Department of Animal Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Pharmaceutical Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
It has been generally accepted that for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits there is a need to use appropriate body weight rabbit that has better performance. To provide such information, this study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of weight at first mating on the performance of the New Zealand White rabbit population at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. The rabbits were grouped into four based on their weight before the first service (1.00 to 1.49kg, 1.50 to 1.99kg, 2.00 to 2.49kg, and 2.5kg and above) as weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The rabbits were raised under acceptable management. The experimental animals were fed a commercial diet of 18% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME. Data collected were weight of doe before service (WBS), number of time served (NTS), litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at birth (LWB), litter weight at weaning (LWW), pre-weaning mortality percentage (PWM), gestation length (GLT), and stillbirth (SBT). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the R statistical package version 3.3.3 (2017). Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results obtained showed an increasing trend with body weight at first service. The mean values for LWB were 40.08±1.04, 43.83±2.16, 49.26±2.93 and 45.57±3.74 g for weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Rabbits in weight 2 and 3 had a higher CV of 30%. Mean LWW ranged from 366.20±26.92 in group 1 to 442.90±29.74 in weight group 4. The average LSB was 4 kits. Litter sizes at weaning (LSW) were 3 kits except for group 4 with 4 kits. The body weight at first mating had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the performance traits. Gestation length (GLT) and pre-weaning mortality (PWM) showed significance (P<0.05). Gestation length (GLT) was highest in weight group 4 with mean days of 32.14±0.40 and the least in group 3 (30.53±0.09). Percentage SBT was highest in group 3 (10.48%) and none was recorded in group 4, 0.00±0.00. Percentage PWM was highest in groups 1 and 2 with 23.25% and 1.50%, respectively, while there was no PWM recorded in groups 3 and 4. The results of the efficiency of gain of offspring from the weight group were not significantly different (P>0.05) except for mortality which showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Rabbits from weight groups 1 and 3 showed better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at weight group 3.
This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Weight, First Mating, Performance, New Zealand White Rabbit, Rain Forest Zone
1. Introduction
The continuous focus and support of government, research institutes, and livestock breeders only on poultry, ruminants, and swine as major sources of protein has led to the general neglect of exploiting the breeding potentials of rabbits (a mini livestock that can bridge the protein deficiency gap between the amount recommended by FAO (36g/d) and that consumed by an average Nigerian (17.79 g/d)
[21]
WHO/FAO (2007). Protein and amino acid requirements in human nutrition. Report of a Joint WHO/FAO/UNU Expert Consultation. In: WHO technical report series; No. 935. Pp 16- 25.
[21]
. Rabbit production under low-income or backyard systems is a better, cheaper, and more sustainable source of animal protein than most conventional animal protein sources. This is due to its high adaptability and flexibility to household production. Rabbit as an enterprise can contribute to food security for the peasant household
[5]
Bello-Onaghise, G. (2012). Evaluating the reproductive and performance indices of the composite rabbit population. M. sc. thesis. Pg 3.
[5]
.
Previous studies done on the performance characteristics of rabbits monitored body weight and reproductive performance of rabbits does (litter size at birth and weaning) and performance characteristics.
[18]
Orheruata A. M., Bello-Onaghise, G., Omoyakhi, J. M. (2012). Growth performance of rabbits under dietary manipulation at different post-weaning ages for heavier body weights. World Rabbit Science Association Proceedings 10th World Rabbits Congress-September 3- 6, 2012- Sharm El-Sheikh- Egypt, 603-606.
[18]
. The live body weight and linear body measurements contribute significantly to the animal's lifetime performance
[6]
Chineke, C. A. (2005). The relationship among body weights and linear dimensions in rabbit breeds and crosses. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances 4(9): 775-784.
[6]
.
There is therefore the need for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits using rabbits with appropriate body weight to enhance better performance. However, other studies have centered their research interest on the effect of body weight at mating on reproductive performance. Therefore, the objective of the research was to determine the effect of weight at first mating of New Zealand White doe on the performance of the offspring; determine the variation in performance of offspring from does with different weights at first mating, efficiency of gain of offspring, feed consumed per kg weight gain.
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Experimental Site and Animals
The experiment was conducted at the rabbit unit of the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm, Benin City, Nigeria. The farm is located between latitudes 6° and 6.30° N of the equator and longitudes 5.40° and 6° E in the humid rainforest zone of Nigeria. It has an annual temperature range between 24.5°C and 32.7°C with a mean value of 27.6°C. Average annual rainfall of 2162mm and relative humidity and daily sunshine is between 63.3 and 81.71% and 5.85 and 7.5 hours with a mean value of 72.5% and 6.68 hours respectively
[13]
Nigeria Airport Authority (2010). Metrological Report of Nigeria Airport, Benin, Edo State Nigeria.
[13]
. A population of 31 does and 6 bucks were used for the experiment using a mating ratio of one buck to five does 1:5 to produce the experimental animals. Only those that were to be mated the first time were used to produce a total of Ninety-three (93) offspring.
Each animal was kept in an individual hutch measuring 60 cm ×60 cm ×60 cm. The weaning period adopted was 28 days. The animals were fed with growers’ mash in the morning between the hours of 7:00 and 8:00 GMT and forage in the evening between the hours of 17:00 and 18:00 GMT. The proximate composition of the diet as indicated by the manufacturer (Livestock Feeds-Nigeria) is 18% CP, 0.9% EE, 15.31% CF, 6.8% Ash, 99% DM, 65.1 NFE with ME 2700kcal/kg. The rabbits were given antibiotics once a month, and coccidiostat was given once in two months throughout the study to prevent coccidiosis and any other bacterial disease. The housing condition, management, and handling of the animals were approved by the livestock welfare unit of the Department of Animal Science, University of Benin (any approval number?). The study lasted for 8 months in 2017. The daily routine management practices for rabbit rearing were used (reference). The rabbits were identified with indelible ink weekly.
2.2. Breeding Procedure
Does of known weight were bred by taking them to assigned bucks and after every successful mating the does were returned to their hutch, and they were palpated for pregnancy detection after 14 days. When pregnancy was detected, kindling boxes were placed in the breeding hutches of the pregnant does on the 27th day after mating. Daily monitoring of the animals was done regularly. At parturition, dead kits were removed from the hutch and buried. At weaning, the does were taken away from their litters to a separate hutch. After 3 days of being together, the weaners were identified and separated into two per hutch according to body weight where their growth was monitored.
2.3. Data Collection
Data collected on the performance and reproductive traits of the does and growth performance of kits include; Weight of doe before service (WBS): This was carried out using a weighing scale of 10kg capacity, Date of service (DSV) was recorded as the day the doe was mated, Number of time served (NTS) was recorded as number of mating before a success was achieved, Kindling Date (KDT) was recorded as the day the doe kindled, Litter size at Birth (LSB) was carried out by direct counting of the kits immediately after kindling including the number of still births, Litter weight at Birth (LWB) was carried out by weighing each litter in an electronic weighing scale immediately after kindling, Litter size at weaning (LSW) was carried out by counting the number of kits in each litter at 4 weeks, Litter weight at weaning (LWW) was carried out by weighing each litter in a weighing scale of 5kg capacity at four weeks of age, Pre-weaning percentage mortality was calculated from the number of kits mortality as; , Weekly body weight from weaning to adult was monitored using weighing scale of 5kg capacity, Gestation length (GLT) was read as the difference between date of last mating and kindling date, Daily feed intake was determined by subtracting feed consumed from feed given, Total weight gain was calculated by subtracting initial weight from final weight, Feed conversion efficiency (FE) determined by weight gain divided by feed intake as FE , Average daily gain (ADG) was calculated as final weight minus initial weight divided by age (days). Expressed as , Feed per kg gain is calculated as average daily feed intake (ADFI) divided by average daily weight gain (ADG). This was expressed as F/kg .
2.4. Experimental Design
The experiment was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with a statistical model depicted as;
Yij= µ + ti + eij
Where;
Yij = the observed value
µ = general mean of the population
ti = fixed effect of the weight at first service (i =1, 2, 3, 4)
Wij = random error term associated with the weight observed in the ith animal assumed to be NID (𝑋̅, 𝛿2 = 0)
2.5. Statistical Analysis
Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance using the R Statistical package, version 3.3.3 (2017). Mean performances were determined and significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test of the same package.
3. Results
The mean values for the variables studied are presented in Table 1. The rabbits showed significant performance in all the variables considered except in LSB. Group 4 rabbits had the highest values in all the variables except in LSB, LWB, and NTS. Group 1 had the highest pre-weaning mortality of 23.25% followed by Group 2 which had 1.50%. Group 4 had the longest gestation length which recorded zero mortality.
Table 1. Effect of Weight on Productive and Reproductive Traits.
Parameters
Weight Groups
1
2
3
4
SEM
LSB(no.)
4.30±0.30
4.00±0.15
4.10±0.20
4.14±0.55
0.12
LWB(g)
40.08±1.04c
43.83±2.16b
49.26±2.93a
45.57±3.74ab
1.48
LSW(no.)
3.20±0.29c
3.28±0.16c
3.67±0.20b
4.14±0.55b
0.12
LWW(g)
366.2±26.92b
373.1±14.02b
366.00±16.49b
422.9±29.74a
9.64
SB (%)
2.32±0.10c
8.50±0.11b
10.48±0.18a
0.00±0.00a
0.08
GL(days)
31.20±0.20b
30.92±0.04b
30.53±0.09a
32.14±0.40c
0.06
PWM (%)
23.25±0.33b
1.50±0.03a
0.00±0.00a
0.00±0.00a
0.05
NTS(no.)
1.40±0.16a
1.32±0.07a
1.13±0.06b
1.29±0.18ab
0.05
Values are Least means (± sem)
abc Means with different superscripts within the same parametric row differ significantly. (p<0.05)
Weight Groups: 1=1 to 1.49kg, 2=1.5 to 1.99kg, 3=2 to 2.49kg, 4= 2.5kg and above
LSB= litter size at birth, LWB= litter weight at birth, LSW= litter size at weaning, LWW= litter weight at weaning, GL= gestation length, STBT= stillbirth, PWM= pre-weaning mortality, NTSV= number of time served
Data on the means of the growth performance of New Zealand White rabbits of different weight groups at first service are presented in Table 2. The initial weight was significantly (P<0.05) highest in weight group 4 and least in group 3 The final weight was highest in weight group 4 with a mean value of 1.657 Kg and least in groups 1 and 2 (1.631 Kg) each. The total weight gain was highest in weight group 1 and the least in group 4. The highest daily weight gain was observed in group 1, with a mean weight of 9.04 and the least was in group 4 (8.67). Although, they were not significantly (P>0.05) different. The total feed intake was highest in weight group 4 with the mean value of 1.486 kg and the least in group 3 (1.418 kg). The daily feed intake was highest in weight group 4 and least in group 3. The feed per kg weight ranged from 1.15 g in group 3 to 1.23 g in weight group 4. The feed conversion efficiency (FE) ranged from 0.82 in group 4 to 0.89 in groups 1 and 3.
Table 2. Efficiency of Gain of offspring of New Zealand White rabbits of different body weight groups.
Parameters
Weight groups
1
2
3
4
SEM
Initial weight(g)
366.2b
373.1 b
366.0 b
442.9 a
9.64
Final weight(kg)
1.631
1.631
1.619
1.657
24.71
Total weight gain(kg)
1.265
1.258
1.253
1.214
23.40
Daily weight gain(g)
9.04 a
8.98 b
8.95 b
8.67 c
0.17
Feed intake(g)
1433
1463
1418
1486
18.55
Daily f. intake(g)
10.23
10.45
10.13
10.62
0.13
Feed/kg weight(g)
1.16 b
1.19 b
1.15 b
1.23 a
0.02
FE
0.89 a
0.86 b
0.89 a
0.82 c
0.01
Mortality (%)
23.25a
1.50 b
0.00 c
0.00 c
0.05
abc Means with different superscripts within the same parametric row differ significantly. (p<0.05) Weight Groups: 1=1 to 1.49kg, 2=1.5 to 1.99kg, 3=2 to 2.49kg, 4= 2.5kg and above SEM= standard error of mean, FE= feed conversion efficiency
4. Discussion
Live weight plays an important role in determining several characteristics of animals. The results obtained for rabbits from does in group 4 had the best weaning weight. This aligned with the findings of
[9]
Isaac, L. J. Eko, P. M. Eko, J. S. Ekanem, E. and Essien, G. B. (2010). Effect of Breedon Performance of rabbits in feed. Proceedings of the 35th annual conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production. March 14-17, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Pp18-19.
[9]
. Bello-Onaghise and Orheruata also reported a similar value of 0.47±0.09 kg for litter weight at the weaning of composite rabbits
[4]
Bello-Onaghise, G. and Orheruata, A. M. (2014). Evaluating the Reproductive and Performance Indexes of Composite Rabbits Raised in the Rain Forest Zone of Southern Nigeria, 38th Annual Congress of the Genetic Society of Nigeria, October, 2014-Benin.
[4]
. Litter weight at birth (LWB) was highest in group 3 with a mean of 49.26g while the lowest value was recorded in group 1 (40.08). This also agrees with the findings of
[7]
Fayeye, T. R. and Ayorinde, K. L. (2010). Effects of Season, Generation, number of mating, parity and doe number of the teat on doe and litter birth characteristics in domestic rabbit. Research Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences 5: 6-9.
[7]
. An average litter weight at birth of between 38.95 and 43.56 g was also reported by
[17]
Olowofeso, O., Adejuwon, A. J., Ademokoya, V. A. and Durosaro, S. O. (2012). Breeding and Productive Performance of Three Breeds of Rabbit in South-West Nigeria. Global Journal of Science Frontier Research Bio-Tech & Genetics Volume 12 Issue 5 version 10.
[17]
. These values were in line with the results of this study. It implies that the populations of rabbits in Nigeria are more of the New Zealand bloodline. The slight variation in the values could be attributed to differences in body weight at first service.
The gestation length (GL) values obtained in this study were in line with what has been reported in the literature. Values between 29 to 33 days were reported by
[15]
Odubute, I. K., Akinokun J. O and Ademosun, A. A. (1992). Production characteristics of West African Dwarf Goats under improved management system in the Humid Tropics of Nigeria. Proceedings of International Workshop, (IW’92), Ile-Ife, Nigeria, pp: 202-207.
[15]
. 28.10 to 30.40 days and 29.92 days were reported for some breeds of rabbits in Southern and Northern Nigeria
[14]
Odeyinka, S. M., Oyedele, O. J., Adeleke, T. O. and Odedire, J. A. (2008). Reproductive performance of rabbits fed Moringa oleifera as a replacement for centrosema pubescens. 9th World Rabbit Congress Verona- Italy, June 10-13, pp 411-416.
[14]
. In this study, 30.53 to 32.14±0.40 days were obtained. Slight variation in values could be ascribed to breed differences, location, feeding regime, and other management strategies involved. The results however suggested that GL was species-specific since reported values were within the same range.
The highest pre-weaning mortality of 23.25% was recorded in group 1, with other groups having zero percent except group 2 which had 1.50% suggesting that heavier rabbits at first mating had better mothering ability with no or little stillbirths as against lighter rabbits. Stillbirths ranged from 2.32% in group 1 to 10.48% in group 3, while stillbirth was however not observed in group 4. The values reported were in agreement with values reported by
[10]
Lebas, F., (1988). The first attempt to study chick-peas utilization in growing rabbit feeding. 4th World Rabbit Congress, Budapest, 2: 244-248.
[10]
who recorded an estimated lower limit of 5 to 7% of young as stillborn and another 16-20% before weaning. However,
[3]
Antonella, D. Z and Gisella, P (2012). Influence Of Rabbit Sire Genetic Origin, Season Of Birth And Parity Order On Doe And Litter Performance In An Organic Production System Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences (AJAS) 2013; 26(1): 43-49.
reported lower values of stillborn ranging from 0.01 to 0.24%. Pre-weaning mortality can be attributed to the unstable nature of the climatic condition, poor mothering ability, and death of the dam. A similar observation was made by
[19]
Rashwan, A. A. and Marai, I. F. M. (2000). Mortality in young Rabbits. A Review. World Rabbit Sci., 8: 111-124.
[19]
. The number of time served ranged from 1.13±0.06 in group 3 to 1.40±0.16 in group 1. This agreed with
[8]
Fortun-Lamothe L., Rochambeau H. DE, Lebas F., Tudela F. (2000). Influence of the number of suckling young on reproductive performance in intensively reared rabbits does. 7th world rabbit congress, valencia spain, Volume a, 125-132.
[8]
who also reported similar values of 1.26 to 1.36 services per conception.
The results of the performance of New Zealand White rabbits concerning initial weight, daily weight gain, feed per kg weight, feed conversion efficiency, and percentage mortality showed significant influences. The values reported for daily weight gain agreed with the values of 8.40 to 13.38 g reported by
[11]
Makinde, O. J (2016), Growth performance, carcass yield and blood profiles of growing rabbits fed concentrate diets supplemented with white lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala) or Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) leaves in north-central. Nigeria. Trakia Journal of Sciences, No 1, pp 80-86, 2016.
[11]
, but the lower limit was higher than 3.65 to 9.57 g reported by
[16]
Olabanjo, R. R., Farinu, G. O., Akinlade, J. A. and Ojebiyi, O. O. (2007). Growth performance and haematological characteristics of weaner rabbits fed different levels of wildflower (Tithonia diversifolia Heml A. Gray) Leaf-blood meal mixture. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual conference of Animal Production. 18-21, March 2007, Calabar, Nigeria.
[16]
and 4.72 to 6.94 g by
[20]
Umoren, U. E. and Ojo T. J. (2007), Comparative evaluation of maize, cassava, cocoyam, and Icasinia Manni as an energy source for growing rabbits. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of Animal Production. 18-21, March 2007, Calabar, Nigeria.
[20]
. The total weight gain was however higher than the values of 437.08 to 749.22 g reported by Makinde (2016). However, the final weight recorded agreed with the findings of
[11]
Makinde, O. J (2016), Growth performance, carcass yield and blood profiles of growing rabbits fed concentrate diets supplemented with white lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala) or Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) leaves in north-central. Nigeria. Trakia Journal of Sciences, No 1, pp 80-86, 2016.
[11]
who reported 1.35851 Kg to 1.66522 Kg but were higher than the value of 1.333 Kg to 1.600 Kg reported by
[1]
Akaeze, N., Nwokoro, S. O. and Imasuen, J. A. (2014), Performance of growing rabbit offered rubber leaf protein replacement for soya bean meal. Nigeria Journal of Agriculture, Food and Environment. 10(4): 55-59.
[1]
. Similarly, the average daily feed intake obtained in this study was relatively lower than 41.7±2.45 to 50.5±2.26 g reported by
[12]
Momoh, O. M, Unung, H. U and Attah, S. (2015), Growth performance of two crossbred rabbit genotypes fed two levels of dietary protein. East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal. 81: 1, 51-57.
[12]
and 24.21 to 45.15 g reported by
[20]
Umoren, U. E. and Ojo T. J. (2007), Comparative evaluation of maize, cassava, cocoyam, and Icasinia Manni as an energy source for growing rabbits. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of Animal Production. 18-21, March 2007, Calabar, Nigeria.
[20]
.
The feed efficiency is a key indicator to assess the performance of a farming system. The feed conversion efficiency (FE) recorded in this study was relatively lower than the 4.50 to 4.73 value of the feed conversion ratio reported by
[2]
Akinmutimi, A. H., Abasiekong, S. F. and Osuagwu, C. C. (2007). Growth performance of weaner rabbits fed sweet potato peels in place of maize-based diet. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Nigeria Society for Animal Production. University of Calabar, Calabar, 18–21 March 2007, pp. 347–349.
[2]
and 3.7 and 4.5 reported by
[12]
Momoh, O. M, Unung, H. U and Attah, S. (2015), Growth performance of two crossbred rabbit genotypes fed two levels of dietary protein. East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal. 81: 1, 51-57.
[12]
. Differences in the feed conversion could reflect differences in the efficiency of feed utilization by different breeds/genotypes, and period of experiments. In this study, rabbits in groups 1 and 3 had a better FE. This implied that rabbits in these weight groups have a better efficiency in converting feeds. Suggesting that offspring from lighter does have better FE.
The values recorded for the mortality rate agreed with the findings of
[11]
Makinde, O. J (2016), Growth performance, carcass yield and blood profiles of growing rabbits fed concentrate diets supplemented with white lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala) or Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) leaves in north-central. Nigeria. Trakia Journal of Sciences, No 1, pp 80-86, 2016.
[11]
who reported a mortality of 0 to 1. The values of total feed intake were lower than the values of 2664.46 g to 3185.51 g reported by
[11]
Makinde, O. J (2016), Growth performance, carcass yield and blood profiles of growing rabbits fed concentrate diets supplemented with white lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala) or Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) leaves in north-central. Nigeria. Trakia Journal of Sciences, No 1, pp 80-86, 2016.
[11]
. The breeds, initial weights, diets, and duration of the experiment could be among the factors that were responsible for the differences in final live weight and total feed intake of the rabbits.
5. Conclusion
From the foregoing, it is therefore recommended that farmers take advantage of breeding primiparous does at a body weight of 1.00 - 1.49 kg (group 1) or 2.00 - 2.49 kg (group 3) since these body weight groups had better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at body weight of 2.00 - 2.49 kg (group 3).
Acknowledgments
The authors appreciate the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm for providing the facilities and the experimental animals used in conducting the experiment.
Authors’ Contribution
The experiment was conducted by O C. O; O A. M did the design and data analysis while BO. G monitored the health condition of the experimental animals throughout the experiment.
Conflicts of Interest
There is no conflict of research interest among the authors.
References
[1]
Akaeze, N., Nwokoro, S. O. and Imasuen, J. A. (2014), Performance of growing rabbit offered rubber leaf protein replacement for soya bean meal. Nigeria Journal of Agriculture, Food and Environment. 10(4): 55-59.
[2]
Akinmutimi, A. H., Abasiekong, S. F. and Osuagwu, C. C. (2007). Growth performance of weaner rabbits fed sweet potato peels in place of maize-based diet. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Nigeria Society for Animal Production. University of Calabar, Calabar, 18–21 March 2007, pp. 347–349.
[3]
Antonella, D. Z and Gisella, P (2012). Influence Of Rabbit Sire Genetic Origin, Season Of Birth And Parity Order On Doe And Litter Performance In An Organic Production System Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences (AJAS) 2013; 26(1): 43-49.
Bello-Onaghise, G. and Orheruata, A. M. (2014). Evaluating the Reproductive and Performance Indexes of Composite Rabbits Raised in the Rain Forest Zone of Southern Nigeria, 38th Annual Congress of the Genetic Society of Nigeria, October, 2014-Benin.
[5]
Bello-Onaghise, G. (2012). Evaluating the reproductive and performance indices of the composite rabbit population. M. sc. thesis. Pg 3.
[6]
Chineke, C. A. (2005). The relationship among body weights and linear dimensions in rabbit breeds and crosses. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances 4(9): 775-784.
[7]
Fayeye, T. R. and Ayorinde, K. L. (2010). Effects of Season, Generation, number of mating, parity and doe number of the teat on doe and litter birth characteristics in domestic rabbit. Research Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences 5: 6-9.
[8]
Fortun-Lamothe L., Rochambeau H. DE, Lebas F., Tudela F. (2000). Influence of the number of suckling young on reproductive performance in intensively reared rabbits does. 7th world rabbit congress, valencia spain, Volume a, 125-132.
[9]
Isaac, L. J. Eko, P. M. Eko, J. S. Ekanem, E. and Essien, G. B. (2010). Effect of Breedon Performance of rabbits in feed. Proceedings of the 35th annual conference of the Nigerian Society for Animal Production. March 14-17, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Pp18-19.
[10]
Lebas, F., (1988). The first attempt to study chick-peas utilization in growing rabbit feeding. 4th World Rabbit Congress, Budapest, 2: 244-248.
[11]
Makinde, O. J (2016), Growth performance, carcass yield and blood profiles of growing rabbits fed concentrate diets supplemented with white lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala) or Siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) leaves in north-central. Nigeria. Trakia Journal of Sciences, No 1, pp 80-86, 2016.
[12]
Momoh, O. M, Unung, H. U and Attah, S. (2015), Growth performance of two crossbred rabbit genotypes fed two levels of dietary protein. East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal. 81: 1, 51-57.
[13]
Nigeria Airport Authority (2010). Metrological Report of Nigeria Airport, Benin, Edo State Nigeria.
[14]
Odeyinka, S. M., Oyedele, O. J., Adeleke, T. O. and Odedire, J. A. (2008). Reproductive performance of rabbits fed Moringa oleifera as a replacement for centrosema pubescens. 9th World Rabbit Congress Verona- Italy, June 10-13, pp 411-416.
[15]
Odubute, I. K., Akinokun J. O and Ademosun, A. A. (1992). Production characteristics of West African Dwarf Goats under improved management system in the Humid Tropics of Nigeria. Proceedings of International Workshop, (IW’92), Ile-Ife, Nigeria, pp: 202-207.
[16]
Olabanjo, R. R., Farinu, G. O., Akinlade, J. A. and Ojebiyi, O. O. (2007). Growth performance and haematological characteristics of weaner rabbits fed different levels of wildflower (Tithonia diversifolia Heml A. Gray) Leaf-blood meal mixture. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual conference of Animal Production. 18-21, March 2007, Calabar, Nigeria.
[17]
Olowofeso, O., Adejuwon, A. J., Ademokoya, V. A. and Durosaro, S. O. (2012). Breeding and Productive Performance of Three Breeds of Rabbit in South-West Nigeria. Global Journal of Science Frontier Research Bio-Tech & Genetics Volume 12 Issue 5 version 10.
[18]
Orheruata A. M., Bello-Onaghise, G., Omoyakhi, J. M. (2012). Growth performance of rabbits under dietary manipulation at different post-weaning ages for heavier body weights. World Rabbit Science Association Proceedings 10th World Rabbits Congress-September 3- 6, 2012- Sharm El-Sheikh- Egypt, 603-606.
[19]
Rashwan, A. A. and Marai, I. F. M. (2000). Mortality in young Rabbits. A Review. World Rabbit Sci., 8: 111-124.
[20]
Umoren, U. E. and Ojo T. J. (2007), Comparative evaluation of maize, cassava, cocoyam, and Icasinia Manni as an energy source for growing rabbits. Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of Animal Production. 18-21, March 2007, Calabar, Nigeria.
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WHO/FAO (2007). Protein and amino acid requirements in human nutrition. Report of a Joint WHO/FAO/UNU Expert Consultation. In: WHO technical report series; No. 935. Pp 16- 25.
Obugo, C. O., Bello-Onaghise, G., Orheruata, A. M. (2024). Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 13(2), 46-51. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
Obugo, C. O.; Bello-Onaghise, G.; Orheruata, A. M. Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agric. For. Fish.2024, 13(2), 46-51. doi: 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
Obugo CO, Bello-Onaghise G, Orheruata AM. Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agric For Fish. 2024;13(2):46-51. doi: 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
@article{10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14,
author = {Collins Odion Obugo and Godspower Bello-Onaghise and Arierhire Michael Orheruata},
title = {Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
},
journal = {Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {46-51},
doi = {10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.aff.20241302.14},
abstract = {It has been generally accepted that for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits there is a need to use appropriate body weight rabbit that has better performance. To provide such information, this study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of weight at first mating on the performance of the New Zealand White rabbit population at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. The rabbits were grouped into four based on their weight before the first service (1.00 to 1.49kg, 1.50 to 1.99kg, 2.00 to 2.49kg, and 2.5kg and above) as weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The rabbits were raised under acceptable management. The experimental animals were fed a commercial diet of 18% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME. Data collected were weight of doe before service (WBS), number of time served (NTS), litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at birth (LWB), litter weight at weaning (LWW), pre-weaning mortality percentage (PWM), gestation length (GLT), and stillbirth (SBT). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the R statistical package version 3.3.3 (2017). Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results obtained showed an increasing trend with body weight at first service. The mean values for LWB were 40.08±1.04, 43.83±2.16, 49.26±2.93 and 45.57±3.74 g for weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Rabbits in weight 2 and 3 had a higher CV of 30%. Mean LWW ranged from 366.20±26.92 in group 1 to 442.90±29.74 in weight group 4. The average LSB was 4 kits. Litter sizes at weaning (LSW) were 3 kits except for group 4 with 4 kits. The body weight at first mating had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the performance traits. Gestation length (GLT) and pre-weaning mortality (PWM) showed significance (P0.05) except for mortality which showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Rabbits from weight groups 1 and 3 showed better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at weight group 3.
},
year = {2024}
}
TY - JOUR
T1 - Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
AU - Collins Odion Obugo
AU - Godspower Bello-Onaghise
AU - Arierhire Michael Orheruata
Y1 - 2024/04/02
PY - 2024
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
DO - 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
T2 - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
JF - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
JO - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
SP - 46
EP - 51
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2328-5648
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
AB - It has been generally accepted that for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits there is a need to use appropriate body weight rabbit that has better performance. To provide such information, this study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of weight at first mating on the performance of the New Zealand White rabbit population at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. The rabbits were grouped into four based on their weight before the first service (1.00 to 1.49kg, 1.50 to 1.99kg, 2.00 to 2.49kg, and 2.5kg and above) as weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The rabbits were raised under acceptable management. The experimental animals were fed a commercial diet of 18% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME. Data collected were weight of doe before service (WBS), number of time served (NTS), litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at birth (LWB), litter weight at weaning (LWW), pre-weaning mortality percentage (PWM), gestation length (GLT), and stillbirth (SBT). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the R statistical package version 3.3.3 (2017). Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results obtained showed an increasing trend with body weight at first service. The mean values for LWB were 40.08±1.04, 43.83±2.16, 49.26±2.93 and 45.57±3.74 g for weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Rabbits in weight 2 and 3 had a higher CV of 30%. Mean LWW ranged from 366.20±26.92 in group 1 to 442.90±29.74 in weight group 4. The average LSB was 4 kits. Litter sizes at weaning (LSW) were 3 kits except for group 4 with 4 kits. The body weight at first mating had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the performance traits. Gestation length (GLT) and pre-weaning mortality (PWM) showed significance (P0.05) except for mortality which showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Rabbits from weight groups 1 and 3 showed better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at weight group 3.
VL - 13
IS - 2
ER -
Department of Animal Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
Godspower Bello-Onaghise
Department of Animal Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Pharmaceutical Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, P. R. China
Obugo, C. O., Bello-Onaghise, G., Orheruata, A. M. (2024). Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 13(2), 46-51. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
Obugo, C. O.; Bello-Onaghise, G.; Orheruata, A. M. Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agric. For. Fish.2024, 13(2), 46-51. doi: 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
Obugo CO, Bello-Onaghise G, Orheruata AM. Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
. Agric For Fish. 2024;13(2):46-51. doi: 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
@article{10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14,
author = {Collins Odion Obugo and Godspower Bello-Onaghise and Arierhire Michael Orheruata},
title = {Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
},
journal = {Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {46-51},
doi = {10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.aff.20241302.14},
abstract = {It has been generally accepted that for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits there is a need to use appropriate body weight rabbit that has better performance. To provide such information, this study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of weight at first mating on the performance of the New Zealand White rabbit population at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. The rabbits were grouped into four based on their weight before the first service (1.00 to 1.49kg, 1.50 to 1.99kg, 2.00 to 2.49kg, and 2.5kg and above) as weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The rabbits were raised under acceptable management. The experimental animals were fed a commercial diet of 18% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME. Data collected were weight of doe before service (WBS), number of time served (NTS), litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at birth (LWB), litter weight at weaning (LWW), pre-weaning mortality percentage (PWM), gestation length (GLT), and stillbirth (SBT). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the R statistical package version 3.3.3 (2017). Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results obtained showed an increasing trend with body weight at first service. The mean values for LWB were 40.08±1.04, 43.83±2.16, 49.26±2.93 and 45.57±3.74 g for weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Rabbits in weight 2 and 3 had a higher CV of 30%. Mean LWW ranged from 366.20±26.92 in group 1 to 442.90±29.74 in weight group 4. The average LSB was 4 kits. Litter sizes at weaning (LSW) were 3 kits except for group 4 with 4 kits. The body weight at first mating had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the performance traits. Gestation length (GLT) and pre-weaning mortality (PWM) showed significance (P0.05) except for mortality which showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Rabbits from weight groups 1 and 3 showed better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at weight group 3.
},
year = {2024}
}
TY - JOUR
T1 - Effect of Weight at First Mating on the Performance of New Zealand White Rabbit Population in the Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
AU - Collins Odion Obugo
AU - Godspower Bello-Onaghise
AU - Arierhire Michael Orheruata
Y1 - 2024/04/02
PY - 2024
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
DO - 10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
T2 - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
JF - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
JO - Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
SP - 46
EP - 51
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2328-5648
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20241302.14
AB - It has been generally accepted that for breeders to embark on intensive production of rabbits there is a need to use appropriate body weight rabbit that has better performance. To provide such information, this study was therefore carried out to determine the effect of weight at first mating on the performance of the New Zealand White rabbit population at the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm. The rabbits were grouped into four based on their weight before the first service (1.00 to 1.49kg, 1.50 to 1.99kg, 2.00 to 2.49kg, and 2.5kg and above) as weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively. The rabbits were raised under acceptable management. The experimental animals were fed a commercial diet of 18% CP and 2700kcal/kg ME. Data collected were weight of doe before service (WBS), number of time served (NTS), litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter weight at birth (LWB), litter weight at weaning (LWW), pre-weaning mortality percentage (PWM), gestation length (GLT), and stillbirth (SBT). The data were subjected to statistical analysis using the R statistical package version 3.3.3 (2017). Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results obtained showed an increasing trend with body weight at first service. The mean values for LWB were 40.08±1.04, 43.83±2.16, 49.26±2.93 and 45.57±3.74 g for weight groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Rabbits in weight 2 and 3 had a higher CV of 30%. Mean LWW ranged from 366.20±26.92 in group 1 to 442.90±29.74 in weight group 4. The average LSB was 4 kits. Litter sizes at weaning (LSW) were 3 kits except for group 4 with 4 kits. The body weight at first mating had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the performance traits. Gestation length (GLT) and pre-weaning mortality (PWM) showed significance (P0.05) except for mortality which showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Rabbits from weight groups 1 and 3 showed better performance but for the high mortality in group 1, it will be better to mate rabbits for the first time at weight group 3.
VL - 13
IS - 2
ER -
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