Showing papers in "Indian Journal of Animal Sciences in 2015"

Computer assisted sperm analysis - the relationship to bull field fertility, possible errors and their impact on outputs: A review

Abstract: Sperm motility is one of the indicators most evaluated before and after cryopreservation, regarding quality and fertilizing ability. The present review provides complex information about the possible negative effects on the results of computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and also reflects a possible connection of these results to bull field fertility. Recently, there has been a growing interest in sperm motility assessment by CASA to determine sperm motion more accurately and objectively than by subjective evaluation. CASA systems have been routinely used in most research laboratories and also with increasing tendency in the case of insemination centres. However, objectivity and comparison of CASA results through laboratories can be impacted unfavourably. This is in particular due to the absence of standardization for bull sperm motility evaluation and the presence of drawbacks in the form of human and non-human factors. Investigators have recently turned to the possible association of CASA results with the prediction of bull field fertility. However, the studies suffer from discrepancies, thus a clear relationship has not yet been confirmed. Specific combinations of motility parameters with accurate determination of sperm subpopulations could represent another part in the complex system of providing the ability to predict fertility in vivo. The task of future works should be to establish standardization regarding sperm motility evaluation of specific animals, in addition to the settings and algorithms of CASA systems. Furthermore, predictive value CASA outputs to bull field fertility demand more extensive research aimed at a more precise definition of this relationship.

Effect of dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds with or without enzyme addition on performance and blood biochemistry of broiler chicken, and evaluation of their in vitro antibacterial activity

Abstract: The study was conducted to evaluate effect of dietary supplementation of locally available herbs dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds with or without enzyme treatment in broiler chicken. Day-old commercial broiler chicks (273) were reared together until 7 days of age and on 7th day, and individually weighed, and distributed randomly into 7 groups of 3 replicates with 13 chicks each. Birds in the control group were fed diets without additives (T 1 ). The other 6 treatment groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.5% dandelion leaves (T 2 ), 1% fenugreek seeds (T 3 ), combination of 0.5% dandelion leaves and 1% fenugreek seeds (T 4 ), enzyme treated dandelion leaves 0.5% (T 5 ), enzyme treated fenugreek seeds 1% (T 6 ), and combination of enzyme treated dandelion leaves (0.5%) and (1%) fenugreek seeds (T 7 ). The results revealed a significant improvement in the live body weight of broiler chicken fed diets supplemented with dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds with or without enzyme treatment (T 5 , T 6 and T 7 ) when compared with the control group. A significant improvement in the live body weight and body weight gain was obtained in the said groups from 3 to 6 weeks of age. Highest live body weight was observed in the group fed combination of enzyme treated dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds (T 7 ) followed by 1892.62g±5.11 in enzyme treated dandelion group (T 6 ). Among the groups fed dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds without enzyme, highest body weight was achieved in the group fed 1% combination of dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds in the diet (T 4 ), followed by the group fed fenugreek alone (T 3 ). Fenugreek seeds showed better results in terms of growth of birds than dandelion leaves. Highest cumulative feed consumption was recorded in all the groups in which 1% fenugreek seeds were supplemented when compared with the control group. However, a nonsignificant effect was observed in the dandelion groups compared to control in terms of cumulative feed consumption. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly improved in the birds fed diets containing either raw or enzyme treated dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds, alone or in combination, when compared with the control group. Among the different treatment groups, best FCR was observed in the group fed combination of enzyme treated dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds (T 7 ), followed by enzyme treated dandelion group. The mean values of serum glucose and cholesterol significantly reduced among different treatment groups compared to control, the highest reduction being observed in the groups fed combination of dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds with or without enzyme addition. Further, the in vitro study revealed that both the dandelion leaves and fenugreek seeds have antibacterial properties with zone of inhibition as 2 mm from dandelion leaves and 2.1 mm from fenugreek seeds for the concentration of 0.5 mg/ml and 0.05 mg/ml of extract against Escherichia coli on the Mueller Hinton Agar, respectively.

Influence of dietary different levels of zinc oxide nano particles on the yield and quality carcass of broiler chickens during starter stage.

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of dietary different levels of zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zno-NPs) on the yield and quality carcass of broiler chickens during starter stage (from 1 to 21 day). One-day mail broilers (300) were distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD) in 5 treatment groups, each having 4 replicates and 15 birds in each experimental pen. The experimental diets were: T1 control (basal diet); T2, T3, T4 and T5 diets, supplemented with 30, 60, 90 and 120 mg Zno-NPs/kg of diet, respectively. Birds had access to feed and water throughout time of research. On d 21 birds (4;1 bird/replicate) were randomly selected, slaughtered and then carcass yield, breast and thigh composition were evaluated. The results indicated that live body weight, dressing and percentage of breast and thigh meat were higher in the T3 and T4 groups than control and other groups. Dry matter (DM), and crude protein (CP) of breast and thigh meats were higher in T3 (60 mg Zno-NPs/kg) and T4 (90 mg Zno-NPs/kg) bird groups as compared to control and other treatments. Ether extract in breast and thigh meat reduced in comparison with control treatment. In conclusion, results of present trial suggested that dietary no-NPs with 60 and/or 90 mg/kg Zno-NPs had significantly improved broiler quality and quantity of carcass broiler during starter period.

Growth performance, carcass characteristics, fatty acid composition and sensory attributes of meat of broiler chickens fed diet incorporated with linseed oil

Abstract: Day-old broiler chicks (240) were randomly distributed to 4 dietary groups with 10 replicates in each and raised for 42 days under uniform management conditions to determine the effect of supplementing omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid (FA) rich linseed oil (LO) on performance, carcass characteristics, meat fatty acid profile and sensory attributes of meat. A corn-soybean based starter (0–3 wk) and finisher (4–6 wk) control diets were formulated using sunflower oil (SFO). Subsequently, 3 experimental diets were formulated by replacing SFO with LO at 33, 67 and 100% levels. All experimental birds were provided feed and water ad lib. Body weights, feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured at weekly intervals. At the end of the experiment, 6 birds from each treatment were selected randomly and slaughtered to study the carcass traits (dressed weight, liver, giblet, breast meat and abdominal fat yield), fatty acid profile and to assess the sensory characters of meat. Dietary replacement of SFO with LO at all the levels (33, 67 or 100%) had no adverse effect on performance (weight gains, FI and FCR) and carcass traits. However, dietary incorporation of LO at 67 or 100% had significantly lowered the abdominal fat content. A significant increase in poly-unsaturated FA (PUFA), n-3 FA and a significant decrease in n-6:n-3 were noticed in breast and thigh muscle due to dietary incorporation of LO in the diets, the effect being more pronounced at the highest level of supplementation. Sensory attributes of meat was also not affected due to dietary incorporation of LO in broilers. It is concluded that dietary incorporation of LO at 2 and 3% level during starter and finisher phases, respectively, could enrich the meat with n-3 FA without affecting the performance of broilers and sensory characters of meat.

Effect of dietary addition of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) powder on broiler performance

Abstract: Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary addition of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root powder and guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder on growth performance, feed conversion ratio and economics of feeding in broilers. In experiment 1, treatments were T 1 : basal diet; T 2 : basal diet + ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root powder @ 1 g/kg of feed; T 3 : basal diet + ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root powder @ 2 g/kg of feed. In experiment 2, treatments were T 1 : basal diet; T 2 : basal diet + guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder @ 1 g/kg of feed; T 3 : basal diet + guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) stem powder @ 2 g/kg of feed. The chicks were fed with standard basal diets in three different growth phases i.e. pre-starter (0–10d), starter (11–21d) and finisher (22–42d). Supplementation of Withania somnifera and Tinospora cordifolia significantly increased the overall body weights, weekly gain in body weight of broilers compared to the control group. However, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed cost per kilogram of live broiler production were similar among the treatment groups. The dietary addition of Withania somnifera and Tinospora cordifolia reduced mortality rate compared to the control. Results indicated that ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) powder improved growth performance and reduced mortality, but did not have any effect on feed conversion ratio and economics of feeding in broilers.

Detection of major mastitis pathogens by multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay in buffalo milk

Abstract: In the present study multiplex PCR assay was standardized for simultaneous detection of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae and Escherichia coli associated with mastitis. The target sequence 16S to 23S rRNA inter spacer regions was used. Primers used were chosen to have approximately same Tm value, common annealing temperature and easily differentiable specific amplified products. The performance of the assay was examined on 92 milk samples collected from subclinically and clinically infected buffaloes and the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of multiplex PCR was compared with culture examination. Out of total milk samples, 16 were diagnosed for mixed infections of Staphylococcus aureus + S. dysgalactiae (43.75%), S. aureus + S. agalactiae (12.5%), S. aureus + E. coli (25%), S. dysgalactiae + E. coli (12.5%) and S. aureus + S. dysgalactiae + E. coli (6.25%). Multiplex PCR assay was more promising option than culture methods. Milk culture method is cumbersome and more time consuming and it may yield no bacteria due to the presence of very low number of pathogens or due to residual therapeutic antibiotics concentration in milk. The assay has an added advantage over simplex PCR that it can simultaneous detect and type different species of bacteria. Multiplex PCR assay is rapid, sensitive and specific assay which can be used as a routine diagnostic tool to detect major mastitis pathogens.

Effect of graded concentration of organic zinc (zinc glycinate) on skin quality, hematological and serum biochemical constituents in broiler chicken

Abstract: Day-old chicks (120) were randomly distributed to 4 dietary groups with 6 replicate in each and raised for 42 days under uniform managemental conditions to determine the effect of supplementing organic zinc (zinc glycinate, Zn-gly) at lower levels on skin quality, haematological and serum biochemical constituents. Dietary treatments consisted of adding 30, 20 and 10 ppm Zn from Zinc glycinate and 40 ppm Zn (NRC 1994) from ZnSO 4 (inorganic) (control) to a corn-soybean meal basal diet prepared as per NRC (1994) nutritional requirements, except Zn. Feed and water was provided ad-libitum. Haematological and serum biochemical constituents were estimated in blood collected at 35 d. At the end of experiment, representative samples of skin were collected from slaughtered birds for histological examination. Haematological constituents (WBC, RBC, Hb concentration, PCV, MCV and lymphocyte concentration), serum total protein, albumin and glucose concentrations did not vary with concentration (10–40 ppm) and source (ZnSO 4 or Zn-gly) of Zn supplementation in diet. The cholesterol and albumin to globulin ratio was lowest (P<0.05), while globulin, Zn concentrations and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in serum was highest (P<0.05) at 30 ppm Zn supplementation from Zn- gly compared to other groups and these attributes were comparable between 20 ppm Zn as Zn-gly and 40 ppm Zn as ZnSO4. An increased epithelial cell layer and collagen content was observed with 30 ppm Zn supplementation as Zn-gly compared to other dietary treatments. While epithelium cell layers and collagen content was moderate with addition of 40 ppm Zn as ZnSO 4 or 20 ppm Zn as Zn-gly. The skin of birds supplemented with 10 ppm Zn from Zn-gly had few epithelial layers and low amount of collagen. Higher ALP activity indicating higher bioavailability, better skin quality and globulin concentration in serum was observed in birds fed 30 ppm Zn from Zn-gly compared to 40 ppm Zn supplemented from inorganic source. Reducing the dietary Zn supplementation by 50% (20 ppm) from organic Zn had comparable skin quality, serum ALP activity and globulin concentration as 100% (40ppm) supplementation from inorganic source.

Roasting and formaldehyde method to make bypass protein for ruminants and its importance: A review

Abstract: Protecting highly degradable protein sources like GN cake and mustard cake by formaldehyde treatment gave very good results in terms of increased growth rate and milk production in cattle, buffaloes and goats. Several studies were conducted to prove this point. Higher protein degradability results in wastage of dietary amino acids as urea excreted through urine. With regard to soybean cake, its protein can also be protected through heat treatment, which reduces degradability of soya protein. Heat treatment of whole soybean also enhances its palatability and the heat also destroys the anti-nutritional factors contained in raw beans. Among the most notable of these factors is the protease inhibitor, which binds the digestive enzymes, trypsin and chymotrypsin, rendering it unavailable to the host animal. Thus, properly processed soybean is an excellent feed ingredient which can be incorporated in the ration for high yielding cattle, buffaloes and for growing calves. Roasting of soybean is the most common heat treatment given to this proteinous feed and the roasted soybean can be incorporated even in the complete feed blocks, to act as a concentrated source of energy and protein, for high yielding dairy cows producing 15 to 20 kg of milk / day. Formaldehyde treatment of cakes (GN cake, mustard cake and soybean cake) effectively reduces their protein degradability and feeding of such treated cakes improved performance of animals in terms of growth and milk production. The treated cake has no effect on the health of animals or the milk quality. The method is also low cost and feasible, the technology has gone commercial in India.

Nutrition in health and immune function of ruminants

Abstract: Nutrition, an important modulator of immune function, can often influence the balance between health and disease. Diets influence immunity through meeting substrate needs of immune system cells, deprivation of nutrients from pathogen, direct regulatory effects on cells of immune system, changing the balance of hormones that regulate immunity, reduction of collateral damage induced by an immune response, and physical and chemical immunomodulation action of non-nutrient components of feeds. Poor immune-competency can result in greater incidence and duration of infections causing decrease in food intake, nutrient losses, and impaired animal health and well-being. Substrates (energy, amino acids and all nutrients) are necessary for the anabolic activity of immune system’s cells (leukocytes), such as proliferation and antibody production as well as the secretion by the liver of large quantities of immunologically active molecules, the acute phase proteins. The small size of the immune system, its capacity to appropriate nutrients from other tissues, and endowment with high priority nutrient transporters generally indicate that the immune system can usually obtain many of the nutrients that it needs to do its functions over a wide range of dietary levels. However, requirements of some nutrients may not be met by nutrient appropriation mechanism under low dietary intake because of their low concentration in muscle and their relatively high need within the immune system. Role of s-carotene, vitamin E, copper, zinc and selenium in aiding immunity are mediated not only through maintenance of appropriate amounts of antioxidants, but also by the involvement of enzymes in aiding the production of energy, proteins, cells and hormones needed in defense mechanisms. This review discusses the complex relationship between nutritional status and immune function with special focus on mechanism of action of individual key nutrient.

Characterization of Ghagus breed vis-a-vis PD–4 birds for production, adaptability, semen and egg quality traits

Abstract: The present study was conducted to characterize Ghagus, a native breed of chicken for production, adaptability, semen and egg quality traits in comparison with PD4 birds. Sex wise body weight and shank length of Ghagus birds recorded at 40 weeks of age were significantly lesser than those of PD4 birds. Ghagus birds had significantly higher tonic immobility (TI) duration and asymmetry of shank length than those of PD4 birds but no differences were observed for number of attempts to induce TI and asymmetry of shank width and middle toe length. Mean shank width and middle toe lengths were significantly higher in PD4 birds. Ghagus birds produced significantly lesser number of eggs up to 40 weeks of age with smaller egg size. With respect to semen quality traits, Ghagus roosters had significantly better appearance and concentration of spermatozoa than PD4 birds. Study of egg quality traits revealed significantly better albumen index in Ghagus as compared to PD4 birds. However, significantly higher egg weight, yolk, albumen and shell weights were observed in PD4 birds as compared to Ghagus breed with no significant differences in other egg quality traits. The study indicated that, there is a scope for improvement of this important native chicken breed for growth and production traits as semen and egg quality traits were at desirable levels.

Dietary organic zinc and selenium supplementation improves semen quality and fertility in layer breeders

Abstract: Present address: 1Scientist (dr_shan@rediffmail.com), 2Scientist (drbhukyaprakash@gmail.com), 3SRF (pradeep.biochem@gmail.com), 4Principal Scientist (akpanda59@rediffmail.com), Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Trace minerals as a part of many enzymes are necessary for normal biochemical reactions. Supplementation of minerals in organic form is more bioavailabe than in inorganic form due to absence of any interaction or antagonism between minerals or other dietary constituents. Furthermore, organic trace minerals are efficiently absorbed in the gut necessitating lower level of supplementation in the diet (Rao et al. 2013). In pullets organic Zn supplementation increased gonadal maturation at placement in broiler breeder males (Suchý et al. 1998). Shanmugam et al. (2014) found that organic Zn supplementation at 100 ppm improved the sperm metabolism in layers. In chicken, studies on organic Se supplementation have focussed on sperm morphology (Edens and Sefton, 2009) and semen quality during high ambient temperature (Ebeid 2009). Apart from the effect of supplemental organic Zn and Se on rooster semen quality there are no report of supplemental trace minerals in males on fertility and hatchability. The objective was to investigate the dietary supplementation of organic Zn and Se on semen quality, fertility and hatchability in layer breeders. The experiment was conducted at the experimental poultry farm of the Institute located at Hyderabad, India with the approval of the Institute Animal Ethics Committee. Thirty Dahlem Red roosters (29 weeks) were assigned to 3 groups in individual cages in an open-sided house. A practical male breeder diet was prepared to contain 2,665 kcal/kg ME, 16.4% crude protein and other nutrients (Table 1). The diets of experimental groups were supplemented with organic Zn (zinc proteinate) and Se (selenomethionine in yeast protein) as follows group 1 (0 Zn/0 Se), group 2 (100 mg/kg Zn/0.15 mg/kg Se), group 3 (100 mg/kg Zn/ 0.35 mg/kg Se) for 8 weeks. The birds were provided with weighed quantity of feed (100g/day) and had free access to water. By abdominal massage (Burrows and Quinn 1937) semen was collected from the birds at fourth and eighth weeks after selenium supplementation. The semen collected was evaluated for different gross and biochemical parameters. Immediately after collection semen was diluted 4 times using high temperature diluent (Chaudhuri and Lake 1988) and used for further analysis. The volume of the ejaculated semen was assessed by using a 1 ml syringe. The appearance of raw semen was scored 1 to 5 visually (McDaniel and Craig 1959). Percentage of progressively motile sperm was assessed subjectively by placing a drop of diluted semen on a Makler chamber and examining at 20 × magnifications. Sperm concentration was determined in a colorimeter at 540 nm of wavelength (Taneja and Gowe Short Communication Indian Journal of Animal Sciences 85 (2): 202–204, February 2015/Short communication

Lactate dehydrogenase as a possible indicator of reproductive capacity of boars

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and its isoenzymes in the blood serum and seminal plasma of boars from the breeding and insemination centre with regard to their age. Significant quantitative differences in the presence of isoenzymes between blood serum and seminal plasma were recorded. Isoenzyme LDH-C4 in the seminal plasma of breeding boars of both groups was identified in the position between the third and fourth fraction of LDH, although boars from the breeding centre showed significantly lower concentrations. Refrigeration had a negative influence on the activity of LDH isoenzymes in the blood serum after 7 days and in seminal plasma after 3 days of storage. The work extends the knowledge in an insufficiently examined field of veterinary medicine: the distribution and physiological function of LDH in boars focusing on isoenzyme LDH-C4 in seminal plasma.

Effect of dietary mulberry (Morus alba) leaves on performance parameters and quality of breast meat of broilers

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the dietary mulberry leaves given to broiler chicken on their performance and on the quality of the breast meat. The experiment was conducted for 4 weeks, on 114 broilers, aged 21 days. The broilers were assigned to 3 groups (C, E1 and E2) with 38 animals per group. The diets for groups E1 and E2 also included mulberry leaves 2 and 5%, respectively. The birds had free access to the feed and water. The average daily feed intake (g/day/broiler), average daily weight gain (g/day/broiler), final weight (g) and feed conversion ratio (g feed/g gain) were not significantly different among the 3 groups. The fatty acid content of the breast muscle had the following evolution: the concentration of saturated fatty acids decreased, while the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids increased by 14.53% in groups E1 and 25.58% in E2 compared to the control group, the difference between groups E2 and C being significant. The cholesterol concentration decreased in the experimental groups, the difference between groups E2 and C also being significant. The inclusion of up to 5% mulberry leaves in broiler diets did not have adverse effects on broiler performance, while it increased the quality of the breast muscle by decreasing the concentration of saturated fatty acids, omega 6 (n-6) to omega 3 (n-3) ratio, and also the concentration of cholesterol.

Effect of increased incubation temperature on juvenile growth, immune and serum biochemical parameters in selected chicken populations

Abstract: The present experiment was conducted to evaluate reproductive performance, juvenile growth, immune response and serum biochemical parameters in Naked Neck (NN), Punjab Broiler-2 (PB-2) and Dahlem Red (DR) chicken exposed to 2°C increased incubation temperature for 3 h each on 16 th , 17 th and 18 th day of incubation in a randomized block design. The birds were reared at high ambient temperatures (32°C–45°C) during summer. Higher incubation temperature had no effect on hatchability. There were no significant differences between the in ovo heat exposed or normal incubated chicks in weekly body weight, feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) except NN chicken. The cell mediated immune response to Phytohaemagglutinin-P (PHA-P) was significantly higher in heat exposed birds in NN and DR chickens. There were no significant differences between the treatments in other immune and serum biochemical parameters. There was significant difference between the genotypes in body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. PB-2 birds recorded significantly higher body weight from 14 th day to till 42 nd day. The NN birds had significantly higher FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma) value and cell mediated immune response to PHA-P. The lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in PB-2 birds indicating high stress. In conclusion, prenatal exposure of 2°C increased incubation temperature had positive effect on juvenile growth in NN; cell mediated immune response (PHA-P) in NN and DR, while no effect was observed in all the parameters in PB-2 chicken.

Effect of different levels of Citrus sinensis peel extract on broiler performance, blood parameters, thyroid gland activity and bone ash

Abstract: A 6-week experiment involving 400 day-old Ross 308 chicks was carried out in a completed randomized design to evaluate the performance, thyroid gland activity, haematological parameters and bone ash of the broilers supplemented with Citrus sinensis peel extract (CSPE) in drinking water. The birds were allotted to 5 treatments containing basal diet (control), basal diet supplemented with 1000 ppm in drinking water for 1 to 21 days, 1000 ppm for 1 to 42 days, 1250 ppm for 1 to 21 days or 1250 ppm for 1 to 42 days. Each treatment was replicated four times, 20 chicks each. Results showed that the addition of CSPE in drinking water, irrespective of its concentration or the growth period when it is added, improves weight gain and feed conversion ratio in the 22 to 42 days of growth period. Red blood cells counts were higher for the four treatment groups compared to the control one and packed cell volume were higher for both groups added with 1250 ppm CSPE but no differences between treatment groups and control one were found in plasma T3 and T4 concentrations, Hg concentration or bone ash. So, the authors can conclude that the addition of orange could be positive for the poultry industry as well as a cheap substitute for the traditional antibiotics.

Microsatellite- based phylogeny of Indian sheep breeds

Abstract: Genetic diversity of south Indian meat type breeds was investigated by means of 15 ovine microsatellite markers All used microsatellites amplified well and exhibited polymorphisms A wide range of genetic variability was observed as allele varied from 4 to 10 in Madras Red; 4 to 10 in Mecheri; 4 to 12 in Pattanam; and 3 to 12 in Nellore sheep breeds The mean number of alleles observed in Madras Red, Mecheri, Pattanam and Nellore breeds were 65, 67, 70 and 72 respectively Average observed and expected heterozygosities over the different breeds were 023 to 087 and 0347 to 0827 respectively The most diverse sheep breed was Nellore breed and the least diverse breed was Madras Red, which had the lowest total number of alleles (na=98) and lowest average observed (Ho=0576) and expected (Ho=0594) heterozygosities The multi-locus mean between-population variability (FST) values indicated that about 560% of the total genetic variation was explained by population differences, whereas, the remaining 9440% is due to differences among individuals within breeds The values of FIT in the sub population for the most of markers were positive which showed the deficiency of heterozygotes The DA genetic distance and FST distances between pairs of breeds revealed that the lowest distance was between Madras Red and Mecheri and the highest between Mecheri and Nellore breeds Analysis of individual genotypes provided valuable information for understanding intra and inter-population genetic differences and helps in planning genetic improvement and conservation strategies for further improvement and sustainable utilization

Production performance of indigenous Nicobari fowls, Vanaraja and their various F1 crosses under hot humid climate of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract: The present study evaluates the production performance of indigenous Nicobari fowls, Vanaraja and their various F1 crosses under hot humid climate of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Birds (600) with 60 in each group were used for the study. The birds were evaluated for weekly body weight (g) from 0 day to 8 weeks of age, monthly body weight (g) from first month to fourth month of age, shank length (mm), feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) up to 8 weeks of age, age at sexual maturity (ASM in days), annual egg production as hen house egg production (AEP as HHEP), and different egg quality traits at 40 weeks of age. At the end of fourth month of age, the body weight of Vanaraja was highest (3,394.24±23.31 g) among all the genetic groups studied. White Nicobari × Vanaraja recorded significantly higher body weight (1923.10±18.81 g) in comparison to all the F 1 crosses except Vanaraja × White Nicobari. Age at laying was found lowest (136 days) in White Nicobari among pure varieties and White Nicobari × Vanaraja (146 days) among F 1 crosses. Annual egg production of Black Nicobari was found highest (192.14) among pure varieties and White Nicobari × Vanaraja (184.95) excelled in annual egg production among the F 1 crosses. The highest egg weight was observed in Vanaraja and White Nicobari × Vanaraja among the pure and crosses respectively. In conclusion, White Nicobari × Vanaraja was a very suitable and promising dual purpose bird under the local climatic condition of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Bioaccumulation indexes of metals in blue crab inhabiting specially protected area Koycegiz Lagoon (Turkey)

Abstract: The paper presents original results concerning individual total metal load (IMBI) values, metal pollution index (MPI) and concentrations of 11 metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, As, Hg and Se) in blue crab (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun 1896) inhabiting Koyceðiz Lagoon System Turkey. Total of 60 blue crab samples were caught and investigated monthly between June 2009 and May 2010. Concentrations of trace metals in tissues were measured by ICP-AES. Concentration of Cr, Fe, As and Hg were found higher in spring than other season while Cd, Zn, As, Hg and Se showed highest concentration in hepatopancreas. IMBI values in all tissues were higher on spring and summer. On the other hand IMBI values calculated were higher in shell than other tissues. Result of high IMBI values on spring can explain due to the fact that increasing MPI value of Cd, Pb, Fe and Zn on spring while high IMBI values on summer affected by high MPI value of Cd, Pb and Mn. Cd accumulation on autumn and spring also Pb accumulation on every season in blue crab were found higher than the European Units limits for human consumption in edible parts of the crab samples and posed a risk for human health.

Prolificacy in Indian goat breeds is independent of FecB mutation

Abstract: Genetic studies on sheep prolificacy have indicated that litter size and ovulation rate is determined by the action of single genes, named fecundity (Fec) genes. In the present study, an attempt was made to screen Indian goats for the presence or absence of FecB mutation in BMPRIB gene which has been established as a prolificacy associated marker in sheep. Blood samples were collected and DNA was extracted from 200 goats with history of high twinning rate for three consecutive parities belonging to six prolific breeds (Black Bengal, Beetal, Barbari, Malabari, Sikkim and Jakhrana) of India. These goats were genotyped for the presence of FecB mutation by forced restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR technique. The efficiency and accuracy of the PCR-RFLP assay was confirmed by DNA sequencing of representative samples of each breed. All the goats were found to be homozygous non-carriers indicating absence of FecB mutation. Complete concordance was observed between the results obtained by PCRRFLP and direct DNA sequencing. These results suggest that fecundity of these prolific goat breeds is not linked to the same locus in BMPRIB gene as in some sheep breeds, and other polymorphism(s) or genes may be involved in governing the fecundity trait in caprines.

Evaluation of male line of Vanaraja (PD1), Vanaraja and control broiler in respect to juvenile traits and genetic analysis of juvenile traits in PD1

Abstract: Present study was undertaken to compare the male line of Vanaraja, Vanaraja and control broiler in respect to their juvenile traits and to study the genetic parameters in Vanaraja male line (PD1). Body weight, feed conversion, conformation traits and carcass quality were measured. Body weights showed significant difference between different genetic groups and lowest body weight recorded in Vanaraja followed by PD1 and control broiler. The gain in body weights at 2 weeks interval showed significant difference between genetic groups and also differ significantly at different periods within a genetic group. All the conformation traits studied showed significant differences between genetic groups and for increase in shank and keel length during different periods. FCR was significantly better in PD1 and control broiler than Vanaraja. Carcass quality traits measured at 12 weeks of age showed significant difference for abdominal fat% and back+neck% between PD1 and Vanaraja. Vanaraja recorded significantly lower abdominal fat% compared to PD1. Heritability estimates for juvenile body weights in PD1 were moderate in magnitude. All conformation traits showed low to moderate estimates of heritability in magnitude for the traits measured at different ages. Correlations for body weights with different conformation traits were high in magnitude. Correlations between the same traits measured at different weeks showed positive and high correlation. The results revealed that the selection in PD1 may improve the performance of the line and also improve the performance in Vanaraja which is being used as dual purpose backyard poultry through utilization of heterosis for different traits.

Characterization, performance and genetic diversity among goats of Odisha

Abstract: Phenotypic and biometric characterization was carried out of local goat populations of Odisha The populations included Ganjam, Kalahandi, Ghumusar, Narayanpatnam, Raigarhi and Malkangiri goats Ganjam goats are distinctly different from other populations because of long pointed horns The body measurements of adult (12 months) males for heart girth, height at withers, body length, and paunch girth were measured The coat colour of goats was recorded The average body length, body height, chest girth, paunch girth, face length, horn length, ear length and tail length in adult female and male were measured The biometric estimates for height at withers, body length, chest girth, paunch girth, face length, horn length, ear length and tail length indicated the average measurements Genetic Biodiversity study includes 192 individuals of goats belonging to two recognized (Ganjam and Black Bengal) breeds and 2 lesser known goat populations (Kalahandi and Ghumusar) genotyped for a battery of 25 microsatellites The number of observed allele for each locus ranged from 200 to 2100 The highest number of allele was observed for locus OarFCB304 for Ganjam goat breed and lowest number of allele was observed for locus ETH225 for Kalahandi goat population Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) value and bottleneck analysis were studied Ghumusar and Kalahandi have the highest genetic distance (1996) from the others and Ganjam and Black Bengal have minimum (0346) genetic distance In the neighbor joining diagram the Ghumusar and Kalahandi goat populations plots separately from the other breeds/populations

Biochemical parameters in sheep fed diet in presence of mixed Salix babylonica extract and exogenous enzyme as feed additives

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the interaction impacts of Salix babylonica L. (SB) extract with exogenous enzyme (EZ) as feed additives on some serum biochemistry parameters in lambs. Suffolk lambs (20), 24±0.3 kg live weight and 6–8 months old were used during 60 days. The lambs were distributed in individual cages of 1.5×1.5 m cages into 4 treatments of 5 lambs each of completely randomized design. All animals were fed a basal diet (BD) of 70% maize silage and 30% commercial concentrate. Treatments were: (i) control; PD without any additives; (ii) EZ; PD plus 10 g of EZ; (iii) SB; BD plus 30 mL of S. babylonica (SB) extract; and (iv) EZSB; BD plus 10 g EZ and 30 mL of SB extract. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 and analyzed for total proteins, glucose, creatinine, blood urea N (BUN), alanin aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Interactions between treatment×time were occurred in creatinine, BUN and magnesium. The highest values of total proteins were obtained with control< and SB animals versus EZ or EZSB. The SB treatment tend to increase the levels of creatinine versus other treatments. The ALP level was highest in SB animals. In conclusion, supplementation with S. babylonica extract, exogenous enzymes and/or their combination did not cause any major health disorders in lambs within 60 days of experiment.

Comparative evaluation of agglutination assay with microscopy and polymerase chain reaction for detection of Trypanosoma evansi in bovines of Punjab

Abstract: Present investigation was aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of CATT/T.evansi in comparison to Giemsa stained thin blood smear examination and PCR for detection of bovine trypanosomosis in Punjab. Analysis of 264 blood and sera samples revealed 1.89% (5/264), 34.47% (91/264) and 51.89% (137/264) positivity by GSTBS, CATT/T. evansi and PCR, respectively, for Trypanosoma evansi. Sensitivity of CATT/T. evansi was 100% and 30.65% as compared to GSTBS and PCR, while its specificity was 66.79% and 61.42%, respectively. PCR is more sensitive and specific, and is able to detect the latent infections, however, it is time and cost ineffective technique. CATT/T. evansi is a quick and easy pen-site test suitable for mass screening of T. evansi endemic in developing countries.

Effect of weaning age on health of Murrah buffalo calves

Abstract: The present study was conducted to compare the effect of different age at weaning on health performance of Murrah buffalo calves. Buffalo calves (35) were randomly but alternately assigned into 3 groups as group 1, suckling (14); group 2, weaning of calves at birth (11) and group 3, weaning of calves at 45th day of birth (10). Health parameters of calves and faecal consistency scores were recorded from day of birth to 3 months of age. Immunity of calves was assessed through estimation of serum immunoglobulin by zinc sulphate turbidity test using standards. The occurrence and duration of illness of each calf under different groups were random and common ailments were diarrhoea and alopecia among the groups. The faecal consistency score of calves weaned at birth (1.28±0.02) was significantly higher than suckling (1.34±0.01) but nonsignificant from calves weaned at 45th day of age (1.33±0.02). Total serum immunoglobulin levels of calves had decreasing trends with advancement of age after colostum feeding except at few stages of sampling in weaning at birth. From the present study, it was concluded that weaning did not affect the health and immunity levels of buffalo calves as compared with natural suckling.

Effect of exogenous lignolytic enzyme-treated ragi straw on DM intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation and rumen enzymes in sheep

Abstract: The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of exogenous lignolytic enzymes harvested from immobilized Coriolus versicolor and Ganoderma lucidium on body weight, in vivo digestibility, rumen fermentation and rumen enzymes in sheep. Four groups of sheep (6-each) were fed 350 g concentrate mixture to meet the energy and protein requirement as per ICAR standards. The control sheep received ad lib. ragi straw treated with production media devoid of enzyme (G1). Test group 1 (G2) received ad lib. ragi straw treated with C. versicolor enzyme media (Enz.1) in a 1:2.5 (w/v) ratio, group 2 (G3) received ad lib. straw treated with G. lucidium enzyme media (Enz.2) in a 1:2.5 (w/v) ratio. Group 3 (G4) received ad lib. amount of straw treated with a combination of Enz.1 and Enz.2 in an equal volume in a 1:2.5 (w/v) ratio. After 40 d feeding an ADG (gd -1 ) of 112.5 and 107.5 was recorded in G2 and G3 as compared to 97.5 of control. A 5% increase in dry matter digestibility (DMD) of 77 .36±4.28 and 77.04±5.69% was obtained in G2 and G3. Treatment of straw with a combination of enzymes (G4) failed to show increase in either ADG or DMD. Rumen fermentation pattern did show any significant difference. The fiber degrading enzymes elicited enhancement of activity in sheep fed the supplemental enzymes. Applying lignin degrading enzymes as feed supplements for enhancing digestibility of crop residues holds promise in the immediate future.

Goat value chain development for empowering rural women in India

Abstract: Small land holdings, low agricultural productivity and lack of employment opportunities, have compelled over 25% of the rural population in India, to live in poverty and livestock is a major source of their livelihood. In rural India, 33.014 million households keep goats; 70% of the 135.17 million goats are maintained by the poor for milk, meat, manure and emergency cash reserve. However, they have not been able to realise the potential of goat husbandry due to lack of veterinary services, financial support and market linkage. The only existing scheme of the Government of India during the XI Five Year Plan (2007–12), spent only 10% of the budget, due to poor interaction with goat keepers. In the absence of good extension network, new technologies could not be transferred to farmers.

Seroepidemiology of Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis and brucellosis in organized dairy farms in southern India

Abstract: The present study was conducted to know the seroprevalence of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) and burcellosis and its epidemiology in organised dairy farms in southern India. Sera samples (559) 398 cattle and 161 buffaloes) were collected from 6 organised dairy farms in southern India. Samples were screened for IBR by avidin biotin ELISA and brucellosis by RBPT and indirect ELISA. The overall apparent prevalence were 61.54%, 10.20% and 11.63% for IBR, Brucella by RBPT and iELISA respectively. The state-wise seroprevalence showed highest in Andhra Pradesh for IBR and Karnataka for both IBR and brucellosis; lowest in Tamil Nadu for both the diseases. There was no significant difference in male and female in seroprevalence of these diseases. Crossbred cattle showed high seroprevalence for IBR and Brucella antibodies when compared to indigenous cattle breeds. Buffaloes showed increased seroprevalence for IBR and Brucella when compared to cattle. The IBR seropositive animals showed positive relationship with increase in age. Animals with history of abortions showed seroprevalence of 100% for IBR and 40-50% for brucellosis. The animals with history of reproductive problems showed increased seroprevalence when compared to apparently healthy bovines. The seropositivity for both IBR and brucellosis were 2.76% and 29.19% in cattle and buffaloes, respectively and with overall seropositivity of 10.38%. Thus IBR and brucellosis seroprevalence has increased over the years and there is a need to tackle these diseases effectively by zoosanitary measures and control programmes in organised dairy farms which would benefit the dairying in Southern India.

DNA barcoding of commonly prevalent Culicoides midges in South India

Abstract: DNA barcoding has gained increased recognition as a molecular tool for species identification of insects. Interspecific variation in DNA sequences of some genes is much higher than intraspecific and provides an opportunity to use DNA sequences for species identification. A study was therefore undertaken to barcode 5 commonly prevalent CuliCOIdes species in farming regions of Bengaluru districts in Karnataka state. The barcoding of Cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene of C. anophelis, C. palpifer, C. huffi, C. innoxius and C. circumscriptus yielded an amplified fragment of 648 bp sequence. Barcode for all 5 species was generated using BoldSystems v3 and submitted to genbank for accession numbers. DNA barcoding enabled exact identification of 5 prevalent species. Key word: Bold Systems v3, CuliCOIdes, Cytochrome oxidase I, DNA barcoding

Dried grape pomace influenced fatty acids composition of Longissimus dorsi muscle and plasma polyphenols spectrum in finishing pigs

Abstract: The experiment assessed the fatty acids (FA) composition of Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle and plasma polyphenols spectrumin finishing hybrid Topigs fed diets containing dried grape pomace (DGP). The trial was conducted on 24 hybrids Topigs, 75.54±5.55 kg, randomly assigned for 28-d experimental period, to 2 groups, viz. a control (C diet), and an experimental (E diet) with the additional inclusion of 50 g DGP / kg diet. The FA composition wasanalysed by gas chromatography and all the spectra were recorded by spectrophotometry. The results of the study prove that the DGP, by its high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, over 60% of total FAME) and by the active principles such as polyphenols (lmax =273 nm), is a valuable feed which improvedfatty acids composition of LD muscle. In addition, the polyphenols from GP changed in plasma, maximum changes from 273 nm to 279 nm. These properties were reflectedin a positive influence on muscle n-3 FA composition (>1.27 times in DGP group than control group, p=0.02), particularly alpha-linolenicFA (>1.35 times) and eicosapentaenoic FA (>1.30 times than C diet), known for their health benefits.

Association of PIT-1 gene polymorphism with milk production traits in Sahiwal cattle

Abstract: In the present study, identification of PIT-1 gene polymorphism and its association with milk production traits was undertaken in 77 Sahiwal cattle maintained at NDRI, Karnal using PCR-RFLP. Amplification of DNA sample revealed 600 bp product and restriction digestion with HinfI showed three types of genotypes, namely, AA (600bp), AB (600, 343 and 257 bp) and BB (343 and 257 bp) genotypes. The frequency of BB genotypes was highest (64.98%) in all screened samples, followed by AB genotype (31.16%) and AA genotype (3.89%). The allelic frequency of PIT-1 A and B alleles were 19.48% and 80.51%, respectively. Association studies of PIT-1 gene with milk production traits showed that age at first calving, gestation period and lactation period had non-significant variation among all the 3 genotypes up to fourth lactation. However, a significant difference was found among the 3 genotypes for total milk yield and milk yield at 300 days with AA genotype showing higher value than AB and BB genotypes in the first lactation. From present investigation, the HinfI /PCR-RFLP revealed polymorphic pattern of PIT-1 gene in Sahiwal cattle and association studies showed significant effect of A allele on milk production.