Authors : A.H. Akinmutimi , V.U. Odoemelam and S.F. Obasienkong
Abstract: The effect of replacing maize with ripe plantain peels and yam peels in the diets of weaner rabbits were investigated using 15 weaner rabbits. There were five treatment diets in all designated T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 with plantain peel and yam peel meal replacing maize meal as energy source at 0, 25, 50, 75, 100% levels, respectively. The diets were fed to the rabbits in a completely randomized design. This experiment lasted 56 days. Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain and were used to calculate other growth performance parameter. At the end of the trials two animals were selected from each treatment, slaughtered and were used to evaluate the carcass characteristics. The cost effectiveness of the diets was also evaluated. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant means were separated using Duncan�s multiple range test. There was significant (p<0.05) difference for the values obtained for total feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cost per kg weight gain. Diet 3 had favourable weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, moderate cost per kg weight gain. Based on this, diet 3 is recommended. For organ weight there were significant differences (p<0.05) in all parameters measured except the heart. Diet 2 compared more favourably with control diet. This was followed by diet 3. For cut-parts, there were significant differences (p<0.05) in all the parameters measured except for back-cut. Diet 4 compared more favourably with control diet, this is followed by diet 3. From the above results, considering average values of growth performance, gross margin, organ weight and cut-parts, diet 3 compared favourably with the control diet and hence recommended.
A.H. Akinmutimi , V.U. Odoemelam and S.F. Obasienkong , 2006. Effect of Replacing Maize with Ripe Plantain and Yam Peels in the Diet of Weaner Rabbits. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 5: 737-740.