the flock were diseases (Newcastle and coccidiosis), followed by adaptability especially for exotic chickens. It was concluded that the management system of chickens in the study areas were well, compared to rural management system; nonetheless it needs further work on their better health care, scientific nutrition and management. It was also observed that the contributions of the exotic chickens to the livelihood and food security of the rearers are significant.

Objective: This study was designed to assess the effects of partial substitution of roasted soybean seed with sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) leaf meal (SPLM) on growth performances and carcass components of broiler chickens. Methods: The experiment was a completely randomized design consisting of five dietary treatments replicated four times with ten chicks each. The control diet (treatment 1, T1) contained roasted soybean seed as the major protein source without SPLM and treatment diets containing SPLM at the levels of 30 g/kg (treatment 2, T2), 60 g/kg (treatment 3, T3), 90 g/kg (treatment 4, T4), and 120 g/kg (treatment 5, T5) by partially substituting the roasted soybean seed in the control diet. Results: The final body weight and total weight gain of the individual bird was (p<0.01) higher in chickens fed with T1 than those reared on T3, T3, T4, and T5 diets. The individual feed intake in chickens reared in T1 was (p<0.001) higher than those fed on other treatment diets. The feed conversion ratio (kg feed/kg gain) of chickens fed on T1 was (p<0.05) lower than those reared in T4 and T5 diets. Although not significant, chickens fed with T2 diet had numerically higher values of slaughter, dressed carcass and breast than those reared in T4 and T5 diets. Conclusion: The growth performance traits were similar between broiler chickens reared in the control and T2 diets. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in major commercial carcass components among treatment diets. Thus, partial substitution of roasted soybean seed by SPLM might be considered as viable option in smallholder poultry production practices taking into account the high cost of soybean seed.

The study was conducted to assess the traits
traditionally used to select the Bonga sheep reared in
Southern Ethiopia. The breed was included for improvement under the community based breeding program
(CBBP) launched in the year 2009. The results are based
on the data collected from the project between 2009 till
2012. The findings are based on focus group discussions
with the community elders who have been rearing the
Bonga sheep for more than 20 years. The present findings
are based on information obtained from 50% of the total
respondents who were involved in CBBP. The Bonga
sheep is a mutton type breed and the ewes are moderately
prolific. In the past this breed of sheep were bartered to
settle legal disputes and were traded against household
commodities.. However, over the years (and also after the
intervention of CBBP) the sheep have been selected for
their body weight as well as for their distribution in many
parts of Ethiopia The respondents selected the lambs at
both pre weaning and post weaning stages. Traditionally
the traits of rams are selected based on their body length,
canon circumference, broad face, enlarged thyroid, while
for the ewes, traits prolificacy, skin thickness and pelvic
width are determining characters. Fat tail and brown coat
color were preferred irrespective of the sexes in trait
selection. The ram lambs selected for breeding purpose are locally known as ‘‘Dookoo’’. These rams are selected
based on some predetermined phenotypic traits and are
initially selected at preweaning stage and further, again at
the post weaning stage. These rams are preferentially
cared and are provided with supplementary feed and
comfortable housing.

The study pertains to assessment of body weight of Boran bulls reared at two feedlots of Southern Ethiopia. Boran cattle are raised by the pastoralists under extensive management system and the region lacks even the basic restraining chutes and weighing balances. Thus, the study was conducted to predict the body weight of the bulls reared in two locations of Southern Ethiopia using linear body measurements of bulls aged 2 and 3 years of age and to predict the body weight at 3 and 4 years of age and 4 years of age respectively using linear and some curvefit regression equations. The study was conducted at two locations the first location was devoid of any wind breaks and was bitterly cold in the night which was uncomfortable for the bulls while the second location had well built infrastructures and hence was quite comfortable for the bulls. The results indicated that the morphometical traits and body weight varied across the two locations, indicating a significant genotype by environment interactions for the traits. The findings also indicated that the predictors for assessing the body weight varied according to the age and location. The rump length of the bulls reared at the first location and aged 2 years was significantly correlated with their body weight , while for the bulls aged 3 and 4 years respectively years and reared in the first location the traits significantly correlated with body weight were the heart girth and flank width respectively. While body depth and heart girth respectively were the traits which were significantly correlated with the body weight of the bulls aged 3 and 4 years respectively. The results also indicated that the height at withers and heart girth of the bulls aged 3 years and reared in the first and second locations were best predictors for assessing the body weight of the bulls aged 4 years and in the respective locations. The results also indicated that among the regression equations the accuracy was higher using quadratic regression equations among the bulls across all the age groups. However, the body weight of the bulls aged 3 years and reared at the second location was best assessed using exponential and power regression.

Menz sheep is the only coarse wool producing sheep in Ethiopia. The fleece of this sheep is generally used for producing local handicrafts. The fleece was collected from pedigreed Menz sheep reared at Debre Brhan Research center. Fleece samples were collected thrice during the study period following the standard protocols. The physical parameters of the fleece were staple length (SL), crimp/inch, numbers and diameters (μm) of different types of fibers (wooly, hetero and hairy). While, the chemical parameters were, percentages of ash, wool wax and vegetable matters (burr). The samples pertain to both the sexes and different age groups The staple length varied with the sexes and age of the sheep. The numbers of crimps per inch varied from 3.78 to 4.14. The percentage of true fiber varied from 37.0 to 40.7, while those of the hetero and hairy fibers varied between 35.0-3 and 25.83 to 28.29, respectively. The diameter of true, hetero and hairy type fibers (µm) varied between 24.98 and 26.58; 29.62 and 40.74; 61.68 and 89.38 respectively. The percentages of wool wax and scouring yield too varied due to sex and age, with values ranging between 7.93-10.91 and 62.56-68.05, respectively. High coefficients of variation between the traits indicate significant within breed variation and therefore a possibility of selection for fleece related traits.

The study was conducted to phenotypically characterize the Bengal (Desi) sheep in some purposively selected villages of Nadia and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal, India. The Bengal sheep is reared as mutton sheep and has not been studied or characterized. Qualitative (coat colour and tail type) and quantitative (height at withers, height at rump, chest circumference, paunch girth, oblique body length, head length, head width, ear length, horn length, shoulder width, ear width, pelvic width, canon length, length of the fore leg, length of the hind leg, fore canon circumference, neck circumference, neck length, body weight) traits were included in the study. Phenotypic traits indicated that the sheep is of a small, thin tailed type adapted to grazing in water logged areas and lowly to moderately prolific. The structural indices indicate that the sheep is forward aligned, robust and rectangular in shape; it is well balanced and adapted for humid climates. The wool is coarse and hairy type, used for making blankets and durries. The reproductive parameters indicate that the age at first service was 295 days for ewes and 252 days for rams while the age at first lambing averaged around 425 days. Conservation efforts and genetic characterization are needed to maintain the breed purity and further studies regarding the carcass and mutton quality traits need to be carried out Résumé L'étude a été menée dans le but de caractériser phénotypiquement les moutons du Bengale (Desi) dans certains villages sélectionnés intentionnellement dans les districts de Nadia et Murshidabad en Bengale Occidental, Inde. Les moutons du Bengale sont élevés pour sa viande et n'ont pas été étudiés ou caractérisés. Cette étude comprend aussi bien des paramètres qualitatifs (couleur de la robe et type de queue) que quantitatifs (hauteur au garrot, hauteur à la croupe, périmètre thoracique, tour du ventre, longueur latérale du corps, lon-gueur et largeur de la tête, longueur des oreilles, longueur des cornes, largeur des épaules, largeur des oreilles, largeur du bassin, lon-gueur des canons, longueur des pattes avant et arrière, tour des canons antérieurs, tour et longueur du cou, poids corporel). D'après les paramètres phénotypiques, il s'agit de moutons de petite taille à queue fine adaptés au pâturage dans des zones inondées et avec une prolificité moyenne – faible. Les indices structuraux révèlent que les moutons présentent un corps nivelé, dirigé vers l'avant, de constitution robuste et forme rectangulaire. Ce sont des animaux équilibrés et adaptés aux climats humides. La laine, grossière et avec des mèches, est utilisée pour la confection de couvertures et tapis. D'après les paramètres reproductifs, l'âge à la première saillie a été de 295 jours pour les brebis et de 252 jours pour les béliers alors qu'en moyenne l'âge à la première mise bas a été d'environ 425 jours. Les efforts de conservation et de caractérisation génétique s'avèrent nécessaires pour maintenir la pureté de la race. En outre, il faudra mener, dans le futur, des études d'évaluation de la qualité de la carcasse et de la viande. Mots-clés: moutons du Bengale, caractérisation morphométrique, indices structuraux, qualité de la laine, reproduction, Bengale Occidental, Inde Resumen El estudio fue llevado a cabo con el fin de caracterizar fenotípicamente el ganado ovino Bengala (Desi) en algunos pueblos seleccio-nados intencionadamente en los distritos de Nadia y Murshidabad en Bengala Occidental, India. El ganado ovino Bengala se cría por su carne y no ha sido estudiado o caracterizado. En este estudio se incluyeron parámetros cualitativos (color de la capa y tipo de cola) y cuantitativos (altura a la cruz, altura a la grupa, circunferencia torácica, contorno de la panza, longitud lateral del cuerpo, longitud y anchura de la cabeza, longitud de las orejas, longitud de los cuernos, anchura entre espaldas, anchura de las orejas, anchura de la pelvis, longitud de las cañas, longitud de las patas delanteras y traseras, circunferencia de las cañas delanteras, circunferencia y longitud del cuello, peso corporal). Los rasgos fenotípicos indicaron que se trata de ovejas de pequeño tamaño con cola fina adaptadas al pastoreo en áreas inundadas y con una prolificidad media-baja. Los índices estructurales muestran que las ovejas presentan un cuerpo nivelado dirigido hacia delante con constitución robusta y forma rectangular. Son animales equilibrados y adaptados a los climas húmedos. La lana, basta y con mechones, se utiliza para la confección de mantas y alfombras. De acuerdo con los parámetros reproductivos, la edad al primer servicio fue de 295 días para las ovejas y de 252 días para los carneros mientras que la edad media al primer parto rondó los 425 días. Los esfuerzos para la conservación y la caracterización genética son necesarios para mantener la pureza de la raza. Asimismo, son precisos futuros estudios que evalúen parámetros de calidad de la canal y de la carne.

The study pertains to some morphometical
characterization, production and
reproduction traits of Begait cattle reared at
two districts of Tigray region, Ethiopia.
Calves with high body weight and whose
dams who are good milk producers and
those heifers who grow well are selected by
farmers. According to farmers’ preference,
in bull selection muscularity is followed by
dams’ milk yield, while the cows are
selected for coat color and Sexual
dimorphism following Rensch rule was
observed between the traits studied, where
the bulls had higher values for most of the
morphometical traits including body weight.
The coat color of Begait cattle are usually
white spots on black background, however
other coat colors too were observed. Most of
the cattle are horned and the head is convex.
The bulls have a well developed perpetual
sheath and naval flap, while the hump is of
medium size. The age at first mating for the
steers and heifers were 38.1 and 40 months,
respectively; while the age at first calving
was assessed to be 50.8 months while the
calving interval was 18.4 months. The
production traits indicate that daily milk
yield was 2.49 liters, peak milk yield 3.21
liters, lactation length 5.39 months and
lactation milk yield 459 liters. The average
lifetime calf crop was 6.32 heads. There is a
sharp decline in the Begait cattle population
and to arrest the same a ranch has been
established for insitu conservation of the
breed

SUMMARY With the objective to assess effect of level of linseed inclusion in feeds on nutritive value, an in vitro OM digestibility (IVOMD), total short chain fatty acids (SCFA:mMol l-1), microbial crude protein (MCP:g kg-1 DM), metabolizable energy (MEruminants:MJ kg-1 DM) and relative feed values (RFV) of household wastes=HW (Areke-Atela=AA, carrot peels=CaP, cabbage leaf=Cle, cabbage leftover=Clef, onion leaf=OL, onion peels=OP, potato peels=PP, Tela-Atela=TA) supplemented with linseed (LS) containing concentrates=LSC1…LSC5 (39.32, 37.32, 35.32, 33.32, 31.32% noug cake + 58.99% wheat bran + 1.69% salt + 0, 2, 4, 6, 8% LS, as fed basis) were estimated via an in vitro gas trial. HWs were mixed with LSC (LSC-HW) at 3:1 ratio. Samples were incubated in-vitro with rumen fluid in duplicate and readings recorded at 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h of incubation. LSC-HW mixtures had higher CP, IVDMD, IVOMD, ME and SCFA, MCP and RFV than those of HWs alone. IVDMD and IVOMD of the LSC-HW improved with increasing LS levels, mostly at 2 and 4%LSC; but at higher concentrations they declined. AA, TA had high IVOMD. However, IVDMD of AA (with the lowest IVDMD) was much more influenced than TA (with highest IVDMD) by LS levels. Clef had lowest and AA and TA highest ME. SCFA increased over incubation periods and with increasing levels of LS, in Clef improvement (from 0.25 to 0.61 mMol l-1) was significant but in AA (from 0.69 to 0.72 mMol l-1) moderate. Mixing HWs with LSC gave best results at 2%LSC. RESUMEN Con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto del nivel de inclusión de linaza en los alimentos sobre el valor nutritivo, digestibilidad in vitro de la MO (DIVMO), ácidos grasos de cadena corta (AGCC: mmol l-1), proteína cruda microbiana (MCP: g kg-1 DM), energía metabolizable (EMrumiantes: MJ kg-1 MS) y los valores de alimentación relativos (RFV) de residuos domésticos = HW (Areke-Atela = AA, cáscaras de zanahoria = CaP, hoja de col = Cle, repollo sobrante = Clef, hoja de cebolla = OL, cáscaras de cebolla = OP, cáscaras de papa = PP, Tela-Atela = TA), complementado con concentrados conteniendo semillas de lino (LS) = LSC1 ... LSC5 (39.32, 37.32, 35.32, 33.32, 31.32% de torta noug + 58.99% salvado de trigo + 1.69% sal + 0, 2, 4, 6, 8% LS, base fresca) se estimaron a través de análisis producción de gas in vitro. HWs se mezclaron con LSC (LSC-HW) en proporción de 3:1. Las muestras se incubaron in vitro con fluido ruminal por duplicado y lecturas registradas a 0, 3,

Morphometric measurements are very important method used to evaluate and assess the characteristics of various breeds of animals. The study was conducted to assess the morphometric traits of Boer (B), Central highland (CH) and their F 1 crossbred (CB) goats reared at Ataye farm, Amhara region. Twenty morphometric measurements and live weight (LW) were assessed on both sexes of the three genotypes totaling to 125 goats to collaborate with the breeding objectives of Amhara Agriculture Research Institute, i.e developing meat type goats. The average values of the morphometric traits were compared between genotypes (sex and age). The results indicated that the paunch girth (PG), body length (BL), rump width (RW), ear lengths (ELR, ELL), head length (HDL), neck circumference (NC), canon circumference (CC), fore limb (FL) and LW were (p<0.05) higher among the B bucks aged 2 years. The measurements among the does of the same age indicated that the chest girth (CG) and chest depth (CD) were higher (p<0.05) for the CB and CH. However, the results indicated higher values for the morphometrical traits in B when compared to the CB and CH. Thus, it can be concluded that some of the morphometric traits of the CB goats were improved and exhibited meat type traits.

The study was conducted to assess the structural indices of Boer (B), Central Highland (CH) and
their F1 crossbreds (CB) goats reared at Ataye farm, Amhara region. Twenty morphometric
measurements and live weight (LW) were assessed on both sexes of the three genotypes totaling to
125 goats. Structural indices were calculated for the different genotypes to collaborate with the
breeding objectives of Amhara Agriculture Research Institute, i.e developing meat type goats. The
average values of structural indices were compared between genotypes (sex and age) while the
correlation between structural indices was studied. The results of the structural indices indicated
higher value for proportionality (IPr) among the CB, while weight 1 (W1), transverse pelvic index
(IPT), relative body index (RBI), dactyl thoracic index (DTI), body ratio (BR) and compact index
(CI) were higher for the B bucks. Among the does the values for IPr, Weight (2, 3, 4) were higher
(p<0.05) among the CB and CH while IPr were similar among the B and CB. However, most of the indices showed more or less similar variation among the three genotypes. The results of the correlation for structural indices were both positively and negatively correlated among some
indices. Thus, it can be concluded that the CB goats exhibit meat type traits.

A study was conducted on characterizing village chicken production system in Gantaafeshum district of Eastern Tigray, Ethiopia. Data were collected from a total 160 chicken owners by using semi-structured questionnaire. The most dominant chicken production system was a subsistence extensive system which is based on indigenous chickens with scavenging and supplementary feeding of home grown grains and household food refusals. The overall mean flock size per household was 11.6 of which 11.3 (97.4%) were local chicken. The average age of chickens at first egg was 6.8 months. The average egg production per clutch was 14.2 with a mean 3.68 clutches per year with a clutch length of 24.7days. The overall mean cock: hen ratio was 1:3.4. All respondents provided water and supplementary feed to their chicken. About 76.9% of the households share the same room with chicken, while only 23.1% of the households prepared a separate house for their chickens. In the study area, about 89.4% of the households select hens for brooding. It was concluded that efforts have to be made to shift the production paradigm to semi-intensive focusing on market oriented production based on scavenging with a holistic support of services such as health, housing, extension, credit and marketing to make it productive and sustainable.

The study was conducted to assess some morphometrical traits and calculate structural indices of Garole
rams and ewes reared at some selected villages of Joynagar, Mandirbazar and Mahishadal blocks of West Bengal
(India). The results of the study indicated that the Garole
sheep is reared under semi intensive condition sustaining
by grazing on unimproved and degraded pasture, inundated
lands or just besides the road sides. The results indicated
variation across the studied locations for most of the traits
studied, the variation was observed among both the rams
and ewes. The observations of the structural indices indicated that most of the traits varied (P\ 0.01 and
P\ 0.05), across the sex, age groups and studied locations,
the results also pointed out that if selected Garole has a
potential as a mutton breed. Therefore, immediate conservation and selection efforts need to be initiated to arrest
the genetic dilution of the breed. The results of the cluster
analysis indicated that the sheep from Mandirbazar and
Mahishadal blocks have similar morphometrical traits
which may be because the two locations are near to each
other separated by the river Hooghly.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of partial substitution of roasted
soybean seed (RSS) with sweet potato leaf meal (SPLM) on growth performances of broiler
chickens. Two hundred unsexed Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary
treatments consisting of a control diet (T1) and those containing SPLM at the levels of 30 g/kg
(T2), 60 g/kg (T3), 90 g/kg (T4) and 120 g/kg (T5) replacing the RSS of the control diet. Each
treatment diet was replicated four times with ten chicks each. The average feed intake of birds
was (P<0.05) higher in chickens reared in T1 than those of other treatments. The average
individual final body weight was higher (P<0.05) in chickens fed with T1 (1536g) than those of T2
(1412g), T4 (1426g) and T5 (1400g) diets. The average individual daily weight gain was higher
(P<0.05) in chickens fed with T1 (31.7g), than those of T2 (28.7g), T4 (28.9g) and T5 (28.5g). The
daily gain did not vary between T1 and T3 (30.3g). Chickens fed with T3 and T4 diets had
(P<0.05) higher CP retention than those of T1 diet. In conclusion, chickens fed with T1 and T3
diets had better body weight and gain compared to other treatment diets. The feed intake decreased with increasing levels of SPLM suggesting the substitution of roasted soybean with higher levels may not be beneficial for broiler chickens.

The most constraining factor in goat production in the tropics is underfeeding mainly attributed to limitations of feed both in quantity and quality. This study was conducted to assess the effect of supplementing different levels of air-dried Moringa stenopetala leaf
(MSL) as a protein source on nutrient intake and growth performances of Arsi-Bale male goats. A total of 24 yearling goats with average initial body weight of 13.6 ± 0.25 kg were
used in the study. The goats were blocked by live weight into four groups (n = 6 per group)
and the groups were then randomly allocated into four supplemented treatments. All goats received a basal diet of natural grass hay ad libitum and 340 g/head/day concentrate.
The treatments were the control diet with no supplementation (Treatment 1, T1) and diets
supplemented with MSL at a rate of 120 g/head/day (Treatment 2, T2), 170 g/head/day (Treatment 3, T3) and 220 g/head/day (Treatment 4, T4). The duration of the experiment was 75 days. The results indicated that the average daily feed intake was (p < 0.001) higher
in goats supplemented with T3 and T4 diets. The total dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein intakes of goats fed with T3 and T4 supplementations were (p < 0.001) also higher
than those reared in T1 and T2 diets. Goats reared in T3 and T4 diets had lower (p < 0.05)
feed conversion ratio than those fed with T1 and T2 diets. The final body weight in goats reared in T3 and T4 diets was 18.2 kg and 18.5 kg, respectively, being (p < 0.05) higher than those of T1 (15.8 kg) and T2 (16.3 kg). The average daily weight gain in goats fed with T3 and T4 diets was 111 and 114 g/goat/day, respectively, which was (p < 0.05) higher than
those reared in the control (T1) (54.0 g/goat/day) and T2 (58.1 g/goat/day) diets. It can thus
be concluded that goats reared at high level of MSL supplementation (T3 and T4) had better
nutrient intake, feed conversion efficiency and growth performances, suggesting its potential as a good protein supplement to natural grass hay at the farmer’s management level.

The study was carried out to investigate the effect of supplementation of Millitia ferruginea leaf meal on intake, growth performance and carcass characteristics in intact Arsi Bale bucks fed a basal diet of grass hay. Twenty yearling male bucks with an initial body weight of 10.28 ± 0.96 kg (mean ± SE) were assigned to treatments using a completely randomized block design with four treatments i.e.T1 = 0% MLM + wheat bran+ maize and hay adlib,T2=2% MLM + wheat bran+ maize and hay adlib,T3=4% MLM wheat bran+ maize and hay adlib and T4=6% MLM + wheat bran maize and hay adlib One
hundred gram concentrate mixture supplement was given twice a day in equal portions. The results indicated that there were no significant differences on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency among the bucks receiving different treatments. The results pertaining to the carcass traits
indicated differences ( in percentage terms) in un eviscerated carcass weight and dressing percentage with values higher among the bucks reared on T3 ration the weight of the empty gastrointestinal tract was also different between treatments with higher values observed in the bucks reared on T4 diet.

A study was conducted to assess the intake, growth, carcass and meat quality parameters of Arsi Bale bucks reared on different levels of Moringa stenopetala leaf meal (MSLM).
The bucks were divided into four treatments based on their initial body weight. The rate of
supplements offered was calculated @ 2.5% of the body weight on dry matter basis, MSLM was provided @0 (T1), 35 (T2), 50 (T3) and 65% (T4) of the offered supplement. Hay and
water was provided at lib. The amount of hay offered was so calculated that at the end of
the day there was atleast 15% refusal. The results indicate that the crude protein intake dray matter intake (DMI) organic matter intake (OMI), NDF=neutral detergent fiber
intake (NDFI) and acid detergent fiber intake (ADFI) increased with the inclusion levels of
MSLM with no significant difference between the bucks reared on T3 and T4 diets and those reared on T1 and T2 diets, however significant difference was observed between the
two groups (T1; T2 and T3, T4). The body weight gain was observed to be higher among
the bucks reared in T4 diet. The average daily weight gain, final body weight and total weight gain too showed similar pattern i.e the bucks receiving T3 and T4 diets had higher values for the parameters. The carcass traits indicated that the bucks receiving T3 and T4 diets had higher values for all the slaughter cuts (neck, thorax, rack and lumber) besides the dressing percentages and rib eye area besides the weights of the stomach, kidney and the large intestines, The meat quality parameters too indicated that the values for protein and ether extract too was higher among the bucks reared on T3 and T4 diets when compared to the other two treatments. Hence, it can be concluded that Moringa stenopetala leaf meal if affordable has a beneficial effect on weight gain, carcass traits
and important meat quality parameters of bucks

The study was conducted to phenotypically characterize the Bengal (Desi) sheep in some purposively selected villages of Nadia and
Murshidabad districts of West Bengal, India. The Bengal sheep is reared as mutton sheep and has not been studied or characterized.
Qualitative (coat colour and tail type) and quantitative (height at withers, height at rump, chest circumference, paunch girth, oblique
body length, head length, head width, ear length, horn length, shoulder width, ear width, pelvic width, canon length, length of the fore
leg, length of the hind leg, fore canon circumference, neck circumference, neck length, body weight) traits were included in the study.
Phenotypic traits indicated that the sheep is of a small, thin tailed type adapted to grazing in water logged areas and lowly to moderately
prolific. The structural indices indicate that the sheep is forward aligned, robust and rectangular in shape; it is well balanced and adapted
for humid climates. The wool is coarse and hairy type, used for making blankets and durries. The reproductive parameters indicate that
the age at first service was 295 days for ewes and 252 days for rams while the age at first lambing averaged around 425 days.
Conservation efforts and genetic characterization are needed to maintain the breed purity and further studies regarding the carcass
and mutton quality traits need to be carried out

The present study was conducted to study the marketing of animals (cattle, goat and sheep) and meat (beef,
chevon and mutton) at vicinity of Hawassa city, Southern, Ethiopian. The marketing price of cattle, goat and
sheep (livestock) was collected from observations at three different livestock markets places and the data from
price of meat was collected from individual restaurants, butchers and hotels. The results indicated that the price
of the livestock fluctuated between seasons and also depended on the various attributes such as coat color, sex,
age, body condition, holiday etc. The price of the livestock were significantly higher just prior to the festivals
and also during the holiday season. The study also indicated that the price of the roasted chevon and beef are
higher than the raw ones this may also be attributed to the cost involved in the roasting process and the profit
made by the restaurant owners themselves.

The study was conducted to study the consumption pattern of meat consumed (cattle, sheep and goat) at
Hawassa city, Southern Ethiopia. Multistage random sampling procedure was used in the study area.
Accordingly, a total of 697 households were selected. The collected data was analyzed by using descriptive
statistics. Majority (95.1%) of the respondents consumed meat, the results also indicated that most of them
consume meat once a month (26.8%) followed by consumption at a weekly basis (25.1%). Among the meat
being consumed, beef was the most popular one and was mostly consumed on a weekly basis (23.7%) this was
followed by chevon and mutton, which was mostly consumed once a month (13.9 % ,11.8%) respectively) by
the respondents. The reason for preference of beef may be multifold with the higher availability (numbers of
butcheries/ restaurants sold beef) and lower price of beef when compared to the other two meat types. The other
reason preferred beef over mutton and chevon could be the culinary preference was towards beef related dishes
which have led to higher consumption at home and eateries. The results showed that consumption of meat was
highest during the festivals and holidays (89.1%), followed by times of social obligations (79.2%). Most of the
respondents obtained meat through purchasing from butchers (92.7%) or, through sharing of slaughtered
animals between friends/relatives (34.3%), by slaughtering un fattened animals, purchased directly from the
market(individually(23.2%). It was concluded that in the study area, consumption status of meat was very low,
only 3.2%, 5.6% and 25% of households were consumed meat (either beef or chevon or mutton) every day,
twice/weekly, weekly respectively. Therefore, any development and improvement strategies of livestock
production should be introduced so as to secure meat requirement of the community in the study area, Ethiopia.

The study was conducted to study meat quality of beef, chevon and mutton consumed at Hawassa city
in Southern Ethiopia. Purposive sampling technique was used to collect information from butcheries.
From each sub cities, 15 butcheries were selected randomly for the purpose thus, a total of 45 sample
butchers were used. From longissimus dorsi muscle, sample of beef, chevon and mutton were taken
and analyzed for the study. The average pH value of beef, chevon and mutton was 5.6, 5.8 and 5.5,
respectively. The average water holding capacity (WHC) was 23, 29 and 32%, respectively, for beef,
chevon and mutton. The average cook loss of beef, chevon and mutton was 33.8, 32.5 and 29.9%,
respectively. Protein content of raw, boiled and roasted beef was 16.1, 23 and 31.2% DM, respectively,
while the average fat of raw, boiled and roasted beef were 5.4, 7.2 and 10% DM, respectively. Ash
content of 1.2, 1.8 and 2.7% DM was found for raw, roasted and cooked beef, respectively and the
average moisture of raw, boiled and roasted beef was reported as 72.7, 63.2 and 51.8%, respectively.
The average value of raw, boiled and roasted protein and fat chevon was 20, 29.8, 34; 5.3, 8 and 11.4%,
respectively. On the other hand, ash content was 0.9, 2 and 3. 6% DM; moisture 74.2, 60.6 and 48.2%;
were found for raw, roasted and cooked chevon, respectively. For raw, roasted and cooked mutton,
protein content of 19, 28.2 and 32% DM; fat 6.4, 8.1 and 11.6% DM; ash 1.1, 2.7 and 3.7% DM and
moisture 72.7, 59.4 and 44.8%, respectively, were found. The results indicate that the moisture, ash,
protein, fat, cooking loss and water holding capacity of the beef, chevon and mutton were almost in
comparable with the results reported by various researchers in Africa.

The objective of this study was to characterize the native chickens reared in three agro-ecological zones of Southeastern Oromia
Regional State of Ethiopia. Data on visual appraisal and linear body measurements were obtained from a total of 600 matured local
chickens of both sexes drawn from 240 households. The results indicated that the averageflock size, age atfirst egg of hens and
eggs produced per clutch were 11.9 heads, 6.2 months and 15.4 eggs, respectively. The majority of the male chicken possessed
snake head shape (60.7 percent) and most of them had rose combs (57.9 percent), red feather plumage (46.1 percent), yellow shanks
(86.3 percent), red earlobes (84.2 percent) and yellow skin (56.8 percent). Majority of the hens possessed single combs (43.5 percent),
red earlobes (77.3 percent), yellow shanks (44.4 percent), yellowish brown feather (27.4 percent) followed by red (24.2 percent) and
black (21.2 percent). The cocks were generally heavier (1.39 kg) than the hens (1.22 kg). The average values for breast angle (degrees),
body length, body width, shank length, shank circumference, keel bone length, wing span, comb length and beak length of the cocks
were 45.9, 24.1, 24.9, 7.43, 3.86, 9.63, 7.99, 4.86 and 1.91 cm, respectively. The corresponding values for the hens were 40.2, 22.7,
23.8, 7.43, 3.46, 8.95, 7.40, 2.47 and 1.71. The values for wing span, comb length, beak length, body weight, breast angle and keel
bone length differed (P< 0.05) across the agro-ecologies. The best predictor for assessing the body weight of hens was breast angle and
body length, whereas in the cocks it was best estimated using breast angle and shank circumference values. The present study suggests
that indigenous chickens in the study area possess useful economic traits that could be improved through systematic breeding for
enhanced productivity under scavenging production systems.

The use of ethno veterinary medicine as prac-ticed among the residents of Arbe Gona and Loka Abaya
woredas has been discussed. The study was conducted using
semi structured questioner, focus group discussion and
personal interviews. The respondents were identified by
stepwise purposive sampling procedures. The study indi-cates that ethno veterinary medicine has been practiced
among the agrarian community in the region since time
immemorial. The results indicate that the practice is mostly
a family affair with the knowledge transferred from the
elders to the youngsters within a family. Thirty seven dif-ferent types of medicinal herbs/plants used in ethno veter-inary drug preparation were identified, the most commonly
used plant part was the leaf followed by other plant parts
viz. xylem, roots, barks etc. Mostly the drugs were used
through oral route. Though topical application, fumigation
and intravenous route of administration of the drugs too are
on record. Twenty two commonly occurring diseases were
identified by the respondents and their treatments too have
been discussed. Use of different parts of several plants in
unison is the common practice. The results also indicated
that the medicinal plants are mostly collected from the wild
and are under threat due to both ecological and anthropo-genic factors and hence need conservation. The study also
revealed that the millennia old practice is under threat due
to lack of enthusiasm from the younger generations to take
up the baton from the elder generation