EFFECT OF ENSILED CASSAVA LEAVES AND GUINEA

GRASS WITH OR WITHOUT MOLASSES ON THE

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS AND NUTRIENT

INTAKE OF GOATS.

BY

ADEBAYO OLUWAYEMISI MOJISOLA MATRIC NUMBER: 2006/0507

DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL NUTRITION

A PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE COLLEGE OF ANIMAL

SCIENCE AND LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN PARTIAL

FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF

BACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE (B.AGRIC. Hons.) OF THE

UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA

OCTOBER, 2010

ABSTRACT

The feeding value of ensiled cassava leaves and guinea grass with or without molasses fed

WAD goats at different inclusion levels of 0%, 2%, 4% and 6% of DM respectively, was

investigated in this experiment. The study lasted for 56 days during which feed intake and

performance characteristics were monitored in sixteen male WAD goats using a completely

randomized design. Dry matter (DM) intake from the experimental diets were not significant

(P < 0.05) except for carbohydrate intake with highest value of 121.18g/d for treatment 1

(0%) molasses and with lowest vales of 72.02g/d for treatment 4 (6%) molasses. The total

body weight gain of the animals average daily intake were significantly different (P < 0.05)

but decreased as the level of molasses inclusion increases. Growth rate ranged from 48.1g/d

to 7.1g/d while the feed conversion ratio ranged from 7.9 to 1.3 respectively. The concentrate

intake of CP, DM and NDF decreased as the level of inclusion of molasses increased and

were significantly different (P<0.05). The inclusion level of molasses in the silage feed for

ruminant animals on DM basis can be up to 6%.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

My profound gratitude goes to Almighty God for granting me the grace to have a huge

success that I never thought of.

My heartfelt appreciation goes to my project supervisor, Dr. A.O. Oni for his competent

supervision out of his wealth of knowledge and his words of encouragement which made this

project a success. May God bless all that concern you.

I am very grateful to my incomparable parents Mr and Mrs Ayoade Adebayo for their

financial support, they have tried ignorance even when education is costly. May God satisfy

you with good health and long life to eat the fruits of your labour in Jesus Name (Amen). My

appreciation also goes to my elder brothers Mr Fola and Dr. Femi Adebayo for their financial

quota towards my success in this course. Also, thanks to Mrs Foluke Olokode and Mr.

Michael Adebayo for always being there for me.

Finally, I appreciate my loving and caring husband Engr. D.O. Abatan for his financial and

moral support. Thank you all and God bless.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Title page i

Certification ii

Abstract iii

Dedication iv

Acknowledgement v

Table of Contents vi -vii

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction 1

1.1 Justification 2

1.2 Broad Objectives 2

1.3 Specific Objectives 2

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Literature Review 3

2.1 Concept of Ensiling 3

2.2 Molasses for Energy 4

2.3 Utilization of Roughages in Ruminant Feeding 5

2.4 Silage of Feeding 5

2.5 Small Ruminant in the Tropics 6

2.6 West African Dwarf Goat 6

2.7 Economic Importance of Small Ruminant 6

2.8 Factors Affecting Voluntary Feed Intake 7

2.9 Nutritional Requirement of WAD Goat 8

2.9.1 Energy Requirement of Goat 8

2.9.2 Protein Requirement of Goat 9

2.9.3 Vitamin Requirement of Goat 9

2.9.4 Mineral Requirement of Goat 9

2.9.5 Water Requirement of Goat 9

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 Materials and Method s 10

3.1 Location of the Experiment 10

3.2 Experimental Design 10

3.3 Experimental Diet 10

3.4 Experimental Animals and Management 11

3.5 Feeding Trial 11

3.6 Data Collection 11-12

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 Result and Discussion 13-17

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation 18

5.1 Conclusion 18

5.2 Recommendation 18

REFERENCES 19-21

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Nutrition is the most important factor limiting livestock in Nigeria while seasonal

variations have an important influence on feed production. When there is high

variability in feed supply, market fluctuation arises in the rate of weight gain of

grazing animals causing poor performance. The forage has a characteristically high

lignin content which influences both digestibility and the amount the animal will eat

(Adewumi, 2009). The improvement of pasture is expensive and its establishment is

capital intensive thus, there is need for forage conservation especially when the

availability is unlimited. The provision of good quality forage and feed all year round

is a major problem of ruminant livestock production in Africa general and Nigeria in

particular. Livestock farmers face their biggest challenge during dry season when the

animals are short of adequate feed thus, growth rate pattern is hindered (Davies and

Onwuka, 1993).

Cassava is an annual crop widely grown in the tropical region of Africa. It thrives in

sandy-loamy soils with low organic matter, and climates characterized by low rainfall

and high temperature (Wang, 1997). High content of crude protein in the cassava

leaves has been reported varying from 17 to 40% in the dry matter (Allen 1984).

Traditionally, cassava has been cultivated in Nigeria almost exclusively for tuber

production for human consumption, while their foliage has mainly been considered as

a residue (Eruvbetine, 1995). Ravindran (1993) reported that cassava leaves are rich

in protein, minerals and vitamins and all essential amino acids except methionine and

phenylalanine. However, Nestle and Machntyre (1993) said that cassava leaves

contain two cyanoglucosides; limarin and methlinamarin in the ratio of 96:4 which

undergoes hydrolysis by an analogous hydrocyanide acid (HCN) which limit leaf

utilization.

Though, researchers have shown that different methods of preservation can be used to

explore the benefits from cassava as ruminant feed resources, as well as increase the

effects of the hydrocyanic glucoside. Nevertheless, it is important to consider ensiling

of cassava leaves with forage grasses such as guinea grass. The present study is

therefore, designed to evaluate the effects of ensiled cassava leaves and guinea grass

with or without molasses on the performance characteristics and nutrient intake of

West African Dwarf goats.

1.1 JUSTIFICATION

Considerable amount of cassava leaves are readily available as by-product at the time

of harvesting the roots. However, in the rainy season it is difficult to sundry and

extending the drying period diminishes the nutritional quality of the product. Ensiling

would be a suitable alternative way of preserving the leaves.

Numerous reports have shown that cassava leaf has a high but variable protein content

of about 170g/kg to 400g/kg on a dry matter basis (Ravidran 1993). The high protein

content of cassava leaves and the year round availability of guinea grass are reasons

for believing that silage made from them could be a source of feed for ruminant

animals, in this case; the West Africa Dwarf goat.

1.2 BROAD OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of ensiled cassava leaves and guinea grass with or without

molasses on the performance characteristics and nutrient intake of West Africa Dwarf

goats.

1.3 SPECIFIC OBJETIVES

1. To determine the chemical composition of the experimental diets.

2. To evaluate the nutrient intake of WAD goats fed the experimental diets.

3. To evaluate the performance characteristics of WAD goats fed the experimental diets.

4. To make recommendations based on the findings of this experiment.

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

Feeding is an important aspect of livestock management as it has direct effect on

animal performance and the farmer’s income. The cheapest source of feed for

ruminants is roughage which can be from pasture, range and crop residues. The

ruminant animals have a specialized system of digestion which enable them to utilize

feed otherwise ingestible to non-ruminants. A good feed is high in nutrients and

provides everything the body needs in order for the animal to grow and reproduce

(FAO, 1999).

The adaptability of cassava to the widely varying agro-ecological zones in Nigeria

together with its high yield has made it an attractive livestock feed (Eruvbetine and

Oguntona, 1997). Over the decades, researchers from all over the country have been

actively involved in the use of cassava roots and leaves as potential feed in ruminant

production. The young shoots (stem, leaves and petioles) are good supplementary

source of protein, vitamins and minerals which have been found edible and are widely

used as food and feed (Adegbola and Okonkwo, 2002). The presence of toxic

hydrogen cyanide in cassava is a limiting factor in its use as food for man and

livestock, although processing has been found to reduce the level of its toxicity. Many

traditional methods have been developed in various parts of the world for preparing

cassava for human consumption and livestock utilization. These vary according to the

form in which cassava is to be consumed, from simple sun drying to complex

methods involving fermentation (Akinfala and Tewe, 2002; Fasae, 2008). However,

during the rainy season when cassava leaves are excess, it is difficult to sun dry thus

alternative is considered (Oduguwa et al., 2007).

2.1 CONCEPT OF ENSILING

Silage is the moist succulent feed produced as a result of controlled fermentation of

fresh forage when stored in an air tight container under anaerobic condition. Silage

making is less dependent on weather conditions as compared to hay making. Silage

can be kept for months or years (Wong 1999) and can be used at any time when

required, especially during forage scarcity (Koong 1993). The process involves fresh

leaves collection, chopping (3-4cm long), wilting, loading, compaction and sealing to

make it air tight.

Addition of additive is optional though, it ensures successful fermentation of ensiled

material such as cassava leaves that have a high nitrogen content and low

concentration of water soluble carbohydrates (Peterson, 1988).

High quality roughage can be supplied in the dry season by feeding hay or silage. This

is greenstuffs such as grass (or other plants) that has been cut and conserved by drying

or fermenting. Hay and silage making are important but labour demanding techniques.

They are useful in areas where the wet season supplies plenty of grass but the lean

season can create serious fodder shortage.

Fresh cassava leaves

Chopping (3-4cm long)

Wilting (under well ventilated shed)

Loading

Compaction

Sealing

Schematic Diagram of Ensiled Concept.

2.2 MOLASSES FOR ENERGY

Molasses is a by-product of sugar making; it is a thick black sweet liquid. It has the

advantages that it can be stored almost indefinitely; and it can also be transported far

from the sugar mills. Molasses contains high levels of sugar which is easily digested

in the rumen. This makes it an important sources of energy. In addition, molasses is a

source of minerals of calcium and potassium especially, and of sulphur, an important

nutrient which goats often lack.

2.3 UTILIZATION OF ROUGHAGES (E.G. GUINEA GRASS) IN RUMINANT

FEEDING

* Roughages comprise over 50% of all feedstuffs fed to livestock animals especially

ruminants.

* Roughages are plant-based feedstuffs

* Technically, forage and herbage are defined as plant materials, with a higher fiber

content, available for consumption by animals.

* The National Research Council classifies a roughage as a feedstuff with a minimum

crude fiber content of 18% and maximum content; of total digestible nutrient (TDN)

of 70%.

* Roughages provide a range of nutrients to animals.

* Roughages also function to maintain and optimize the efficiency of the GI tract for

selected species.

* Fibrous carbohydrate function to maintain structure, activity, and microbial

population of the GI tract, essential for optimal function of the GI tract.

* Roughages alone are of minimal value to humans

* However, roughages consume by selected species provide a means for conversion of

relatively low-quality raw materials to relatively high-quality products such as food

and fiber that may be used to fulfill human needs.

* Roughages may be fed either in fresh, dried, or ensiled.

2.4 SILAGES FOR FEEDING

Silage is fermented feed usually young grass is ensiled but other crops materials such

as cassava leaves can be used. By making, silage feed can be stored over long period

and silage making is much more suitable method than hay making for wet season

when drying is difficult. Silage making works by making the feed acidity as quickly

as possible (low pH). This slows down the development of the bacteria possible for

routing. Acidification is encouraged by creating conditions for harmless (lactic acid)

bacteria to develop. The cut crop part must be placed in an environment where no

oxygen (air) can get at it and it must contain enough molasses.

2.5 SMALL RUMINANTS IN THE TROPICS

Sheep and goats are two of the species of ruminant animals specifically called small

ruminants. They are a common feature of virtually everybody in the rural areas. They

roam about to scavenge for food most of the time without necessary being adequately

provided for by the owners. They can survive by feeding on otherwise useless feeding

materials with the help of their specialized stomach. They are rugged, easy to handle

and affordable for average families (Devendra and MclLeroy, 1982).

2.6 WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOAT

The West African Dwarf goat is the dominant breed of small ruminants and make up

38 percentage of the 38 million goats found in the west African zone (Gall, 1996).

The breed is of achondroplastic type with disproportionately short legs which are

often but has an average weight of 18-20kg and at 35-45cm in height. It has fairly

large, curved and backwardly directed back in the male are long and horizontal. The

common colour are black, brown and black extremities, and sometimes with coloured

makings and serve as scavanges in the villages. It attains sexual maturity early and is

very prolific often producing occasionally quadruplet (Porter, 1996). It is well adapted

to this environment and trypanotolerant (Steele, 1996).

Generally, the feeding pattern of the dwarf goat is characteristic of the native

husbandry practice whereby they scavenge for food to meet daily nutrient

requirements (Daramola et al., 2005).

2.7 ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SMALL RUNIMANTS

Small ruminant are economic importance for small holder farmers, but achieving

maximum income is not their primary objective. The total income share of small

ruminant tends to be inversely related to size of land holding, suggesting that small

ruminants are of particular importance for land-less people. Since agriculture provides

only seasonal employment, rearing of this animal would provide employment and

income as a subsidiary occupation.

Goats are small ruminants which generally are recognized as a minor, but

complementary, component of small farm system interacting with other cropping

activities (Hart et al., 1982).

In developing countries, goats play an important role in the economic life of

smallholder farmer in converting low-cost inputs to high value products. They

produce meat, milk, offspring, skin and hair. They also serve as a savings bank and

provide available cash income when necessary. Goat meat is highly appreciated in

countries where pig and or cattle meat is taboo. (Devendra and McLeroy, 1982). Goat

can be a means to reduce poverty by increasing the household income. Women and

children can easily take care of goats, so the selling of goats could improve the

welfare of farmers, because women distribute the income more equitably (Ikuegbu et

al., 1994).

2.8 FACTORS AFFECTING VOLUNTARY FEED INTAKE PRODUCTION

Ruminant feed is affected by feed texture and flavours, social facilitation and

inhibition. Feed intake is a behavioural activity representing the amount of food eaten

by an animal in a given period of time.

Voluntary intake is defined as the amount consumed by the animal when its access to

forage is unrestricted. Voluntary intake is an important aspect of animal management

systems because it is closely related to rate of animal performance and profitability of

the livestock system (Gill et al., 1986). Eating is a special voluntary activity; it is

difficult to force a goat to consume some thing that it does not want to eat. So it is

important to understand the factors that obviously affect the feed intake, and how

these influence can be manipulated so that the goat can maximize its voluntary feed

intake (Peacock, 1996).

2.9 NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF WAD GOATS

According to Oyenuga (1999) the calorie intake of any livestock must not only be

adequate, there should also be sufficient and suitable protein feed to provide essential

amino-acids (in suitable proportion), vitamins and essential minerals elements to

enable the animal fulfill its functions and subsequently gives man the needed essential

proteins, WAD goats are known as scavengers i.e. they roam about looking for feed

such as grasses, shrubs, kitchen waste etc to meet their nutritional need (Adeniji et al.,

1989).

But when intensively reared in total confinement, they have to be supplied with feed

that contains all nutrients required for maximum production and performance. (Aye,

2004), suggested that total confinement is the best system of rearing goats because

they recorded better body weight and other linear body measurement when compare

to partially confined ones. In addition, (Essien et al., 2004) also reported goats rearers

should be taught simple and effective confinement techniques are these will improve

and increase goat productivity in Nigeria. Goat reared in the tropics and kept in

confinement are to be fed good forage with concentrate that measure up in quality and

quantity (Adeniji et al., 1989).

2.9.1 ENERGY REQUIREMENT OF GOATS

Goat generally used energy from feed for maintenance and production. Maintenance

energy is the amount of energy required to maintain the animal in a stable condition

and subsequently carry out basic activities. Production energy is that amount of

energy needed to produce growth, milk, foetus, fiber, skin etc (Steele, 1996).

Williamson and Payne (1978) reported that animals feed low protein or energy diets

increase their feed consumption presumable in an attempt to overcome the protein or

energy deficiency. Basically, energy for animal is from carbohydrates and fats and oil

(oxidation). The carbohydrates can be from soluble sugars such as roughages whose

digestion is by microbial action.

2.9.2 PROTEIN REQUIREMENTS OF GOATS

Ruminant animals generally require less protein in their feed when compared to non

ruminants. This is because ruminant have the ability to synthesize amino acids from

non protein such as nitrate, amines etc present in their food with the aid of microbes

in their rumen (Komolafe et al., 1980). Though not much is know about the specific

protein requirement of goat in the tropics where WAD goat are found but figure

related to sheep are commonly used, (Steele, 1996).

2.9.3 VITAMINS REQUIREMENT OF GOATS

Goat generally rarely suffers vitamins deficiency when they have access to good

forage (Steele, 1996).

2.9.4 MINERAL REQUIREMENT OF GOATS

Minerals either macro or micro minerals are important in the diets of goats to make

them healthy (Steele, 1996). Most of these are gotten from good quality forage

(Komolafe et al., 1980) or when animals are supplies block of rock salt to lick (Adi,

1996).

2.9.5 WATER REQUIREMENT OF GOATS

When goats eat succulent feeds that have a high moisture content, they need to drink

less water than when given dry feed (Steele, 1996).

According to Akinyosoye, (1988), to a limited extent, water is referred to as a by-

product of respiration and oxidation process which form part of a metabolic reactions

in animal. Preston and Leng (1987) stated that restriction in water intake apparently

reduces feed intake. Goats in the tropics where WAD goats are found are adapted to

water shortage and often have low water turn-over rates (Devendra and McLeroy

1982)

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Location of the experiment

The experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm, College of

Animal Science and Livestock Production, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

located in the tropic rainforest zone in Nigeria within 7o101N and 3o21E.

3.2 Experimental design

Sugarcane molasses application rates of 0, 2, 4 and 6% of fresh material, and one

storage period(1 month) for each of two plant species (Manihot esculenta, and

Panicum maximum) were allocated in a completely randomized block design with 3

replicates. A total of 12 plastic containers with capacity to contain 200kg fresh

materials each were used for the experiment.

3.3 Experimental diets

Cassava tops were collected right after root harvesting. Only the tops with the green

stem and its leaf canopy with an average weight of 40 to 60 cm in length were

collected. The Guinea grass was harvested at 2 months regrowth from the hedgerows

of the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Pasture and Range Department

Experimental Farm. The grass was chopped into pieces of 3 to 4 cm length. The fresh

and chopped forages were mixed with the molasses and placed in polyethylene bags,

compacted by hand, bound with a string, and pressed by placing one 2 kg bag of sand

on each bag. Before mixing the fresh and chopped forages with molasses, separate

samples from each species were collected for chemical analysis.

3.4 Experimental animals and Management

Sixteen male West Africa Dwarf goats purchased from reputable sources were used

for the feeding trial. The animals were housed intensively in well-ventilated

individual pens (1.2mx0.90m), in an open-sided type of house with corrugated

aluminium roofing sheet and a wooden floor, which has been disinfected with Izal

solution before the arrival of the animals. The goats were vaccinated against Peste

Des petit de ruminant (PPR), given prophylactic treatments, which consist of

intramuscular application of oxytetracycline and Vitamin B complex at the dosage of

1ml/10kg body weight of the animal. They were dewormed with 1ml/10kg body

weight of albendazole and treated against ectoparasites with 0.5ml/10kg body weight

of Ivomec. They were allowed an adaptation period of four weeks during which they

maintained on elephant grass with gradual withdrawal of the grass.

3.5 Feeding Trial

The animals were fed daily at least 5% of their body weight of their body weight. The

experimental animals were divided into 4 animals per treatment each and offered the

different silage materials as indicated above. Pre-experimental body weight of the

animals were recorded after which the animals were weighed weekly prior to feeding.

3.6 Data Collection

At the beginning of the experiment, the goats were weighed as individual replicate

groups in a body weight and subsequently, data on feed consumption were taken and

recorded daily as well as growth rate. The data collected are used to determine

average feed intake, average body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio.

Feed intake= Final weight- Left over

Weight gain = Final weight- Initial weight

Feed conversion ratio = Feed intake (g)

Weight gain (g)

Average feed intake = Feed given – Left over

Number of goats

Average weight gain = Final weight – Initial weight

Number of goats

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1: Effect of molasses inclusion on chemical composition (g/kg.DM) of silage

produced at Different Level

<,,

<,

Storage

Parameters

Crude 214d 243b 269db 285a 081

Protein

Crude fat 686 697b 632d 731a 011

ASH 961d 101a 017a 102a 009

FIBRE 112c 113c 115a 113b 003

Moisture 128a 123b 122c 120c 009

Content

Dry Matter 872c 877b 879a 879a 009

Gross 381a 350b 331c 307d 082

Energy

NDF 543d 550c 564b 587a 051

ADF 350d 364c 372b 399a 054

ADL 201d 217c 227b 235a 037

ADF-Acid Detergent Fibre, NDF-Neutral Detergent Fibre, ADL-Acid Detergent Lignin

Note: MI= Molasses Inclusion abcd: means along the same row with different superscript are significantly different

(P<0.05).

(m) 0 (Zero)% 2% 4% 6% SEM

Molasses treatment

4.2 Table Nutrient 2: Intake of WAD Goats Fed Experimental Diets.

Nutrient Molasses Inclusion

Parameters (g/d) 0% 2% 4% 6% SEM

Dry matter 87.2 87.7 87.6 87.9 1.2

Crude Protein 68.0 71.6 74.6 66.8 3.2

Fibre 35.7 33.2 32.9 26.5 6.4

Ash 30.5 30.1 29.6 23.9 1.7

NFE 121.2a 103.0a 95.5ab 72.0b 6.1

Fat 21.8 19.0 18.3 17.4 3.7

a,b: Means along the same row with different superscripts are significantly (P<0.05)

different.

4.2 NUTRIENT INTAKE OF WAD GOAT FED CASSAVA SILAGE BASED DIET

Table 2 shows the nutrient intake of WAD goat fed experimental diet. The DM intake ranged

from 87.9g/d to 87.2g/d and was significantly (P<0.05) different and increased with increase

levels of molasses inclusion in the diets. There were not significant differences (P<0.05)

among all the treatments, CP, ash, fibre, and fat were not significantly different (P<0.05)

whereas carbohydrate was significant different. The reduced intake of energy may be

attributed to the higher molasses inclusion as this depress digestibility and reduce intake if

present in high level.

Ruminants generally require adequate fibre for normal rumen function. It was observed in the

result that molasses inclusion decreases fibre intake and this may be due to long term storage

of the experimental diet.

Table 3: Performance Characteristic of WAD Goat fed Experimental Diet

Nutrient Molasses Inclusion

Parameters O% 2% 4% 6%

T1 T2 T3 T4 SEM

Final weight (kg) 9.00 7.00 7.10 7.13 0.92

Initial weight (kg) 6.30 6.60 6.39 6.71 1.74

Total weight gain (kg) 2.70a 0.40 b 0.71 ab 0.42 b 2.28

Growth Rate (g/d) 48.1 7.14 12.68 7.50 0.95

Average daily intake (g/d) 340.18 a 313.12 ab 306.77 ab 249.06 b 2.03

FCR 7.94 1.28 2.31 1.69 1.69

Means across the treatments are significantly (P<0.05) different

4.3 Performance Characteristics of Wad Goats Fed Ensiled Cassava Leaves and

Guinea Grass With or Without Molasses.

Table 3 shows the growth performance of WAD goats fed ensiled cassava leaves and guinea

grass with or without molasses. The total weight gain and average daily intake were

significantly affected (P<0.05) by the dietary treatments. The total weight gain decreased

significantly (P<0.05) as the level of molasses inclusion increases in the diet.

The total weight gain and average daily intake ranges from 2.70kg to 0.40kg and 340.2g/d to

249.1g/d respectively. The improved weight gain and growth rate of the animal on the 0%

inclusion of molasses could be related to the carbohydrate intake and CP intake components.

Gilboa et al. (2000) reported that when supplementing or substituting forage legumes as

protein sources, a higher level of CP has to be fed to alleviate the protein binding effects of

tannins. The result obtained from this experiment agrees with the observation of Devendra

and Burns (1982) that body weight change is a reflection of the nutritive status of the animal.

REFERENCES

Adegbola, A.T. and Okonkwo J.C. (2002). nutrient intake, digestibility and growth of rabbits

feed varying level of cassava leaf meal. Nig. J. Admin. Prod. 29(1): 21 – 26.

Adeniji , M. O., Nwabike, P. N., Iheukwumere,, F and Udeogalanya A. C. C (1989).

Agriculture Science tect book. Evans Brothers (Nigeria Publishers) Limited. 201

Pp.

Akinfala, E.O. and Tewe, O.O. (2002). evaluation of energy and protein value of whole

cassava plant meals in growing pig diets in the tropics. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr. 50:

228 – 234.

Akinyosoye, V. O. (1988). Tropical Agriculture Macmillan Publishers Limited 199PP.

Allen, R.D. 1984. Feedstuff ingredients analysis table (USA), Pp: 25 – 30

Alli-Balogun, J. K., Lakpini, C. A. M., Alawa, J.P., Mohammed, A. and Nwata, J. A.

(2003). Evaluation of cassava foliage a protein supplemented for sheep.

Nigeria Journal of Animal Production 30(1): 37-46.

Alokan, J. A. (1989). A note on corns cobs in sheep diet. Nigerian Journal of Animal

Production. 15: 227-323.

Aye, P.A. (2004). Effect of management system on the growth performance of WAD

goalts. In: Proc. 9th Annual Conf. Anim. Sci. Ass. of Nig. (ASSAN). Pg 92-94,

(eds Ogunji, J.O., Osakwe, I . T., ewe, V.U, S.O., Otuma, M. O. and Nweze, B.

O. Inarroko) syndicate in Association with Nwanazi and publishing co-Ltd.

Nigeria.

Daramola, J.O. A.A. Adeloye, T.A Fatoba and A.O Soladoye, (2005): Haematological

and biochemical parameters of WAD goat livestock Research for Rural

Development, Vl 17,8. Retrieved from http://wwwcipav.org.co/irrd/7//8/ dara

17095htm.

Davies, A.T. and Onwuka, C.F.I. (1993). conversion of forages for dry season feeding in the

humid zone of Nigeria. In: sustainable feed production and utilization for smallholder

livestock enterprises in sub-saharan Africa. Proc. 2nd African feed resource network,

Harare, Zimbabwe. Pp 93 – 95.

Devendra, C,Mcleroy, G.B., (1982). Goat and sheep production in the tropics (1st

Edition). Intermediate Tropical Agriculture series, Longman, London. 271Pp.

Eruvbetine, D and Oguntona, E.B. (1999). Unpeeled cassava root meal in diets for laying

hens. Top. Agric (Trinidad). Vol. 74, No 4. pp 299 – 302.

Eruvbetine, D. (1995) processing and utilization of cassava as animal feed for non-ruminants

animals. A paper presented at Ogun state Ministry of Agriculture, cooperative and

Rural Development.

Essien, A., Oyesola, O. B., Akpet, S.O, E.A and Ibom., L.A. (2004). Contrast of goats

reared in Egbeda L. G. A. of Oyo State. In: Proc. 9th Annual Confr. Anim.

FAO (1998 )from the original book Tropical feeds by Bo Gohl, database by Andrew Speedy

and Nick Waltham version 8.http.//www.mekarn.org/proc kk/pres.htm

Komolafe, M. F., Adegbola, A. A., Are, L. A. and Ashaye T. I (1980): Agricultural science

for West African College, Macmillian publishers Limited Pg. 241.

Lancaster, P.A. and Brooks, J.E. (1983). Cassava leaves as human food. Economic Botany

37(3): 331 – 348.Longman London Group, pp 186.

Oduguwa, Jalaosho, and Ayankoso (2007). Effect of ensiling on the physical properties,

chemical composition and mineral contents of guinea grass and cassava tops silage.

Nig. J. Anim. Prod. 2007. 34(1): 100 – 106 © 2007 Nigerian Society for Animal

Production.

Oyenuga, V. A. (1999). Food and feed of tropical Africal. In: Proc. of international

symposium on Animal Production in the Tropics Pg.27-32 (eds). Loosle, J.K.,

Peacock, C. (1996). Improving Goat production in the tropics. A manual for development

workers. Publ, Oxfam (UK and Ireland).

Porter, V. (1996). Goat in the world farming press miller Freeman Professional Ltd. Whar

fedale, road IpsWich UK. 179pp. pp 50-57 publication 170pp

Preston, T. R. (2001). Potential of Cassva in integrated farming systems use of cassava as

animal feed. Proceedings of international Workshop, Khon, Khen, Thailand. Sci.

Ass of Nig. (ASAN). Pp 226-228. Alaku, V. U., Otuma, M.O. And Nweji,

B. O. Inarok syndicate in association with Nwamazi printing and

publishing. Co. Ltd, Nigeria.

Steele, M. (1996). Goats. CTA-Macmillan Publishing Ltd-, London and Basingtoke, 152pp.

Williamson, G. and Payne, W. J .A (1978). An Introduction to animal husbandry in the

tropics,