Department of Animal Science

URI for this collectionhttps://rps.wku.edu.et/handle/123456789/45805

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 52

EFFECT OF PRE-EMERGENCE HERBICIDES AND THEIR COMBINATIONS ON WEEDS INFESTATION YIELD COMPONENTS AND YELD OF CHICKPEA (Cicer arietum L.) AT EZHA WOREDA GURAGE ZONE, SOUTH ETHIOPIA.
(wolkite university, 2021-06-01) TADELE BEKELE TABOGE
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulses cultivated in Ethiopia. Chickpea is the third important food legume both in area and production after common beans and faba beans in Ethiopia. This is below the potential yield of chickpea at research center as well other major chickpea producing zones in Ethiopia. Among the factors responsible for low yields in chickpea; weeds is the major one. Hence, field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of herbicides and their combination on yield component and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietum L.). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated three times. Pre-emergence herbicides (Pendimethalin and S-metolachlor) were applied alone at different rate, their reduced dose combination with herbicides as well as supplemented with one hand weeding, only one hand weeding, and two hand weeding; completely weed free and weedy treatments. Applying the herbicides alone at different rate reduced density and dry matter of the weeds in chickpea as compared with control. The result indicated S-metolachlor was the most effective herbicide for controlling weed species presented in the experimental site as compared with Pendimethalin in relation with application at different rate alone. Among the herbicides applied S-metolachlor at 1.0kg ha-1 supplemented by one hand weeding at five weeks after emergence gave the highest yield components and yield as well as net benefit of chickpea (Cicer arietum L.). However; weed free, Hand weeding at 2 and 5 WAE treatments was the most effective treatment for controlling the weeds and increasing the chickpea yield compared with other treatments. But weed control through hand weeding is costly and non-available at critical time. Therefore; it is suggested when labours are not easily available, applying S-metolachlor at 1kg ha-1 supplemented by one hand weeding at five weeks after emergence is the best option of effective chickpea production. However, further study has to be done under different seasons and locations to exploit the recommendation of the present stud
EVALUATION OF Moringa olifera LEAF MEAL AS AN ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN FEED INGREDIENT IN LAYERS RATION
(wolkite university, 2022) FIKADU DESSE GIRMA
The study was conducted to evaluate effects of Moringa Olifera Leaf Meal (MOLM) inclusion in layers ration on egg laying performance, egg quality parameters and the economic feasibility of using MOLM as alternative protein source in the ration of Bovans brown hens. A total of One hundred and eighty Bovans Brown hens aging 18 weeks were used for the experiment. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with four treatments, each replicated three times with 15 hens each. The layers were fed with ration containing MOLM at the levels of 0 in (T1), 5 in (T2), 10 in (T3) and 15% in (T4). The experiment lasted 11 weeks. The amount of feed intake per hen per day was 117.3gm in T1, 116.37gm in T2, 119.74gm in T3 and 115.32gm in T4.Feed conversion ratio was 0.26 in T1, 0.29 in T2, 0.33 in T3 and 0.29in T4. Average egg weight was 59.94g in T1, 63.79g in T2, 65.65g in T3 and 62.84g in T4. The hen day egg production was 50.9 in T1, 51.43 in T2, 63.21 in T3 and 52.58% in T4. Most of the egg quality parameters were higher in T3 except egg shape index, albumin height, yolk height, albumin height and albumin ratio that were similar (P > 0.05) among treatments. Higher yolk color was observed for T3 and T4 compared with T1. Yolk length was higher (p<0.05) for T2 and yolk ratio was higher (p<0.05) for T1. The partial budget analysis indicated that the inclusion of 10% (T3) of MOLM reduces total feed cost compare to the control treatment and other treatments. Therefore, it is concluded that addition of 10% of MOLM cloud be used in the layers diet as recommended level as an alternative protein source to enhancing the productivity and to reduce the feed cost in the poultry industry
LIVESTOCK DYNAMICS, FEED BALANCE AND COPING STRATEGIES OF ENSET BASED AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM OF GURAGE ZONE: PROSPECT TOWARDS ENSET WILT
(wolkite university, 2022) DEREJE FELEKE
Enset wilt problem has been becoming a significan challenge to the expected level of food and feed produced from Enset plant in Enset producing areas of Ethiopia. Numerous studies have been done but it is difficult to get studies that evaluate its impact and indicate strategies that have been used to cope with this production system. A descriptive and explanatory cross-sectional survey research design was employed. Multi stage sampling was employed to select the districts, PAs and households. Five districts of Gurage zone namely Endegagn, Enemor Ener, Gumer, Cheha and Geto were selected based on the degree and experience of the areas with Enset wilt disease. The formal survey, focus group discussion, field monitoring and secondary data collection methods are employed and gathered qualitative and quantitative data. The formal survey focused on livestock and feed resources of Enset wilt -affected areas and livestock feed balance of the area. Furthermore, a chemical analysis of sample feeds was done to determine the nutritive value of available feed resource. Chi-square was employed for mean and mean comparison using an independent sample T-test and percentages. Indices were also estimated to calculate farmers’ various choices and preferences. The average land holding per household in highland and midland was 1.15 and 1.52 ha, respectively. Natural pasture ((689(0.47)) was the primary feed resource followed by ((300(0.21)) mixture of natural pasture and Enset. A decadal livestock population from the zonal level indicated that a significant cattle population increase was observed compared to other livestock species. Average livestock holding of respondents confirmed that a significant difference (p<0.05) was observed only in the number of sheep (0.173±0.97; 0.068±0.13) and equine (0.58±0.66; 0.15±0.39) between the two agro-ecologies. Shortage of land was ranked first among other feed resource availability challenges in both agro-ecologies. The estimated annual DM supply was 524.65 and 901.38 ton/year for livestock maintenance of highland and midland agro ecologies. Feed DM requirement only satisfy 85.23%. Estimated annual Metabolizable energy available for livestock maintenance in the highland and midland agro ecology were 2095097 and 6217406.35 MJ/kg for highland and midland, respectively. Feed ME requirement only satisfy 59.2% and 84.27% in highland and midland agr-ecologies. There are four major coping strategies i.e., feeding enset parts, feed conservation vs. enset, renting grazing land and selling livestock were identified. Due to enset wilt disease higher prevalence rate, using Enset crop as livestock feed was becoming a challenge, and the livestock species population dynamics is changing due to various factors that hinder livestock production coupled with enset wilt disease. Farmers are still dependent on enset plant to cope up with dry season feed shortages. Implementation of feed resource rehabilitation program is a must for this production system. Farmers should search for other locally adaptable forage species to fulfill the observed deficit at DM and nutrient base.
STUDY ON THE COMBINED EFFECT OF NPSB FERTILIZER RATES AND VARIETIES ON GROWTH, YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF GARLIC (Allium sativum L.) IN GUMMER DISTRICT OF GURAGE ZONE, ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-02-01) JADU KIBRET AGERCHU
Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the major horticultural crops known worldwide with respect to its production and economic value. It is also the main bulb crop produced in Ethiopia, including the southern region. However, farmers are producing garlic from locally available varieties without or with low rates of fertilizer input which results in low yield. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the response of garlic varieties to different rates of NPSB. Three improved garlic varieties (Kuriftu, HL and Tseday) and one local cultivar (‘Tuma”) and four levels of NPSB fertilizer rates (0, 144, 244, 344 kg NPSB ha ˡ ) were used. The experiment was arranged in a 4 X 4 factorial experiment under a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Plant height (cm) and leaf number were significantly influenced by the interaction effect of varieties and NPSB fertilizer except leaf length (cm) that was significantly influenced only by the main effect of variety and NPSB. All yield and yield related traits were significantly influenced by the interaction effect of varieties and NPSB fertilizer rates except days to 50% emergence and bulb weight (g) that were significantly influenced only by the main effect of variety and NPSB. The highest total bulb yield was obtained from variety Kuriftu (8.81 t ha ˡ ) at the NPSB rate of 244 kg ha ˡ , and the lowest recorded from the local cultivar (5.52 t ha ˡ ) without NPSB (0 kg) fertilizer application. The maximum plant height (74.17cm) was recorded from variety HL at 244 kg/ha NPSB and the highest number of garlic leaves (10.33) were obtained from variety Kuriftu that received the highest NPSB rate of 344 kg/ha. The longest leaf was recorded from variety Tsedey (34.875cm) which was followed by variety Kuriftu (34.154cm) and HL (32.596cm). The highest statistically significant bulb weight was recorded equally from variety Kuriftu, Tsedey and HL 43.42g, 42.77g and 41.92g respectively. Marketable bulb yield was very highly significant (P<0.001) and positively correlated with leaf number (r =0.68***), bulb weight (r =0.64***), bulb diameter (r =0.72***), and highly significant (P<0.01) and positively correlated with plant height (r =0.41**) and leaf length (r =0.46**). The cost benefit analysis indicated that variety Kuriftu with the application rate of 244 kg NPSB ha ˡ gave the maximum MRR (1974.3%).
CHARACTERIZATION OF INDIGENOUS CHICKEN PRODUCTION, REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCES AND EGG QUALITY TRAITS IN EZHA DISTRICT OF GURAGE ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-02-04) MECHAL TESSEMA NECHIBO
The main objective of this study was to characterizes indigenous chicken production, reproductive performances and egg quality traits in Ezha district of Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Generally, a multistage sampling procedure was applied for the selection of both kebeles and households. From Guraghe Zone, Ezha district was purposively selected based on its potential for indigenous chicken population and accessibility. In the first stage, the district was stratified into two based on agro-ecology i.e highland (3 kebeles) and midland (3 kebeles). In the second stage, representative kebeles were selected from each agroecology purposively based on indigenous chicken production potential and transport accessibility. Then, households that have two or more indigenous chickens & have experiences on chickens’ husbandry practices were identified and listed. In the third stage, a simple random sampling technique was used to select households from each kebele. Lastly, data on both qualitative and quantitative variables were collected from 318 selected households by using a semi-structured questionnaire. In addition, a total of 120 freshly laid eggs from indigenous village chickens were collected from the selected survey members and transported to Debrezeit Agricultural ResearchCenterfor external and internal eggs quality traits analysis. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. The research finding revealed the main objectives of chicken production in the study area were for both income generation and consumption (50%), while (30.5%) for consumption, and (19.5%) only for immediate income generation. The survey results revealed that about (40.9%) of the respondents constructed separate chicken house, (77.4%) practised of scavenging system with supplementary feeding, (88.4%) provided water for their chicken and (79.5%) of the respondents faced diseases outbreaks. The survey also revealed that the mean number of eggs laid/clutch, numbers of days/clutch/hen, the clutch number/year and annual egg production/hen of local chicken ecotypes were (13.9 eggs, 22.5days, 3.9 clutch number and 53.8 eggs), respectively. The study also revealed that the overall mean age at first mating of male chickens and the age at first egg of female chickens were 5.9 and 6.5 months. This study obtained significantly lower productive and reproductive performancesfrom highland chicken ecotypes. The analysis of the study revealed that egg quality parameters like egg weight, egg length, egg shell weight, egg shape index, albumin weight, albumin width, yolk width and yolk index were significantly different (P<0.05) among the two agro-ecologies. These observed variations might be attributed to various factors such as management differences, quality, and quantity of feed, and production environments in which the animals were maintained. So, the productivity of indigenous village chickens could be enhanced by relatively simple changes in management techniques (feeding, housing, and health care) that promote improvement in productivity and reduction in mortality. Therefore, governmental organizations, NGOs, and other stakeholders should play their role in developing producers' knowledge and capacity.
CHARACTERIZATION OF MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCES OF EXOTIC CHICKENS UNDER DIFFERENT AGRO-ECOLOGIES IN EZHA DISTRICT OF GURAGE ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-02-04) GIZEYATU CHERU W/SENBET
This study was conducted to assess the management practices, productive and reproductive performances of exotic chickens under different agro-ecologies, from March 2021 to September 2021 in Ezha district of Gurage zone, Ethiopia. A total of 280 (165 from highland and 115 from midland) households were randomly selected households from six peasant associations (PAs) were used in the study to collect primary data using semi-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 21and mean differences were compared using Independent-Sample T Test. The result indicated that using extension package exotic chickens keeping as a parameter showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the two agro-ecologies of the study area. The results obtained showed that the mean flock size of the study area was 10.5 chickens/household and types of exotic chicks to chicken owners showed that the majority of the respondents (80%) used Sasso breed the rest (20%) used Bovans brown. 90.4% of the respondents used separate house for their chicken from both agro-ecologies. However only 133(54.5%) of the respondent kept the chicken in a house at the time of both day and night. Regarding the feeding activities, majority 235(83.9%) was scavenging in addition to supplementary feed. Whereas, (11.1%) were homemade feed and only (4.3%) used formulated balanced diets feed. 279(99.6%) of chicken owners provide supplementary feed for their chickens and also (99.6%) of the respondents provide water to their chicken. About (68.6%) of the respondents vaccinate their chickens and (35.7%) use modern drugs to treat sick chickens. Newcastle (80.8%) vaccine is the most frequently used vaccine in the area. New castle disease (68.9%) and Fowl thiphoid, Gumboro and Foul pox disease (31.1%) were the major poultry diseases with relatively high prevalence. About (41.1%), (21.1%) and (19.3%) of the respondent reported that weasel, eagle and wild cat as major predators, respectively. (97.5%) of the respondent has market access for products. Most respondents (97.1%) get the extension service from the extension agent and (74.3%) of them get the training about chicken production. The mean egg number/ hen /year were calculated to be (224.37 and 223.44) for the highland and midland respectively. The mean age at first egg was reported to be (5.88 and 5.83) months for highland and midland hens respectively. Exotic village chicken productivity estimating parameters like eggs/hen/year, number of clutch/hen/day, market age of cock and hen, sexual maturity of hen and age at 1st egg were showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Market weight of Sasso cock was reported to be (3.27 and 2.99) Kg and hen (3.0 and 2.88) Kg for the highland and midland respectively. There was no variation (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Thus, improving the overall management system such as improved feeding, recommended housing and health care extension packages could be a better strategy to increase the egg and meat production potential of exotic chickens under village management condition. The outstanding effort has been made to improve farmers raising a small number of exotic chickens to increase their chicken number under semi-intensive production system to play a role to improving chicken production and productivity.
RESPONSE OF POTATO (Solanum tuberosum L.) VARIETIES TO BLENDED NPSB FERTILIZER ON GROWTH, YIELD AND QUALITY PARAMETERS AT GUMMER DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-06-01) DAMTEW GIRMA LEGESE
Potato is an important food security and cash crop in Southern Ethiopia including Gurage Zone. However, productivity of the crop in the zone is far below its potential due to an array of factors. For instance, inappropriate selection of varieties and lacking information regarding the actual rate of the newly recommended blended NPSB fertilizer in the potato producing areas including Gummer district. Cognizant of this, the present experiment was initiated and conducted in Gummer district under supplementary irrigation, during the 2021 Belg season, with the objective of assessing the response of different potato varieties to blended NPSB fertilizer rates. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement and having three replications. There were 12 treatment combinations, which comprised of three potato varieties (namely; Belete, Gudanie and a local check, Askot) and four rates of blended NPSB fertilizer rates (0, 119,238 and 357 kg NPSB ha-1 ). The analysis of variance showed that the two main factors (blended NPSB fertilizer rates and potato varieties) had a statistically significant effect on all tested parameters except the effect of the blended NPSB fertilizer rates on days to 50% emergence. The interaction of the two factors had also showed a statistically significant effect on days to 90% maturity, plant height, main stem number per plant, total tuber number/hill, tuber yield per hill, large sized tuber yield, marketable and total tuber yields (t ha-1 ) and tuber dry matter content. Days to 90%maturity were delayed with increased rates of blended NPSB fertilizer for all tested varieties. The highest mean plant height (69.54cm) and number of main stems per hill (8.38) were obtained at 357 kg ha-1 NPSB with Belete variety. The highest marketable tuber yield (34.40 t ha-1 ), total tuber yield (35.84 t ha-1 ) and tuber dry matter content of (26.75%) were obtained from Belete variety with the application of 238 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer. The results of the economic analysis indicated that the maximum net benefit (180660.7 Birr ha-1 ) with 3405.23% marginal rate of return was obtained from Belete variety with the application of 238 kg NPSB ha-1 . Hence, the application of 238 kg ha-1 with Belete variety can be recommended for optimum potato production with the acceptable economic benefit in the study area and similar agro-ecology. However, since the result is only of one season and location, further research is recommended to be carried out across more seasons and locations.
GENETIC GAIN AND VARIABILITY IN FRUIT YIELD AND ASSOCIATED TRAITS OF TOMATO [Lycopersicon esculuntum (L.) Mill] VARIETIES IN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-06-02) DAGIM DEMELASH YILMA
Tomato is one of the most important dietary vegetable food crops in Ethiopia. It serves as a cash-generating crop to small and large scale farmers and employment for the production and processing in local industries. Notwithstanding this, information on genetic progress achieved over time from a breeding program is useful to develop effective and efficient breeding strategies for tomato improvement is very limited in Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to estimate the magnitude of genetic gain and variability of fruit yield and associated trait. In the present study, 16 (released from 1997 to 2015) tomatoes were evaluated in Sodo district using a randomized complete block design with three replications during 2021 cropping season. The analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences among the varieties for all traits except for number of primary branches per plant and number of seeds per fruit. The average annual rate of increase per year of release for the period 1997-2015 as estimated from the slope of the graph of linear regression of mean fruit yield on a year of variety release was 0.127 t ha-1 with a relative genetic gain of 0.40% yr-1 . Recently released varieties demonstrate a yield improvement of 0.40 kg ha-1 (1.47%) over the oldest varieties in the last 18 years. Marketable yield, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit width, fruit growth rate per plant and fruit yield per day showed a significant trend of increment. All other traits showed a significant decreasing trend over the year of release. High (509.61%) and low genetic advance (0.74%) was exhibited by fruit growth rate per plant and total soluble solid, respectively. Fruit yield was significantly and positively correlated with fruit diameter, fruit width, fruit length, fruit growth rate per plant, fruit yield per day and marketable yield both at the genotypic and phenotypic levels. Path coefficient analysis showed that the maximum positive direct contribution towards fruit yield was through fruit width, fruit yield per day and marketable yield. The study concluded that inconsistent yield improvement have been achieved in fruit yield through the last 18 years of tomato improvement. Therefore, further effort should be strengthened and continued to achieve more progresses in these and other relevant traits to design appropriate tomato fruit yield improvement strategy in the country
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT GARLIC (Allium sativum l.) EXTRACT LEVELS INCLUSION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMERCIAL BROILER
(wolkite university, 2022-06-02) AYELU DAGNACHEW
Commercialization of chicken farming and improvement of production efficiency has led to be the adoption of a range of additives as growth promoter. Antibiotic-based growth promoter have long been utilizing as animal feed additives. Wide spread usage of these substances has resulted in an escalation of antibiotic resistance and the accumulation of antibiotic residues in animal product. Because of these weaknesses there is rising interest in employing natural growth promoters. Therefore, this study has conducted on the effects of different garlic extract levels inclusion on the growth performance and carcass characteristic of broiler. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments, each replicated three times with 15 birds each. 180 chicks with similar body weight were used for this trial and were randomly distributed to the four treatments. They were T1 (NC, basal diet and drinking water), T2 (PC, basal diet + drinking water with oxtetracycline (0.2 g/ 10 litter), T3 (basal diet + drinking water (1.5% GEX)) and T4 (basal diet + drinking water (3% GEX). During the trial periods daily feed intake and weekly body weight were recorded and carcass evaluation was made. The result obtained that, the body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of birds were significantly (P<0.05) improved by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Most of carcass trait such that slaughter, dressing, breast, liver and GIT weight were highly (P< 0.05) affected by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Reduced abdominal fat weight and percentage (P< 0.05) was recorded in GEX inclusion levels. Generally, based on the results of the current study garlic extract at 1.5 and 3% inclusion levels in drinking water should be considered as potential growth promoters that may replace the antibiotic in broiler farm.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT GARLIC (Allium sativum l.) EXTRACT LEVELS INCLUSION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMERCIAL BROILER
(wolkite university, 2022-06-02) AYELU DAGNACHEW
Commercialization of chicken farming and improvement of production efficiency has led to be the adoption of a range of additives as growth promoter. Antibiotic-based growth promoter have long been utilizing as animal feed additives. Wide spread usage of these substances has resulted in an escalation of antibiotic resistance and the accumulation of antibiotic residues in animal product. Because of these weaknesses there is rising interest in employing natural growth promoters. Therefore, this study has conducted on the effects of different garlic extract levels inclusion on the growth performance and carcass characteristic of broiler. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments, each replicated three times with 15 birds each. 180 chicks with similar body weight were used for this trial and were randomly distributed to the four treatments. They were T1 (NC, basal diet and drinking water), T2 (PC, basal diet + drinking water with oxtetracycline (0.2 g/ 10 litter), T3 (basal diet + drinking water (1.5% GEX)) and T4 (basal diet + drinking water (3% GEX). During the trial periods daily feed intake and weekly body weight were recorded and carcass evaluation was made. The result obtained that, the body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of birds were significantly (P<0.05) improved by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Most of carcass trait such that slaughter, dressing, breast, liver and GIT weight were highly (P< 0.05) affected by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Reduced abdominal fat weight and percentage (P< 0.05) was recorded in GEX inclusion levels. Generally, based on the results of the current study garlic extract at 1.5 and 3% inclusion levels in drinking water should be considered as potential growth promoters that may replace the antibiotic in broiler farm
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF FERTILIZERS ON YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF ONION (Allium cepa L.) VARIETIES IN ENEMORE WOREDA OF GURAGE ZONE, ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-06-03) MESFIN WONDIMU HABTE
Onion is one of the most important vegetable crops produced as a condiment for home consumption and income sources in many parts of Ethiopia. However, the productivity of onion is low due to various limiting factors, among which low soil fertility and lack of improved site specific varieties are the major ones. Hence, this study was initiated to evaluate and determine the effects of different types of fertilizers on the yield and yield components of nationally released onion (Allium cepa L.)Varieties in Enemore Woreda (district) of Gurage zone. A combination of four fertilizer treatments and four varieties were used. These were: 200kg ha-1NP, 242kg ha-1NPS, 244kg ha-1NPSB and 257kg ha1NPSZn; and Bombay Red, Nafis, Red Creole and Nasik Red of onion verities. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design, under factorial arrangement and with three replications. There were a total of 16 treatment combinations and 48 experimental units. Data were collected on various parameters of growth, yield and yield components using standard procedures. The data were analyzed using a SAS software version 9.3. The analysis of variance revealed that the main effect of both the different types of fertilizers and onion varieties influenced plant height, date of maturity and bulb dry weight. However, the unmarketable bulb yield was highly significantly (p<0.001) affected only by varieties. There was also statistically highly significant (p<0.001) interaction effect on leaf length, leaf number, bulb diameter, average fresh weight, marketable bulb yield, and total bulb yield. Accordingly, the treatment combination of 244 kg ha-1 NPSB fertilizer and variety Red Creole recorded the highest plant height (68.25cm), bulb diameter (6.1cm), leaf length(59.9cm),leaf number (13.66), average bulb fresh weight (103.66g), marketable yield (31.64 t ha-1 ) and total bulb yield(32.25 t ha-1 ). On the other hand, correlation analysis showed that almost all the tested yield and yield component parameters were highly significantly and positively correlated with the marketable bulb yield of onion. Besides, as revealed by the partial budget analysis, plants supplied with 244 kg ha-1 NPSB and variety Red Creole recorded the highest net benefit if Birr 462412.00 with acceptable Marginal Rate of Return (MRR,3441.7%), which can be recommended for economical production of onion at Enomore Woreda. Nevertheless, since, the study was conducted only for a single season and one location, further research is recommended to be carried out at different seasons of the year and multiple potentially representative locations.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT GARLIC (Allium sativum l.) EXTRACT LEVELS INCLUSION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMERCIAL BROILER
(wolkite university, 2022-06-04) AYELU DAGNACHEW
Commercialization of chicken farming and improvement of production efficiency has led to be the adoption of a range of additives as growth promoter. Antibiotic-based growth promoter have long been utilizing as animal feed additives. Wide spread usage of these substances has resulted in an escalation of antibiotic resistance and the accumulation of antibiotic residues in animal product. Because of these weaknesses there is rising interest in employing natural growth promoters. Therefore, this study has conducted on the effects of different garlic extract levels inclusion on the growth performance and carcass characteristic of broiler. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments, each replicated three times with 15 birds each. 180 chicks with similar body weight were used for this trial and were randomly distributed to the four treatments. They were T1 (NC, basal diet and drinking water), T2 (PC, basal diet + drinking water with oxtetracycline (0.2 g/ 10 litter), T3 (basal diet + drinking water (1.5% GEX)) and T4 (basal diet + drinking water (3% GEX). During the trial periods daily feed intake and weekly body weight were recorded and carcass evaluation was made. The result obtained that, the body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of birds were significantly (P<0.05) improved by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Most of carcass trait such that slaughter, dressing, breast, liver and GIT weight were highly (P< 0.05) affected by 1.5 and 3% GEX inclusion levels. Reduced abdominal fat weight and percentage (P< 0.05) was recorded in GEX inclusion levels. Generally, based on the results of the current study garlic extract at 1.5 and 3% inclusion levels in drinking water should be considered as potential growth promoters that may replace the antibiotic in broiler farm
CHARACTERIZATION OF MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCES OF EXOTIC CHICKENS UNDER DIFFERENT AGRO-ECOLOGIES IN EZHA DISTRICT OF GURAGE ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-07-04) GIZEYATU CHERU W/SENBET
This study was conducted to assess the management practices, productive and reproductive performances of exotic chickens under different agro-ecologies, from March 2021 to September 2021 in Ezha district of Gurage zone, Ethiopia. A total of 280 (165 from highland and 115 from midland) households were randomly selected households from six peasant associations (PAs) were used in the study to collect primary data using semi-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 21and mean differences were compared using Independent-Sample T Test. The result indicated that using extension package exotic chickens keeping as a parameter showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the two agro-ecologies of the study area. The results obtained showed that the mean flock size of the study area was 10.5 chickens/household and types of exotic chicks to chicken owners showed that the majority of the respondents (80%) used Sasso breed the rest (20%) used Bovans brown. 90.4% of the respondents used separate house for their chicken from both agro-ecologies. However only 133(54.5%) of the respondent kept the chicken in a house at the time of both day and night. Regarding the feeding activities, majority 235(83.9%) was scavenging in addition to supplementary feed. Whereas, (11.1%) were homemade feed and only (4.3%) used formulated balanced diets feed. 279(99.6%) of chicken owners provide supplementary feed for their chickens and also (99.6%) of the respondents provide water to their chicken. About (68.6%) of the respondents vaccinate their chickens and (35.7%) use modern drugs to treat sick chickens. Newcastle (80.8%) vaccine is the most frequently used vaccine in the area. New castle disease (68.9%) and Fowl thiphoid, Gumboro and Foul pox disease (31.1%) were the major poultry diseases with relatively high prevalence. About (41.1%), (21.1%) and (19.3%) of the respondent reported that weasel, eagle and wild cat as major predators, respectively. (97.5%) of the respondent has market access for products. Most respondents (97.1%) get the extension service from the extension agent and (74.3%) of them get the training about chicken production. The mean egg number/ hen /year were calculated to be (224.37 and 223.44) for the highland and midland respectively. The mean age at first egg was reported to be (5.88 and 5.83) months for highland and midland hens respectively. Exotic village chicken productivity estimating parameters like eggs/hen/year, number of clutch/hen/day, market age of cock and hen, sexual maturity of hen and age at 1st egg were showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Market weight of Sasso cock was reported to be (3.27 and 2.99) Kg and hen (3.0 and 2.88) Kg for the highland and midland respectively. There was no variation (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Thus, improving the overall management system such as improved feeding, recommended housing and health care extension packages could be a better strategy to increase the egg and meat production potential of exotic chickens under village management condition. The outstanding effort has been made to improve farmers raising a small number of exotic chickens to increase their chicken number under semi-intensive production system to play a role to improving chicken production and productivity
EFFECT OF BLENDED NPSB FERTILIZER RATES AND INTRA-ROWSPACINGONGROWTH AND YIELD OF ONION (Allium cepa L.) UNDER IRRIGATIONCONDITION IN GURAGE ZONE, ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-07-04) YEKITE TEREFE ZEWDIE
The onion is one of Ethiopia's most important vegetable crops, and it is usedvirtuallyevery day as a spice and vegetable in Ethiopian cuisine. However, its productivityisstilllow due to various limiting factors such as low soil fertility, improper plant densityorspacing, disease and pests and lack of production technologies appropriate todif erentvarieties and agro-ecological conditions. Haphard fertilizer application andintrarowplant spacing are among others the most important once. To this ef ect, the present studywas initiated to evaluate the ef ects of NPSB fertilizers and intra-rowspacingonthegrowth and yield performance of onion variety of Bombay red under Enemor districtconditions during the “irrigation” season. There were 12 treatment combinationswhichconsisted of four levels of NPSB fertilizers (0, 122, 244 and 366kg ha -1) and threelevelsofintra-row plant spacing (7.5cm, 10cm and 12.5cm). The experiment was laidout inRandomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with factorial arrangement and underthreereplications. Results of the statistical analysis showed that the treatments hadhighlysignificant (p ≤ 0.01) dif erence on the their interaction ef ect on both the growthandyield parameters tested (i.e. plant height, leaf number, bulb diameter, bulb length, weightof onion bulbs as well as marketable, unmarketable and total bulb yield). Generally, thetreatment combination of 244kg ha -1 and 7.5cm intra-row spacing recordedthelargestmarketable bulb yield of 41.2t ha -1 , total bulb yield of (41.34t ha -1), harvestingindexof77.17%, and the lowest unmarketable bulb yield of 0.14t ha -1 . Results of the correlationanalysis also showed that almost all the tested parameters of onion werehighlysignificantly and positively correlated with the marketable bulb yield of onion. Besides, asrevealed by the partial budget analysis, the combined treatment of 244kg ha -1 NPSBand7.5cm intra row spacing resulted in the highest net benefit increase of Birr 893,390whencompared with the other treatments combinations. Hence, the combined applicationof244kg ha -1 of NPSB fertilizers and intra-row spacing 7.5cm is recommendedforonionproduction in Enemor District as well as areas with similar agro-ecological conditions.However, since the study was conducted only for a single season and in only onelocation,further research is recommended to be carried out in more other locations as well asatdif erent seasons.
CHARACTERIZATION OF MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCES OF EXOTIC CHICKENS UNDER DIFFERENT AGRO-ECOLOGIES IN EZHA DISTRICT OF GURAGE ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2022-12-04) GIZEYATU CHERU W/SENBET
This study was conducted to assess the management practices, productive and reproductive performances of exotic chickens under different agro-ecologies, from March 2021 to September 2021 in Ezha district of Gurage zone, Ethiopia. A total of 280 (165 from highland and 115 from midland) households were randomly selected households from six peasant associations (PAs) were used in the study to collect primary data using semi-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 21and mean differences were compared using Independent-Sample T Test. The result indicated that using extension package exotic chickens keeping as a parameter showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the two agro-ecologies of the study area. The results obtained showed that the mean flock size of the study area was 10.5 chickens/household and types of exotic chicks to chicken owners showed that the majority of the respondents (80%) used Sasso breed the rest (20%) used Bovans brown. 90.4% of the respondents used separate house for their chicken from both agro-ecologies. However only 133(54.5%) of the respondent kept the chicken in a house at the time of both day and night. Regarding the feeding activities, majority 235(83.9%) was scavenging in addition to supplementary feed. Whereas, (11.1%) were homemade feed and only (4.3%) used formulated balanced diets feed. 279(99.6%) of chicken owners provide supplementary feed for their chickens and also (99.6%) of the respondents provide water to their chicken. About (68.6%) of the respondents vaccinate their chickens and (35.7%) use modern drugs to treat sick chickens. Newcastle (80.8%) vaccine is the most frequently used vaccine in the area. New castle disease (68.9%) and Fowl thiphoid, Gumboro and Foul pox disease (31.1%) were the major poultry diseases with relatively high prevalence. About (41.1%), (21.1%) and (19.3%) of the respondent reported that weasel, eagle and wild cat as major predators, respectively. (97.5%) of the respondent has market access for products. Most respondents (97.1%) get the extension service from the extension agent and (74.3%) of them get the training about chicken production. The mean egg number/ hen /year were calculated to be (224.37 and 223.44) for the highland and midland respectively. The mean age at first egg was reported to be (5.88 and 5.83) months for highland and midland hens respectively. Exotic village chicken productivity estimating parameters like eggs/hen/year, number of clutch/hen/day, market age of cock and hen, sexual maturity of hen and age at 1st egg were showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Market weight of Sasso cock was reported to be (3.27 and 2.99) Kg and hen (3.0 and 2.88) Kg for the highland and midland respectively. There was no variation (P<0.05) between agro-ecologies. Thus, improving the overall management system such as improved feeding, recommended housing and health care extension packages could be a better strategy to increase the egg and meat production potential of exotic chickens under village management condition. The outstanding effort has been made to improve farmers raising a small number of exotic chickens to increase their chicken number under semi-intensive production system to play a role to improving chicken production and productivity.
GENETIC DIVERSITY AND POPULATION STRUCTURE ANALYSIS OF SELECTED ETHIOPIAN INDIGENOUS CATTLE BREEDS USING MICROSATELLITE MARKERS
(wolkite university, 2023) BRUK ALEMU TEKLE
The present study aimed to evaluate genetic diversity, population structure, and level of admixture of four Ethiopian cattle populations namely (Guraghe Gofa , Hamer, and Mursi). Sixteen microsatellite markers were used to assess the genetic diversity of the four ecotypes. Genomic DNA was extracted from bovine blood samples with a genomic DNA extraction salting out method. Ninety-one DNA samples from four (Guraghe (n = 25), Gofa (n = 25), Hamer (n = 25), and Mursi (n = 16)) Ethiopian cattle populations were genotyped. A total of 191 alleles were detected, ranging from 8 to 23 alleles per locus. The mean number of alleles and the observed and expected heterozygosity were 11.9, 0.053, and 0.79, respectively. The FIT, FIS, and FST overall F-statistics have mean values of 0.94, 0.94, and 0.096, respectively. The genetic variation between populations accounted for 9.6% of the total genetic variation. Gene flow (2.56) was observed in all four populations. Genetic distances, such as PCoA and dendrogram, reveal a close relationship between Hammer and Mursi as compared to Guraghe and Mursi. Factorial correspondence analysis (FCA) and the Structure analysis assigned four Ethiopian populations independently; however, Hamer and Mursi showed a relatively higher degree of admixture than Guraghe and Gofa. It can be concluded that Ethiopia's indigenous cattle populations have a high degree of genetic diversity; These results may be useful in determining current and future breeding programs as well as management and conservation strategies for Ethiopia's indigenous animal genetic resources.
ASSESSMENT ON MILKING AND HANDLING PRACTICES, MICROBIAL QUALITY AND SAFETY OF RAW COW MILK IN KOLFEKERANIO AND LEMIKURA SUB-CITIES OF ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
(Wolkite University, 2023-01) KURIBACHEW ENDALE GODANA
Raw cow milk serves as a good medium for microbial growth due to its complex biochemical composition and high water activity, Because of this character, the quality and shelf-life of milk is forced to be degraded. This study was conducted in Kolfekeranio and Lemikura sub cities of Addis Ababa to evaluate milking practice, microbial quality and safety as well as antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria in raw cow milk. Two districts were purposively selected from each sub-cities based on dairy potential. Small, medium and large-scale dairy farmers in the selected districts of study area owning dairy cattle for milk production were the targeted population. A total of 161 dairy producers were selected randomly based on proportion from each farm scale and interviewed individually using semi-structured questionnaire. For milk quality evaluation, 61 samples of raw cow milk were collected from producer’s container and transported by icebox to the laboratory. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.0. The result showed that the milking method practiced in the study area is hand milking. All the respondents wash their hands before milking but among them 27.3% of them washes with water only and 72.7% of them wash their hand with soap and water. The majority of the respondents use plastic materials for milking (83.9%), and milk storage (68.3%) respectively. The overall mean (±SD) of raw cow’s milk for standard plate count (SPC), E. coli count (EC), Coliform Count (CC) and Total Yeast and Mold Count (TYMC) were 6.24±1.43, 2.44±0.56, 4.34 ±1.27 and 2.87±1.02 log10cfu/ml respectively. Salmonella was not detected in the collected milk sample and the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus was 37%. The isolated S. aureus bacteria were 100% susceptible for antibiotic drugs like Amikacin, Gentamicin, Kanamycin, Erythromycin, Tylosin, Clindamycin and Florenicol. On the other hand S. aureus was 87% susceptible and 13% intermediate for Enfrofloxacin, 78.3% susceptible and 21.7% resistance for Tilcimosin, 60.9% susceptible and 39.1% resistance for Tetracycline, 95.7% susceptible and 4.3% intermediate for Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. Based on the result of the current study, milk samples contained higher microbial load than National and International standards and contains pathogenic bacteria which will result in public health risk to the consumer. All concerned bodies in dairy industry should get public education about hygienic milk production to reduce the risk of milk borne pathogens and losses due to rejection resulting from contamination.
RESPONSE OF MAIZE (Zea mays L.) HYBRIDS TO PLANT DENSITY IN NONO DISTRICT, WEST SHOWA ZONE, ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2023-03-01) ABERA WORKINEH SHEMETE
To increase maize yield in a positive environment, it's important to suit the planting density and cultivar. Field research were carried out in 2021 under rain-fed conditions in Nono district of West Shewa zone in two locations (Silk Amba and Jiru Gemechu), to decide the effects of plant density levels on maize hybrids reproduction, growth, yield and yield components. The study included four maize hybrids (BH540, BH546, Damote and Limu) and three planting densities (44,444, 53333 and 67,667 plants ha−1 ) in a randomized complete block design in a factorial arrangement with 3 replications. Results revealed that location (Loc) had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) influenced most measured phenological, growth, yield and yield components of maize. Across environments hybrids significantly (P_< 0.05) affected all measured parameters. Planting density had additionally affected a few growth, yield and yield components of maize drastically . Across environments, the lowest grain yield (7.88 ha-1 ) was observed from BH540 (oldest hybrid). No significant yield increase observed beyond 53,333 plats ha-1 , and recommended to be the superior planting density for the maize hybrids included on this study in the district. Compared to the district's existing suggested planting density of 44,444 plants ha-1 , planting density of 53,333 plants ha-1 produced greater than nine quintals ha-1 yield advantage. At both locations, BH540 and BH546 both had comparable outcomes. On the other hand, Pioneer hybrids, Damote and Limu resulted the highest yield of 12 and 12.32 t ha-1 respectively at Silk Amba, whereas, at Jiru Gemechu, the highest yield was recorded from Limu (10.64 t ha-1 ) hybrid and was also corresponding to BH546 (9.31 t ha-1 ) and Damote (9.99 t ha-1 ) suggested differential response of hybrids in different environments as a result of Loc x H interaction. This study provided further evidence that the growth and yield of maize are significantly influenced via environment, genotype, plant population, and interactions. It also made the point that optimizing planting density to match the high-quality performing variety should be taken into account as new varieties are delivered and advocated particularly environments.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MOLASSES ON ELEPHANT GRASS (PENNISETUM PURPEREUM) AND DESHO GRASS (PENNISETUM PEDICELLATUM) SILAGE QUALITY
(wolkite university, 2023-05-03) SIRAJ MEHDI
In tropical region inadequate quality and quantity of feeds are the major constraints to livestock production sector. Most of feed resources are low in nutrient content to meet nutrient requirements of maintenance, production and reproduction. The experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of molasses on elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum) silage quality in Wolkite University. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of different levels of molasses on silages quality of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum). Elephant grasses were harvested from Wolkite University dairy farm and desho grasses were harvested from around Wolkite town from farmer’s backyard when they were at the ages of medium stages of growth. The harvested grasses was chopped up to 2cm particle size each weighing 2kg each silage materials treated with different levels of molasses (0%, 3% and 5%), packed in 2kg holding plastic bags silo, doubled it and stored in thatched barn. Treatments were assigned to a completely randomized design in factorial arrangement (2x3) with three replications. The silage was opened after 30 days, analyzed for sensory qualities; chemical composition and in vitro DM digestibility. Treated silages had better appearance qualities than the control silages. All of the silages had good and very good degrees in organoleptic test method based on DM, PH. The treated silages had lower PH compared with the control (p<0.05).The control group had lower DM content than treated silages (p<0.05). Elephant grass silages had higher CP, CF and temperature than desho grass silages. Desho grass silage produced higher quality and preserved better than Elephant grass as indicated by higher sensory qualities, ether extract, invitro dry matter digestibility and stability. But lower PH, DM, Crude Protein and Crude Fiber. Desho grass with 5% molasses showed that its silage contains higher Moisture, IVDMD and EE (C. fat) than elephant grasses. Silages with 5% molasses had higher quality than silages mixed with 0% and 3% molasses levels as indicated by higher DM, EE and IVDMD, but lower PH and NDF. Therefore, it was concluded that Elephant and Desho grasses ensiled with 5% molasses level was the most optimal techniques to achieve high quality silage fermentation under smallholder farmers.
ASSESSMENT ON MILKING AND HANDLING PRACTICES, MICROBIAL QUALITY AND SAFETY OF RAW COW MILK IN KOLFEKERANIO AND LEMIKURA SUB-CITIES OF ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
(wolkite university, 2023-05-04) KURIBACHEW ENDALE GODANA
Raw cow milk serves as a good medium for microbial growth due to its complex biochemical composition and high water activity, Because of this character, the quality and shelf-life of milk is forced to be degraded. This study was conducted in Kolfekeranio and Lemikura subcities of Addis Ababa to evaluate milking practice, microbial quality and safety as well as antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria in raw cow milk. Two districts were purposively selected from each sub-cities based on dairy potential. Small, medium and large-scale dairy farmers in the selected districts of study area owning dairy cattle for milk production were the targeted population. A total of 161 dairy producers were selected randomly based on proportion from each farm scale and interviewed individually using semi-structured questionnaire. For milk quality evaluation, 61 samples of raw cow milk were collected from producer’s container and transported by ice box to the laboratory. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.0. The result showed that the milking method practiced in the study area is hand milking. All the respondents wash their hands before milking but among them 27.3% of them washes with water only and 72.7% of them wash their hand with soap and water. The majority of the respondents use plastic materials for milking (83.9%), and milk storage (68.3%) respectively. The overall mean (±SD) of raw cow’s milk for standard plate count (SPC), E. coli count (EC), Coliform Count (CC) and Total Yeast and Mold Count (TYMC) were 6.24±1.43, 2.44±0.56, 4.34 ±1.27 and 2.87±1.02 log10cfu/ml respectively. Salmonella was not detected in the collected milk sample and the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus was 37%. The isolated S. aureus bacteria were 100% susceptible for antibiotic drugs like Amikacin, Gentamicin, Kanamycin, Erythromycin, Tylosin, Clindamycin and Florenicol. On the other hand S. aureus was 87% susceptible and 13% intermediate for Enfrofloxacin, 78.3% susceptible and 21.7% resistance for Tilcimosin, 60.9% susceptible and 39.1% resistance for Tetracycline, 95.7% susceptible and 4.3% intermediate for Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. Based on the result of the current study, milk samples contained higher microbial load than National and International standards and contains pathogenic bacteria which will result in public health risk to the consumer. All concerned bodies in dairy industry should get public education about hygienic milk production to reduce the risk of milk borne pathogens and losses due to rejection resulting from contamination.