Acta Scientiarum. Animal Sciences

Growth performance and economic evaluation of Leporinus lacustris fed different levels of crude protein

Fulvia Cristina Oliveira — 2025-11-03

The determination of optimal crude protein levels in fish diets is crucial due to its essential role in growth and its high cost. This study evaluated the effect of crude protein levels in the diet of piau corró Leporinus lacustris on growth performance, as well as the maximum technical and economic efficiency of this species. Juveniles of L. lacustris were distributed in 20 tanks, 20 L volume, density of six fish, and fed three times daily with 7% biomass. The design was completely randomized with four levels of crude protein (CP): 30, 34, 38, and 42%, and five replicates each. After 60 days of cultivation, the Fulton’s condition factor showed significant differences among treatments, fitting a quadratic regression model. Fish fed diets containing 34% CP exhibited better nutritional status. In contrast, the protein efficiency ratio (PER) followed a decreasing linear trend, with the best performance observed in fish fed 30% CP. Therefore, the diet with 30% crude protein can be recommended for L. lacustris juveniles at this stage of cultivation, as it is close to the optimal level for maximizing the species’ technical and economic efficiency.

Effect of pollination on the viability of passion fruit seeds

Zilda Cristina Malheiros Lima — 2025-11-03

Seed propagation is the most used method for producing yellow passion fruit seedlings (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa); however, the success and uniformity of seedling formation are influenced by the germination process. This study aims to evaluate the influence of light and different pollination conditions on the quality of passion fruit seeds and seedlings. The experiment was conducted in two stages, both arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD): In the first stage, two treatments were used to determine the optimal light conditions for the germination of Passiflora edulis seeds obtained from fruits formed through manual cross-pollination (MCP). In the second stage, the effects of different pollination conditions on seed germination and seedling development were evaluated. The variables analyzed included germination rate, mean germination time, germination speed index, total seedling length, shoot length, root length, and fresh and dry biomass. The results indicated that the absence of light promotes a higher germination rate and a shorter mean germination time for P. edulis seeds. Flowers subjected to manual cross-pollination (MCP) and free visitation without pollen thieves (FVWT) resulted in higher germination rates and shorter germination times. The presence of thieves caused a 31% reduction in seed germination but did not affect seedling development.

Influence of harvesting days and fertilizer levels on agronomic performance and nutritive values of Washo (Loudetia arundinacea) grass

Moges Boda — 2025-11-03

This study evaluated the effects of fertilizer levels, harvesting days and cropping years on the agronomic performance and nutritional value of Washo (Loudetia arundinacea) the grass. A 3´3*2 factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design with three levels of nitrogen fertilizer (75, 100 and 120 Kg), three harvesting days (60, 90 and 120 days) and two cropping years was used. Data on number of tillers (TN), number of leaves (LN), leaf length (LL), plant height (PH), Leaf to stem ratio (LSR), herbage dry matter yield (HDMY), crude protein yield (CPY), nutritional composition, in vitro digestibility were recorded. The results indicated that significantly (p<0.01) higher values of PH (114.57 cm), LSR (0.76), LL (18.18 cm), HDMY (29.91 ton ha^-1) and CPY (3.54 ton ha^-1) at nitrogen fertilizer level of 100 Kg ha^-1. Fertilizer levels and harvesting days revealed significantly different (p<0.001) results on dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ash, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) contents. Cropping years had also influenced (p<0.05) on PH, TN, HDMY, CPY, LSR, NT and LL of the grass. From dry matter yield perspectives, harvesting of Loudetia arundinacea grass at 120 days is recommended.

Figuil limestone as a calcium source for Japanese quail: effects on growth, carcass, egg production, and blood biochemical parameters

Francois Djitie Kouatcho — 2025-11-03

The poultry feed industry in Cameroon faces high costs due to its dependence on imported ingredients like shellfish meal, a key calcium source. To promote animal feed self-sufficiency and reduce imports, this study evaluates Figuil limestone as a local alternative. The effects of replacing shellfish meal with limestone meal on Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) were assessed in terms of growth, carcass traits, and reproduction. A total of 300-day-old quails were divided into 15 groups. Five diets with increasing substitution levels of shell meal by limestone meal (0, 25, 50, 75, 100%) were tested, with each treatment replicated three times. At 7 weeks, six birds per batch were sampled for biochemical and carcass analysis. Results showed that feed intake increased with limestone inclusion, while growth, carcass, and organ traits remained unaffected. A 50% substitution level improved the laying rate (24.9±2.2%) compared to the control (20.0±6.9%), though control birds had heavier eggs (12.1±0.1 g). Limestone also increased Haugh Units and edible content but reduced shell thickness. Biochemical parameters showed no significant differences. The study concluded that Figuil limestone can be an effective substitute for shellfish meal in quail diets, with 50% replacement level being the most effective during the early laying period.

Baru meal on the performance of dairy calves: an alternative to reduce costs in the breeding phase

Lucas Gomes Vieira — 2025-11-03

The objective of this study was to evaluate the intake, performance, and economic viability of crossbred Holstein calves (n = 16) fed diets containg different levels of baru meal (Dipteryx alata . Vog) as a replacement for corn (0, 25, 50, and 72%). Total solid feed, concentrate, and forage intake, nutrient intake, weight gain, ingestive behavior, and economic viability were evaluated. Total solid feed and concentrate intake linearly increased (p<0.05) with the replacement of corn by baru meal, however, weight gain (13.7 Kg) was not affected (p>0.05). Baru meal inclusion linearly increased the intake of crude protein, minerals, ether extract, and non-fibrous carbohydrates. Concentrate feeding time exhibited a quadratic effect, with a maximum of 75.92 min. day^-1 at 67% replacement. Economic analysis showed that the 50% replacement diet result in higher feed costs but lower cost per kilogram of gain. The inclusion of baru meal up to 72% of corn replacement increased intake without compromising the performance during preweaning phase. A 50% replacement provided the best economic return.

Ruminal metabolism, blood parameters and animal behavior of bulls submitted to sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) receiving different buffers in high-concentrate diets

Tatiane Rogélio Ramos — 2025-11-03

This study aimed to evaluate the supplementation of four different buffers into a high-grain diet on ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites, and feeding behavior of feedlot cattle. Five rumen-cannulated bulls (492 ± 24 kg) were distributed in a 5 x 5 Latin square design, through the treatments: CONT (no buffer), RUMO, RUMF, BICA and ALGA. The buffers did not alter (p > 0.05) the apparent digestibility of nutrients, ruminal fluid pH, volatile fatty acid profile, and acetic/propionic ratio compared to the CONT. Except for propionic and isovaleric acids, which were different (p < 0.05) among treatments at 4 and zero hours after feeding, respectively. Ruminal lactic acid accumulation was greater (p < 0.05) in BICA, while ammoniacal nitrogen concentrations were highest (p < 0.05) in CONT and lowest in RUMF. Blood glucose and creatinine were unaffected (p > 0.05), whereas urea and lactate concentrations were reduced (p < 0.05) in RUMO. Among the enzymes, only gamma-glutamyl transferase and creatine kinase showed treatment effects (p < 0.05). Furthermore, feeding and drinking times were unaffected by treatments; however, rumination increased (p < 0.05) in BICA, and idleness was higher in CONT. Overall, buffer inclusion modified ruminal and metabolic responses, indicating a possible modulation of ruminal acidosis.

Ruminal fermentation, nutrients digestibility, and nitrogen balance in lambs fed diet containing high concentrate and essential oil concentrations of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

José Alípio Faleiro Neto — 2025-11-04

This experiment evaluated the effects of doses of essential oil of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) in rumen fermentation, nutrients digestibility and nitrogen balance in lambs. The treatments: negative control/CTL (no additives); positive control/MON (addition of 25 ppm of monensin Kg^- of dry matter); and 1.25, 2.5 and 3.75 mL essential oil Kg of diet as feed. Twenty-five crossbreed Dorper x Santa Ines lambs with 45.6 ± 10.7 Kg of body weight and cannulated in the rumen allocated into randomized complete blocks design with five replicates per treatment. It was possible to verify that all the treatments began to alter some parameters of the ruminal fermentation of the diet offering. Essential oil of lemon grass used had similar results to monensin on parameters of ruminal, on day 21 compared with day zero, essential oil presented high concentrations of ammoniacal nitrogen in the rumen, indicating that there was protein degradation greater than monensin. Not verified effect of essential oil in nutrient intake and nitrogen retained, even though there was improvement in the digestibility of dry matter and crude protein, and these effects were similar to monensin. During the 21 days, essential oil evaluated is effective manipulating some parameters of the ruminal fermentation.

Cosmos sulphureus: environmental bioindicator of diversity of bees

Darclet Teresinha Malerbo-Souza — 2025-11-03

Among the flowers most visited by bees in Brazil, those belonging to the Asteraceae family stand out, and one of them is the cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus). This study aimed to evaluate the frequency, profile of visits and the type of collection of bees in the flowers of the cosmos during the year. The relationship between bees and cosmos flowers was observed by counting the frequency of visits and of material (nectar and / or pollen) to be collected. The foraging behavior of different bee species was also evaluated. The visits of the most frequent bees took place between 7:00 am and 12:00 pm. Among the main species of bees that made visits to the cosmos, those of the Halictidade family were noticeable: Pseudaugochloropsis graminea and Augochlora sp., Megachile rotundata solitary bees and, to a lesser extent, Plebeia remota stingless bees, Trigona spinipes stingless bees and Xylocopa frontalis and X. griscenses carpenter bees. Sporadic visits by stingless bees Melipona scutellaris, M. subnida, Partamona helleri, Scaptotrigona sp., Nannotrigona testaceicornes and africanized honeybees Apis mellifera. The cosmos should be planted close to apiaries and meliponaries as a source of food for Africanized honey bees, stingless bees and solitary bees.

Postpartum uterine and ovarian condition affect the foal estrus fertility in Mangalarga Marchador mares?

Hanna Gabriela Oliveira Maia — 2025-11-03

This study was conducted to evaluate the follicle development, uterine morphology, and fertility of Mangalarga Marchador mares submitted to natural breeding in the first postpartum estrous cycle. Eight mares were evaluated with ultrasound equipment every three days, from the second to the 42^nd day after delivery. During this period, follicular diameter, corpus luteum persistence, appearance and diameter of the horns and uterine body in addition to weight and body condition were evaluated. Postpartum reproductive efficiency was verified through conception and estrous repetition rates. Data were submitted to Pearson's correlation analysis, chi-square test, linear and quadratic regression. Ovulation occurred between days 14.5 ± 2.5 postpartum. The mean range of the follicular wave was 11.75 ± 2.5 days, with a daily follicular growth rate of 3.6 ± 0.6 mm. There was reduction of the uterine body of 20.6 ± 1.4 mm, characterizing uterine involution in mares. High conception rate (75%) was found during foal heat and variation in body weight and body condition score after parturition did not present significant interference in the other parameters. Therefore, follicular dynamic, uterine involution, weight, and body condition variation were compatible with the postpartum estrus onset in Mangalarga Marchador mares and did not interfere in conception rates.

The The relationship of good competitive farming practices and pig production efficiency in Mekong delta, Vietnam

Nguyen Hoang Qui — 2025-11-03

This study assesses farmers' perception towards good competitiveness practices (GCP) and explores the factors affecting pig production efficiency in Vietnam. Using binary regression analysis, the study examined variables that significantly affected the production efficiency of 260 pig farmers in Tra Vinh and Ben Tre provinces. The results showed that most farmers were male with the majority working in pig farming as their primary occupation (83.5%). The average age of farmers was 50 years, with the majority having less than ten years of experience. Most farms used artificial insemination (91.9%) and received training (93.5%), although only 39.6% used automated equipment. In GCP, the perception of pork production and sales and financial management of pig production were highly rated by farmers. However, the ability to expand business and production scale were rated lower. Farmers focusing only on pig farming had a negative impact on production efficiency. In contrast, experience and training positively affected production efficiency, emphasizing the value of practical experience and knowledge through informal education. Additionally, perception of herd and farm size in GCP were essential for improving pig production efficiency. These findings provide important insights for improving the competitiveness and productivity of pig farming in the Mekong Delta.

Performance comparison of broiler chickens reared in closed versus stage slatted-floor open-sided houses: a case study of broiler farmers under an inti-plasma partnership model in Indonesia

Zulfan Zulfan — 2025-11-03

Over the last few decades, the Indonesian government has designed a partnership model for the farming system called an inti-plasma model. An inti or a core was a large private company, while the plasmas were smallholders that collaborated with the core. In the subsector of animal husbandry, the animal housing system has been considered the main regulation to achieve a contract between the core and plasmas. This study aimed to evaluate the performance comparison of broiler chickens kept in the closed house (CH) versus those kept in the stage slatted-floor open-sided house (OH) at broiler farms in Desa Simpang Jambe, Indonesia, in partnership with Charoen Pokphan Jaya Farm. This study was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with two treatments and ten replications. The treatments were broilers reared in CH, and those in the OH. Each replication was an experimental unit with 4,800 birds pen^-1 in the CH and 600 birds pen^-1 in the OH. Twenty birds were randomly sampled from each pen for body weight (BW) and feed intake (FI), resulting in 200 sampling birds from each house. Data were analyzed using a t-test analysis. The results of this study showed that during the starter period, BW, body weight gain, feed intake, mortality, and depletion were significantly better at p < 0.05 and p < 0.01 in the OH than in the CH, but feed conversion ratio was not significantly different at p > 0.05 between both houses. However, during the grower/finisher and overall periods, all performance parameters were significantly different (p < 0.01) by house type. In conclusion, producing broilers at 4 or 5 weeks of marketed ages in the closed house performed better performance index than those in the stage slatted-floor open-sided house.

Variables with greater discriminatory power for adaptation based on multivariate analysis

Neila Lidiany Ribeiro — 2025-11-03

The objective of this research is to evaluate the physiological variables altogether and determine which variables have the greatest power to explain the data variation in terms of adaptive profile, using canonical and stepwise discriminant analysis. Eighteen non-castrated male sheep of the Soinga, Morada Nova, and Santa Inês breeds were used, with an average age of 5±1.0 months and an average weight of 15 ± 2.3 Kg. The RT showed a significant correlation above 50% with the temperature of the scrotum and leg; RR showed a higher correlation with tympanic (69%) than with RT (53%) tympanic showed a correlation above 70% with the temperature of the chest, back, buttocks, testicles, and leg, and 63% with the temperature of the eye, while RT showed a correlation of less than 50% with the temperature of the chest, buttocks, back and eye, and 51% with the testicle and leg. The most discriminatory variables for native breeds at comfort temperatures and thermal stress were reat rate and tympanic temperature. Tympanic temperature proved to be an important physiological variable to aid in the study of the adaptive profile of animals.

Nutritional and microbial evaluation of some frozen marine fish species sold in selected local government areas of Kano State, Nigeria

Kasim Ibrahim Lawal — 2025-11-03

This study was carried out to evaluate the nutritional compositions and microbial load of some frozen marine fish species sold in Kano State, Nigeria. A total of 81 samples comprising 27 each of Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus), Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) were purchased from three sampling areas: Bichi, Dambatta and Gwarzo. They were analysed for proximate, mineral compositions, and microbial load using standard procedures. Results indicated that the highest crude protein content, 21.51% was recorded in T. trachurus from Dambatta, while the mineral composition revealed that C. harengus recorded the highest sodium content, 1.69 mg Kg^-1, from Bichi. The highest free fatty acids 2.07 ± 0.18% was observed in T. trachurus from Gwarzo. The results of the microbial population elucidated that T. trachurus had the highest Salmonella spp. count of 4.22 x 10⁶cfu g^-1 from Dambatta. The Escherichia coli of 3.22 x 10⁶cfu g^-1 recorded in S. scombrus from Dambatta was the highest. All the microbial loads parameters were affected by the species, but not the collection station. The microbial load recorded in this study did not exceed the recommended limit of x10⁶to 10⁷cfu g^-1 of bacteria load safe for human consumption. The study therefore recommends T. trachurus as the best for consumption in the study area, due to its higher protein composition and the lowest microbial load.

Sperm quality of drones of Apis mellifera L. selected for royal jelly production

Sandra Milena Diaz Puentes — 2025-11-03

Royal jelly is importance within the hive colony for feed and regulation of sex hormones. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive characteristics of drones with D and E alleles (high production of royal jelly), compared with at least one F or G alleles (lower production of royal jelly). Drones were created from selected colonies and an analysis of the semen quality and weight of each drone was performed. The colonies with alleles D and E had a higher drone production but with lower. However, there was no interference from the alleles on the sperm quality of the drone, which presented: survival 88.38%, volume 1.2 µL, mass motility 5. The abnormalities were bent tail, headless and tailless sperm, and bifurcated tail. The alleles D and E influenced the weight and quantity of the drones but not their sperm quality.

Effect of comfort conditions during steers fattening period on beef nutritional quality: fatty acid profile and healthy fat indices

María Eugenia Munilla — 2025-11-03

In intensive livestock farming is important that cattle have high space allowance and continuous availability of food to improve animal welfare. It is possible that such conditions may improve fat quality. The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of concentrate diets supply alternatives and space allowances in beef finishing on meat nutritional quality through fatty acid profile analysis and healthy fat indices determination Forty-eight Hereford steers aged 7.9 months and 175.0 ± 19.8 Kg body weight (BW) were allocated into four treatments in a 2×2 factorial arrangement: 100BF (food supply in feed bunks and 100 m² animal^-1), 100SF (food supply in self-feeders and 100 m² animal^-1), 10BF (food supply in feed bunks and 10 m² animal^-1), 10SF (food supply in self-feeders and 10 m² animal^-1). The fatty acid profile was measured and the healthy fat indices - atherogenic index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic fatty acid ratio (h/H) and healthy fatty index (HFI)- were obtained. Treatments with self-feeders showed better AI, TI, h/H and HFI compared to groups with daily supply (0.5 vs. 0.6; 1.5 vs. 1.7; 1.6 vs. 1.4 and 1.6 vs. 1.7 respectively). In conclusion, animal production under comfortable conditions can contribute to the nutritional quality of meat.