Theses and Dissertations

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Open Access
Chemical and tannin composition of browsable species used as ruminant feed supplements in the Vhembe District of South Africa
(2013-02-25) Mahlako, Kgabo Tryphina; Baloyi, J. J.; Benyi, K.;
Open Access
Chemical composition, rumen degradability and post ruminal digestibility of selected soya bean (Glycine Max) cultivars harvested at different growth stages
(2020-08-11) Mukosi, Rendani; Baloyi. J. J.; Fushai, F.
Soya bean (Glycine max) is a legume that is mostly cultivated for food grain which can be used as high-protein forage for grazing, haying or ensiling. The use of forage soya bean by small holder farmers is currently very limited. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nutritive value of three trifoliate forage Soya bean cultivars (Locally denoted as 4-LF, PAN, and TGX). The study was carried out at the University of Venda where the soya beans were planted in 63 25L pots (21 pots for each cultivar) which were randomly placed on the floor of an open, wire-net protected house. Forage harvested at three growth stages (pre-anthesis, anthesis and postanthesis). Samples of the forage were analyzed for dry matter (DM), ash, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) micro and macro minerals. Ruminal DM and CP degradability were evaluated in situ by incubation of samples within nylon bags (external dimension: 6 × 12 cm, pore size of 46 μm) in the rumen of three Bonsmara steers for 0, 6, 12, 16, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours. Estimates of rapidly degradable fraction “a”, slowly degradable fraction “b”, constant outflow rate ‘c’ and the DM or CP degradability (p) at time (t) were estimated by fitting the degradability data into the exponential equation P = a + b (1 - e-ct) using the NEWAY computer programme. Parameters were subjected to ANOVA for a 3 X 3 factorial treatment arrangement using the General Linear Model procedures of MINITAB software (version 17 of 2014). Effective degradability ED) was estimated asED = a + bc at fractional outflow rates of k= (k +c) 2%, 5% and 8%. In vitro enzymatic DM and CP digestibility of rumen undegradable residues collected after 24 and 48-hour incubation was determined by simulating sequential gastro-small intestinal digestion. Cultivar PAN harvested post anthesis had significantly higher (p< 0.05) CP than other cultivars. The CP content increased with growth stage. Cultivar 4LF harvested preanthesis had significantly highest (p< 0.05) NDF. The cultivar had no significant effect (p> 0.05) on DM, ash, CP, NDF, ADF and minerals. Cultivar PAN harvested pre-anthesis had significantly highest (p< 0.05) Mg. The harvest stage significantly affected (p< 0.05) mineral content other than (p> 0.05) Zn and Cu. Cultivar TGX harvested pre-anthesis had significantly highest (p< 0.05) effective degradability of dry matter at k=0.08. Fraction ‘c’ and ED at k= 0.08 were lower (p> 0.05) in cultivar * growth stage interaction in dry matter degradability. Fraction ‘a’ for CP was highest (p< 0.05) for cultivar TGX harvested post-anthesis. Fraction ‘c’ was lower (p> 0.05) for cultivar 4LF harvested at anthesis stage. There was a significant effect (p< 0.05) on crude protein soluble fraction ‘c’ and effective degradability k=0.08 in cultivar and growth stage interaction. There was no significant interaction (p> 0.05) of the cultivar X growth stage on crude protein degradability at 48 hours, IVCPD at 24 and 48 hours with significant effect on crude protein degradation at 24 hours caused by cultivar TGX at pre-anthesis growth stage. In conclusion, growth stage increases the chemical composition of soya bean but does not affect digestibility.
Open Access
Chemical composition, ruminal degradability and in vitro digestibility of dry matter and crude protein of dichrostachys cinerea and bauhinia thonningii leaves.
(2018-05-18) Mahwasane, Mulalo Birgit; Baloyi, J. J.; Fushai, F.; Mahlako, K. T.
Forage and browse legumes play an important role in sustaining livestock in small holder farming systems in the tropics, mainly as a result of their contribution to economic and environmental sustainability of livestock production. The study was conducted to determine the chemical composition, ruminal degradability and in vitro digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) of Dichrostachys cinerea and Bauhinia thonningii leaves. The browse tree leaves were harvested in the wild in Shayandima, Limpopo province. The leaves were collected, oven-dried, milled to pass through a 1.0 mm sieve and analysed for chemical composition in the Animal Science Nutrition Laboratory, at the University of Venda. The browse tree leaves were analysed for DM nitrogen, neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF). Approximately 5 g of leaf sample milled to pass through through a 1 mm sieve were placed in nylon bags (external dimension: 6 × 12 cm, pore size of 41 μm) and incubated in duplicates for 0, 4, 8, 16, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours periods in the rumen of three cannulated Bonsmara steers. The residues were then analysed for DM and nitrogen. Parameters to describe the dynamics of ruminal degradability of DM and CP were obtained by fitting the data on the exponential equation P = a + b (1 - e-ct) using NEWAY computer program, where “a” is the rapid degradable fraction, “b” is the slow degradable fraction and “c” is the outflow rate. The in vitro DM and CP degradability of rumen undegradable residue collected after 24 and 48 hour incubation was determined by sequential in vitro digestion in pepsin (abomasal) and pancreatin (small intestine) solutions. DM and CP content differed significantly (P ˂ 0.05). D. cinerea leaves had higher levels of DM and CP content than B. thonningii leaves. DM and CP disappearance increased (P < 0.01) as the incubation period increased. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in soluble fraction ‘a’ and ‘b’ of DM of the two species. The CP components for both fraction ‘a’ and ‘b’ differed significantly (P < 0.01) for CP among the two species. There was significant difference (P < 0.01) in post-ruminal digestibility among the two species. CP digestibility of B. thonningii and D. cinerea leaves was reduced (P < 0.01). In conclusion, B. thonningii and D. cinerea leaves showed significant difference based on their fermentation kinetics and in vitro digestibility, suggesting a good nutritional quality which can be used as protein source for ruminants in dry season and supplement to low-quality diets.
Open Access
Chemical composition, ruminal degradability and in-vitro post ruminal digestibility of ficus polita and ficus benjamina leaves
(2021-06-23) Mufamadi, Thakhani; Fushai, F.; Mikasi, M. S.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the chemical composition, rumen degradability and in-vitro ileal digestibility of dry matter (DM) and nitrogen (N) in Ficus polita and Ficus benjamina leaves for optimum utilisation as supplementary protein sources for ruminant livestock. Leaves from Ficus polita and Ficus benjamina were harvested in late summer and in winter from one site within Tshakhuma, Limpopo province, South Africa. Five trees from each species were selected as they randomly occurred along an approximately linear transect of 1 km extending from west to east direction. The leaves were air-dried, milled through a 1 mm screen and analyzed for dry matter (DM), ash, N, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent insoluble Nitrogen (ADIN). The DM and N degradability were estimated using approximately 5 g leaf samples which were milled through a 1 mm screen and incubated in duplicate in nylon bags (external dimension: 6 × 12 cm, pore size of 46 μm) inside the rumen of three cannulated Bonsmara steers for 0, 4, 8,16, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hour periods. Parameters to describe the dynamics of ruminal degradability of DM and CP were obtained by fitting the data on the exponential equation P = a + b (1 - e-ct) using the NEWAY computer program, where “p” is the DM and CP disappearance at time t, (potential degradation), “a” is the rapidly degradable fraction, “b” is the slowly degradable fraction, “c” is the degradability rate of the “b” fraction and “t” is the degradation time. Post-ruminal in vitro DM and CP digestibility of the rumen undegradable residues were determined by the pepsin-pancreatin (gastric-small intestinal) digestion procedure. Data was subjected to analysis of variance in a 2 (season) x 2 (species) factorial treatment layout. Interaction between the season and species was significant (P<0.01) for Ash, CP, ADF, ADL with the ADF and ADL significantly higher (P<0.01) in winter compared to harvested F. polita leaves. For DM, there was a significantly difference for “b” and for the ED at all outflow rates (P<0.01) in both species, and for “a+b” (P<0.05). The insoluble degradable DM fraction ‘b’ were higher in F. polita than in F. benjamina in both dry and wet seasons. The CP disappearance components ‘a’ and ‘b’ differed significantly (P < 0.01) among the two species. Ficus polita leaves had significantly higher CP digestibility at 24-hr and 48-hr than F. benjamina leaves at 24- and 48-h of rumen incubation in both harvest seasons. It can be concluded that species and season affected the chemical composition, in-situ degradability of DM and CP, and in vitro post ruminal digestibility of the Ficus browse species, with the degradable DM and CP for both species adequate to serve as protein supplements to low-quality ruminant feeds.
Open Access
Comparative evaluation of different extenders of bull semen stored under different conditions
(2015-07-16) Raseona, Andrea Motswetla; Barry, D. M.; Nedambale, T. L.
Preservation of semen is an important process to ensure that semen quality is sufficient for use in assisted reproductive technologies. This study evaluated the effectiveness of three different extenders to preserve bull semen stored under different conditions, as an alternative to frozen-thawed semen straws used for artificial insemination. Semen samples were collected from two Nguni bulls using an electro-ejaculator and transported to the laboratory at 37 °C for evaluation. Pooled semen was first aliquoted into three extenders namely Triladyl, Ham’s F10 and M199 at a dilution ratio of 1:4 (semen:extender), and then stored at controlled room temperature 24 °C. Secondly pooled semen was aliquoted into four groups of Ham’s F10 extender and diluted at a ratio of 1:4, then stored at 24 °C, 17 °C, 12 °C and 5 °C respectively. Sperm motility rates were analysed after 0, 24, 48 and 72 hours. Morphology, viability and sperm DNA fragmentation were analysed after 72 hours. The study was replicated four times and data was analysed by ANOVA. Triladyl had higher sperm viability rate and total motility rate for 72 hours (P<0.01). However, Ham’s F10 had higher progressive motility rate as compared to the other extenders. There was no significant difference (P<0.01), in the viability rate between Ham’s F10 and M199. No significant difference was also observed in total sperm abnormalities (absent tails, coiled tails and bent tails), except for reacted acrosomes (P>0.05), between the two Nguni bulls. Lower temperatures than 24 °C influenced sperm motility and viability in Ham’s F10. There was no significant difference in sperm DNA fragmentation rates (P<0.01), between all the four storage temperatures which indicated that temperature did not have an influence on sperm DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, bull semen can be preserved in Triladyl or Ham’s F10 and M199 culture media stored at 24 °C and stay alive for 72 hours. Triladyl proved to be the best suitable extender showing higher sperm viability and total motility rates as compared to Ham’s F10 and M199. Lower temperatures than 24 °C noticeably decreased sperm motility and viability in Ham’s F10 culture medium.
Open Access
Comparison of progestone, PGF2A & NOVEL NC SYNCH GnRH based synchronization protocols in boer and indigenous goats of South Africa
(2016-02-10) Dara, Onayi Brighton; Barry, D. M.; Baloyi, J. J.; Dondofema, Farai
Open Access
Comparison of two different media and assisted hatching techniques on the embryo hatching rate using the mouse as a model
(2017-05-18) Negota, Nkhumeleni Cathbert; Barry, D. M.; Nedambale. T. L.
The use of in vitro culture media and assisted hatching techniques remain a challenging obstacle to hatching of blastocyst-stage embryos. Mechanical, chemical, enzymatic thinning and laser assisted techniques have been used previously, but there is still a lack of information on its application and implication in livestock. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two in vitro culture media ((Ham’s F10 and Tissue Culture Medium 199 (TCM-199)) and four assisted hatching techniques (mechanical, chemical, enzymatic and laser) on blastocyst formation and hatching rate using murine embryos as a model. The C57BL/6 and BALB/c mouse breeds were bred and raised until they reach maturity and then bred naturally to produce a hybrid F1 generation. The light in the breeder house was controlled at 14 hours light and 10 hours darkness. Feed and water were provided ad libitum for the mice. Mature female mice were super-ovulated using equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). A total of 400 blastocysts were collected from the F1 generation and these were allocated equally for the four assisted hatching techniques (laser, mechanical, chemical and enzymatic) as well as a non-treated control group. The blastocysts were paired into a group of 10 and replicated 4-four times for each assisted hatching techniques and control group. The embryos were then cultured for 24 hours and the hatching of the embryos were observed. Hatched embryos were stained for blastomere counting. The general linear model (GLM) of statistical analysis software (SAS) version 9.4 was used to analyze the data. Assisted hatching techniques (laser, mechanical, enzymatic and chemical) yielded 46.86±37.12; 51.07±40.19; 39.05±35.83 and 33.32±37.50% of hatching, respectively under in vitro culture in Ham’s F10. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) observed between assisted hatching techniques using Ham’s F10 as culture medium. In the TCM-199, laser, mechanical, enzymatic and chemical assisted hatching techniques yielded 56.25±43.30; 52.55±35.50; 49.16±37.50 and 33.85±35.50%, respectively, with significant differences (p<0.05). However, the hatching rate of embryos for all techniques was higher when in vitro cultured in TCM-199 compared to those cultured in Ham’s F10, and statistically higher than the control group. In conclusion, laser assisted hatching technique is the best of the techniques to use to assist the hatching of murine embryos and TCM-199 is the best of the two in vitro culture media for the hatching percentage.
Open Access
Effect of Avocado (Persea americana Mill) oil inclusion in the Tris-based extender on the quality of Boer goat semen stored at different temperatures
(2023-10-05) Moholola, Khomotso Cathrine; Mikasi, M. S.; Raseona, A. M.; Netshipale, A. J.
Semen extenders are chemical mediums used for preserving, and protecting spermatozoa against different shocks while processing, storing and transportation for use in artificial insemination (Raheja et al., 2018). There are challenges with the preservation of goat semen for Artificial Insemination (AI). Spermatozoa with poor viability were observed when goat semen was extended with egg yolk and skimmed milk because of the seminal plasma secreted by the bulbourethral gland (Cabrera et al., 2005). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Avocado oil on Boer goats semen quality parameters during liquid storage (5˚C,17 ˚C and 24˚C). Semen samples collected from four matured Boer goats were pooled and Tris-egg yolk extenders were supplemented with Avocado oil at 0, 1, 2 and 3%. The samples were then stored at 5˚C,17 ˚C, 24˚C and several sperm parameters (motility, viability, morphology, and DNA fragmentation) were assessed at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h intervals. Results showed that the supplementation of Tris egg yolk with 1%, 2% and 3% Avocado oil improved total motility, progressive motility, morphology, and viability when stored at 5˚C for up to 72 hours and when stored at 17˚C for 24 hours. However, non-fragmented DNA improved when 3% of Avocado oil was added to the Tris egg yolk when kept at 5˚C from 24 hours. Therefore, it was concluded that the Boer goat spermatozoa quality could be preserved for 72 hours at 5˚C when adding 2% and 3% of Avocado oil to the Tris egg yolk extender. Semen with inclusions of Avocado oil in Tris-egg yolk can preserve Boer goat semen for 24 hours or less when stored at 17°C.
Open Access
Effect of bioxcell and triladyl extenders and removal of seminal plasma of equilibrated and cryopreserved goat semen
(2017-05-18) Nethenzheni, Livhuwani Pertunia; Barry, D. M.; Nedambale, T. L.
The objectives of the study were to evaluate the effect of two extenders (Triladyl® and Bioxcell®) and the removal of seminal plasma on goat buck semen. Six ejaculates were collected from six indigenous bucks by means of electro-ejaculator method, and semen was pooled, and replicated 10 times. Raw semen were randomly allocated into six groups as follows: (i) Raw non-washed, (ii) Raw washed, (iii) Triladyl®-washed, (iv) Triladyl®-non-washed, (v) Bioxcell®-washed and (vi) Bioxcell®-non-washed. All six groups were analysed for spermatozoa motility rates using computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA). The spermatozoa viability for all groups were assessed using Eosin-Nigrosin, acrosome integrity using Spermac, chromatin structure using Acridine Orange, and mitochondria using JC-1 staining solutions. Both the Triladyl® and Bioxcell® washed semen groups were diluted (1:4) with Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) then centrifuged at 1500 x g for ten min and seminal plasma was aspirated using 1 mL sterile plastic pipette. Semen samples were diluted (1:4) as follows: Triladyl® (washed and non-washed) or Bioxcell® (washed and non-washed) and then equilibrated at 5 ºC for 2 hours. Following equilibration, semen parameters were analysed. Thereafter, the semen samples were loaded into straws and placed 5 cm above a liquid nitrogen vapour for 10 min, and then stored at -196 ºC until use. Following one month of storage, frozen semen straws per treatment group were thawed at 37 ºC for 30 seconds, then semen parameters were analysed again. Significant differences among the mean values of semen parameters were determined by Tukey’s test using ANOVA, GLM procedure of SAS version 12.1 of 2010. Total Spermatozoa motility rate of Bioxcell® (92.5±4.6), (68.2±13.5) and Triladyl® (94.9±5.5), (63.1±15.1) were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) following equilibration and freeze-thawing process, respectively on washed semen groups. Live and normal spermatozoa percentages were drastically reduced in Bioxcell® (5.2±4.9) and Triladyl® (6.9±8.6) washed semen groups, following freeze-thawing. There was a significantly lower number of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial membrane potential in non-washed semen extended with Triladyl® (68.7±26.8) compared to non-washed semen extended with Bioxcell® (49.8±20.1) following the freeze-thawing process. In conclusion, the freezing-thawing process did reduce the indigenous buck semen parameters irrespective of removal or non-removal of seminal plasma. However, Bioxcell® extender was found to be more suitable for preserving spermatozoa during equilibration and freezing/thawing process of buck semen.
Open Access
Effect of different culture media and incubation methods on culturing murine embryos in vitro using a semen straw as an alternative receptacle
(2016-05) Madzhie, Lufuno Rosheen; Barry, D. M.; Nedambale, T. L.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Effect of different disaccharides as energy supplements in tris-egg yolk semen extender on the quality of cryopreserved boer goat spermatozoa
(2018-09-21) Rammutla, Tsaka Lyzer; Nedambale, T. L.; Fushai, F.; Bhebhe, E.
The quality of cryopreserved Boer goat semen may be influenced by the source and concentration of energy supplements in the extender. The aim of the study was to improve the protocols for cryopreservation of Boer goat spermatozoa using different disaccharides concentrations as supplements in tris- egg yolk extender. Two experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of (a) addition of three disaccharides (maltose, sucrose and trehalose) and (b) disaccharides combination (maltose and trehalose) at different concentrations using tris-egg yolk extender. For experiment 1: the study was replicated six times and was conducted in a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement with three different sugars (sugars: maltose, sucrose and trehalose), two sugar concentrations (0.12g and 0.22g) and two evaluation times (0 hours before cryopreservation and 120 hours after cryopreservation). For experiment 2: the study was replicated six times and was conducted in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement with two sugar concentrations (0.12g and 0.22g) and two evaluation times (0 hours before cryopreservation and 120 hours after cryopreservation). Semen ejaculates were collected at 7.00-9.00 am from three Boer goats twice per week. After collection, the semen samples were pooled and diluted with tris-egg yolk extender at the ratio of 1:7 (semen to extender). Sperm quality (progressive motility, non- progressive motility, kinetic motions, viability (live/dead) and morphology) were analyzed using computer aided sperm analyzer (CASA). For experiment 1: sucrose 0.12g had higher progressive motility (PM %) when compared to maltose, and trehalose at 0h but reduced after cryopreservation. Sucrose 0.12 showed high percentage of kinetic motions (straightness and average path velocity) when compared to other sugars at 0 hours. More morphological defects M (CH) were revealed by maltose 0.12 at 0 hours. Sugar type (ST) and evaluation time (ET) showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in progressive motility (PM %), sperm kinetic motion, sperm viability and morphology. For experiment 2: mixed/combined 0.12g (maltose and trehalose) revealed more progressive motility (PM %) at 0h and reduced after cryopreservation. Table 6 and 9: of experiment 1 and 2 showed an interaction caused by sugar concentration level and evaluation time (L X ET) on the percentage of cut head M (CH%) and coiled M(C%) morphological abnormalities. In conclusion addition of maltose 0.12g to the extender showed almost similar results with that of trehalose at 0h and 120h. Therefore addition of maltose and trehalose to the extender might improve the quality of Boer goat spermatozoa prior and post cryopreservation.
Open Access
Effect of feed withdrawal and strain on laying performance and egg quality of white and brown Hy-Line layers
(2019-05-18) Mudau, Mulanga Lenticia; Bhebbe, E.; Netshipale, A. J.
The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of feed withdrawal and strain on laying performance and egg quality of White and Brown Hy-line layers. Fifty four hens for each strain (White Hy-Line and Brown Hy-line) aged 18 weeks (point of laying stage) were used in the investigation. Feed withdrawal had no effect (P>0.05) on laying performance, mortality rate, egg internal and external quality, but significantly affected (P<0.01) average feed intake, body weight, small and extra-large eggs percentages. Hens under ad libitum consumed more feed than hens under four hours and eight hours feed withdrawal. High body weight was observed on ad libitum fed hens, intermediate on eight hours feed withdrawn hens and lower at four hours feed withdrawn hens. High percentage of small graded eggs was observed on four hours feed withdrawn hens, intermediate on eight hours feed withdrawn hens and lower on ad libitum fed hens. High percentage of extra-large graded eggs was observed on ad libitum fed hens, intermediate on eight hours feed withdrawn hens and lower four hours feed withdrawn hens. Strain had a significant effect on average egg weight, median egg weight, albumen weight, extra-small, small, medium and large graded eggs percentages (P<0.01) and on body weight, egg height , egg width, average egg shell colour (P<0.05). Strain did not affect (P>0.05) average feed intake, body weight change, egg output, feed conversion ratio, mortality rate, egg shell breaking force, albumen height, yolk height, yolk weight, extra-large and jumbo graded eggs percentage. Brown Hy-Line layers had high average egg weight, median egg weight, egg height, egg width, and average egg shell colour and albumen weight than White Hy-Line layers. Small sized eggs percentage and body weight were high on White Hy-Line layers compared to Brown Hy-Line layers. Medium and large sized eggs were high on Brown Hy-Line layers than White Hy-Lines. Feed withdrawal by strain interaction effect was observed on body weight, average egg weight and median egg weight, albumen weight and egg height, percentage of small, medium and large graded eggs (P<0.05). Brown Hy-Line hens under eight hours feed withdrawal had high egg weight, median egg weight, egg height, albumen weight and under eight hours feed withdrawn White Hy-Line hens had lower albumen height compared to other interactions. In all interactions White Hy-Line had high percentage of small graded eggs whereas Brown Hy-line had high percentage of large and medium graded eggs.
Open Access
Effect of in vitro culture media and assisted hatching techniques on mice embryo survival rate following cryopreservation
(2018-05-18) Serota, Nthabiseng Ruth; Nedambale, T. L.; Fushai, F.
This study determined the effects of in vitro culture media (Ham’s F10 and TCM199) and assisted hatching techniques (laser or mechanical) on mice embryo survival following cryopreservation. Pure strain C57BL/6 (B6) female (50) and strain BALB /c (C) Male (25) mice were crossed to produce F1 generation of females which were injected for follicular growth and super ovulation at 6 weeks of age and from which embryos were produced 21 h later through in vivo fertilization. Embryos were randomly divided into Petri dishes with different culture media, and the development of embryos was assessed until the morula stage. At the morula stage, selected embryos were assisted to hatch using different techniques, and then cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen using the slow freezing method for a period of 1 week. After 1 week of cryopreservation, the embryos were thawed and cultured in the two different in vitro culture media for 72 hours. Thereafter, the numbers of embryos hatched or survived were recorded after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Data was analyzed using ANOVA in Minitab Software Version 16 (2010). Significant difference in embryo quality development was observed between in vitro culture media and stage of embryo development (P<0.05). In the TCM-199 in vitro culture medium, embryo quality development yielded 72, 69 and 69% from day 1 to day 3, while in Ham’s F10 embryo quality development yielded 68, 63 and 60% respectively. Relative to the control (18.1%) assisted hatching improved hatchability significantly (P<0.05) in the order laser (23.6%)>, mechanical (20.8%). There was significant (P<0.01) interaction between assisted hatching techniques and evaluation time, whereby laser assisted hatching was most successful at 48 h (42.0%) while mechanical assisted hatching was most successful at 72 h (36.8%). Cryopreservation reduced the embryo survival compared to fresh embryos. In conclusion laser was the best assisted hatching technique, while TCM-199 was the better medium for in vitro culture of embryo.
Embargo
Effect of location and drying methods on nutrient composition, apparent digestibility, growth performance and carcass characteristics of South African Mutton Merino Lambs fed different levels of dried marula fruit peels
(2024-09-06) Murovhi, Ronewa; Murovhi, R.; Mikasi, M. S.
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of location and drying methods on nutrient composition of dried marula fruit peels and apparent digestibility, and growth performance as well as carcass characteristics of South African mutton merino lambs fed different levels of dried marula fruit peels. Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) is a medium sized tree belonging to the Brachystegia genus. Several experiments were conducted to evaluate the chemical composition of dried marula fruit peels where the DM, OM, CP, CF, ADF, NDF, and GE were determined. All the data in this experiment were subjected to analysis of variance for a 2x2 factorial in a completely randomised design using a GLM procedure of Minitab 19(Minitab, 2019). Tukey’s studentised multiple range test determined statistically significant differences among the means. The dry matter of fresh marula fruit peels has shown a significant difference (P<0.01). The dry matter of fresh marula fruit peels from Tzaneen using freeze and oven-drying methods was higher than those from Phalaborwa. The dry matter, crude protein, ash, ether extract, acid detergent lignin, and gross energy contents of dried marula fruit peels for both locations and drying methods were not significantly different (P>0.05). The crude fibre, Acid detergent fibre, and nitrogen detergent fibre results for both location and drying methods were significantly different (P<0.01). The crude fibre and nitrogen detergent fibre from Tzaneen were found to be higher than those from Phalaborwa when a freeze-drying method was used. However, when using an oven-drying method, the crude fiber, nitrogen detergent fiber, and acid detergent lignin contents were higher in Phalaborwa. Apparent digestibility of DM, CP, and OM of the diet was determined in a completely randomised design and the means were compared using a Tuckey method at a 95% confidence level. The experiment was conducted in the last ten days of growth trial. A total of 9 male South African mutton merino sheep of approximately 35kg of weight were used in this experiment. The results revealed that the inclusion levels of dried marula fruit peels in the animal diet did not affect (P>0.05) the CP intake. However, a significant difference (P<0.01) was observed in the OM intake by the lambs. The inclusion levels of dried marula fruit peels in the diet did not affect (P>0.05) the faecal excretion of nutrients by lambs. A non-significance difference (P>0.05) was observed in the digestibility of nutrients. The determination of growth performance and carcass characteristics of the lambs fed different levels of dried marula fruit peels was conducted, where the ADFI, ADG, FCR and hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, dressing percentage were measured respectively. A completely randomised design was used in this experiment with seven animals per treatment. Before the trial, the lambs were vaccinated against brucellosis, pulpy kidney and treated for internal parasites. The inclusion levels of dried marula fruit peels had no significant impact (P>0.05) on the growth performance and carcass characteristics. This research has revealed that dried marula fruit peels can be used as a potential energy source for lambs without negatively affecting the growth and carcass characteristics of lambs at up to 10% inclusion level.
Open Access
Effect of Moringa Oleifera and probiotic inclusion on growth performance carcass characteristics and cost benefit analysis in broiler chicken production
(2020-08-11) Ramathithi, Tshilidzi; Bhebhe, E.; Baloyi, J. N.
One of the ways to minimise cost and promote health in humans and animals is to use natural feed additives instead of antibiotics. Moringa oleifera (Moringa) is a phytobiotic which possess anti-microbial and immune-modulatory properties and contains high levels of nutrients and it can be used as a feed additive. Probiotics are feed additives which consist of living microorganisms that have beneficial effects on the physiology and health of other organisms. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of various levels of Moringa oleifera and probiotics inclusion on growth performance, carcass characteristics and cost benefit analysis for broiler chicken production. Moringa oleifera leaf powder was purchased from Bethel Farm No:683 Bethel mission Gucksdadt Vryheid in Zululand district AbaQulusi municipality. The study was a 5x2 factorial design with five levels of Moringa and two levels of probiotic. Six hundred (600) Ross 308-day old chicks were received and fed commercial starter. The experimental treatments were randomly divided into five levels of Moringa with and without probiotics introduced through drinking water at grower to finisher phase. The diets were supplemented with different inclusion levels of Moringa (Mo) as follows: 0g/kg (M0), 0.6g/kg (M3), 1.2g/kg (M6), 1.8g/kg (M9), 2.4g/kg (M12) of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) and probiotic at P0 (0ml/bird/week), P1 (1 ml/bird/week) of a commercial probiotic administered in water for the first three weeks (starter phase). The experiment had three replications with 20 birds per replicate. MOLM and PRB interaction had no significant effect (P>0.05) on any of growth parameters and same findings with MOLM. Probiotics treatments had significantly reduced (P < 0.05) mortality rate (MTRT) in the grower phase. MOLM×PRB had significant effect on (P<0.01) feed intake (FI), MOLM had significantly reduced (P< 0.05) average bodyweight gain (ABWG) and FI in finisher phase. MOLM and PRB interaction had significant effect (P< 0.05) on dressed weight only and non-significant effect (P>0.05) on the rest of carcass parameters. MOLM inclusion levels did not significantly affect (P>0.05) back fat weight. However, MOLM inclusion level significantly reduced (P< 0.05) dressed weight, shank length, wing weight, drum and thigh weight, back weight and breast muscle weight. PRB inclusion in the diets significantly increased (P< 0.01) shank size and drum + thigh weights (P<0.05). MOLM and PRB inclusion level had no significant effect (P>0.05) on giblets parameters. MOLM and PRB interaction had significant effect on (P<0.05) water holding capacity (WHC) and hardness. MOLM had significant effect (P<0.05) on pH and dripping loss. A significant effect between (MOLM×PRB) Moringa oleifera leaf meal and probiotics (P<0.01) was observed on CD, C* and b*. MOLM had significant effect (P<0.01) on CD, C*, a*, b*, L*, PRB had significant effect (P<0.01) on h*(increased) and a*(reduced) on colour parameters. MOLM fed at P0 resulted in higher mortality at grower stage. It is concluded that MOLM can be added up to 12% with or without PRB without affecting growth performance at finisher phase and carcass characteristics. Inclusion of MOLM up to 12% had good impact on hardness and water holding capacity in the meat. PRB presence improved the growth performance of birds supplemented with MOLM up to 12% inclusion level. MOLM diets were not economically profitable compared to control diet due to high price level of Moringa oleifera powder supplemented in the diets and no best return weight gain per rand invested amongst the diets.
Embargo
Effect of spermatozoa viability, culture receptacle, incubation, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection on vitro production of cattle embryoa using epididymal spermatozoa
(2022-07-15) Raseona, Andrea Motswetla; Barry, D. M.; Owiny, O. D.; Nedambale, T.L.
In an event of an unexpected death, injury, or inability of a bull to serve, spermatozoa can be harvested from the epididymides to enable the propagation of valuable germplasm from genetically superior males. Recovering bull spermatozoa from the epididymis of dead breeders presents the last opportunity to use the gametes and therefore, the need for the most efficient preservation and utilization of the recovered spermatozoa is paramount. One of the unique ways of preserving the male genetic material of cattle is the use of assisted reproductive technologies. The present study focused primarily on the production of in vitro cattle embryos using epididymal spermatozoa by firstly seeking the effective spermatozoa extender and preservation method, and secondly by assessing the effects of culture receptacles and incubation methods following intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In a series of experiments, ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa were collected, chilled, cryopreserved, and used for in vitro embryo production. The viability of chilled bovine spermatozoa recovered from the epididymis stored at 5 °C for 24 h and diluted with Triladyl® or modified Ham’s F10 was assessed in the first experiment. The short-term preserved (120 h at 5 °C) ejaculated spermatozoa demonstrated a higher motility rate than epididymal sperm, however, epididymal spermatozoa harvested immediately after bull slaughter, extended with Triladyl® was found to have a higher motility rate (P < 0.05) than spermatozoa harvested 24 h post chilling of the epididymides at 5 °C diluted in modified Ham’s F10 culture media. A significant decline in viability was also demonstrated after 72 h of chilling at 5 °C with the least percentage of live cells detected with modified Ham’s F10 extended epididymal spermatozoa harvested 24 h post-mortem. Furthermore, less than 10% of acrosome defects were demonstrated across all the spermatozoa samples. It was concluded that refrigeration of epididymides at 5 °C for 24 h before the recovery of spermatozoa cells was able to sustain good spermatozoa motility when Triladyl® extender was used. The viability of frozen-thawed bull semen collected from the bull’s ejaculate and cauda epididymis was also evaluated. Similar to the observations on spermatozoa chilling in the first experiment, ejaculated spermatozoa had a higher post-thaw motility rate (P < 0.05) than epididymal sperm. However, no significant difference in post-thaw motility rate was demonstrated amongst epididymal spermatozoa recovered immediately and 24 h post-mortem (P > 0.05). The post-thaw percentage of acrosome defects, as well as the live cells, was found to be similar for both ejaculated and epididymal sperm. It was concluded that cooling of epididymides at 5 °C for 24 h before the recovery of spermatozoa cells was efficient in preserving post-thaw spermatozoa quality. In the third experiment, the success rates of in vitro embryo production using epididymal bull sperm, French semen straws as culture receptacle, and alternative incubation method was evaluated. The experiment was carried out as a completely randomised design arranged in a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial. The results demonstrated that short-term preserved (120 h at 5 °C) ejaculated spermatozoa produced a higher percentage of in vitro embryos compared to epididymal spermatozoa. However, no significant difference (P > 0.05), in blastocyst development was demonstrated between epididymal spermatozoa retrieved immediately and after 24 h post-mortem, extended in either Triladyl® or modified Ham’s F10, chilled for either 24 or 48 h. Additionally, no significant difference was demonstrated when comparing individual spermatozoa samples using French semen straws as culture receptacles, incubated in the goat doe vagina, versus a standard 5% CO2 incubator. It was concluded that in vitro embryos up to 8 days of development, cultured in French semen straws and incubated in the goat doe vagina, can be produced after fertilization with epididymal bull spermatozoa recovered immediately or after refrigeration of the epididymides at 5 °C for 24 h. Lastly, the study investigated the effect of using French semen straws as embryo culture receptacle and goat doe vagina as an alternative incubator, on in vitro embryo production following intracytoplasmic sperm injection with epididymal spermatozoa. The injected oocytes with epididymal spermatozoa recovered after bull slaughtering or after 24 hours post-mortem, cultured inside French semen straws or micro-droplets, had no difference in embryonic development rates (P > 0.05). Furthermore, when both the standard CO2 incubator and the goat doe vagina were used, no difference in embryo development stages was identified (P > 0.05), with the exception of the cleavage stage where the injected oocytes incubated in goat doe vagina showed lower rates (P < 0.05) as compared to those incubated in the standard CO2 incubator. It was concluded that fertilization and blastocyst development can be accomplished through intracytoplasmic sperm injection with cryopreserved bull epididymal spermatozoa recovered immediately or 24 h post-mortem, using French semen straws as culture receptacles and goat doe vagina as an alternative incubator.
Open Access
Effect of strain and skip a day technique on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens
(2023-10-05) Makharamedzha, Murunwa; Bhebhe, E.
A skip a day feeding technique could mitigate the ever-increasing cost of feeds and the undesirable excessive adipose fat. The aim of this study was to determine effect of broiler strain (Ross 308 and Arbor Acres) and different regimes of the skip-a-day technique on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A 2×3 factorial study was carried out to determine the growth performance and carcass characteristics of two broiler strains. Each treatment was replicated three times with 25 birds per replicate and thus a total of 450 unsexed chickens for this study. The treatments were as follows: (i) control-Adlibitum feeding, (ii) Treatment 1-birds were fed one day, and the next day was skipped, (iii) Treatment 2-birds were fed two days and the third day was skipped. Carcass weight, abdominal fat, mortality, and average weight gain were determined and recorded. Data was analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) for a 2×3 factorial experiment using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedures of Minitab 18 statistical software. Feed intake per bird per week (g) was significantly different between all three treatments (P<0.01) and followed a consistent yet unexpected pattern across strains with feeding regime zero (control pen)>FR0- Feeding regime one>FR1- Feeding regime two>FR2. Weekly feed intake per bird per week was significantly higher for FR0 (P<0.01) compared to FR1 and FR2 with the latter two treatments having non-significant means (P>0.05) and strain significantly affected feed intake where the Ross 308 strain consumed more feed than the Arbor Acres strain (P<0.05). Broiler strain as well as strain by skip-a-day level interaction effects were not significant for all the carcass parameters (P>0.05). The overall results of this study have shown that the Ross 308 and Arbor Acres broilers did not differ significantly in the body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, and abdominal fatness (P>0.05). However, the Ross 308 broilers strains consumed more feed than the Arbor Acres strain, but both strains converted the feed with the similar efficiency.
Open Access
The effect of tris aloe vera (barbadensis miller) gel on chilled and frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa quality
(2023-05-19) Seshoeni, Kenny; Mikasi, M. S.; Netshipale, A. J.; Raseona, A. M.
Semen extenders protect sperm from cold shock, osmotic stress, and alterations in membrane fluidity and permeability plus provide energy substrates for sperm metabolism. Egg yolk is one of the most common additives of animal origin that are used for semen preservation, however, it has become a suspect for facilitating the transmission of diseases. Tris-aloe vera gel have several beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial features. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Tris-aloe vera gel (TAG) extender on the quality of bull spermatozoa. In experiment 1, the effect of Tris-Aloe vera gel extender was assessed after the semen was chilled at 5 0C in a refrigerator for different storage times up to 120 hours, and frozen in liquid nitrogen at -196 0C for 5 days in experiment two. Assessment was done for morphology, motility, and viability of bull spermatozoa. Semen samples were collected from four (4) Nguni bulls with proven fertility records, aged between 6 and 8 years kept at the University of Venda Experimental Farm under intensive farming practice. Collected semen samples were pooled and diluted at a ratio of 1:5 (semen to extender) in Tris-egg yolk (TEY) as a control and TAG at three different concentration levels 12%, 16% and 20% of Aloe vera gel (AVG). In experiment one, diluted semen samples were evaluated immediately after the extension using computer aided sperm analyzer (CASA) before storage at 5 0C, followed by sperm analysis after every 24 hours for 120 hours. In experiment two, freshly collected and diluted semen samples were cryopreserved and stored at (-196 0C) in LN2 for 5 days and evaluated thereafter. The results were subjected to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for statistical analysis using a general linear model (GLM) procedures of Minitab 19 program. Tris-egg yolk extender (TEY) with 0% aloe vera gel was used as a control. In experiment one, it was found that TEY showed consistency in keeping motility at an average of 100% (p<0.05) after 120 h of chilling semen samples. Semen samples extended in Tris-aloe vera gel had a decrease in spermatozoa motility as storage time increased. Experiment two discovered that AVG can equally be used to substitute v egg yolk in tris-based extender and be able to cryopreserve Nguni bull semen for a period of 5 days, this is due to a fact that there was no significant difference (P<0.01) in spermatozoa progressive motility, from both TEY and TAGs post thaw. It was also found that morphological normal spermatozoa were above 80% post thaw. Semen extended in TEY shows a great deal of consistency in maintaining high spermatozoa viability throughout the chilling process.
Open Access
Effects of dietary prickly pear (opuntia ficus indica l.) seed cake meal inclusion in a maize-cowpea diet on ROSS 308 broiler performance and carcass characteristics
(2023-10-05) Netili, Thuso; Fushai, F.; Netshipale, A. J.; Katla, E.
The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of graded inclusion of prickly pear oil seed cake (PPSC) in sprouted cowpea-maize diets for broilers. Diluent (0%PPSC) sprouted cowpea-maize grower and finisher diets, and the respective (10% and 12.5% crude fibre on DM basis) iso-nutrient, PPSC “’summit” grower and finisher diets were formulated and blended to constitute the test diets. Blended grower test diets contained calculated 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 8.75 and 10% PPSC, respectively denoted G0, G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. Blended finisher test diets contained calculated 0, 3.1255, 6.25, 9.375, 10.9375%, 12.5% PPSC, respectively denoted F0, F1, F2, F3, F4, F5. Dietary nutrient profiles were benchmarked to respective commercial grower and finisher maize-soybean positive control (PC) diets. The trial used 504 Ross 308 broiler chicks reared in an open, deep litter house partitioned into 1.5 m long x 1.4 m wide steel framed, mesh wire pens, each holding 18 birds. Chicks fed on the same commercial starter (days 1-24) diet, after which they were assigned to grower (days 25-35), followed by finisher (days 36-42) experimental diets for a completely randomised experiment replicated four times. Birds had free access to feed and water. Feed intake (FI), live weight gain (LWG), and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were evaluated, along with slaughter weight, carcass characteristics, visceral organ weights, and meat quality. Quadratic regression analysis revealed significant effects of dietary PPSC levels on grower phase intake (P = 0.044) and cumulative grower-finisher live weight gain (P = 0.04). During the grower phase, feed intake increased (P < 0.05) with PPSC inclusion until it matched the control diet at PPSC dietary level G3 and above (P > 0.05). The optimum dietary inclusion of PPSC for feed intake during the grower phase was estimated to be 1.74%. For the finisher phase, broilers on the F0-F2 PPSC inclusion levels had lower final (42-day) live weights compared to the control (P < 0.05). Live weight at and above F3 PPSC dietary inclusion was intermediate, similar to both the lower level PPSC dietary inclusion and the control (P > 0.05). A quadratic estimate of 4.58% dietary optimum PPSC inclusion was predicted for the cumulative live weight gain. Dressed carcass weight increased (P < 0.05) with dietary PPSC inclusion at and above the G3-F3 PPSC feeding regime, matching the control diet (P > 0.05). A quadratic estimate of 3.01% dietary optimum PPSC inclusion was predicted for carcass weight. The dressing percentage increased (P < 0.05) with dietary PPSC inclusion above the G2-F2 PPSC feeding regime, matching the control diet (P > 0.05). A quadratic estimate of 7.58% dietary optimum PPSC inclusion was predicted for dressing percentage. Broilers on the G5-F5 feeding regime had higher (P < 0.05) abdominal fat compared to those on no or lower PPSC feeding regimes, while broilers on the G4-F4 feeding regime had intermediate abdominal fat (P < 0.05). A quadratic estimate of 4.73% dietary optimum PPSC inclusion was predicted for abdominal fat. Quadratic regression analysis also showed significant effects of PPSC levels on scaled gizzard weight (P = 0.007). The optimal dietary inclusion of PPSC for scaled gizzard weight was estimated to be 4.39%. In conclusion, within the limitations of the recommended dietary fibre content, grower-finisher dietary PPSC inclusion upgraded the sprouted cowpea diets to match the standard diet in terms of grower phase feed intake, finisher phase live weight gain, slaughter weight, abdominal fat, and the dressing percentage, with the predicted optimum dietary inclusion level dependent on the broiler response variable. Based on the carcass yield, approximately 3 % was considered optimum dietary PPSC inclusion in sprouted-cowpea based broiler diets.
Open Access
Effects of different inclusion levels of marula (sclerocarya birrea) pulp at ensiling on the nutritive value of Napier grass (pennisetum purpureum) silage
(2017-09-18) Makharamedzha, Unarine; Baloyi, J. J.; Mikasi, M. S.
See the attached abstract below