Journal of World’s Poultry Science

Journal of World’s Poultry Science (JWPS) is an international peer-reviewed open-access journal that publishes original research reports, case reports, and reviews on poultry diets and nutrition. The JWPS is currently dedicated to bimonthly publishing articles in the subject areas of the poultry industry, husbandry and management, environment and welfare, exotic and wild birds, biochemistry and cellular biology, layer and quail management, nutrition and feeding, physiology, genetics, reproduction and hatching, technology, processing and food safety, behavior, environment and welfare, pharmacology, hematology, oncology, molecular biology, zoonoses diseases, diet formula, performance, carcass traits, survival, and probiotics. There is no Article Processing Charge (APC) in this journal.

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Avian haemoparasites pose significant threats to poultry health and productivity. While microscopy is traditionally used for parasite identification, molecular methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of haemoparasites in poultry species in Ibadan, Nigeria, and to compare the diagnostic performance of microscopy and nested PCR for detection and identification.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v5i1.102

[jwpseditor]

Avian haemoparasites pose significant threats to poultry health and productivity. While microscopy is traditionally used for parasite identification, molecular methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of haemoparasites in poultry species in Ibadan, Nigeria, and to compare the diagnostic performance of microscopy and nested PCR for detection and identification.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v5i1.102

[jwpseditor]

Herbal feed additives in broiler chickens revealed their effects on growth performance and potential as an antibiotic alternative. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of cold aqueous Jatropha tanjorensis (J. tanjorensis) leaf extract on nutrient digestibility and lipid profile in broiler chickens reared in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria.

Materials and methods: A total of 150 male Anak 2000, one-day-old broiler chickens, weighing 37 grams, were assigned to five treatments in a completely randomized design, with three replicates of ten chickens in each replicate. All chickens were provided with basal starter and finisher diets for eight weeks. The control group (T1) received Doxygen at a dosage of 150 g/200 L of water. The second group (T2) was administered 25 mL of cold aqueous leaf extract of J. tanjorensis (CALEJ) in 100 L of drinking water, while the third group (T3) received 50 mL of CALEJ/100 L of drinking water. The fourth group (T4) was given 75 mL of CALEJ/100 L of water, and the fifth group (T5) received 100 mL of CALEJ/100 L of water. Daily fecal samples were pooled and analyzed for apparent digestibility, while fresh blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment and analyzed for lipid profile. The present study lasted for 10 weeks.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v4i4.89

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https://www.instagram.com/p/DVLGcsxE4Gs/?igsh=cDY0ZjRuMGJyb24w

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Family and small-scale poultry farms play important roles in livelihoods in Nigeria. Optimizing phase-feeding transitions could prevent growth loss or unnecessary feed expenses, enhance growth performance, reduce costs, and improve overall profitability. The present study aimed to identify the most effective timing of phase-feeding by evaluating key growth performance indicators alongside economic returns in broiler chickens.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v4i4.97

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https://www.instagram.com/p/DUzxYAIjagu/?igsh=ZTk1M21mcGZkampj

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Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed meal is rich in bioactive phytochemicals that can enhance growth and health. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of graded dietary levels of fenugreek seed meal on growth performance, carcass traits, haematology parameters, lipid profile, liver function, and thyroid hormones in broiler chickens.

Materials and methods: A total of 256 day-old broiler chickens were divided into four dietary treatments, replicated four times with 16 chickens per replicate. The groups included the control diet (T1), diet containing 100 g/kg of fenugreek seed meal (T2), 200 g/kg of fenugreek seed meal (T3), and 300 g/kg of fenugreek seed meal (T4). The study lasted 49 days, and at the end of the study, growth performance, carcass traits, and haematological parameters were measured. Serum lipid profile, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), were analysed. Thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v4i4.88

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https://www.instagram.com/p/DUceC6yDIPv/?igsh=bnF4aGJoOWNwMDdr

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The use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal husbandry has been banned due to concerns that antibiotic residues can accumulate in animal tissues and lead to bacterial resistance. The present study aimed to explore the effects of varying amounts of Cyperus alternifolius (C. alternifolius) rhizome powder on feed digestibility, growth performance, intestinal microbial flora, hemato-biochemical parameters, and immune responses in broiler chickens as an alternative to antibiotics.

Available at:https://doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v4i4.92

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Wishing everyone a Happy New Year as we welcome a new beginning and a promising year ahead.

[jwpseditor]

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed meal is rich in bioactive phytochemicals that can enhance growth and health. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of graded dietary levels of fenugreek seed meal on growth performance, carcass traits, haematology parameters, lipid profile, liver function, and thyroid hormones in broiler chickens.

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/88

#google_scholar #poultry #peer_review #writing #article #open_access #pkp #lockss #google_scholar

https://www.instagram.com/p/DSU5mTCDcQU/?igsh=MTRocGt2MmxiZzV4bw==

[jwpseditor]

Herbal feed additives in broiler chickens revealed their effects on growth performance and potential as an antibiotic alternative. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of cold aqueous Jatropha tanjorensis (J. tanjorensis) leaf extract on nutrient digestibility and lipid profile in broiler chickens reared in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria.

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/89l

#google_scholar #poultry #peer_review #writing #article #open_access #pkp #lockss #google_scholar

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The remarkable growth performance of modern broiler chickens, particularly commercial breeds such as Ross 308 and Cobb 500, has been achieved through decades of intensive genetic selection in countries such as the United States and China. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this enhanced growth phenotype remain incompletely understood. The present study aimed to evaluate genomic analysis of the LCORL-NCAPG locus in broiler chickens, Ross 308 and Cobb 500, to identify genetic variants, characterize regulatory elements, and investigate potential interactions with the Myostatin (MSTN) pathway.

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/87

https://www.instagram.com/p/DPVs4bRjTTn/?igsh=OGc1YzBxMnBtc2J4

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Performance characteristics, carcass yields, organ proportions, and economic aspects of production are statistical indicators that can be utilized to assess the protein and amino acid ratios responsible for reducing ammonia emissions in turkey waste, while simultaneously optimizing yield outcomes at the lowest feasible costs. The present study aimed to accurately identify the optimal combination of crude protein (CP) and amino acids to enhance performance and carcass yield, reduce production costs, and minimize ammonia excretion.

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/78

https://www.instagram.com/p/DPDl0wOjQPx/?igsh=dmFyc3V0eXk0ZHJt

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Introduction: The Australorp chicken, known for its exceptional egg production and adaptability, is a valuable genetic resource for the poultry industry. However, the molecular basis underlying their distinctive traits remains poorly understood. The present study aimed to identify novel genes and genetic variants associated with key production traits in Australorp chickens by performing a comprehensive comparative genomic analysis combined with an in silico genome-wide association study (GWAS).

Materials and methods: Whole-genome sequencing data from 12 Australorp chickens were compared with data from four other breeds, including ten Rhode Island Red, eight Leghorn, ten Plymouth Rock, and six Red Jungle Fowl. Quality control and preprocessing were applied to ensure high-quality genomic data for downstream analyses. Comparative genomic analysis revealed several breed-specific genetic variants in Australorp chickens, affecting 50 genes functionally involved in metabolic and reproductive pathways, and 30 genes with reduced or altered functional annotations compared to other breeds. Principal component analysis revealed clear genetic differentiation among Australorp chickens, confirming their distinct genetic structure.

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/80

https://www.instagram.com/p/DOsSqxmDV7z/?igsh=cDAzYnYyMTAwbGs=

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Poultry layer breeds have undergone extensive selection for egg production traits, yet the genetic basis of many economically important characteristics remains incompletely understood. In the present study, a comprehensive comparative genomic analysis of multiple commercial and indigenous poultry layer breeds was conducted to identify novel genes associated with egg production and disease resistance, such as viral and bacterial infections, particularly through innate immune pathways.

Materials and methods: A comprehensive comparative genomic analysis was conducted using whole-genome sequencing data from 135 individuals, including 30 commercial layers (White leghorn and Rhode Island red), 90 indigenous chickens from six local breeds, and 15 red jungle fowl representing the ancestral population. Using fixation index scans, haplotype-based selection analysis, and Tajima’s D, genomic regions under positive selection were identified. By integrating gene prediction tools and protein function analysis, 12 novel genes in layer breeds with strong selection signals and potential roles in egg production and immune response were identified.

Results: In silico functional analysis, utilizing protein domain annotation, structural modeling, and pathway enrichment, suggested that these novel genes are involved in eggshell formation, egg production, immune response, and metabolic regulation. Notably, GALLUS-NOVEL-3, a previously uncharacterized gene with high predicted oviduct expression and strong selection signatures in commercial layers, may play a role in calcium transport and eggshell mineralization. Protein structure prediction and domain analysis further supported the potential functionality of these novel genes, revealing conserved features linked to reproductive physiology and immune defense.       

Conclusion: The present findings provided new insight into the genetic basis of economically important traits in layer chickens and highlight promising targets for breeding programs aimed at improving egg production and disease resistance. https://www.instagram.com/p/DOQgWgAjcV0/?igsh=cHUyZ2RhajFjNmZo

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Maize serves as a primary energy source in poultry diets; however, rising human demands are reducing its sustainable usage, which has led to the search for more affordable alternatives such as cassava root meal. The present study evaluated key performance indicators, including feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), dressing percentage, and carcass traits, in broiler chickens fed a diet of rumen filtrate-fermented cassava meal.

Materials and methods: A total of 96 Ross 306 one-day-old broiler chickens of mixed sex, and an average weight of 45 ± 5 g, were fed in a 42-day experimental trial at the Tatoon farm of Egerton University, Nakuru, Kenya. The chickens were fed four diets with different inclusion levels of rumen-filtrate-fermented cassava root meal (RFFCM) as a replacement for maize. The control diet contained 0% RFFCM (T1), T2 contained 15% RFFCM, T3 contained 30% RFFCM, and T4 contained 45% RFFCM. Data on daily feed intake and weekly BWG were recorded during the experimental duration. At the end of the study, during the growing phase, data on live weight, carcass weight, and weights of the breast, thigh, wing, and dorsum were determined.

Results: The current findings revealed that a high inclusion of RFFCM significantly reduced feed intake without substantially altering the FCR, BWG, and average daily weight gain of the chickens per treatment compared to the control group. The present findings indicated a similarity in nutrient utilization and performance among broilers fed on the four treatments. Broilers fed on diets with 45% RFFCM inclusion exhibited the highest mean live weight (2151.75 g) and carcass weight (1524.75 g), with higher thigh and breast weights compared to the control group.

Conclusion: These findings indicated that RFFCM can be included in broiler diets up to 45% without detrimental effects on BWG, FCR, dressing percentage, and quality of the chicken carcass.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DOA6alJDnuD/?igsh=Nmd2bDdicmg0anJi

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Petrochemical pollution from oil spills, gas flaring, and effluents containing heavy metals is prevalent in the oil-producing regions of Delta State, Nigeria, posing systemic health risks to humans and animals. The present study assessed the effects of crude oil exploration on laying chickens across 21 poultry farms in seven zones of Delta State, Nigeria.                                                                                                                                                  

Materials and methods: Blood, egg, and tissue samples (liver and kidney) from 105 layers, comprising 15 chickens from each zone (Aniocha, Ijaw, Ika, Isoko, Itsekiri, Ukwani, and Urhobo), were analyzed for hematological, biochemical, and histological parameters.

Results: The current findings revealed that packed cell volume (PCV) was significantly higher in Urhobo (45.56%) and Ijaw (39.22%) compared to the normal range of PCV. Hemoglobin levels ranged from 12.77 g/dL (Aniocha) to 15.46 g/dL (Ijaw), while white blood cell counts varied from 6.37 µL (Aniocha) to 8.40 µL (Urhobo). Red blood cell counts were significantly lower than the normal range from 4.01 µL (Isoko) to 5.10 µL (Urhobo). Serum albumin levels peaked in Urhobo (5.27 g/dL), whereas lower values were observed in Isoko and Ijaw farms. Alanine aminotransferase was elevated in Urhobo (43.83 IU/L), Itsekiri (38.72 IU/L), and Ukwani (44.51 IU/L), exceeding physiological norms. Cadmium concentrations exceeded permissible limits across all zones, with the highest level in Urhobo (21.032 ppm). The current findings highlighted the presence of environmental toxicity associated with oil-related pollution, signifying disruptions in blood chemistry, egg quality, and organ function in poultry.                                                                                                             

Available at:https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/70

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Carcass yield and meat cuts are traits of meat quality that determine consumers’ preferences. The present study investigated the effects of feeding ash-treated African locust bean hull meal partially replacing palm kernel meal on broiler chicken carcass and gut organs. 

Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty Arbor Acre broiler chickens were randomly distributed on an equal weight basis into three groups of 40 broilers each, and each group was replicated four times with 10 chickens per replicate in a completely randomized design.  Each group was assigned to three experimental diets in which Ash-treated African locust bean pulp replaced palm kernel cake at 0 % (T1, Control), 25% (T2), and 50% (T3). At the end of the feeding trial, which lasted for 42 days, a chicken each was randomly selected per replicate per treatment group (twelve in total), and final live weight, final feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were measured before slaughtering.

Available at :https://jwps.rovedar.com/index.php/JWPS/article/view/64

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKo4bMRoKlE/?igsh=MXYxd2NqaDF2N2QwYQ==

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Pitalah ducks are one of Indonesia's local genetic resources that can be utilized to develop quality livestock products. The present study aimed to identify the diversity of the Myostatin gene (MSTN|HaeIII) exon-3 in Pitalah ducks, a local duck breed from West Sumatra, Indonesia.

Materials and methods: The present study utilized 40 samples of DNA from the blood of Pitalah ducks (11 males and 29 females, with an average body weight of 1,450 g and an average age of 12 months) that were intensively reared at the Andalas University animal husbandry unit in Indonesia. The DNA from blood samples was isolated using the genomic DNA Extraction Kit. The Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was used as the method. The isolated DNA was then amplified using a primer that produced a 438 bp fragment of the MSTN gene. The amplification product was restricted using the HaeIII enzyme, which recognizes the cutting site at GG↓CC.

Results: Based on the findings of 40 samples, 65% of homozygous truncated genotypes (+/+), 35% heterozygous genotypes (+/-), and no homozygous untruncated genotypes (-/-) were found. Based on the current results, two genotypes were identified. The current findings indicated genetic diversity, as the frequency of each allele exceeds 1%. The allele frequency (+) was 0.825, the allele (-) was 0.175, and the observed heterozygosity was greater than the expected heterozygosity.

Conclusion: The allele frequency of the MSTN|HaeIII exon-3 gene in Pitalah ducks is polymorphic (diverse) within the Pitalah duck population. Genotype frequencies of the MSTN|HaeIII exon-3 gene are in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. https://www.instagram.com/p/DJybX3xIvnb/?igsh=bXl0cDI2cmlqdnJn