Effect of full and semi-scavenging rearing systems on crop contents and the quality of meat from village chickens during spring season of Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Hanyani, Charles Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11807 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/440 , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to compare the nutrient status of full scavenging and semi-scavenging village chicken production systems. The semi-scavenging chickens were given broiler finisher mash between 14-24 weeks of age, whilst the full scavenging relied on natural foraging. The study also sought to compare the quality of meat from chickens from the two systems. After slaughtering the chickens, the crop contents were physically separated and analysed for chemical composition. Meat pH and colour were measured on the breast muscle of individual carcasses and a consumer sensory evaluation was also done on the breast muscle. The mean crop content weights per day were significantly higher in full scavenging chickens (±16.7g/day biomass) than in semi-scavenging chickens (±9.14g/day). Dry matter, calcium, and phosphorus levels were higher in the crop contents of the full than in the semi-scavenging chickens but crude protein, crude fibre and metabolisable energy were higher in the latter system. Semi-scavenging (1.3 ± 0.05kg) carcasses were heavier (P<0.05) than full scavenging ones (1.0 ± 0.06kg). The ultimate pH (24h) (pHu) of meat from full scavenging chickens (6.0 ± 0.03) was higher (P<0.05) than that of meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (5.7 ± 0.04). Meat from the full scavenging chickens had higher L* values (60 ± 1.2) than meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (47 ± 0.8). The a* value of meat of full scavenging chickens was significantly (P<0.05) less (4 ± 0.4) than that of meat from semi-scavenging chickens (15 ± 1.3). There was a significant positive (0.60) correlation between pHu and L* of meat from village chickens across rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system meat had better sensory attributes than the meat from the full scavenging system. Female consumers scored the typical flavour of village chicken meat across rearing systems higher (P< 0.05) than male consumers. The Shona consumers scored the meat higher (P< 0.05) than the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele and other tribes for initial juiciness, first bite impression and muscle fibre and tenderness of the chicken across rearing systems. Consumers scored of the meat from the semi-scavenging system higher (P<0.05) on initial juiciness (4.3 ± 0.20), first bite impression (4.2 ± 0.197), muscle fibre tenderness (4.5 ± 0.217) than meat from the full scavenging chickens. There were positive correlations (0.46) between aroma intensity and overall flavour intensity across both rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system produced better carcass characteristics, lighter (L*) meat and more consumer acceptable meat than full scavenging chickens. Therefore the full scavenging rearing system had better nutrient composition in its scavenging feed resource base, although the semi-scavenging systems produced chickens with better carcass, meat pH, colour and sensory characteristics than the full scavenging chickens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hanyani, Charles Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11807 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/440 , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chicken breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops -- Nutrition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to compare the nutrient status of full scavenging and semi-scavenging village chicken production systems. The semi-scavenging chickens were given broiler finisher mash between 14-24 weeks of age, whilst the full scavenging relied on natural foraging. The study also sought to compare the quality of meat from chickens from the two systems. After slaughtering the chickens, the crop contents were physically separated and analysed for chemical composition. Meat pH and colour were measured on the breast muscle of individual carcasses and a consumer sensory evaluation was also done on the breast muscle. The mean crop content weights per day were significantly higher in full scavenging chickens (±16.7g/day biomass) than in semi-scavenging chickens (±9.14g/day). Dry matter, calcium, and phosphorus levels were higher in the crop contents of the full than in the semi-scavenging chickens but crude protein, crude fibre and metabolisable energy were higher in the latter system. Semi-scavenging (1.3 ± 0.05kg) carcasses were heavier (P<0.05) than full scavenging ones (1.0 ± 0.06kg). The ultimate pH (24h) (pHu) of meat from full scavenging chickens (6.0 ± 0.03) was higher (P<0.05) than that of meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (5.7 ± 0.04). Meat from the full scavenging chickens had higher L* values (60 ± 1.2) than meat from the semi-scavenging chickens (47 ± 0.8). The a* value of meat of full scavenging chickens was significantly (P<0.05) less (4 ± 0.4) than that of meat from semi-scavenging chickens (15 ± 1.3). There was a significant positive (0.60) correlation between pHu and L* of meat from village chickens across rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system meat had better sensory attributes than the meat from the full scavenging system. Female consumers scored the typical flavour of village chicken meat across rearing systems higher (P< 0.05) than male consumers. The Shona consumers scored the meat higher (P< 0.05) than the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele and other tribes for initial juiciness, first bite impression and muscle fibre and tenderness of the chicken across rearing systems. Consumers scored of the meat from the semi-scavenging system higher (P<0.05) on initial juiciness (4.3 ± 0.20), first bite impression (4.2 ± 0.197), muscle fibre tenderness (4.5 ± 0.217) than meat from the full scavenging chickens. There were positive correlations (0.46) between aroma intensity and overall flavour intensity across both rearing systems. The semi-scavenging system produced better carcass characteristics, lighter (L*) meat and more consumer acceptable meat than full scavenging chickens. Therefore the full scavenging rearing system had better nutrient composition in its scavenging feed resource base, although the semi-scavenging systems produced chickens with better carcass, meat pH, colour and sensory characteristics than the full scavenging chickens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows
- Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Authors: Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006810 , Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Description: The effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows was investigated. Twenty Friesian, twenty Jersey and twenty Friesian × Jersey cows were randomly selected from a dairy herd. A total of 202 milk samples were collected and analysed in three stages of lactation. Genotypic differences were observed in milk yield and fat content. Friesian cows produced the highest yield and lowest fat content whereas the opposite was true for Jersey cows (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed in SCC in the different genotypes, but SCC levels were higher in mid and late lactation (P<0.001). There was no effect (P<0.005) of genotype and stage of lactation interaction on Ca, P, Mg, Na, Mn and Bo concentration. Jersey cows had the least concentration of Fe and Cu in all stages of lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among Ca and P, Mg and Zn. Aluminium had a strong positive relationship with Bo, Fe, Mn and Zn (P<0.001). Generally, SCC had a weak positive relationship with macro elements but a significant negative relationship with microelements. Yield levels were negatively correlated with Mg, Na, Al, Mn and SCC. Pasture ALA, SFA, n-3, n-6/n-3 and PUFA/MUFA concentration did not differ across the study period. Linoleic acid was highest in the second phase which coincides with mid lactation in cows (P<0.001). Highest moisture content coincided with the least fat free dry matter content in early lactation (P<0.001). Significantly high fat content was observed in late lactation than in early lactation. Highest butyric, caproic, linoleic, n-6 and PUFA were observed for Friesian cows. All other fatty acids ratios were not significantly different among different genotypes. Highest CLA, ALA, LA, SFA, PUFA, n-6, and n-3 and atherogenicity index were observed in early lactation whereas desaturase activity indices were highest in late lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among milk vaccenic, ALA, LA and CLA concentrations. Inverse relationships were observed between SFA and long chain fatty acids. It can be concluded, it may be of advantage to consume milk from early stage of lactation poses a lower risk to coronary diseases and are much safer to consume.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nantapo, Carlos Wyson Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006810 , Trace elements in animal nutrition , Genotype-environment interaction , Milk yield -- Testing , Lactation , Holstein-Friesian cattle , Jersey cattle
- Description: The effect of stage of lactation on milk yield, somatic cell counts, mineral and fatty acid profiles in pasture-based Friesian, Jersey and Friesian × Jersey cows was investigated. Twenty Friesian, twenty Jersey and twenty Friesian × Jersey cows were randomly selected from a dairy herd. A total of 202 milk samples were collected and analysed in three stages of lactation. Genotypic differences were observed in milk yield and fat content. Friesian cows produced the highest yield and lowest fat content whereas the opposite was true for Jersey cows (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed in SCC in the different genotypes, but SCC levels were higher in mid and late lactation (P<0.001). There was no effect (P<0.005) of genotype and stage of lactation interaction on Ca, P, Mg, Na, Mn and Bo concentration. Jersey cows had the least concentration of Fe and Cu in all stages of lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among Ca and P, Mg and Zn. Aluminium had a strong positive relationship with Bo, Fe, Mn and Zn (P<0.001). Generally, SCC had a weak positive relationship with macro elements but a significant negative relationship with microelements. Yield levels were negatively correlated with Mg, Na, Al, Mn and SCC. Pasture ALA, SFA, n-3, n-6/n-3 and PUFA/MUFA concentration did not differ across the study period. Linoleic acid was highest in the second phase which coincides with mid lactation in cows (P<0.001). Highest moisture content coincided with the least fat free dry matter content in early lactation (P<0.001). Significantly high fat content was observed in late lactation than in early lactation. Highest butyric, caproic, linoleic, n-6 and PUFA were observed for Friesian cows. All other fatty acids ratios were not significantly different among different genotypes. Highest CLA, ALA, LA, SFA, PUFA, n-6, and n-3 and atherogenicity index were observed in early lactation whereas desaturase activity indices were highest in late lactation. Strong positive correlations were observed among milk vaccenic, ALA, LA and CLA concentrations. Inverse relationships were observed between SFA and long chain fatty acids. It can be concluded, it may be of advantage to consume milk from early stage of lactation poses a lower risk to coronary diseases and are much safer to consume.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of feeding Moringa Oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acid profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat
- Authors: Wapi, Cwayita
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11822 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007546 , Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Description: Effects of feeding Moringa oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico- chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of M.oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as an additive on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators (colour, ultimate pH, driploss), fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of meat from broilers. A total of 432 1day old unsexed broiler chicks (Aviane 48) were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (TRTS) in 72 cages. There were 18 cages per treatment and each cage allocated 6 chicks. Water and feed was provided at ad libitum. The feeding phases were, prestarter (0-7 Days), starter (8-18 Days), grower (19-28 Days), finisher (29-35 Days). The four TRTS contained graded levels of MOLM at 1000g/ton, 750g/ton, 500g/ton, and 0g/ton (control), respectively. The birds were slaughtered at 35 days of age. Breast muscles were sampled for meat, ultimate pH (pHu ), colour, drip loss over a 7 days shelf-life test. After each day’s test sub-samples were dipped in liquid nitrogen and kept at -180 C for thiobarbituric acid reactive substances determination. On Day1 and Day 7 extra sub-samples were also kept at -180 C for fatty acids analysis.The TRTS had no effect on average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), and on average daily gain (ADG). Slaughter weight (SW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage and gizzard weight (GW) values were similar in all TRTS. Liver weight (LW), heart weight (HW), and gastro-intestinal fat (GIF) differed in all the TRTS, with treatment 2 having the highest value of HW (28.3±2.55), and LW (44.2±1.60) was the highest on treatment 4 . The pH values in all TRTS were constant from Day1 to Day5, reached peak on Day6, and then declined on Day7. Meat from broilers given treatment 1 with MOLM (1000g/ton) had the highest lightness (L*) values. The redness (a*) values were the highest in meat from treatment 2 (750g/ton MOLM). Treatments had no effect on yellowness (b*) values and on drip loss of the breasts. During storage L* values were high from Day1 to Day5 and decreased from Day6 to Day7. Drip loss increased with storage time as expected. Treatment 4 (control) had the highest proportions of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (30.3±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA) (60.9±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of SFA (60.9±4.30). Treatment 2 (750g/ton) had the highest n-6/n-3 ratio than other TRTS. Days had no effect (P>0.05) on PUFA, SFA, and n-6/n-3 ratio. Treatment 1 had a highest amount of malondialdehyde (MDA), treatment 4 had no effect (P>0.05) on MDA . Storage time had an effect (P<0.05) on MDA levels, except for on Day1 and Day7. Day2 had the highest amount of MDA (0.7±0.08). The use of MOLM as an additive in broiler diets reduced lipid oxidation in meat, and maintained the quality of the broiler meat during storage. It also did not have any adverse effects on the growth performance of broilers. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as an additive in broiler diets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Wapi, Cwayita
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11822 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007546 , Moringa , Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
- Description: Effects of feeding Moringa oleifera leaf meal as an additive on growth performance of chicken, physico- chemical shelf-life indicators, fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of broiler meat The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of M.oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) as an additive on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physico-chemical shelf-life indicators (colour, ultimate pH, driploss), fatty acids profiles and lipid oxidation of meat from broilers. A total of 432 1day old unsexed broiler chicks (Aviane 48) were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (TRTS) in 72 cages. There were 18 cages per treatment and each cage allocated 6 chicks. Water and feed was provided at ad libitum. The feeding phases were, prestarter (0-7 Days), starter (8-18 Days), grower (19-28 Days), finisher (29-35 Days). The four TRTS contained graded levels of MOLM at 1000g/ton, 750g/ton, 500g/ton, and 0g/ton (control), respectively. The birds were slaughtered at 35 days of age. Breast muscles were sampled for meat, ultimate pH (pHu ), colour, drip loss over a 7 days shelf-life test. After each day’s test sub-samples were dipped in liquid nitrogen and kept at -180 C for thiobarbituric acid reactive substances determination. On Day1 and Day 7 extra sub-samples were also kept at -180 C for fatty acids analysis.The TRTS had no effect on average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), and on average daily gain (ADG). Slaughter weight (SW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage and gizzard weight (GW) values were similar in all TRTS. Liver weight (LW), heart weight (HW), and gastro-intestinal fat (GIF) differed in all the TRTS, with treatment 2 having the highest value of HW (28.3±2.55), and LW (44.2±1.60) was the highest on treatment 4 . The pH values in all TRTS were constant from Day1 to Day5, reached peak on Day6, and then declined on Day7. Meat from broilers given treatment 1 with MOLM (1000g/ton) had the highest lightness (L*) values. The redness (a*) values were the highest in meat from treatment 2 (750g/ton MOLM). Treatments had no effect on yellowness (b*) values and on drip loss of the breasts. During storage L* values were high from Day1 to Day5 and decreased from Day6 to Day7. Drip loss increased with storage time as expected. Treatment 4 (control) had the highest proportions of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (30.3±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA) (60.9±1.87). Treatment 1 (1000g/ton) had the highest proportion of SFA (60.9±4.30). Treatment 2 (750g/ton) had the highest n-6/n-3 ratio than other TRTS. Days had no effect (P>0.05) on PUFA, SFA, and n-6/n-3 ratio. Treatment 1 had a highest amount of malondialdehyde (MDA), treatment 4 had no effect (P>0.05) on MDA . Storage time had an effect (P<0.05) on MDA levels, except for on Day1 and Day7. Day2 had the highest amount of MDA (0.7±0.08). The use of MOLM as an additive in broiler diets reduced lipid oxidation in meat, and maintained the quality of the broiler meat during storage. It also did not have any adverse effects on the growth performance of broilers. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as an additive in broiler diets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on creatine kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton
- Authors: Chulayo, Amanda Yucca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/433 , Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine Kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton By Chulayo Amanda Yucca The objective of the study was to determine the effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine kinase (CK) levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton from South African sheep breeds. One hundred and seventy-three castrated male sheep from four breeds (15 Dormer, 46 South African Mutton Merino, 77 Dorper and 35 Blackhead Persian) were used. The animals were grouped according to age categories. The grouping was as follows: Group 1 (6 ≤ 8 months), Group 2 (9 ≤ 12 months) and Group 3 (13 ≤ 16 months). Blood samples for CK determination were collected at exanguination using disposable vacutainer tubes. Representative samples of the Muscularis longissimuss thoracis et. lumborum (LTL) muscle were taken for the determination of ultimate pH (pHu), colour (L*-lightness, b*- redness and a*- yellowness), thawing and cooking losses and meat tenderness. Significant (P<0.01) breed effects were observed on CK levels with Dormer having the highest CK values. Significant linear relationships were observed between pre-slaughter condition and CK levels. There were positive correlations between colour coordinates L* and b* (r =+0.22) and between a* and b* (r =+0.63). Cooking loss and Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF) values were positively correlated (r =+0.29). The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed a significant variance for CK and between physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. There were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. Significant breed and age effects on pHu, L, a*, b*, thaw %, CL and WBSF of mutton were observed. iv It was concluded that, pre-slaughter conditions affect CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. However, there were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chulayo, Amanda Yucca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/433 , Sheep -- South Africa , Mutton , Slaughtering and slaughter-houses -- South Africa , Creatine -- Physiological effect
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine Kinase levels and physico-chemical attributes of mutton By Chulayo Amanda Yucca The objective of the study was to determine the effects of pre-slaughter sheep handling and animal-related factors on Creatine kinase (CK) levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton from South African sheep breeds. One hundred and seventy-three castrated male sheep from four breeds (15 Dormer, 46 South African Mutton Merino, 77 Dorper and 35 Blackhead Persian) were used. The animals were grouped according to age categories. The grouping was as follows: Group 1 (6 ≤ 8 months), Group 2 (9 ≤ 12 months) and Group 3 (13 ≤ 16 months). Blood samples for CK determination were collected at exanguination using disposable vacutainer tubes. Representative samples of the Muscularis longissimuss thoracis et. lumborum (LTL) muscle were taken for the determination of ultimate pH (pHu), colour (L*-lightness, b*- redness and a*- yellowness), thawing and cooking losses and meat tenderness. Significant (P<0.01) breed effects were observed on CK levels with Dormer having the highest CK values. Significant linear relationships were observed between pre-slaughter condition and CK levels. There were positive correlations between colour coordinates L* and b* (r =+0.22) and between a* and b* (r =+0.63). Cooking loss and Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF) values were positively correlated (r =+0.29). The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed a significant variance for CK and between physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. There were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. Significant breed and age effects on pHu, L, a*, b*, thaw %, CL and WBSF of mutton were observed. iv It was concluded that, pre-slaughter conditions affect CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton. However, there were no relationships between CK levels and physico-chemical characteristics of mutton.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Farmers` perceptions of livestock feeding and rangeland management: dynamics of soil, forage and cattle blood serum mineral levels in two communal areas of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Gwelo, Farai Alice
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal feeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006785 , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal feeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study was conducted to determine livestock production, rangeland management and the mineral levels of soils, grass and cattle blood serum in two communal areas (Kwezana and Dikidikana). A total of 77 farmers from both Kwezana and Dikidikana were interviewed to determine farmers’ perceptions. Soil and grass sampling was done at three sites in each communal area. Soil and grass samples were analysed for N, Ca, Mg, K, P, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Bo. Three, two and half year old Nguni heifers were randomly selected from each communal area and blood samples were collected for the analysis of Ca, Mg, K, Cu and Fe. Soil, grass and blood samples were all collected in two seasons (winter and summer). The results of the study revealed that feed availability was the major constraint in livestock production as indicated by 83 percent of thefarmers at Kwezana and 88 percent at Dikidikana. At both villages less than 20 percent practiced supplementation and grazing management. From both villages, 83 percent of the farmers did not know the forage species preferred by their cattle. The second study revealed significant seasonal variations in soil N in both study areas while forage N exhibited seasonal variations (P<0.05) only at Dikidikana. Spatial variation (P<0.05) in soil Mn was apparent in both seasons at Dikidikana and in summer at Kwezana. At Dikidikana forage P varied (P<0.05) both seasonally and spatially. In both study areas, there was a positive correlation (P<0.05) between soil and forage levels of Cu and Zn. The blood serum of animals from both study areas had higher (P<0.05) K and Na in winter than in summer. Farmers do not understand the composition of their rangelands but are concerned about cattle nutrition during winter. Indeed the mineral status of soils, forages and Nguni cattle blood serum tend to vary not only seasonally but also spatially. There is need therefore to assist the farmers to understand these changes in order to find ways of managing the rangelands in a way that will manipulate both seasonal and spatial variations in soil nutrients for the benefit of the grazing livestock. Further research is required to determine the digestibility of the forages and the amount of energy available from these forages for the grazing livestock.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gwelo, Farai Alice
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal feeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006785 , Range management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Animal feeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livestock -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study was conducted to determine livestock production, rangeland management and the mineral levels of soils, grass and cattle blood serum in two communal areas (Kwezana and Dikidikana). A total of 77 farmers from both Kwezana and Dikidikana were interviewed to determine farmers’ perceptions. Soil and grass sampling was done at three sites in each communal area. Soil and grass samples were analysed for N, Ca, Mg, K, P, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Bo. Three, two and half year old Nguni heifers were randomly selected from each communal area and blood samples were collected for the analysis of Ca, Mg, K, Cu and Fe. Soil, grass and blood samples were all collected in two seasons (winter and summer). The results of the study revealed that feed availability was the major constraint in livestock production as indicated by 83 percent of thefarmers at Kwezana and 88 percent at Dikidikana. At both villages less than 20 percent practiced supplementation and grazing management. From both villages, 83 percent of the farmers did not know the forage species preferred by their cattle. The second study revealed significant seasonal variations in soil N in both study areas while forage N exhibited seasonal variations (P<0.05) only at Dikidikana. Spatial variation (P<0.05) in soil Mn was apparent in both seasons at Dikidikana and in summer at Kwezana. At Dikidikana forage P varied (P<0.05) both seasonally and spatially. In both study areas, there was a positive correlation (P<0.05) between soil and forage levels of Cu and Zn. The blood serum of animals from both study areas had higher (P<0.05) K and Na in winter than in summer. Farmers do not understand the composition of their rangelands but are concerned about cattle nutrition during winter. Indeed the mineral status of soils, forages and Nguni cattle blood serum tend to vary not only seasonally but also spatially. There is need therefore to assist the farmers to understand these changes in order to find ways of managing the rangelands in a way that will manipulate both seasonal and spatial variations in soil nutrients for the benefit of the grazing livestock. Further research is required to determine the digestibility of the forages and the amount of energy available from these forages for the grazing livestock.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Perceptions of rural consumers and the quality of mutton at purchase points in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Rani, Zikhona Theodora
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007562 , Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine perceptions of rural consumers on mutton quality, and the quality of mutton at purchase points in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study was conducted in five different municipalities (Buffalo City, Nkonkobe, Ngqushwa, Lukhanje and Amahlathi). A survey was conducted where a sample of 215 consumers were randomly selected and interviewed, either at point of purchase or as they left the shops. The survey was not limited to the shoppers only but also extended to households from the villages. Questions on some of the most important meat quality cues were compiled. The physico-chemical quality of mutton purchased from different shops was also determined. Forty different shops and butcheries selling mutton from all the selected municipalities were visited. Different parts of mutton samples were bought. Physico-chemical qualities of mutton such as colour (L* - lightness, b* - redness and a* - yellowness) and meat pH measurements were taken at points of purchase. Cooking loss and tenderness evaluations were later done at the Meat Science laboratory at the University of Fort Hare. The results indicated that price was one of the major factors affecting the purchasing decisions of consumers. Thirty four percent of the consumers preferred mutton as compared to other protein sources, even though they were not buying this type of meat because it was not affordable to them. Both male and female consumers suggested that more sheep farmers need to be established in order to reduce the levels of imported mutton into South Africa. They also highlighted that selection programmes that will result in efficient sheep production and reduced mutton prices need to be implemented. Meat at points of purchase was affected by season resulting in lower lightness (L*24.7±0.49) values in winter and higher (L* 32.2±0.49) in Spring. The class of shop did not have an effect on meat quality attributes. Trotter had high values of lightness (L*30.4±2.78a), redness (a*30.4±2.78a), yellowness (13.1±1.08a), pH (6.3±0.12a), tenderness (24.9±3.69b) and cooking loss (39.5±4.38ab). The number of days from when the meat was put on the shelves to the time when it was purchased for consumption (days to purchase) had a significant (P<0.05) negative correlation with the Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF)values and lightness of the meat. Significant negative (P < 0.05) correlations between pH and colour of the meat (L*, a* and b*) were also observed. It was concluded that rural consumers perceive the quality of mutton as the best and that the physico-chemical quality of meat purchased from different shops was different, largely based on the part of meat, meat storage conditions and not necessarily on the class of the shop.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Rani, Zikhona Theodora
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007562 , Meat -- Quality , Mutton -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Quality of products , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine perceptions of rural consumers on mutton quality, and the quality of mutton at purchase points in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study was conducted in five different municipalities (Buffalo City, Nkonkobe, Ngqushwa, Lukhanje and Amahlathi). A survey was conducted where a sample of 215 consumers were randomly selected and interviewed, either at point of purchase or as they left the shops. The survey was not limited to the shoppers only but also extended to households from the villages. Questions on some of the most important meat quality cues were compiled. The physico-chemical quality of mutton purchased from different shops was also determined. Forty different shops and butcheries selling mutton from all the selected municipalities were visited. Different parts of mutton samples were bought. Physico-chemical qualities of mutton such as colour (L* - lightness, b* - redness and a* - yellowness) and meat pH measurements were taken at points of purchase. Cooking loss and tenderness evaluations were later done at the Meat Science laboratory at the University of Fort Hare. The results indicated that price was one of the major factors affecting the purchasing decisions of consumers. Thirty four percent of the consumers preferred mutton as compared to other protein sources, even though they were not buying this type of meat because it was not affordable to them. Both male and female consumers suggested that more sheep farmers need to be established in order to reduce the levels of imported mutton into South Africa. They also highlighted that selection programmes that will result in efficient sheep production and reduced mutton prices need to be implemented. Meat at points of purchase was affected by season resulting in lower lightness (L*24.7±0.49) values in winter and higher (L* 32.2±0.49) in Spring. The class of shop did not have an effect on meat quality attributes. Trotter had high values of lightness (L*30.4±2.78a), redness (a*30.4±2.78a), yellowness (13.1±1.08a), pH (6.3±0.12a), tenderness (24.9±3.69b) and cooking loss (39.5±4.38ab). The number of days from when the meat was put on the shelves to the time when it was purchased for consumption (days to purchase) had a significant (P<0.05) negative correlation with the Warner Braztler Shear Force (WBSF)values and lightness of the meat. Significant negative (P < 0.05) correlations between pH and colour of the meat (L*, a* and b*) were also observed. It was concluded that rural consumers perceive the quality of mutton as the best and that the physico-chemical quality of meat purchased from different shops was different, largely based on the part of meat, meat storage conditions and not necessarily on the class of the shop.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth perfomance, gut integrity, bone strenght, quality and oxidative stability of meat from broiler chickens
- Authors: Nkukwana, Tobela T
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Chickens -- Nutrition , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11820 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006835 , Moringa oleifera , Chickens -- Nutrition , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: This study was designed was to determine the effects of additive supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth performance, digestibility, digestive organ size, intestinal integrity, bone ash content and bone breaking strength, as well as meat yield and quality of broiler chickens. A total of 2400 day-old unsexed Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 5 treatment groups: T1, positive control, 668 g/ton Salinomycin and 500 g/ton Albac; T2, T3 and T4 contained graded levels of MOLM at 1 percent, 3 percent and 5 percent of dry matter (DM) intake, respectively; and T5, a negative control (0 percent additives) in a complete randomized design experiment. Except for week one, FI and FCR was highest (P < 0.05) in T4 birds; while T1 birds had the highest FI in the period of 22 to 27d (P < 0.05). Throughout the production period, birds supplemented with MOLM had the highest BW (P < 0.05) than the birds fed the control diets. Feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) among treatments was highest (P < 0.05) in T4 birds during the period of 8 to 14 d; and was highest (P < 0.05) for T1 birds in the period of 22 to 27d. Protein efficiency ratio (PER) and energy utilization efficiency (EEU) ratios were statistically significant among treatments (P < 0.05). However, dietary treatments had no effect (P > 0.05) on the weights of the heart, liver, spleen, or the gizzard, although the bursa for T2 birds was the lightest (P < 0.05); while gizzard erosion score was highest in T2 birds. All of the nutrients measured, except for fat, had negative intercepts that were significantly different (P < 0.05) from zero, indicating the presence of endogenous fecal losses. Tibiae length (TL) was highest in T2. The dried defatted weight (DW) was heaviest (P < 0.05) for T3 (11.20 ± 0.347) and T5 (11.08 ± 0.328). A positive correlation (r = 0.667; P < 0.01) between TW and DW was observed. There were no dietary effects on bone breaking strength (BBS), but T1 tibiae had highest resistance to breaking force (T1 > T4 > T3 > T2 > T5). Calcium was highest (P < 0.05) in T1; and lowest inT2 and T5. Phosphorus levels were lowest (P < 0.05) in T1; and highest (P < 0.05) in T5 compared. The highest Ca: P ratio was obtained in T4 (P < 0.05); while the ash percent was highest (P < 0.05) in T1. Drip loss increased as L* values increased; and a negative correlation was observed between L* and pH. On D1, C18: 0 and C22 in T2, while C15:0 was highest in T4. On D1, C20:2, C20:3n6 and C22:6n3 were highest in T2 (P < 0.05); T4 had the highest C18:3n6 (P < 0.05), while C20:2 was highest in T5 (P < 0.05). The P/S ratio on D1 was highest in T4; while n-6/n-3 was highest in T1; and n-3 was highest in T3. On D8, the n-3 was highest in T1 (P < 0.05). Results of the current study show that supplementation of M. oleifera leaf at additive levels of up to 5 percent of the bird’s DMI does have the potential to influence the bird performance without any detrimental effects on nutrient utilization, bird health, bone strength and/or meat quality, which can be concluded that MOLM enhanced the bird’s genetic potential for optimal productivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nkukwana, Tobela T
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Moringa oleifera , Chickens -- Nutrition , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11820 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006835 , Moringa oleifera , Chickens -- Nutrition , Chickens -- Feeding and feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: This study was designed was to determine the effects of additive supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth performance, digestibility, digestive organ size, intestinal integrity, bone ash content and bone breaking strength, as well as meat yield and quality of broiler chickens. A total of 2400 day-old unsexed Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 5 treatment groups: T1, positive control, 668 g/ton Salinomycin and 500 g/ton Albac; T2, T3 and T4 contained graded levels of MOLM at 1 percent, 3 percent and 5 percent of dry matter (DM) intake, respectively; and T5, a negative control (0 percent additives) in a complete randomized design experiment. Except for week one, FI and FCR was highest (P < 0.05) in T4 birds; while T1 birds had the highest FI in the period of 22 to 27d (P < 0.05). Throughout the production period, birds supplemented with MOLM had the highest BW (P < 0.05) than the birds fed the control diets. Feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) among treatments was highest (P < 0.05) in T4 birds during the period of 8 to 14 d; and was highest (P < 0.05) for T1 birds in the period of 22 to 27d. Protein efficiency ratio (PER) and energy utilization efficiency (EEU) ratios were statistically significant among treatments (P < 0.05). However, dietary treatments had no effect (P > 0.05) on the weights of the heart, liver, spleen, or the gizzard, although the bursa for T2 birds was the lightest (P < 0.05); while gizzard erosion score was highest in T2 birds. All of the nutrients measured, except for fat, had negative intercepts that were significantly different (P < 0.05) from zero, indicating the presence of endogenous fecal losses. Tibiae length (TL) was highest in T2. The dried defatted weight (DW) was heaviest (P < 0.05) for T3 (11.20 ± 0.347) and T5 (11.08 ± 0.328). A positive correlation (r = 0.667; P < 0.01) between TW and DW was observed. There were no dietary effects on bone breaking strength (BBS), but T1 tibiae had highest resistance to breaking force (T1 > T4 > T3 > T2 > T5). Calcium was highest (P < 0.05) in T1; and lowest inT2 and T5. Phosphorus levels were lowest (P < 0.05) in T1; and highest (P < 0.05) in T5 compared. The highest Ca: P ratio was obtained in T4 (P < 0.05); while the ash percent was highest (P < 0.05) in T1. Drip loss increased as L* values increased; and a negative correlation was observed between L* and pH. On D1, C18: 0 and C22 in T2, while C15:0 was highest in T4. On D1, C20:2, C20:3n6 and C22:6n3 were highest in T2 (P < 0.05); T4 had the highest C18:3n6 (P < 0.05), while C20:2 was highest in T5 (P < 0.05). The P/S ratio on D1 was highest in T4; while n-6/n-3 was highest in T1; and n-3 was highest in T3. On D8, the n-3 was highest in T1 (P < 0.05). Results of the current study show that supplementation of M. oleifera leaf at additive levels of up to 5 percent of the bird’s DMI does have the potential to influence the bird performance without any detrimental effects on nutrient utilization, bird health, bone strength and/or meat quality, which can be concluded that MOLM enhanced the bird’s genetic potential for optimal productivity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Antioxidant activity and the quality of meat from goats and broilers supplemented with Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) leaves
- Authors: Qwele, Kumnandi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality , Moringa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/469 , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality , Moringa
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the antioxidant activity (AA) and the quality of meat from goats and chickens supplemented with Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves. For the first experimental chapter, eighteen 9 months old Xhosa lop-eared, castrated goats with an average body weight of 14 kg were used. There were three supplements namely, Moringa oleifera leaves, sunflower cake and grass hay. There were six goats per supplement. The goats were slaughtered after 60 days of supplementation and the Muscularis longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) of the right side of each goat was used to determine fatty acid composition, total phenolic content (TPC), diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, 2, 2 azino-bis (3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic diammonium salt (ABTS) assay and reducing power assay of meat. Glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) were taken as parameters to evaluate in vivo AA of the meat. For the second experiment, twelve male broilers were used in four groups of dietary supplementation. Three broilers were allocated per group. After slaughter, the breast muscle was sampled for total phenols, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, TPC, ABTS, GSH, CAT, SOD, lipid peroxidation, ultimate pH (pH24), colour (L* (lightness), a* (redness), b* (yellowness)), WB-shear force and cooking loss. In both chapters Moringa leaves exhibited the highest AA. Meat from goats supplement with Moringa exhibited the highest AA. Meat from broilers supplemented with a mixture of Moringa leaves, broiler finisher and crushed maize, had the highest (P < 0.05) pH24 and L* values. Moringa can therefore be used to preserve meat without changing the quality of meat.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Qwele, Kumnandi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality , Moringa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/469 , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Meat -- Quality , Moringa
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine the antioxidant activity (AA) and the quality of meat from goats and chickens supplemented with Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves. For the first experimental chapter, eighteen 9 months old Xhosa lop-eared, castrated goats with an average body weight of 14 kg were used. There were three supplements namely, Moringa oleifera leaves, sunflower cake and grass hay. There were six goats per supplement. The goats were slaughtered after 60 days of supplementation and the Muscularis longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) of the right side of each goat was used to determine fatty acid composition, total phenolic content (TPC), diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, 2, 2 azino-bis (3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic diammonium salt (ABTS) assay and reducing power assay of meat. Glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) were taken as parameters to evaluate in vivo AA of the meat. For the second experiment, twelve male broilers were used in four groups of dietary supplementation. Three broilers were allocated per group. After slaughter, the breast muscle was sampled for total phenols, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, TPC, ABTS, GSH, CAT, SOD, lipid peroxidation, ultimate pH (pH24), colour (L* (lightness), a* (redness), b* (yellowness)), WB-shear force and cooking loss. In both chapters Moringa leaves exhibited the highest AA. Meat from goats supplement with Moringa exhibited the highest AA. Meat from broilers supplemented with a mixture of Moringa leaves, broiler finisher and crushed maize, had the highest (P < 0.05) pH24 and L* values. Moringa can therefore be used to preserve meat without changing the quality of meat.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Effects of Acacia karroo supplementation on the quality of meat from Xhosa lopeared goats
- Authors: Ngambu, Simthembile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Goats -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Goat meat -- South Africa , Goats -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/450 , Goats -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Goat meat -- South Africa , Goats -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Effects of Acacia karroo supplementation on meat quality of Xhosa Lop-Eared goats The objective of the study was to determine the effects of A. karroo supplementation on the quality of meat from Xhosa lop-eared goats. Eighteen castrated 4-month-old Xhosa lop-eared male kids were kept at the University of Fort Hare Farm until slaughter. At the beginning of the experiment the goats had a mean body weight of 13.5 ± 0.31 kg (mean ± S.E.) and a mean body condition score (BCS) of 3.3 ± 0.16 (mean ± S.E.). From birth until weaning the kids were kept on natural pastures with their mothers. After weaning the goats were housed in an open sided barn for a period of 60 days, and were fed 500 g/head/day of Medicago sativa hay covering their maintenance and growth needs. For the purpose of the experiment, the goats were randomly divided into two balanced treatment groups of nine goats each, supplemented group (AK) and non-supplemented group (NS). The supplemented group received an additional 200g per head per day of fresh A. karroo leaves collected each day for two months. Supplementary feed was given to the goats individually in feeding troughs. The kids were slaughtered at 60 days old and samples for meat quality assessment were taken from the Longistimus dorsi muscle. The effect of A. karroo supplementation on meat quality measurements such as ultimate pH, colour and cooking losses of meat from indigenous Xhosa lop-eared goats were determined. The effect of A. karroo supplementation on the consumer sensory characteristic scores of the meat from the indigenous Xhosa lop-eared breed was also determined. There was a significant effect of the A. karroo supplementation on the meat quality measurements except for L* and a* colour coordinates. Meat from the A. karroo supplemented goats had lower pH and cooking loss scores than that of the non-supplemented goats. Acacia karroo supplementation improves meat tenderness and juiciness. There were no significant effects of A. karroo supplementation on the flavour and off- iv flavours of the meat from the supplemented goats. However, thermal preparation and consumer background had a significant effect on the meat sensory characteristics. The cooked meat had significantly higher sensory scores than the roasted meat. Female consumers reported higher sensory scores than male consumers. Consumers of different tribes and ages also reported significantly different sensory scores of meat from indigenous Xhosa lop-eared goats. Therefore, this study indicated that A. karroo supplementation can be fed to the Xhosa lop-eared goats to improve their meat quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ngambu, Simthembile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Goats -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Goat meat -- South Africa , Goats -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/450 , Goats -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Goat meat -- South Africa , Goats -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa , Meat -- Quality -- South Africa , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Effects of Acacia karroo supplementation on meat quality of Xhosa Lop-Eared goats The objective of the study was to determine the effects of A. karroo supplementation on the quality of meat from Xhosa lop-eared goats. Eighteen castrated 4-month-old Xhosa lop-eared male kids were kept at the University of Fort Hare Farm until slaughter. At the beginning of the experiment the goats had a mean body weight of 13.5 ± 0.31 kg (mean ± S.E.) and a mean body condition score (BCS) of 3.3 ± 0.16 (mean ± S.E.). From birth until weaning the kids were kept on natural pastures with their mothers. After weaning the goats were housed in an open sided barn for a period of 60 days, and were fed 500 g/head/day of Medicago sativa hay covering their maintenance and growth needs. For the purpose of the experiment, the goats were randomly divided into two balanced treatment groups of nine goats each, supplemented group (AK) and non-supplemented group (NS). The supplemented group received an additional 200g per head per day of fresh A. karroo leaves collected each day for two months. Supplementary feed was given to the goats individually in feeding troughs. The kids were slaughtered at 60 days old and samples for meat quality assessment were taken from the Longistimus dorsi muscle. The effect of A. karroo supplementation on meat quality measurements such as ultimate pH, colour and cooking losses of meat from indigenous Xhosa lop-eared goats were determined. The effect of A. karroo supplementation on the consumer sensory characteristic scores of the meat from the indigenous Xhosa lop-eared breed was also determined. There was a significant effect of the A. karroo supplementation on the meat quality measurements except for L* and a* colour coordinates. Meat from the A. karroo supplemented goats had lower pH and cooking loss scores than that of the non-supplemented goats. Acacia karroo supplementation improves meat tenderness and juiciness. There were no significant effects of A. karroo supplementation on the flavour and off- iv flavours of the meat from the supplemented goats. However, thermal preparation and consumer background had a significant effect on the meat sensory characteristics. The cooked meat had significantly higher sensory scores than the roasted meat. Female consumers reported higher sensory scores than male consumers. Consumers of different tribes and ages also reported significantly different sensory scores of meat from indigenous Xhosa lop-eared goats. Therefore, this study indicated that A. karroo supplementation can be fed to the Xhosa lop-eared goats to improve their meat quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Effects of pre-slaughter handling on pork quality from a smallholder abbatoir
- Authors: Gajana, Christian Sabelo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Meat cuts -- Standards , Pork -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/434 , Meat cuts -- Standards , Pork -- Quality
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter handling on pork quality from a smallholder abattoir By Christian Sabelo Gajana A total of 158 pork samples from Landrace and Large White pigs were collected from Nxuba Municipal abattoir to determine the effects of pre-slaughter handling on pork quality. Technological quality attributes of pork such as pHu, L*, a*, b*, WBSF values, TL%, CL% EL% were determined. Breed differences were observed in ultimate pH (pHu) and redness (a*) with meat from the Large White having higher pHu and lower a* values than meat from the Landrace. Meat from pigs slaughtered in spring season had the highest (P<0.05) shear force values (27.6±1.58) while the lowest shear force values (18.5±1.58) were found in meat from pigs that were slaughtered in the autumn season. The lowest pHu and highest a* values were found in meat from 9 month-old pigs (5.3±0.07). The 6, 9 and 10 months had highest (P<0.05) than 7 and 8 months old pigs. Cooking loss and evaporation loss increased with age groups. Only distance and transportation time had a positive relationship to TL% of pork whilst no significant relationship was reported between all the other pre-slaughter variables and technological quality attributes of pork. Highest risks of PSE occurrences were observed with more space allowance of 0.4 m2 per 100 kg during transportation. Reduced risks of PSE occurrences were observed with space allowance of 0.35 m2 per 100 kg. The pHu were positively correlated to WBSF values (P < 0.001). The L* values were positively correlated to b* (P < 0.001), and negatively correlated to a* while CL and EL were positively correlated to L*. In the current study, a* values were positively correlated to b* (P < 0.001) but negatively correlated to EL (P < 0.01). There were iv positive correlations between CL and EL, Both CL and EL were positively correlated to WBSF values. The first four principal components (PCs) explained about 95% of the total variability for technological quality attributes of pork. It can be concluded that pig breeds vary in pHu and considerations should be made on different seasons of slaughter when assessing pork quality. Precautions should also be made on age categories of animal when improving the quality of pork. Transportation time, distance, stocking density, temperature and lairage time did not show significant relationship with technological quality attributes measured; except for transportation time and distance travelled which had a positive relationship with TL%. The risk of PSE increased with more space availability more than 0.4 m2 per 100 kg pig, but stocking density of 0.35 m2 per 100 kg was an ideal reduce the risk of PSE pork.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Gajana, Christian Sabelo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Meat cuts -- Standards , Pork -- Quality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/434 , Meat cuts -- Standards , Pork -- Quality
- Description: Effects of pre-slaughter handling on pork quality from a smallholder abattoir By Christian Sabelo Gajana A total of 158 pork samples from Landrace and Large White pigs were collected from Nxuba Municipal abattoir to determine the effects of pre-slaughter handling on pork quality. Technological quality attributes of pork such as pHu, L*, a*, b*, WBSF values, TL%, CL% EL% were determined. Breed differences were observed in ultimate pH (pHu) and redness (a*) with meat from the Large White having higher pHu and lower a* values than meat from the Landrace. Meat from pigs slaughtered in spring season had the highest (P<0.05) shear force values (27.6±1.58) while the lowest shear force values (18.5±1.58) were found in meat from pigs that were slaughtered in the autumn season. The lowest pHu and highest a* values were found in meat from 9 month-old pigs (5.3±0.07). The 6, 9 and 10 months had highest (P<0.05) than 7 and 8 months old pigs. Cooking loss and evaporation loss increased with age groups. Only distance and transportation time had a positive relationship to TL% of pork whilst no significant relationship was reported between all the other pre-slaughter variables and technological quality attributes of pork. Highest risks of PSE occurrences were observed with more space allowance of 0.4 m2 per 100 kg during transportation. Reduced risks of PSE occurrences were observed with space allowance of 0.35 m2 per 100 kg. The pHu were positively correlated to WBSF values (P < 0.001). The L* values were positively correlated to b* (P < 0.001), and negatively correlated to a* while CL and EL were positively correlated to L*. In the current study, a* values were positively correlated to b* (P < 0.001) but negatively correlated to EL (P < 0.01). There were iv positive correlations between CL and EL, Both CL and EL were positively correlated to WBSF values. The first four principal components (PCs) explained about 95% of the total variability for technological quality attributes of pork. It can be concluded that pig breeds vary in pHu and considerations should be made on different seasons of slaughter when assessing pork quality. Precautions should also be made on age categories of animal when improving the quality of pork. Transportation time, distance, stocking density, temperature and lairage time did not show significant relationship with technological quality attributes measured; except for transportation time and distance travelled which had a positive relationship with TL%. The risk of PSE increased with more space availability more than 0.4 m2 per 100 kg pig, but stocking density of 0.35 m2 per 100 kg was an ideal reduce the risk of PSE pork.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Effects of dietary supplementation on physico-chemical and consumer sensory characteristics of chevon from South African indigenous goat genotypes
- Authors: Xazela, Nomasonto Martha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Color of meat , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Commercial products -- Testing , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11809 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/357 , Color of meat , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Commercial products -- Testing , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to assess the effect of dietary supplementation on physico-chemical and consumer sensory characteristics of chevon from South African indigenous goat genotypes. Forty-eight 6-month-old Xhosa lop-eared (XLE), Nguni (NGN), Xhosa-Boer cross (XBC) and Boer (BOR) castrated goats with a body weight range from 20 to 25 kg were used in this study. Half of the goats in each genotype were supplemented with 200g/head/day of sunflower cake. The other half of goats in each genotype was not supplemented. The goats were slaughtered at day 90 to determine slaughter weight (SLW), cold dress mass (CDM), meat colour, cooking loss, meat pH and Warner-Bratzler (WB) shear force values. Furthermore, a consumer sensory evaluation of cooked or fried chevon from supplemented and non-supplemented goats was conducted with consumers of different ages, tribes and gender. The XLE and NGN goats had higher pH24 (P < 0.05) than BOR and XBC goats. Supplemented BOR goats had higher L* values than their non-supplemented counterparts (P < 0.05). The other meat quality attributes in XLE and NGN were comparable to those in meat from the Boer goat. Female respondents gave higher (P < 0.05) sensory scores than male respondents for both cooked and fried meat on aroma intensity. Shona consumers gave higher (P < 0.05) aroma intensity scores than the Xhosa and the Zulu consumers for both cooked and fried meat. In the non-supplemented goats, fried meat for all genotypes was superior (P < 0.05) to the cooked meat for initial impression of juiciness. Age and gender of respondents and thermal iv treatment influenced initial impression of juiciness scores (P < 0.05). The quality of chevon from XLE and NGN was comparable to that of the Boer goat, and dietary supplementation improved most meat quality attributes. Chevon from the supplemented goats had higher consumer sensory scores than chevon from the non-supplemented goats. Keywords: supplementation, meat colour, ultimate pH, consumer sensory evaluation, Xhosa lop eared, Nguni, Boer goats.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Xazela, Nomasonto Martha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Color of meat , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Commercial products -- Testing , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11809 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/357 , Color of meat , Food -- Sensory evaluation , Commercial products -- Testing , Goats -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Goats -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to assess the effect of dietary supplementation on physico-chemical and consumer sensory characteristics of chevon from South African indigenous goat genotypes. Forty-eight 6-month-old Xhosa lop-eared (XLE), Nguni (NGN), Xhosa-Boer cross (XBC) and Boer (BOR) castrated goats with a body weight range from 20 to 25 kg were used in this study. Half of the goats in each genotype were supplemented with 200g/head/day of sunflower cake. The other half of goats in each genotype was not supplemented. The goats were slaughtered at day 90 to determine slaughter weight (SLW), cold dress mass (CDM), meat colour, cooking loss, meat pH and Warner-Bratzler (WB) shear force values. Furthermore, a consumer sensory evaluation of cooked or fried chevon from supplemented and non-supplemented goats was conducted with consumers of different ages, tribes and gender. The XLE and NGN goats had higher pH24 (P < 0.05) than BOR and XBC goats. Supplemented BOR goats had higher L* values than their non-supplemented counterparts (P < 0.05). The other meat quality attributes in XLE and NGN were comparable to those in meat from the Boer goat. Female respondents gave higher (P < 0.05) sensory scores than male respondents for both cooked and fried meat on aroma intensity. Shona consumers gave higher (P < 0.05) aroma intensity scores than the Xhosa and the Zulu consumers for both cooked and fried meat. In the non-supplemented goats, fried meat for all genotypes was superior (P < 0.05) to the cooked meat for initial impression of juiciness. Age and gender of respondents and thermal iv treatment influenced initial impression of juiciness scores (P < 0.05). The quality of chevon from XLE and NGN was comparable to that of the Boer goat, and dietary supplementation improved most meat quality attributes. Chevon from the supplemented goats had higher consumer sensory scores than chevon from the non-supplemented goats. Keywords: supplementation, meat colour, ultimate pH, consumer sensory evaluation, Xhosa lop eared, Nguni, Boer goats.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Manure production and nutrient management in pasture-based dairy production systems
- Authors: Svinurai, Walter
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Manures , Nitrogen -- Metabolism , Aloe -- South Africa , Pine bark , Pastures , Dairy cattle -- Nutrition , Dairy cattle -- Management , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11812 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/475 , Manures , Nitrogen -- Metabolism , Aloe -- South Africa , Pine bark , Pastures , Dairy cattle -- Nutrition , Dairy cattle -- Management , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: Manure production and nutrient management in pasture-based dairy production systems by Walter Svinurai The effect of dietary treatments on nutrient excretion was determined and an attempt to improving the retention of excreted nitrogen in stored manure using Aloe ferox leaf gel (AFLG) and pine bark was conducted at a pasture-based dairy farm. The animal mass-balance method was used to determine nutrient excretion by cows fed on three dietary treatments, Lolium perrene-based treatment (LP), Lolium multiforium-based treatment (LM) and Lolium perenne- Trifolium repens -based treatment (LTF). In separate experiments, slurry from dairy cows fed LM was amended with AFLG and pine bark at concentrations of 25, 50, 75 and 100 g/l and stored under anaerobic conditions for 16 days. The highest and lowest excretions of N, P and K were observed in LM and LP treatments, respectively. Increasing dietary N improved K and N retention in milk and, consequently increased milk urea nitrogen (MUN) and N excretion (P < 0.05). The concentrations of AFLG affected N and P retention in manure (P < 0.05). The highest retention in total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) of the initial was 42% AFLG at 25g/l inclusion rate. Ammonium nitrogen (AMN) concentration increased significantly due to the interactive effect of AFLG inclusion rate and time. Pine bark powder significantly improved N and P retention in manure at all concentrations. The retention in TKN was higher (P < 0.05) at 25g/l pine bark powder than other concentrations. The interaction effect of inclusion rate and time increased iii AMN (P < 0.05). Dietary treatments significantly affected nutrient excretion, and AFLG and pine bark considerably improved N retention in stored slurry. Findings from the filed trial suggest the need for more attention on managing dietary nutrients in the post-rainy and cool-dry season when growth of pasture influenced choice of dietary treatments that led to high nutrient excretion. Field simulation of the additives to determine their efficacy and environmental hazards was recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Svinurai, Walter
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Manures , Nitrogen -- Metabolism , Aloe -- South Africa , Pine bark , Pastures , Dairy cattle -- Nutrition , Dairy cattle -- Management , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11812 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/475 , Manures , Nitrogen -- Metabolism , Aloe -- South Africa , Pine bark , Pastures , Dairy cattle -- Nutrition , Dairy cattle -- Management , Dairy cattle -- Feeding and feeds
- Description: Manure production and nutrient management in pasture-based dairy production systems by Walter Svinurai The effect of dietary treatments on nutrient excretion was determined and an attempt to improving the retention of excreted nitrogen in stored manure using Aloe ferox leaf gel (AFLG) and pine bark was conducted at a pasture-based dairy farm. The animal mass-balance method was used to determine nutrient excretion by cows fed on three dietary treatments, Lolium perrene-based treatment (LP), Lolium multiforium-based treatment (LM) and Lolium perenne- Trifolium repens -based treatment (LTF). In separate experiments, slurry from dairy cows fed LM was amended with AFLG and pine bark at concentrations of 25, 50, 75 and 100 g/l and stored under anaerobic conditions for 16 days. The highest and lowest excretions of N, P and K were observed in LM and LP treatments, respectively. Increasing dietary N improved K and N retention in milk and, consequently increased milk urea nitrogen (MUN) and N excretion (P < 0.05). The concentrations of AFLG affected N and P retention in manure (P < 0.05). The highest retention in total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) of the initial was 42% AFLG at 25g/l inclusion rate. Ammonium nitrogen (AMN) concentration increased significantly due to the interactive effect of AFLG inclusion rate and time. Pine bark powder significantly improved N and P retention in manure at all concentrations. The retention in TKN was higher (P < 0.05) at 25g/l pine bark powder than other concentrations. The interaction effect of inclusion rate and time increased iii AMN (P < 0.05). Dietary treatments significantly affected nutrient excretion, and AFLG and pine bark considerably improved N retention in stored slurry. Findings from the filed trial suggest the need for more attention on managing dietary nutrients in the post-rainy and cool-dry season when growth of pasture influenced choice of dietary treatments that led to high nutrient excretion. Field simulation of the additives to determine their efficacy and environmental hazards was recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Sheep production practices, flock dynamics, body condition and weight variation in two ecologically different resource-poor communal farming systems
- Authors: Mapiliyao, Luke
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sheep -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep ranchers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/340 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001041 , Sheep -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep ranchers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to determine sheep production practices, constraints, flock dynamics, body condition and weight variation in two ecologically different resource-poor communal farming systems of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Mean sheep flock sizes per household were not significantly different between the two ecologically different areas (villages); Gaga (19.0±3.10) and Sompondo (18.3±3.10). Shortage of feed, disease and parasite were reported the most important constraints across the two villages. In both villages, sheep housing was poorly constructed using acacia brushwoods. Fewer farmers owned rams: the rams to ewes ratio for the two villages were 1:20, 1:19 for Gaga and Sompondo, respectively. The low ram: ewe ratios reported suggest that inbreeding might have been reducing productivity of their flocks. There was also uncontrolled breeding due to undefined and mating seasons. Gall sickness, heart water and footrot caused most of the sheep mortalities. Dohne Merinos were the common genotypes in the two villages. Total entrances for each flock were higher (p < 0.05) in hot-dry season and hot-wet season than in other seasons. Most of the entrances were lambs and were born in hot-dry season (September) and cool-dry season (June) for larger flocks (10.90 ± 3.02) and for small flocks (3.65 ± 3.02). High lamb mortalities were experienced in the post-rainy (April) and hot-wet (December) season. There was a significant interaction between season and flock size. Most of the sales occurred in the hot-wet season. Ecological area had significant effect on sheep production potential (p < 0.05) in both flock classes. The average sheep production efficiency (SPE) value for Gaga and Sompondo were 0.50 ± 0.116 and 0.50 ± 0.096 respectively. The SPE for large flock was higher (p < 0.05) by season and flock size. Large flocks had a higher (p < 0.05) SPE values and the SPE ranged from 1.11 ± 0.193 in April, a post-rainy season month to 1.55 ± 0.193 in December, a hot-wet season month. Lamb mortalities constituted the greater part of outflows. High lamb mortalities occurred in hot-wet (December), hot-dry (September) and post-rainy (April) seasons. There was a significant interaction between season and age of sheep on body weight of sheep. Highest (p < 0.05) body weights were recorded in the post-rainy and autumn season in both lambs and ewes. It is therefore very important to come up with affordable interventions which take into play ecological differences of the areas for improved nutritional status of sheep in communal areas which will lead to improved sheep productivity and the poor-resourced farmer human nutritional and livelihood.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Mapiliyao, Luke
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sheep -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep ranchers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/340 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001041 , Sheep -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep breeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep ranchers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Feeding and feeds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Forage , Grazing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sheep -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of this study was to determine sheep production practices, constraints, flock dynamics, body condition and weight variation in two ecologically different resource-poor communal farming systems of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Mean sheep flock sizes per household were not significantly different between the two ecologically different areas (villages); Gaga (19.0±3.10) and Sompondo (18.3±3.10). Shortage of feed, disease and parasite were reported the most important constraints across the two villages. In both villages, sheep housing was poorly constructed using acacia brushwoods. Fewer farmers owned rams: the rams to ewes ratio for the two villages were 1:20, 1:19 for Gaga and Sompondo, respectively. The low ram: ewe ratios reported suggest that inbreeding might have been reducing productivity of their flocks. There was also uncontrolled breeding due to undefined and mating seasons. Gall sickness, heart water and footrot caused most of the sheep mortalities. Dohne Merinos were the common genotypes in the two villages. Total entrances for each flock were higher (p < 0.05) in hot-dry season and hot-wet season than in other seasons. Most of the entrances were lambs and were born in hot-dry season (September) and cool-dry season (June) for larger flocks (10.90 ± 3.02) and for small flocks (3.65 ± 3.02). High lamb mortalities were experienced in the post-rainy (April) and hot-wet (December) season. There was a significant interaction between season and flock size. Most of the sales occurred in the hot-wet season. Ecological area had significant effect on sheep production potential (p < 0.05) in both flock classes. The average sheep production efficiency (SPE) value for Gaga and Sompondo were 0.50 ± 0.116 and 0.50 ± 0.096 respectively. The SPE for large flock was higher (p < 0.05) by season and flock size. Large flocks had a higher (p < 0.05) SPE values and the SPE ranged from 1.11 ± 0.193 in April, a post-rainy season month to 1.55 ± 0.193 in December, a hot-wet season month. Lamb mortalities constituted the greater part of outflows. High lamb mortalities occurred in hot-wet (December), hot-dry (September) and post-rainy (April) seasons. There was a significant interaction between season and age of sheep on body weight of sheep. Highest (p < 0.05) body weights were recorded in the post-rainy and autumn season in both lambs and ewes. It is therefore very important to come up with affordable interventions which take into play ecological differences of the areas for improved nutritional status of sheep in communal areas which will lead to improved sheep productivity and the poor-resourced farmer human nutritional and livelihood.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Time budgets, avoidance distance scores-related behaviour and milk yield of pasture-based Jersey, Friesland and cross bred cows
- Authors: Dodzi, Madodana Sunson
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Dairy products -- Analysis , Jersey cattle , Milk yield , Dairy cattle -- Feed utilization efficiency , Dairy farming
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11817 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/474 , Dairy products -- Analysis , Jersey cattle , Milk yield , Dairy cattle -- Feed utilization efficiency , Dairy farming
- Description: Time budgets, avoidance distance scores-related behaviour and milk yield of pasture-based Jersey, Friesland and crossbred cows. by Madodana Sunson Dodzi The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to determine the time budgets, the avoidance-related behaviour variables and their relationship with milk yield in three pasturebased dairy genotypes: Jersey, Friesland and crossbreed. Twenty one clinically health dairy cows aged between 52 and 55 months, in mid lactation and comprising of seven cows from each genotype were used in the study. The time spent on different activities (grazing, lying down, standing and others) at pasture was recorded using stop watches across four seasons. The behavioural responses of the three genotypes to humans were determined by recording their avoidance distance scores (AD), exit speed (ES), pen scores (PS), pen behaviour scores (PBS), plat form scores (PLS) and the occurrence of kicking (KCK) and stepping (SPG) during milking on four consecutive days in four seasons. Time spent standing was higher (P < 0.05) for Friesland compared to Jersey and crossbred during the hot-wet season. In the cool-dry season the Jersey spent more time (P < 0.05) grazing than the other breeds. The Friesland and crossbred on the other hand devoted most of their time lying down compared to Jersey in the cool- dry season (P < 0.05). There were season differences in time spent on all activities (P < 0.05). Time spent on grazing was longest in post-rainy seasonal and lowest in hot- wet season (P < 0.05). The longest lying down period was observed in the hot-dry season and lowest in hot-wet season (P < 0.05). iii Daily milk yield Varied (P < 0.05) with genotype with the Friesland and Jersey producing higher yield than the crossbred. The highest amount was produced in hot-dry and the least in hot-wet season. Milk yield was positively correlated (P < 0.05) with lying down. Standing was negatively correlated with milk yield (P < 0.05). The Friesland had the highest avoidance distance scores (P < 0.05) and the Jersey had the lowest avoidance distance scores in all seasons. There was an association (P < 0.05) between genotype and exit speed scores, pen scores and stepping behaviour scores. The Friesland exhibited the highest exit speed scores than the other breeds. The Jersey had the lowest (P < 0.05) kicking behaviour scores. There was a relationship (r = 0.64) between avoidance distance scores and exit speed. Exit speed scores were correlated with pen score(r= 0.23). Milk yield was significant related (r= 0.17) to the occurrence of kicking behaviour. The genotypes showed different levels of sensitivity to season and milk yield was influenced by breed and season. It can be concluded that time budgets vary with season and farmers need to adopt measures that buffer the effect of season on welfare of dairy cows. It can also be concluded that avoidance distance scores differs according to genotype with Jersey being more confident to humans than other two breeds. It is therefore recommended that provision of shades or cooling mechanism should be adopted to buffer the effects of hot-wet season. Improving quality of feed during the cool-dry season may be critical for Jersey cows. Finally positive handling of the dairy cows is recommended in order to improve the welfare and milk yield of pasture based dairy cows.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Dodzi, Madodana Sunson
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Dairy products -- Analysis , Jersey cattle , Milk yield , Dairy cattle -- Feed utilization efficiency , Dairy farming
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11817 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/474 , Dairy products -- Analysis , Jersey cattle , Milk yield , Dairy cattle -- Feed utilization efficiency , Dairy farming
- Description: Time budgets, avoidance distance scores-related behaviour and milk yield of pasture-based Jersey, Friesland and crossbred cows. by Madodana Sunson Dodzi The study was conducted at the University of Fort Hare farm to determine the time budgets, the avoidance-related behaviour variables and their relationship with milk yield in three pasturebased dairy genotypes: Jersey, Friesland and crossbreed. Twenty one clinically health dairy cows aged between 52 and 55 months, in mid lactation and comprising of seven cows from each genotype were used in the study. The time spent on different activities (grazing, lying down, standing and others) at pasture was recorded using stop watches across four seasons. The behavioural responses of the three genotypes to humans were determined by recording their avoidance distance scores (AD), exit speed (ES), pen scores (PS), pen behaviour scores (PBS), plat form scores (PLS) and the occurrence of kicking (KCK) and stepping (SPG) during milking on four consecutive days in four seasons. Time spent standing was higher (P < 0.05) for Friesland compared to Jersey and crossbred during the hot-wet season. In the cool-dry season the Jersey spent more time (P < 0.05) grazing than the other breeds. The Friesland and crossbred on the other hand devoted most of their time lying down compared to Jersey in the cool- dry season (P < 0.05). There were season differences in time spent on all activities (P < 0.05). Time spent on grazing was longest in post-rainy seasonal and lowest in hot- wet season (P < 0.05). The longest lying down period was observed in the hot-dry season and lowest in hot-wet season (P < 0.05). iii Daily milk yield Varied (P < 0.05) with genotype with the Friesland and Jersey producing higher yield than the crossbred. The highest amount was produced in hot-dry and the least in hot-wet season. Milk yield was positively correlated (P < 0.05) with lying down. Standing was negatively correlated with milk yield (P < 0.05). The Friesland had the highest avoidance distance scores (P < 0.05) and the Jersey had the lowest avoidance distance scores in all seasons. There was an association (P < 0.05) between genotype and exit speed scores, pen scores and stepping behaviour scores. The Friesland exhibited the highest exit speed scores than the other breeds. The Jersey had the lowest (P < 0.05) kicking behaviour scores. There was a relationship (r = 0.64) between avoidance distance scores and exit speed. Exit speed scores were correlated with pen score(r= 0.23). Milk yield was significant related (r= 0.17) to the occurrence of kicking behaviour. The genotypes showed different levels of sensitivity to season and milk yield was influenced by breed and season. It can be concluded that time budgets vary with season and farmers need to adopt measures that buffer the effect of season on welfare of dairy cows. It can also be concluded that avoidance distance scores differs according to genotype with Jersey being more confident to humans than other two breeds. It is therefore recommended that provision of shades or cooling mechanism should be adopted to buffer the effects of hot-wet season. Improving quality of feed during the cool-dry season may be critical for Jersey cows. Finally positive handling of the dairy cows is recommended in order to improve the welfare and milk yield of pasture based dairy cows.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010