Ans 506 Exam questions and answers

Write short notes on the importance of the following feed stuffs and livestock production

Fish meal, Hatchery by-product, Brewers grain and palm kernel cake

Fish meal: Fish meal is a high-quality protein source that is commonly used in livestock and

poultry diets. It is rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, making it a valuable

component of animal diets. Fish meal is particularly important in aquaculture, where it is used

extensively in fish and shrimp feeds to promote growth and maintain good health. The use of fish

meal in animal feed can lead to improved feed conversion rates, faster growth, and better overall

animal health.

Hatchery by-product: Hatchery by-products are waste materials generated during the production

of hatchery-raised fish and poultry. These by-products, such as eggshells, feathers, and fish

heads, can be a valuable source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients in livestock and

poultry diets. By incorporating hatchery by-products into animal feed, farmers can reduce waste

and create a more sustainable production system.

Brewers grain: Brewers grain is a by-product of the brewing industry that is high in protein and

fiber. It is commonly used as a feed ingredient for cattle, pigs, and poultry. Brewers grain is an

excellent source of energy, protein, and fiber for livestock, and can help to reduce feed costs for

farmers. Additionally, the use of brewers grain in animal feed can help to reduce waste and

improve sustainability in the brewing industry.

Palm kernel cake: Palm kernel cake is a by-product of the palm oil industry that is rich in

protein, fiber, and minerals. It is commonly used in livestock and poultry diets as a source of

energy and protein. Palm kernel cake can help to improve feed conversion rates, promote

growth, and maintain good animal health. Its use in animal feed can also help to reduce waste

and create a more sustainable palm oil industry.

Discuss the following major classes of feeding stuffs with examples 1. Roughages 2.

Concentrates

Roughages: Roughages are feedstuffs that are high in fiber and low in energy and protein. They

are typically plant-based, and are often used to provide bulk in livestock diets. Some common

examples of roughages include hay, straw, silage, and pasture grasses. Roughages are important

for maintaining proper digestive health in livestock, as they help to stimulate the digestive

process and prevent digestive disorders such as bloat.

Concentrates: Concentrates are feedstuffs that are high in energy and protein and low in fiber.

They are typically derived from grains and oilseeds, and are often used to supplement roughages

in livestock diets. Some common examples of concentrates include corn, soybean meal, wheat

bran, and cottonseed meal. Concentrates are important for providing the energy and protein

needed for growth and production in livestock, and can help to improve feed conversion rates

and overall animal health.

Discuss the following major classes of feeding stuffs with examples. 1..Roughages 2.

Concentrates

Feeding stuffs are materials that are fed to animals to meet their nutritional requirements. They

can be broadly classified into two major classes: roughages and concentrates.

Roughages: Roughages are bulky feed materials that are high in fiber and low in digestibility.

They are typically made up of the fibrous parts of plants such as stems, leaves, and hay.

Roughages are important for maintaining digestive health in animals and are essential for the

proper functioning of the rumen in ruminants. Examples of roughages include:

Grasses: Pasture grasses such as Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and Ryegrass are commonly

used as roughages for grazing animals.

Legumes: Leguminous plants such as Alfalfa, clover, and soybean are rich in protein and can be

used as a source of roughage for animals.

Forages: Forage crops such as corn silage, haylage, and hay are commonly used as roughage

sources for livestock.

Concentrates: Concentrates are feed materials that are high in energy and low in fiber. They are

typically used to supplement roughages and provide the additional nutrients needed for optimal

animal growth and production. Examples of concentrates include:

Grains: Cereal grains such as corn, barley, oats, and wheat are commonly used as concentrates

for livestock.

Protein sources: Protein-rich concentrates such as soybean meal, cottonseed meal, and fishmeal

are used to supplement animal diets that are low in protein.

Byproducts: Industrial byproducts such as distillers’ grains, wheat bran, and beet pulp can be

used as concentrates in animal diets.

Explain briefly the concept of storage in feeding stuffs

Storage of feeding stuffs is the process of preserving animal feed materials in a safe and secure

place until they are needed for use. Feeding stuffs, whether roughages or concentrates, need to be

stored properly to maintain their quality, prevent spoilage and contamination, and ensure their

availability when required.

Proper storage of feeding stuffs is important to prevent the growth of molds and other harmful

microorganisms that can reduce the nutritional value and palatability of the feed. Exposure to

moisture, heat, and sunlight can also affect the quality of feeding stuffs, leading to spoilage and

loss of nutrients.

Different types of storage methods are used for different types of feeding stuffs. For example,

roughages such as hay and silage are typically stored in dry and well-ventilated areas to prevent

moisture buildup and mold growth. Concentrates such as grains and protein sources are usually

stored in airtight containers to prevent exposure to moisture and pests.

In addition to proper storage, the age of the feeding stuffs should also be considered. Feeding

stuffs that are stored for a long time may lose their nutritional value and palatability, and may

even become harmful to animals if they develop molds or toxins.

Overall, proper storage of feeding stuffs is essential for maintaining animal health, optimizing

performance, and reducing costs associated with spoilage and waste.

Write short note on the purpose of storage in feeding stuffs

The purpose of storage in feeding stuffs is to ensure the availability of high-quality feed

materials when needed, while maintaining their nutritional value and palatability. The following

are the main purposes of storage in feeding stuffs:

Preservation of nutritional quality: Proper storage of feeding stuffs helps to preserve their

nutritional value and quality, ensuring that animals receive the required nutrients for optimal

health and performance.

Prevention of spoilage and contamination: Storage helps to prevent spoilage and contamination

of feeding stuffs, which can occur due to exposure to moisture, heat, pests, and microorganisms.

Spoiled and contaminated feed can be harmful to animals, and may lead to reduced feed intake,

poor growth, and health problems.

Management of feed supply: Storage enables farmers to manage their feed supply by keeping an

adequate amount of feed on hand to meet the needs of their animals, even during periods of feed

scarcity or price fluctuations.

Cost savings: Proper storage of feeding stuffs helps to reduce waste and spoilage, which can lead

to significant cost savings for farmers. Additionally, storing feed in bulk can be more cost-

effective than purchasing small quantities frequently.

List five losses associated with storage in feeding stuffs

Here are five common losses associated with storage in feeding stuffs:

Moisture and mold damage: Moisture is a common problem in storage, and it can lead to mold

growth and spoilage of feed. Moldy feed is not only unpalatable but can also be toxic to animals,

causing various health problems.

Nutrient loss: Nutrient losses occur when feeding stuffs are stored improperly or for an extended

period. Exposure to light, heat, and air can cause nutrient degradation, resulting in a decrease in

feed quality and nutritional value.

Pests damage: Pests such as rodents, insects, and birds can contaminate and destroy feeding

stuffs, leading to a loss of feed quantity and quality. They can also spread diseases to animals

and humans.

Spillage and waste: Spillage can occur during storage, transportation, or feeding, leading to feed

waste and loss. In addition to the loss of feed, spilled feed can also attract pests and promote

mold growth.
Theft and vandalism: Feeding stuffs are valuable commodities, and they are often targeted by

thieves and vandals. These activities can result in significant losses, particularly when the feed is

not adequately secured.

Outline the factors affecting feeding stuffs during storage

There are several factors that can affect feeding stuffs during storage. Here are some of the main

factors:

Moisture: Feeding stuffs can absorb moisture from the environment, leading to mold growth,

nutrient degradation, and spoilage. The level of moisture in the storage area and the storage

container’s ability to prevent moisture ingress are essential factors.

Temperature: High temperatures can accelerate the growth of microorganisms and cause nutrient

degradation in feeding stuffs. The temperature in the storage area should be kept as low as

possible to prevent spoilage.

Air circulation: Proper air circulation is necessary to maintain the quality of feeding stuffs during

storage. Inadequate air circulation can lead to mold growth, whereas too much airflow can cause

the feed to dry out and become dusty.

Pests: Pests such as rodents, insects, and birds can contaminate and destroy feeding stuffs. The

storage area should be designed to prevent pest access, and appropriate pest control measures

should be employed.

Handling: Rough handling of feeding stuffs can cause physical damage and reduce feed quality.

Proper handling techniques should be employed to avoid damage to the feed during storage and

transportation.

Storage duration: The length of time that feeding stuffs are stored can affect their quality.

Feeding stuffs that are stored for extended periods may lose their nutritional value and

palatability, becoming unattractive to animals.

Type of feed: Different types of feeding stuffs have different storage requirements. For example,

roughages such as hay and silage need to be stored in dry and well-ventilated areas, while

concentrates such as grains and protein sources should be stored in airtight containers to prevent

exposure to moisture and pests.

Nigeria grasses and legumes are sources of animal ration. Explain precisely the chemistry

and nutritive value of five grasses and 5 legumes

Here are the chemistry and nutritive values of five grasses and five legumes commonly used as

animal feed in Nigeria:

Grasses:

Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum):

Elephant grass is a high-yielding, tropical forage crop used for pasture and hay production. It has

a crude protein content of 7-13% and a fiber content of 25-40%. It is rich in minerals such as

calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Guinea grass (Panicum maximum):

Guinea grass is a fast-growing tropical grass that is widely used for pasture and hay production.

It has a crude protein content of 8-16% and a fiber content of 35-55%. It is rich in minerals such

as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana):

Rhodes grass is a drought-tolerant, tropical grass used for pasture and hay production. It has a

crude protein content of 8-14% and a fiber content of 28-40%. It is rich in minerals such as

calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Digit grass (Digitaria eriantha):

Digit grass is a fast-growing, tropical grass used for pasture and hay production. It has a crude

protein content of 10-15% and a fiber content of 30-40%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium,

phosphorus, and potassium.

Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum):

Napier grass is a tropical grass used for pasture and hay production. It has a crude protein content

of 7-13% and a fiber content of 25-40%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and

potassium.

Legumes:

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata):

Cowpea is a legume crop commonly used for animal feed in Nigeria. It has a crude protein

content of 20-25% and a fiber content of 25-35%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium,

phosphorus, and iron.

Lablab (Lablab purpureus):

Lablab is a tropical legume crop used for pasture and hay production. It has a crude protein

content of 20-30% and a fiber content of 25-40%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium,

phosphorus, and potassium.

Groundnut haulms (Arachis hypogaea):

Groundnut haulms are a byproduct of groundnut production commonly used as animal feed.

They have a crude protein content of 15-25% and a fiber content of 25-35%. They are rich in

minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Soybean (Glycine max):

Soybean is a legume crop used for animal feed in Nigeria. It has a crude protein content of 35-

45% and a fiber content of 5-10%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and

potassium.

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan):

Pigeon pea is a tropical legume crop used for pasture and hay production. It has a crude protein

content of 18-25% and a fiber content of 25-40%. It is rich in minerals such as calcium,

phosphorus, and potassium.

What are the nutritional disorder associated with these grasses and legumes

Here are some nutritional disorders associated with the grasses and legumes mentioned earlier:

Grass tetany:

This is a metabolic disorder that affects ruminant animals such as cattle and sheep, and is caused

by a deficiency of magnesium in the diet. It is more commonly seen in animals grazing on

pastures containing large amounts of fast-growing, high potassium grasses such as Napier grass

and Guinea grass.

Bloat:

Bloat is a condition that affects ruminant animals such as cattle, and is caused by an

accumulation of gas in the rumen. It can be caused by feeding legumes such as clover or alfalfa,

which can be high in protein and difficult to digest.

Nitrate poisoning:

This is a condition that affects ruminant animals such as cattle and sheep, and is caused by the

consumption of plants that contain high levels of nitrates, which can be converted to toxic nitrites

in the animal’s body. This can occur when animals are fed grasses or legumes that have been

fertilized heavily with nitrogen.

Lathyrism:

This is a neurological disorder that can affect both humans and animals, and is caused by the

consumption of legumes such as grass pea (Lathyrus sativus) that contain a neurotoxin called

beta-oxalylaminoalanine (BOAA). This disorder is more commonly seen in areas where grass

pea is a staple food for humans and animals.

Phytoestrogen toxicity:

Some legumes, such as soybeans, contain compounds called phytoestrogens that can mimic the

effects of estrogen in the body. In high doses, these compounds can cause reproductive problems

in animals, particularly in male animals. However, the risk of phytoestrogen toxicity is generally

low, and soybean meal is a commonly used ingredient in animal feed

Cassava root incorporation into animal feeds is limited, discuss the nutritive value and

limitations of cassava root inclusion in animal feed

Cassava is a starchy root crop that is commonly grown and consumed in many tropical countries.

It has been used as a feed ingredient for livestock in some parts of the world, but its use is

limited due to its low protein content and the presence of anti-nutritional factors.

Nutritive Value of Cassava Root:

Cassava root is a good source of energy, as it contains high levels of starch. It also contains some

vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, thiamin, and potassium. However, the protein

content of cassava root is relatively low, which limits its use as a sole source of protein in animal

feed.

Limitations of Cassava Root Inclusion in Animal Feed:

Anti-nutritional factors: Cassava contains a number of anti-nutritional factors, including

cyanogenic glycosides, tannins, and phytates, which can reduce the availability of nutrients in the

feed and have toxic effects on the animal. Cyanogenic glycosides are particularly problematic, as

they can release cyanide when ingested by the animal, which can be lethal in high doses.

Low protein content: As mentioned earlier, cassava root has a relatively low protein content,

which limits its use as a sole source of protein in animal feed.

Limited amino acid profile: Cassava root protein has a limited amino acid profile, particularly in

terms of lysine and methionine, which are essential amino acids for many species of livestock.
This can make it difficult to meet the animal’s protein requirements if cassava is used as a major

component of the diet.

Digestibility issues: Cassava root has a high fiber content, which can make it difficult for the

animal to digest. This can lead to reduced feed intake, poor growth rates, and digestive disorders.

How can these limitations be corrected

The limitations of cassava root inclusion in animal feed can be corrected through various

methods. Here are some possible solutions:

Processing: Cassava root can be processed to reduce the levels of anti-nutritional factors, such as

cyanogenic glycosides. This can be done through various methods, such as soaking, boiling, or

fermentation. For example, soaking cassava root in water for several days can reduce the levels

of cyanogenic glycosides, while fermenting it can improve its digestibility and nutrient

availability.

Supplementation: Since cassava root is low in protein and certain amino acids, it can be

supplemented with other feed ingredients that are high in these nutrients. For example, soybean

meal or fish meal can be added to the diet to increase the protein content and improve the amino

acid profile.
Mixing: Cassava root can be mixed with other feed ingredients to improve the overall nutrient

profile and digestibility of the diet. For example, mixing cassava root with corn or other grains

can provide a more balanced source of energy and reduce the fiber content of the diet.

Genetic improvement: There are ongoing efforts to develop cassava varieties that have improved

nutritional value and reduced levels of anti-nutritional factors. This can be achieved through

breeding programs or genetic engineering.

Right short note on the following: Maize protein, groundnut cake, aspergillus flavus, oil

seeds and their cakes, grinding, balance crude protein level

Maize protein: Maize, also known as corn, is a cereal grain that is commonly used as a feed

ingredient for livestock. While maize is primarily a source of energy, it also contains a moderate

amount of protein. However, the protein quality of maize is relatively poor, as it is deficient in

certain essential amino acids, particularly lysine and tryptophan. Therefore, maize protein should

be supplemented with other feed ingredients that are high in these amino acids, such as soybean

meal or fish meal, to balance the amino acid profile of the diet.

Groundnut cake: Groundnut cake, also known as peanut cake or peanut meal, is a by-product of

the oil extraction process from groundnuts. It is a good source of protein, with a typical crude

protein content of around 45-50%. However, groundnut cake also contains anti-nutritional

factors, such as tannins and aflatoxins, which can reduce its nutritional value and have toxic
effects on the animal. Therefore, groundnut cake should be processed or heat-treated to reduce

the levels of these anti-nutritional factors before being used as a feed ingredient.

Aspergillus flavus: Aspergillus flavus is a fungus that can infect certain crops, such as maize and

groundnuts, and produce aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds

that can have serious health effects on both humans and animals. Therefore, it is important to

monitor crops for Aspergillus flavus infection and take measures to prevent contamination, such

as proper storage and processing techniques.

Oil seeds and their cakes: Oil seeds, such as soybeans, can be processed to produce oil and a by-

product called oilseed cake or meal. These cakes are a good source of protein, with a typical

crude protein content of around 40-50%. However, like groundnut cake, oilseed cakes also

contain anti-nutritional factors, such as tannins and trypsin inhibitors, which can reduce their

nutritional value and affect animal performance. Therefore, oilseed cakes should be processed or

heat-treated to reduce the levels of these anti-nutritional factors before being used as a feed

ingredient.

Grinding: Grinding is a mechanical process used to reduce the particle size of feed ingredients.

This can improve their digestibility and nutrient availability, as well as facilitate mixing and

handling. However, excessive grinding can lead to increased dustiness and reduced feed intake,

particularly in young or stressed animals. Therefore, it is important to balance the degree of

grinding with the nutritional requirements and physiological characteristics of the animal.
Balanced crude protein level: Balancing the crude protein level of animal feed is important to

meet the animal’s protein requirements and optimize performance. However, excessive protein

intake can have negative effects on animal health and the environment, as it can lead to increased

nitrogen excretion and pollution. Therefore, it is important to balance the crude protein level of

animal feed with other nutrients, such as energy, minerals, and vitamins, and to use high-quality

protein sources that are digestible and have a balanced amino acid profile.