Animal, Acqucture and Range Science Collection

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Quality and quantity of maize and sorghum vegetative parts harvested at different stages of plant growth as fodder for livestock
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1994) Shirima,Eligy J. M
Two on-station research experiments were conducted at the Livestock Production and Research Institute, Mpwapwa and one at Pasture Research Center, Kongwa both in Central Tanzania from January to October, 1993. Four treatments in maize, grown in Mpwapwa station, were stripping (SR), topping (TP), stripping + topping (STP) at silking stage and whole plant stover (WPL or control) were assigned randomly within the four blocks of a complete randomized block design experiment. Only SR and WPL treatments were performed in sorghum trials in Kongwa under the same experimental design as in maize but each were replicated twice within each of the four blocks. Also three treatments replicated thrice for measuring the intake and digestibility of the SR, TP and WPL obtained from the maize trial were done at Mpwapwa center by using nine adult BHP male sheep. Complete block design was used by blocking the sheep on weight basis ranging from 29 to 37 kg live weights (mean 32.8 + 1.0). Both animals received equal amount of supplement diet (maize bran + sunflower cake). A village survey through questionnaire and physical body weight measurement of cattle every other fortnight was carried out in Berege village in Dodoma region from the start of the dry season (June) to mid- dry season (October). Sample collection of forage used by the animals was done on the same day after weighing the animals. Ten farmers with improved dairy cattle (Mpwapwa breed) were incorporated. An additional survey was also conducted in Kilimanjaro region among eight farmers to explore the farmer’s knowledge on the use of SR, TP and STP from maize. In maize the highest vegetative biomass production including the final residues after the grain harvest was gained with the STP treatment followed by TP with 5.44 t/ha and 5.35 t/ha respectively (p<0.05). Less fodder materials were collected from WPL (4.23 t/ha) due to field losses. No significant difference were found in sorghum fodder yields despite the leaf losses in WPL. Stripping in sorghum yield 2.2 t/ha and WPL as 1.8 t/ha. In maize total CP accrued from STP were (287 kg/ha) ), TP (234), SR (177) and WPL (138). The IVOMD of the fractions were in the order of 75%, 69%, 64% and 52% in SR, STP, TP and WPL fractions respectively. Seventy-three percent more CP was produced from SR of sorghum than WPL treatment with 123 kg/ha by 71 kg/ha respectively. Digestibility (IVOMD) of the SR leaves from sorghum was 79 % while 55 % from the WPL leaves. The feed intake of SR leaves in maize was more than twice (850 g/day) that of the WPL stover (361 g/day) when fed to sheep. The total digestible crude protein (DCP) from SR of maize was 51 % while the same from WPL was negative. With the supplement diets, the DCP of SR leaves improved slightly to 55 % but increased greatly in WPL to 51 %. From the village survey, the cattle in Berege suffered from lack of high quality feeds resulting in body weight losses during the later part of the dry season despite the bigger cultivated crop field farms than in Kilimanjaro region. With small areas of land in Kilimanjaro region, less than 1.5 ha, the maize fractions alone harvested before and after grain harvest accounted for over 39 % of the total annual cattle feed2 requirement while in Berege the combination of all dry residues after harvest (maize, sorghum and millet) formed 42 % of the total annual diet. This made the dependence of natural pasture in Kilimanjaro region to be only 28 % while in Berege village the cattle were still depending on 40 % natural pasture for the annual feed resources. Since the defoliation of maize and sorghum vegetative parts had no deleterious effects on the final grain yield, the technique should be introduced in Central Tanzania so as to make use of the enormous green materials lost in the wet season to be available in dry season. Their higher feeding value also will be an advantage to the farmers as they will buy less supplements to be added . to the forage to meet the animal requirements for maintenance and production.
Effect of feeding level on intake, digestibility and growth performance of muscovy and pekin ducks.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2007) Lipende Iddi,
The experiment was conducted with 66 Pekin and Muscovy ducklings aged 0-2 weeks at Llbcna ranch poultry unit to evaluate the effect of feeding level on intake, growth performance, feed conversion efficiency and cost of production with the objective of improving the current level of performance of the breeding stock at the Ubena prison farm. The test feed compounded to provide 18% CP, however only 16% was available and the control diet had 10.6% CP, These diets were fed to ducklings at 07:00 h in the morning and 18:00 h in the evening for 56 days. Feed offered was adjusted weekly and water was provided ad libitum. Ducklings were randomly allotted in four groups of 18 ducklings each for the groups, while one group (control) had 12 ducklings. These groups are treatment 1,11,111 and the fourth group was farm diet( control)The test feed was offered at a rate of 2.5, 3.5, and 5% of body weight font treatment 1,11 and III respectively, while the control group was given ad libitum the control diet (Maize bran). The proximate analysis was done at Sokoine University of Agriculture, DASP, Nutrition Laboratory analysis showed that the fishmeal had a CP content of DM far below normal values. The Digestibility study was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture, poultry Unit. The experiment had acclimatization and data collection period, which lasted for 5 days each, Eight Pekin and 10 Muscovy aged 10-12 weeks old were used in the experiment, and were placed in individual cages and excreta collected daily in the morning before feed was offered. At day 56, the cumulative weight gained for Pekin in treatment 1,11,111 and Farm diet were 760g, 950g, 2140g, and 834g respectively, and 228.7g respectively and 42.2g, 42.2g, 121.1g, and 164g respectively for Muscovy (P< 0.05) For Pekin, respective feed efficiency was 3.3, 3.8, 4.4, and 18.5 and for Muscovy 3.3, 3.8, 4.0, and 22.4. Muscovy had higher cost of production (2.2 Tsh/g against 1.9 Tsh g of Pekin) A 16% CP Content diet offered at 5% was economically and biologically efficient in raising duckling of both breeds. It was shown that the Pekin had higher weight gain as compared to the Muscovy ducks, and higher gross margin, despite the high cost of production. It was further noted that to increase the production cheap locally available protein sources could be used to increase growth rate.It was observed Pekin to be more susceptible to feed stress thus concluded to establish a Pekin far for broiler meat production one should make sure there is good supply of feed while Muscovy can be kept even when feed supply is unreliable as they can sustain feed stress
Knowledge and perceptions of traditional livestock keepers on tick-borne diseases and sero-prevalence of Theileria parva around Lake Victoria Basin
(2010-07-22) Chenyambuga, S W; Waiswa, C; Saimo, M; Ngumi, P; Gwakisa, P S
A study was conducted in three districts around Lake Victoria; Kisumu (Kenya), Kiruhura (Uganda) and Tarime (Tanzania) to assess the farmers’ perceptions on tick-borne diseases (TBDs) and resistance of their local cattle breeds to TBDs. Knowledge and perception of farmers on production constraints, tick species, TBDs and their control measures and resistance of local cattle to TBDs were assessed through individual interviews and group discussions. The extent of East Coast fever (ECF) infection in local cattle was assessed by measuring serum antibodies to Theileria parva. The prevalence of serum antibodies to Theileria parva was determined using an enzyme-linked immunoassay technique. The breeds kept were Nyanza zebu, Tarime zebu and Ankole in Kisumu, Tarime and Kiruhura, respectively. Livestock diseases were ranked as the most important constraints to cattle production. Tick-borne diseases ranked higher than the other diseases. Most livestock farmers knew well the signs of the TBDs. The main symptoms mentioned were circling/high stepping, red urine, hard dung and swollen lymphnodes for heart water, babesiosis, anaplasmosis and East Coast Fever (ECF), respectively. The most prevalent ticks were brown ear ticks (Rhipicephalus appendiculatus) (97.5%), blue ticks (Boophilus spp) (75.8%) and bont ticks (Amblyloma spp) (81.5%). About 85, 12.5 and 7.5% of the respondents in Kiruhura, Kisumu and Tarime, respectively, knew that ECF is caused by the presence of ticks on the animals. The majority of the farmers did not associate the other TBDs with ticks. The farmers (59%) were using acaricide to control ticks. The most common method of application was hand spraying. Most farmers used Oxytetracycline to treat all TBDs, however, some farmers (20%) used local herbs. About 75 to 92.5% of the farmers considered their breeds to be resistant to ticks and ECF. The reasons given included not applying acaricide for a long time, animals always carry ticks without getting sick or dieing and ECF affects only calves and not adult animals. The serum antibody prevalence was 80.1, 78.2 and 60% in Tarime, Ankole and Nyanza zebu cattle, respectively. The prevalence of antibodies to Theileria parva did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between calves (75.5%), yearlings (80%) and adult animals (73.4%). It is concluded that Theileria parva infection in cattle around the Lake Victoria basin is highly prevalent. The farmers know the signs of ECF, but do not spray/dip their animals on a regular basis because of economic reasons and also they consider their breeds to be resistant to ticks and ECF.
Occurrences of thermophilic Campylobacter in pigs slaughtered at Morogoro slaughter slabs, Tanzania
(Springer Science+Business Media B.V, 2010-08) Mdegela, Robinson H; Kibona, Laurence; Jacob, Petro; Nonga, Hezron Emmanuel
Occurrences of thermophlic Campylobacter in pigs and pig carcasses was investigated in a cross-sectional study that was carried out in three selected slaughter slabs in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania. Before sampling, the slab hygiene, slaughter, carcass dressing, and meat handling was assessed. Fecal samples were collected from 66 slaughter pigs at the kill floor. After slaughter, a 100-cm 2 area on medial surface of the thigh muscles of dressed carcasses was sampled using sterile cotton swabs. Thereafter, the jejunal, cecal, and colon contents were also sampled. The samples were subjected to standard bacteriological examination using Skirrows protocol. In all slaughter slabs visited, it was found that pig slaughter, dressing, and meat handling was done on the ground under unhygienic condition. All the slaughter slab environment were dirty and had neither tap water or drainage systems. Thermophilic Campylobacter prevalence in slaugh- tered pig was 66.7% while contamination rate of dressed carcasses was 10.6%. Of the Campylobacter-positive car- casses, five (12.2%) were from the animals which were also positive to Campylobacter. The isolation rate of Campylobac- ter in the cecum was higher (34.8%) compared to the small intestines (28.8%) and colon (16.7%) although the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Campylobacter jejuni was the most prevalent species as it constituted 74% of all isolates, while Campylobacter coli was isolated at 26%. This suggests possible risks of infection to people through consumption of contaminated pork or through contact with infected pigs. Cecum was found to be the major part of intestine highly colonized by Campylobacter.
Cytosine DNA methylation changes drought stress responses in tissue culture derived banana (Musa AAA- East Africa) plants
(Journal of Applied Biosciences, 2011) Msogoya, T. J.; Grout, B. W.
Tissue culture derived plants are often vulnerable to abiotic stresses but mechanisms underlying such responses are hardly known. This study was conducted to determine mechanisms underlying drought stress vulnerability of in vitro derived banana cv. ‘Uganda’. Methodology and results: Suckers of in vitro derived off-type, in vitro micropropagation (MP) derived normal plants and conventionally propagated (CP) plants with no tissue culture history in their ancestry were collected in the field at Sokoine University of Agriculture and planted in 20-litre containers for drought stress evaluation. The mechanisms underlying the drought stress vulnerability were determined when banana plants reached 1.5 m tall based on leaf global cytosine DNA methylation, stomatal density and leaf senescence. Global cytosine DNA methylation was determined from cigar leaves by a reversed phase HPLC analysis. Leaf stomatal density was determined as the number of stomata per unit area of both upper and lower leaf surfaces. Leaf senescence was estimated as a number of leaves with dying margins when soil moisture level decreased to minus 630 millibars. The off-type and MP derived plants had lower (P < 0.05) global cytosine DNA methylation of 11.3 and 17.5 % compared with 22.5 % of the CP derived plants. On the contrary, the off-type and MP derived plants had higher stomatal density of 78.2 and 78.8 stomata per mm2 on the lower leaf surface compared to 72.0 stomata per mm2 of the CP derived banana plants. The leaf senescence of the off-type and MP derived plants was significantly (P < 0.05) higher with 87.7 and 79.5 % compared to 66.7 % of the CP derived plants at soil moisture of minus 630 millibars. Conclusion and application: These findings provide evidence that tissue culture process increases the vulnerability to water stress of in vitro banana regenerants as a consequence of increased leaf stomatal density which is possibly under the control of cytosine DNA hypomethylation. The vulnerability of the in vitro derived banana cv. ‘Uganda’ limits the use of tissue culture derived planting materials among small-scale farmers with limited water resource and irrigation facilities but provides an opportunity for further studies to minimise water stress susceptibility of in vitro derived banana suckers.
Altered fruit eating quality in tissue culture derived off-type banana (Musa spp.)
(Journal of Applied Biosciences, 2011) Msogoya, T. J.; Grout, B. W. W.
Objective: Somaclonal variation with desirable agronomic performance has extensively been reported but studies on eating qualities of such off-type banana are limited. This study was conducted to determine eating qualities of an in vitro derived off-type banana (Musa AAA East Africa) cv. ‘Uganda’ with tolerance to black sigatoka disease and a high yielder. Methodology and Results: Uncooked and cooked mature green fruits of the off-type banana were compared with those of the popular cooking banana cv. ‘Mshale’ (AA Pisane Lilin) and cv. ‘Uganda’ based on laboratory analysis and taste interviews. Similarly, ripe fruits of the off-type banana were compared with those of the popular dessert banana cv. ‘Mtwike’ (AAA Cavendish cv. Grande naine) and cv. ‘Kisukari’ (AAB/AB Silk) based on laboratory analysis and taste interviews. Results showed that the uncooked green mature fruits of the off-type banana had higher (P < 0.05) calorific value but its cooked meal was the least (P < 0.05) accepted by the taste panelists on grounds that it was hard, less sweet and less aromatic. On the other hand, ripe fruits of the off-type banana were the sweetest with the most attractive peel colour but yet the least accepted by the taste panelists for their sweetness had a fast satiating effect. The poor acceptability of the off-type banana for both cooked and ripe fruit consumption was due to differential proportions of soluble solids caused by altered fruit ripening. Conclusion and application: The undesirable quality of the off-type banana limits not only its adoption by farmers but also the use of somaclonal variation as a source of genetic improvement of banana cv. ‘Uganda’. However, as a consequence of increased sweetness, the off-type banana fruits have the potential for use as sweetener in diet drinks, ice creams, chewing gums and cough syrups.
The role of indigenous knowledge and perceptions of pastoral communities on traditional grazing management in North-western Tanzania
(Academic Journals, 2012-10) Selemani, Ismail Saidi; Eik, Lars Olav; Holand, Øystein; Ådnøy, Tormod; Mtengeti, Ephraim; Mushi, Daniel
Traditional forage conservation, locally known as “ngitili”, which involves retaining an area of standing vegetation from the beginning of rainy season and opening it up for grazing at the peak of dry season, has become an important strategy for rangeland rehabilitation in the north-western semi-arid part of Tanzania. The present study assessed the current rangeland management practices, the role of indigenous knowledge on ngitili conservation and perceptions of agropastoralists on communal resources management. Data were collected from a total of 10 villages of Shinyanga rural and Meatu district. Over 90% of villagers were agropastoralists, where the mean numbers of specific livestock per interviewed household were 51 cattle, 40 goats, 20 sheep and 7 horses. The two most important traditional rangeland management strategies practiced by agropastoralists in this region were ngitiliconservation and seasonal movement of livestock herds. Management of common resources was perceived to be problematic and most agro-pastoralists shifted from communal rangelands toward individual private ngitili. Interviewed agro-pastoralists claimed that, unequal sharing of benefits accrued from communal resources and poor management of communal ngitili lead to the preference of private ngitili to communal ones. The contribution of indigenous knowledge of Sukuma people lead to the success of ngitili conservation. However, the sustainability of this vital local knowledge is questionable. This paper recommends participatory management that allows integration of existing local knowledge in rangeland improvement.
Knowledge assessment on the effects of climate change due to keeping livestock in urban and peri-urban areas of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(Academic Journals, 2013-01) Mlozi, R.S.M; Lupala, A; Chenyambuga, S.W; Liwenga, E; Msogoya, T
This paper discusses assessment results of the respondents who kept livestock in urban and periurban areas in the three municipalities of Kinondoni, Ilala, and Temeke in Dar es Salaam city region, if they had knowledge that their activities had an effect on climate change. Data show that over two thirds of the respondents did not think that the presence of solid waste, liquid waste, and pollution resulting from keeping livestock would have an effect on climate risks in the future. However, the respondents thought that presence of chemical pollution and land degradation due to keeping livestock in urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) would have an effect on climate change. Furthermore, the article stipulates actions that urban livestock keepers would take in the future for mitigating climate risks. In addition, the respondents in UPA thought that people keeping livestock would in the future incur additional costs because of climate risks. The respondents indicated that most livestock types kept in UPA would be vulnerable and sensitive to climate risks and proposed adaptation options to take in the future. It is paramount that time has come for the three Dar es Salaam municipalities of Kinondoni, Ilala and Temeke through their relevant departments (agriculture and livestock, health, planning, community development), among other things, to educate livestock owners on climate risks due to livestock keeping and how to lessen them in the future. Other municipalities in Tanzania and elsewhere could use these results.
Effect of thidiazuron on in vivo shoot proliferation of popular banana (Musa spp. L) cultivars in Tanzania
(Journal of Applied Biosciences, 2014) Msogoya, T. J.; Mwakisitu, J.
Objective: Thidiazuron (TDZ) is a diphenyl urea-based cytokinin, which is non-degradable and persistent in plant tissues. The effect of these TDZ properties on in vivo banana proliferation when deshealthed corms are temporarily dipped in such growth regulator is unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of temporary treatments with TDZ of deshealthed banana corms on in vivo sucker multiplication. Methodology and Results: The study was comprised of a split plot experiment in a randomized complete design with three replications each replication with 15 corms. The main plot factor was banana cultivars (Mtwike, Mzuzu and Bukoba) while the sub-plot factor was TDZ concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 mg/l). Moistened sawdust was steam-sterilized for 45 minutes and then filled for cooling in wooden propagators. Banana suckers were cleaned to remove roots and surface-sterilized for 15 seconds. The sterilized corms were deshealthed to expose axillary buds and decorticated to suppress the apical meristems. These corns were each dipped in TDZ at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 mg/l for 12 hours and then planted into the sterilized sawdust media in the propagators. Results showed that the number of shoots per corm significantly (P < 0.05) increased as TDZ concentration increased from 0.0 to 2.0 mg/l but decreased as TDZ increased to 3.0 mg/l. The number of leaves per sucker significantly (P < 0.05) decreased as TDZ concentration increased from 0.0 to 3.0 mg/l. Conversely, corms treated with TDZ at 2.0 mg/l produced suckers with the largest number of leaves of 4.9 per sucker followed by corms treated with TDZ at 1.0, 3.0 and 0.5 mg/l with 4.5, 4.3 and 3.3 leaves per sucker, respectively. Banana cultivars had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on the number of shoots per corm where banana cv. Bukoba produced the largest number of shoots of 6.4 per corm while banana cv. Mtwike and Mzuzu produced 2.3 and 2.9 shoots per corm, respectively. Conclusion and Application: The findings from this study provide evidence that in vivo shoot multiplication rates and sucker growth of banana cv. Mzuzu, Bukoba and Mtwike can be increased by dipping for 12 hours deshealthed corms in TDZ solution at 2.0 mg/l. The low in vivo multiplication rates of banana cv. Mtwike and Mzuzu underscore the need for further studies to determine alternative best cytokine-based growth regulators.
Effect of benzylaminopurine on in vivo multiplication of French plantain (Musa spp. AAB) cv. ‘Itoke sege’
(Journal of Applied Biosciences, 2014) Kindimba, G. V.; Msogoya, T. J.
Objective: In vivo macropropagation is an alternative simple and cheap technique for banana multiplication. However, the response of cv. “Itoke Sege” to in vivo macropropagation combined with different benzylaminopurine (BAP) concentrations is not known. This study was conducted to determine the appropriate concentration of BAP for enhancing in vivo macropropagation of French plantain cv. ‘Itoke Sege’. Methodology and results: Sword suckers of about 70 - 80 cm tall and 14 -16 cm collar diameter were obtained from farmers’ fields in Rungwe district in Mbeya, Tanzania. Moistened sawdust was steamsterilized for 45 minutes and then filled for cooling in wooden propagators of 1.5 m x 2.20 m x 0.3 m dimension. Suckers were partially peeled, washed to remove roots and surface-sterilized for 15 seconds by dipping them in hot boiling water. The sterilized corms were desheathed to expose axillary buds and decorticated to suppress the apical meristems. Fifteen corms in three replications were each dipped in BAP at 0.0, 1.5, 3.0 and 6.0 mg/l for 12 hours and then planted into sawdust media. Irrigation was done immediately but subsequent watering was carried out when necessary. In vivo multiplication response was evaluated based on number of days to first shoot emergence, number of shoots per corm, number of roots per shoot and shoot size. Results showed that BAP concentration at 1.5 mg L-1 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the number of days to first shoot emergence of 15.78 days followed by BAP at 3.0, 6.0 and 0.0 mg L-1 with 25.18, 28.39 and 36.43 days, respectively. Similarly, BAP concentration at 1.5 mg L-1 significantly (P < 0.05) increased sucker productivity with 17.11 suckers per corm followed by BAP at 0.0, 3.0 and 6.0 mg L-1 with 15.23, 13.08 and 12.96 suckers per corm, respectively. Corms treated with BAP at 1.5, 3.0, 6.0 mg L-1 significantly (P > 0.05) produced taller shoots with length of 27.0, 27.3 and 26.7 cm followed by corms treated with BAP at 0.0 mg L-1 with shoot length of 22.7 cm. Conversely, corms treated with BAP at 0.0 and 6.0 mg L-1 produced suckers with larger collar diameter of 3.4 and 2.4 cm followed by suckers from corms treated with BAP at 3.0 and 1.5 mg L-1 with collar diameters of 2.2 and 2.0 cm, respectively. Suckers from corms treated with BAP at 0.0 and 3.0 mg L-1 had larger number of leaves of 4.8 and 4.6 per sucker followed by suckers from corms treated with BAP at 1.5 and 6.0 mg L-1 with 4.0 and 3.8 leaves per sucker, respectively. Conclusion and application: Based on these findings, it is concluded that in vivo macropropagation combined with BAP at 1.5 mg L-1 is a suitable technique for improving multiplication and sucker growth of French plantain cv. ‘Itoke Sege’. The findings of this study provide an opportunity for the use of in vivo macropropagation coupled with BAP at 1.5 mg L-1 as an alternative simple and cheap technology for rapid and mass production of planting materials for recalcitrant plantain varieties. Further study is recommended to evaluate the response of cv. “Itoke Sege” to in vivo macropropagation combined with other cytokinebased growth regulators. Research is also required to test the responses of other recalcitrant plantain cultivars to in vivo macropropagation in combination with different BAP concentrations.
Food preferences of the multi-mammate mouse, Mastomys natalensis, in irrigated rice habitats in Tanzani
(Taylor & Francis, 2014-10-19) Malungu, L.S; Mlyashimbi, E.C.M; Ngowo, V; Mdangi, M; Katakweba, A.S.; Tesha, P.
We investigated the composition of the diet of the multi-mammate mouse, Mastomys natalensis, within irrigated rice and fallow field habitats at set time periods related to rice crop growth stages. In both habitats, vegetative plant material, i.e. leaves, stems and seeds, were the most abundant components of the rodent’s diet, while other food types (invertebrates, fruits) were observed only in low quantities. We conclude that vegetative plant material and seeds were the main types of food consumed not only due to their relatively higher abundance in the environments under study but also because of the highly specialised herbivorous/granivorous nature of the dominant rodent species, M. natalensis. Thus, the introduction and expansion of continuous rice-cropping using irrigation in Tanzania is likely to be severely constrained by the presence of M. natalensis. In our opinion, field hygiene, including the removal of alternative food resources and nesting sites for M. natalensis near cropping areas, may help to both lower rodent population numbers and reduce immigration potential. Non chemical rodent control methods such as trap barrier systems developed for lowland irrigated rice in south-eastern Asia should, we argue, be evaluated for their effectiveness under African conditions.
Investigation on copper levels in and around fish farms in Kitwe, copperbelt province, Zambia
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Nalishuwa, Lusebo
A study was conducted to assess possible risks of copper contamination in fish farmed in copper mining areas of Zambia. Nine fish farms were selected within and around Kitwe district for the study. The farms drew water from different sources – dam, river and spring. Five types of samples were sampled, i.e. soil, sediment, plant, fish and water at each farm. Three fish ponds were sampled at each farm. Copper determination in each sample was carried out using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The results revealed that there were significant differences between farms receiving water from different sources with respect to copper concentration in soils, sediment, plant and fish but not in water. The soil and sediment samples taken from around Mindolo Dam had the highest concentration of copper, while those taken from around Kafue River had the lowest copper concentration. The mean copper concentrations in soil and sediment samples taken from around Mindolo Dam were 91.09 and 41.71 ppm while those from around Garneton spring were 30.36 and 36.47 ppm and around Kafue River were 13.55 and 24.43 ppm respectively. From the three sources of water the mean copper levels in plant, fish and water samples ranged from 13.93 to 26.12, 8.68 to 13.25 and 0.14 to 0.39 ppm respectively. Furthermore, farms receiving water from same sources differed significantly with respect copper concentration in soil, plant, sediment and fish, but not in water. From the results it can be concluded that the relatively high levels of copper in soils and sediments from Mindolo Dam and Garneton Spring were due to their natural presence there and had not been deposited from anywhere else. The relatively much higher levels of copper observed in fish than in water mayii be attributed to the build up of mineral in the fish with time. More studies are needed to establish the origin of copper in and around the fish ponds in the study area.
Effect of initial stocking size of the predatory African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) on recruits, growth performance, survival and yield of mixed-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in concrete tank culture system
(Springer, 2015-03) Limbu, S. M.; Shoko, A. P.; Lamtane, H. A.; Shirima, E. D.; Kishe-Machumu, M. A.; Mgana, H. F.; Mgaya, Y. D.
Prolific breeding and production of high percentage of recruits are main problems in mixed-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) culture in earthen ponds. The current study assessed the efficiency of different sizes of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) in controlling recruitment in mixed-sex Nile tilapia cultured in tanks and its effect on growth performance, percentage survival and yield. Three treatments consisting of triplicate ponds stocked with mixed-sex Nile tilapia in monoculture and in polyculture with large (62.50 ± 3.26 g) and small (40.00 ± 2.68 g) African sharptooth catfish were fed on a 297.50 g kg-1 crude protein diet for 126 days. Results showed that, the number of recruits was significantly lower in larger African sharptooth catfish predator than smaller ones and monoculture of Nile tilapia. Polyculture with larger African sharptooth catfish resulted in significantly higher growth performance of Nile tilapia. Large African sharptooth catfish in polyculture reduced the amount of small, low-value recruits, while the yield of large and high value Nile tilapia was increased. This study revealed that fish farmers can reduce prolific breeding, obtain higher growth performance and produce larger size of marketable Nile tilapia by predominantly stocking ponds with large African sharptooth catfish predator of at least 60 g.
Short-term effects of cow manure on above ground growth characteristics of Brachiaria ruziziensis in tropical sub-humid environment, Tanzania
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2015-03-24) Maleko, David; Kileo, Naiman; Abdul-Rahman, Yusuph; Sangeda, Anthony
Aims: The study assessed the effects of different levels of cow manure application on above ground growth characteristics and herbage production of Brachiaria ruziziensis (Congo signal grass) in tropical sub-humid environment on arable land. The rationale behind being contribute to better understanding of how the growth and yield components of B. ruziziensis respond to varied levels of cow manure application Study Design: Complete Randomized Block Design (CRBD). Place and Duration of Study: Field experiment was conducted at Magadu Dairy Farm, located in Morogoro, Tanzania, from February to June, 2014. Methodology: Three (3) blocks (replications), 4 treatments (0, 5, 10 and 15 t/ha cow manurelevels), 3 m inter-block distance, 12 plots and 0.5 m inter-plot distance. Pre-plant spread of manure into plots at varying levels followed by planting of B. ruziziensis stem cuttings. Repetitive measurement of several above ground growth parameters at 2 weeks interval post planting up to the 10th week. At the end, the pasture stand was harvested and the above ground dry matter (DM) yield was estimated. One way ANOVA under SAS computer program was used to test if there was significant difference among the treatments at P =.05. Results: Cow manure application had a significant effect on stem height, tiller and leaf number perplant (P < .0001), in which each subsequent increase in manure application was increasing growth of these parameters. Moreover, the DM yield differed significantly across all treatments (P < .001). However, there was no significant difference in DM yield between 10 and 15 t/ha manure application rates (P = .76). Conclusion: Cow manure was found to improve productivity of B. ruziziensis by increasing stem growth, tiller and leaf numbers, thus DM. Moreover, cow manure application rate of 10 t/ha was found to be ideal level for maximum DM yield (13.5 t/ha) under the conditions of this study.
Opportunities and constraints for overcoming dry season livestock feed shortages in communal semi-arid rangelands of Northern Tanzania: a case of Longido district
(Livestock Research for Rural Development, 2015-04-01) Maleko, David; Laizer, Marko Koipapi
Assessment of opportunities and constraints for tackling the problem of dry seasons livestock feed shortage (DSLFS) was conducted in Longido district, Arusha, Tanzania in March 2014. The rationale for conducting this study was to contribute to a better understanding of the influential factors for persistence of DSLFS problem in Tanzania communal semi-arid rangelands. In addition, the study aimed to identify the potential opportunities for curbing DSLFS problem in Longido district and elsewhere. Data collection methods included structured questionnaires for household surveys, checklists for key informants interviewing and researcher's field observations. A total of 90 respondents were randomly selected and interviewed from four (4) pastoral villages namely Kiserian, Mairowa, Ngoswak and Tingatinga. Data were analyzed by using SPSS 20 computer program. Major drivers for pasture inadequacy were prolonged droughts (27%), increased crop cultivation in rangelands (21%) and high stocking rates (18.3%). The time cattle spent for grazing during dry and wet seasons differed significantly (P=0.03). The time range livestock spent for grazing was 7-8 hrs and 10-12 hrs, in the wet and dry seasons respectively. The distance the livestock walked to pasture differed significantly (P<0.01) between wet (1-4 Km) and dry (8-14 Km) seasons. The time livestock spent walking to and fro watering points differed significantly between wet and dry seasons (P<0.01), the time range being less than 0.5 hr and up to 11 hrs respectively. Identified opportunities for overcoming the DSLFS problem include plentiful communal grazing land (32.1%), abundant browse resources (21.1%) and existence of strong traditional leadership (17.3%). Major constraints for overcoming the DSLFS problem were low and erratic rainfalls (26.1%), fear of free riders due to communal grazing (23.17%) and low awareness on range management due to inadequate extension services (20.7%). It is concluded that livestock feed shortage is a big problem in Longido district especially from August to November in which animal productivity declines due to sparse pasture and water resources. It is recommended that conservation of indigenous fodder trees should be undertaken due to their importance in providing feed resources at critical drought times. Moreover, livestock policies should promote range management through education provision, securing land tenure of communal grazing areas for fostering rotational grazing, selective bush control and range reseeding.
A prospective method for overcoming challenges of rehabilitating degraded semi-arid rangelands of Tanzania: a case of Gairo district
(Journal of Continuing Education, 2015-07-01) Maleko, David; Sangeda, Anthony; Mtengeti, Ephraim
Most semi-arid rangelands of Tanzania are highly degraded due to high land use pressures including shifting cultivation and overgrazing. The presence of large patches of bare ground, pronounced soil erosion features such as rills and gullies and high encroachment of both invasive plant species and dense thorny bushes, as well as damaged surface water resources are amongst easily noticeable signs of rangeland degradation. For decades bush clearing, water spreading and reseeding using improved pasture seeds (grass and legumes) have been amongst the proposed rangeland improvement practices to reduce the scarcity of feed during the dry season in communal semi-arid grazing lands. However, these technologies have not been adopted by a wider part of agro-pastoralists in the country. The low adoption rate is attributed to a number of barriers including culture, land tenure, methods used to transfer proven technology and practices, contradictory agricultural policies and unavailability of pasture seeds. In other words, the problem may not be the absence of the relevant technologies for the rehabilitation of these degraded semi-arid rangelands, but rather processes that are used to foster adoption and wise use of these technologies by the wider part of the targeted communities. Home pasture nursery (HPN) is a new innovative approach that was developed and tested in the communal semi-arid rangelands of Gairo district that has indicated high potential for enhancing adoption of pasture production technologies under communal semi-arid grazing systems. Herein, a field experience on HPN is expounded.
Tick burden and acquisition of immunity to Theileria parva by Tarime cattle in comparison to Sukuma cattle under different tick control regimes in the Lake Zone of Tanzania
(2016-03) Laisser, E. L. K.; Chenyambuga, S. W.; Karimuribo, E. D.; Msalya, G.; Kipanyula, M. J.; Mwilawa, A. J.; Mdegela, R. H.; Kusiluka, L. J. M.; Gwakisa, P. S.
This study was conducted to determine tick burden and immunological parameters of resistance to East Coast fever (ECF) in Tarime and Sukuma cattle. Tick load, packed cell volume (PCV), Theileria parva (T. parva) specific antibody percent positivity (PP), and prevalence of T. parva parasites were studied in relation to dipping regime, strains, and season. A total of 50 experimental cattle were included in this study. Tick load was determined by whole body counts, antibody percent positivity was determined by the polymorphic immunodominant molecule (PIM)-based T. parva enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and prevalence of T. parva parasites was detected by a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on the p104 gene. Dipping frequency on tick burden showed no statistically significant differences when cattle of either strain were dipped either once every 2 or 3 weeks in the dry and wet seasons. However, Tarime cattle had higher (p<0.05) tick count than Sukuma cattle and non dipped groups maintained high tick infestation throughout the experimental period. The PCV values were within the physiological range, although this parameter was lower in Tarime cattle (p<0.05). All cattle regardless of strain were seropositive, although Tarime cattle maintained higher PP compared to Sukuma by 15%. Conversely, the prevalence of T. parva parasites was lower in Tarime (38%) compared to Sukuma cattle (38.5%), but the difference was not significant (p>0.05). During the study period, 20% (5/25) of Sukuma cattle contracted ECF, but none of the Tarime cattle showed clinical signs for the disease. The differences between the two strains shown in terms of PP and T. parva parasite prevalence may indicate the ability of individual cattle to resist tick infestation and ECF infection under natural challenge. Higher antibody levels but lower parasite prevalence attained by Tarime cattle, suggests inherent ability of Tarime cattle to resist clinical development of ECF infection, but to remain as T. parva carriers.
Evaluation of invertebrates as protein sources in Nile Tilapia
(2017) Chenyambuga, Sebastian W.; Madalla, Nazael; Ally, tausi
The study was conducted to approximate the composition of house fly maggots and earthworms from different substrates as well as to evaluate their suitability as protein sources in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) diets. Chicken manure, cattle manure and fermented maize were used as substrates for production household fly maggots (HFM), while chicken, cattle and rabbit manures were used as substrates for production of earthworm meal (EWM). HFMs and EWMs with the highest protein content were used to formulate practical isonitrogenous diets (30% crude protein) containing graded levels of HFM and EWM meals (25%, 30%, 35% and 40%). The diets were fed to juveniles with an average weight of 2.6g in a growth trial that lasted for eight weeks. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in the crude protein contents between the HFMs as well as EWMs raised on three culturing media. Chicken manure produced HFM with significantly high protein content, while cow manure did the same for EWM. Growth and feed utilization was significantly higher in fish fed diets HFM35 and EWM35. The same diets were more cost effective to produce a unit of fish. Therefore, it is recommended to include either HFM or EWM meals at 35% in practical diets containing 5% fishmeal and cotton seedcake or any similar plant protein.
Bioaccumulation and public health implications of trace metals in edible tissues of the crustaceans Scylla serrata and Penaeus monodon from the Tanzanian coast.
(Springer International Publishing, 2017) Rumisha, C; Leermakers, M; Mdegela, R.H; Kochzius, M; Elskens, M
The coastal population in East Africa is grow- ing rapidly but sewage treatment and recycling facilities in major cities and towns are poorly developed. Since estuarine mangroves are the main hotspots for pollut- ants, there is a potential for contaminants to accumulate in edible fauna and threaten public health. This study analysed trace metals in muscle tissues of the giant mud crabs (Scylla serrata) and the giant tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) from the Tanzanian coast, in order to determine the extent of bioaccumulation and public health risks. A total of 180 samples of muscle tissues of S. serrata and 80 of P. monodon were collected from nine sites along the coast. Both species showed high levels of trace metals in the wet season and significant bioaccumulation of As, Cu and Zn. Due to their burrowing and feeding habits, mud crabs were more contaminated compared to tiger prawns sampled from the same sites. Apart from that, the measured levels of Cd, Cr and Pb did not exceed maximum limits for human consumption. Based on the current trend of fish consumption in Tanzania (7.7 kg/person/year), the mea- sured elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn) are not likely to present health risks to shellfish consumers. Nevertheless, potential risks of As and Cu cannot be ruled out if the average per capita consumption is exceeded. This calls for strengthened waste manage- ment systems and pollution control measures
Diversity and genetic identity of pineapple [Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.] in Tanzania based on microsatellite markers
(African Journal of Biotechnology, 2018) Makaranga, A.; Seth, M. S.; Ndee, A.; Mneney, E. E.; Mbwambo, G.; Lema, K.; Godfrey, A.; Mrema, L.; Kachiwile, A.; Mrema, E.; Msogoya, T. J.
Pineapple [Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.] is an important fruit crop cultivated in Tanzania. However, the knowledge on genetic diversity of the pineapple cultivars grown in Tanzania is limited. This study was aimed at determining the genetic diversity and identity of pineapple cultivars from different growing regions in Tanzania using microsatellite markers also known as simple sequence repeat marker (SSR). Ten of the 18 microsatellite markers were polymorphic and generated a total of 22 distinct reproducible bands with an average of 2.2 bands per primer pair. The number of polymorphic bands detected with each primer pair ranged from 1 to 3 with an average of 1.5 per primer pair. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values of each primer pair ranged from 0.17 to 0.79 with an average of 0.41. Two microsatellite loci TsuAC010 and TsuAC039 revealed PIC values higher than 0.50 thus suggesting that such primers have high discriminatory ability. The consensus tree derived from the unweighted pairgroup method with arithmetic means (UPGMA) revealed four different groups. Kinole-SCT subpopulation formed a distinct group from Madeke-SCT and MD2 hybrid cultivar. Kinole-SC, Mukuranga- SC, and Kiwangwa-SCcultivars were closely related on the cluster analysis. This study demonstrated the existence of low genetic diversity in pineapples cultivated in Tanzania implying that a well-thoughtout breeding strategies should be employed for genetic improvements of pineapple. Introduction of exotic clones and employment of modern breeding strategies such as marker assisted selection (MAS) and genetic engineering technologies is recommended. This will widen the current genetic pool of pineapple in Tanzania.

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