Loading...
Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur
The history of agricultural education in Kerala can be traced back to the year 1896 when a scheme was evolved in the erstwhile Travancore State to train a few young men in scientific agriculture at the Demonstration Farm, Karamana, Thiruvananthapuram, presently, the Cropping Systems Research Centre under Kerala Agricultural University. Agriculture was introduced as an optional subject in the middle school classes in the State in 1922 when an Agricultural Middle School was started at Aluva, Ernakulam District. The popularity and usefulness of this school led to the starting of similar institutions at Kottarakkara and Konni in 1928 and 1931 respectively.
Agriculture was later introduced as an optional subject for Intermediate Course in 1953. In 1955, the erstwhile Government of Travancore-Cochin started the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Mannuthy, Thrissur for imparting higher education in agricultural and veterinary sciences, respectively. These institutions were brought under the direct administrative control of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Animal Husbandry, respectively. With the formation of Kerala State in 1956, these two colleges were affiliated to the University of Kerala. The post-graduate programmes leading to M.Sc. (Ag), M.V.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees were started in 1961, 1962 and 1965 respectively.
On the recommendation of the Second National Education Commission (1964-66) headed by Dr. D.S. Kothari, the then Chairman of the University Grants Commission, one Agricultural University in each State was established. The State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) were established in India as an integral part of the National Agricultural Research System to give the much needed impetus to Agriculture Education and Research in the Country. As a result the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) was established on 24th February 1971 by virtue of the Act 33 of 1971 and started functioning on 1st February 1972. The Kerala Agricultural University is the 15th in the series of the SAUs.
In accordance with the provisions of KAU Act of 1971, the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, were brought under the Kerala Agricultural University. In addition, twenty one agricultural and animal husbandry research stations were also transferred to the KAU for taking up research and extension programmes on various crops, animals, birds, etc.
During 2011, Kerala Agricultural University was trifurcated into Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and Kerala Agricultural University (KAU).
Now the University has seven colleges (four Agriculture, one Agricultural Engineering, one Forestry, one Co-operation Banking & Management), six RARSs, seven KVKs, 15 Research Stations and 16 Research and Extension Units under the faculties of Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering and Forestry. In addition, one Academy on Climate Change Adaptation and one Institute of Agricultural Technology offering M.Sc. (Integrated) Climate Change Adaptation and Diploma in Agricultural Sciences respectively are also functioning in Kerala Agricultural University.
Browse
9 results
Search Results
ThesisItem Open Access Shelf life of irradiated rabbit meat underaerobic and vacuum packaging(Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2009) Sonika, S; KAU; Kuttinarayanan, PPrevention of Food Adulteration Act (1954) as amended in 1998 has permitted irradiation at a dose rate of 2.5 to 4.5 kGy to control pathogenic microorganisms and to extend the shelf life of meat and meat products including poultry products. A study was conducted to evaluate the shelf life of irradiated rabbit meat under aerobic and vacuum packaging. The rabbit meat was prepared by slaughtering locally purchased rabbits under hygienic conditions and was packed in HDPE and PAPE packages at a rate of 120 g each. Half of the packets of aerobic and vacuum packaged samples were subjected to gamma radiation at 2.5 kGy at melting ice temperature and kept immediately at chiller temperature (1 to 4oC) and domestic refrigerator freezer (-6 to -8oC). Samples were analyzed for physical, physicochemical, microbiological, and organoleptic qualities on the day of preparation and on days 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, 60, and 70 of storage or until spoilage, whichever was earlier. The samples were also analyzed for proximate composition on the day of preparation. The dressing percentage of the rabbits subjected to the study was 49.35 per cent. The keeping quality of the rabbit meat was 15 to 18, 17 to 19, 5 to 7 and 7 to 9 days in HDPE IR, PAPE IR, HDPE NR and PAPE NR respectively at chiller temperature. In freezer temperature it was significantly (P < 0.05) increased to 45 to 47, 47 to 49, 25 to 27 and 27 to 29 days in HDPE IR, PAPE IR, HDPE NR and PAPE NR respectively. Irradiation or packaging did not significantly (P < 0.05) affect fat, protein and ash composition but higher moisture percentage was observed in irradiated samples. Swelling of the collagen fibres was noticed in irradiated samples on histological examination. The physicochemical parameter, pH of irradiated and non-irradiated samples varied significantly (P < 0.05) on the day of preparation. On storage the pH values decreased uniformly. The WHC was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in irradiated samples. The ability of the rabbit meat to retain its water decreased gradually on storage and a reduction of about 40 per cent could be noticed from the initial level. Drip loss was not significantly (P < 0.05) different on the day of preparation. Irradiation had a significant (P < 0.05) effect in enhancing the cooking loss whereas packaging had little effect. Both drip loss and cooking loss was increased significantly (P < 0.05) due to storage under chiller and freezer temperature. Irradiation had a significant (P < 0.05) role in increasing the TBARS value of rabbit meat. As the days of storage enhanced, the TBARS values were increased. Irradiation had a significant (P < 0.05) effect in reducing the TV in both type of packaging. As storage period enhanced, TV increased with significant (P < 0.05) changes among treatments. Irradiation had a beneficial effect on microbiological qualities of rabbit meat. There was a significant (P < 0.05) reduction of nearly three log in APC of irradiated meat from that of control. The irradiation of the samples both in HDPE and PAPE packaging significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the PC of meat on the day of preparation where as storage had significant (P < 0.05) effect in enhancing the microbial load of meat. The colour score was non-significantly (P < 0.05) higher in irradiated samples. The juiciness, tenderness and overall acceptability scores were improved significantly (P < 0.05) due to irradiation, where as flavour score was reduced. The sensory attributes were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced due to storage in all the treatment groups. The keeping quality of rabbit meat was significantly (P < 0.05) increased by irradiation both in chiller and freezer under different packaging. In addition irradiation could effectively control food borne illness by destroying the major pathogenic organism without affecting the sensory and nutritional quality of the product. Considering these advantages it can be recommended that packaging the meat in PAPE packages followed by low dose gamma irradiation and maintaining the cold-chain contribute to extended storage life of rabbit meat.ThesisItem Open Access Village level livestock and poultry production under the industrialization scenario(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2007) Rajaganapathy, V; KAU; Francis, XavierAn in depth assessment and analysis of two villages, one an industrial area and the other an agrarian hamlet, was taken up. The effect of industrialization and pollution in village level livestock and poultry production and toxic heavy metals content as an indicator of pollution in water, soil, fodder and in biological samples were studied. Based on the observation and scientific validations, changes in livestock farming system and methodologies to alleviate the extent of pollution were sorted out. This study was conducted in Plachimada village - industrial area - in Perumatty Panchayat and in Nallepilly village- control area in Nallepilly Panchayat in Chittoor taluk in Palakkad district. A detailed survey of the existing husbandry systems was done in the selected study area using a schedule. Collection of samples of water, soil, fodder and biological samples milk, meat, egg, blood and dung samples were collected and examined from both industrial and control area. The samples were analyzed for presence of heavy metals like copper, cadmium, lead and arsenic by using Atomic absorption spectrophotometer. A detailed survey was done among fifty farmers from the Plachimada (industrial area) and Nallepilly (control area) villages respectively. The farmers were interviewed with a schedule and the data was obtained. The socio-economic status of the farmers indicated that the middle aged persons were more involved in the agricultural and animal husbandry activities. Most of the farmers had an average monthly income per family of Rs. 2000 in the study area. Cultivation of crops and plantations were less in both industrial and control area. The study revealed that majority of the farmers possessed dairy cattle with major source of income from livestock farming in both these study areas. Economic viability of rearing cattle was better in control area than that of industrial area. Most of the farmers surveyed stayed very near to the industry in the industrial zone. The study revealed that nearness of the industry to the grazing lands may be affecting their livestock farming system. The presence of heavy metals cadmium and lead in drinking water and soil samples of industrial area was more than that of the control zone and the WHO (1995) recommendations. The presence of copper and cadmium in meat samples was higher whereas cadmium and lead in blood samples of the industrial area was found more than that of the control zone and the permitted levels as per the WHO recommendations. The level of copper, cadmium and lead in fodder, milk, egg and dung samples of the industrial area was found more than that of the control zone and the permitted levels as per the WHO recommendations. This study aimed also to find out the relationship between water, soil, plant and animal system. Correlation of fodder and blood heavy metals with other biological samples was done in industrial area. Fodder lead showed a highly significant correlation with milk lead content. Correlation between fodder arsenic and milk arsenic concentration was also significant. Correlation between fodder cadmium with blood cadmium was significant. Correlation was observed between fodder lead with dung lead values. Correlation existed between blood copper with dung copper at a significant level. Similarly correlation of fodder and blood heavy metals with other biological samples was done in control area also. Blood and fodder cadmium was significant and positively correlated. Correlation of fodder lead with milk and dung lead were significant. Fodder arsenic and milk arsenic were significantly correlated. In blood the copper content of milk and dung showed a positive significant correlation. The heavy metals lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury from industrial pollution are of high environmental concern due to their toxicity even at low concentrations. These metals may persist in the system for several days due to cumulative nature and may cause severe health effects in man and animals. Bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals, especially lead, cadmium and arsenic in milk, meat and in egg have evoked great concern during the recent years. Heavy metals contaminants may enter the animal system through pollution of air, water, soil, feed polluted by industrial sources. From the present study it was found that the industrial area had contaminated water, soil, and fodder under observation. The heavy metal contamination was from copper, cadmium and lead whereas arsenic was almost within the permissible limits. The biological samples milk, meat, egg, blood and dung collected from the industrial zone were also contaminated with copper, cadmium and lead when compared with the control area samples. The level of heavy metals in the biological samples of industrial area was above the WHO permissible limits. Arsenic was present within the maximum permissible level in all the biological samples. It is also concluded that industrialization may add pollutants to the area thereby causing an indirect effect on livestock production systems and in turn to the human beings. The following recommendations may be suggested. 1. Monitoring the level of pollution in water, soil, plants and fodder crops, animals and in man in industrial zones at regular intervals. 2. Treatment of waste water and other discharges/effluents from industries with implementation of strict rules and regulations 3. Safe disposal of the discharges, effluents and waste materials from the industries and factories. Efficient waste management to be adopted. 4. To create awareness among farming community to adopt better management practices. 5. Encouragement of organic farming. 6. Recommendation of rearing indigenous animals and adoption of Mixed farming - system to improve economic status of farmers. 7. Phytoremediation may be done to decontaminate soil and water to reduce the soil heavy metal content. 8. Identify and growing of trees/ plants to reduce the level of toxic elements from the industrial zones.ThesisItem Open Access Reliability of united score card for crossbred dairy cows of Kerala(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2010) Dhanya, K; KAU; Anil, K SThe research work was conducted to assess the reliability of Unified score card for cross bred cows of Kerala. One hundred and ninety six animals of University cattle farms of Mannuthy, Thumbunnuzhi and Thiruvazhamkunnu were selected for the study. As per the Unified score card by Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, the animals were judged for frame, dairy character, body capacity, feet• and legs and udder. The type components were again subdivided as described in the scorecard to improve the accuracy of judging score. The body measurements of individual animals like height at withers, body length, chest girth, height at withers, height at pins, length of quarter, width between angles of hook and slope of rump were taken. The animals were categorized into four age groups, four parities and three stages of lactation. The emphasis of each of the components of unified score card to milk production was compared and statistical analysis was carried out as per methods suggested by Snedcor and Cochran (1994). Effects of age, stage of lactation and parity on judging using Unified Score Card were worked out. The body measurements were also correlated with the score and milk yield. Age, parity and stage of lactation were found to be nonsignificant for final score. The scores of frame, dairy character and udder for different age groups showed no significant difference, whereas, scores of body capacity and feet and legs differed significantly. The scores of dairy character and body capacity differed significantly with parity. No significant difference was shown for scores of frame, feet and legs and udder. Frame was found to be positively correlated with other components, the least being with udder (r=0.127) and highest with feet and legs (r =0.254) which was highly significant (p<0.01). Dairy character was significantly correlated with body capacity (r=0.169) and feet and legs(r=0.2S4) in addition to frame. Feet and legs was the only component to which udder showed positive significant correlation (pAge was found to be not significant for lactation yield (P~O.OS). The means of lactation yield differed significantly for different parities. All the type components were found to be positively correlated with lactation yield, all being significant. The standardized partial regression coefficients were highly significant for dairy character, udder. and body capacity whereas non significant regression coefficients were obtained for frame and feet and legs. Udder depth was having the highest regression coefficient (~=0.312) which was highly significant (p<0.01). Regression coefficients were significant and positive for skin (0.229), withers (0.188), ribs (0.174) and thighs (0.162). Both age and parity had significant positive correlation on body weight. Body weight was significantly (p<0.0 1) correlated with lactation yield with r=0.244. Height at withers, length, hip width girth and height at hook showed significant difference with age (p:SO.OS).The height at pins and slope were found to be not affected significantly by age. All the measurements except slope were significant and positive in correlation with body capacity. All height measurements, length and girth was found to be positively correlated with frame (p<0.0 1). Final score was having significant positive correlation with all height measurements (p:SO.OS). It was concluded that although the score card was found to be reliable on the production of crossbred cows of Kerala, the emphasis placed on type components was not in full agreement with what was prescribed by the purebred Dairy Cattle Association Dairy Cow Unified Score Card. Hence it was suggested that more weightage could be given to body capacity and dairy character compromising weightage on frame and feet & legs which necessitated further studies in this regard.ThesisItem Open Access Comparative evaluation of porcine production performance in terminally sired and purebred progenies under different management conditions(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2007) Murugan, M; KAU; Joseph, MathewA study was conducted to evaluate the production performance of terminally sired and purebred progenies under different management conditions. Twenty gilts were selected from Large White Yorkshire and also each combination of Large White Yorkshire x Landrace, Landrace x Desi and Large White Yorkshire x Desi . After attaining maturity, they were bred to terminal sire (Duroc). Large White Yorkshire was maintained as pure line. Litter performance of LWY and three breed combinations viz., D x (LWY x LR), D x (LR x Desi) and D x (LWY x Desi) were comparatively evaluated. Twenty four weaned piglets were selected at random from each genetic combination and they were divided into four groups having six animals in each group. Piglets T1 were fed with concentrate feed and T2, T3 and T4 from each genetic group were fed with left over food from hotels, restaurants, slaughter house waste and waste available from agricultural fields. In addition to this, T3 group were supplemented with inorganic minerals and T4 group were supplemented with organic minerals @ one per cent level on dry matter basis from third month to ten months of age. The crossbreds viz., D x (LWY x Desi) and D x (LR x Desi) had highly significant (P<0.01) difference in litter size at birth, litter weight at birth, birth weight, litter size at weaning, litter weight at weaning and weaning weight compared to LWY and D x (LWY x LR) pigs. There was no significant difference between LWY and D x (LWY x LR) ; D x (LWY x Desi) and D x (LR x Desi) pigs in all these litter traits. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity between farm and field. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in mean rectal temperature, pulse and respiration rate between treatments and genetic groups. Significant difference (P<0.01) were observed between morning and afternoon pulse and respiratory rates irrespective of treatment and genetic groups. At the time of feeding, majority of the pigs in different treatments and genetic groups showed eating greedily with drooling of saliva and ear biting, belly nosing and tail biting very frequently. Quantity of faeces voided had a highly significant (P<0.01) difference between treatment in all four genetic groups. LWY pigs voided significantly lesser quantity of faeces than other genetic groups within the treatment. Frequency of defaecation had no significant difference, between treatments and genetic groups. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the faecal cortisol level between the treatments and genetic groups of pigs. The proximate composition (percentage) of pooled swill feed samples are comparable to farm concentrate except ether extract (24.56; 6.05 and 4.13) which was very higher in swill feed. Total ash content was higher in the farm concentrate (10.91, 10.13; 6.61). Availability of minerals was higher in inorganic form compared to organic form. Mineral assay revealed that chicken waste showed higher levels of minerals followed by hotel waste and vegetable waste. There was no significant difference between genetic groups within the treatment in serum mineral concentration. The feeding system had highly significant (P<0.01) effect on the mineral concentration. It was highest in T4 followed by T3 and T1 and least in T2. It was comparable between T3 and T2. There was no significant difference in monthly body weights (kg), body measurements viz., body length, girth and height (cm), average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake (g) of pigs between concentrate (T1) and swill feeding (T2). T4 significantly (P<0.01) better than other treatment groups. T3 was significantly (P<0.01) better than T2 and T1. Crossbred pigs had significantly (P<0.01) higher monthly body weight, linear body measurements, average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake than LWY pigs within the treatment. Among the three crossbreds there was no significant difference observed in monthly body weight, linear body measurements, average daily gain and average daily feed intake except in concentrate feeding. In concentrate feeding, D x (LWY x Desi) crossbred consumed significantly (P<0.01) less feed than the other crossbred pigs. There was significant (P<0.01) difference in feed efficiency between T1 and T2. No significant difference was observed between T2, T3 and T4. There was no significant difference between LWY and crossbred pigs within the treatment. T4 attained significantly (P<0.01) higher slaughter weight (kg), hot carcass weight (kg) and carcass length (cm) than the other treatment groups. T3 group attained significantly (P<0.01) higher slaughter weight, hot carcass weight and carcass length than the T2 and T1 treatment groups. No significant difference between T1 and T2 was noticed. T1 had significantly (P<0.01) higher dressing percentage than other treatment groups. T1 had significantly (P<0.01) lesser back fat thickness. There was no significant difference between T2, T3 and T4 in dressing percentage and back fat thickness. T2 had significantly (P<0.01) lesser loin eye area and meat-bone ratio than other treatment groups and there was no significant difference between T1 and T3 and T4. Gut weight was significantly (P<0.01) lesser in T1 than other treatment groups. There was no significant difference between T2, T3 and T4. There was significant (P<0.01) difference between LWY and crossbreds in terms of slaughter weight, hot carcass weight, carcass length, back fat thickness and loin eye area, within the treatment. There was no significant difference noticed between dressing percentage, meat-bone ratio and gut weight within the treatment. Cost of production per kg live weight on feed basis was high in T1 followed by T4, T3 and T2. It was inferred that swill feed supplemented with minerals can increase the profit margin provided a cheaper substitute for the organic minerals presently available in the market is absolutely essential for the field fattener pig production. Swill feed was found to be equally effective compared to concentrate feed in promoting growth of the fattener pig production existing under field conditions. Growth performance and carcass characteristics can be improved by supplementation of minerals in the diet of fattener pigs. Crossbred pigs excelled over pure LWY in terms of post weaning growth performance and carcass characteristics under terminally sired pigs. The crossbreds viz., D x (LR x Desi) and D x (LWY x Desi) had better litter performance than D x (LWY x LR) and LWY pigs. Considering both litter performance and post weaning growth performance, the recommendation is that D x (LR x Desi) and D x (LWY x Desi) crossbreds are best suited for the field fattener pig production in the hot-humid climatic conditions.ThesisItem Open Access Waste management system evaluation in commercial dairy farms(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2009) Sany Thomas; KAU; Joseph MathewThe present study on “Waste management system evaluation in commercial dairy farms” was conducted to assess the usefulness of the different waste management methods adopted in dairy farms of Kerala. Study area comprised of Thrissur, Malappuram and Ernakulam districts and adjoining area of central and northern Kerala. Forty five dairy farms were identified and visited in and their profile of the study area .Data regarding general outlay of the farms selected management practices in the farm, livestock details and existing waste management methods in the farms were collected and studied. The dairy farms under study were classified based on the animal holding capacity as those with less than six animals (class 1), 6-20 animals (class 2), 21-50 animals (class 3)and 51-100 animals (class 4), and above 100 animals (class 5). Among the 45 farms under study, four per cent belonged to class 1, forty nine per cent belonged to class 2, thirty five belonged to class 3, six per cent farms came under the classes 4 and 5.There was no commercialization of waste management methods adopted by the farms. The majority farms had dung pit as waste disposal method and no regularity in dung removal from pit, it was upon demand. Regarding the soil quality, there was no significant difference in the soil nutrients quantity between different groups of farms. Regarding water quality, the water samples collected from the nearby water bodies were inferior in quality in terms of microbiology and BOD. Air quality stands below the permitted standards in all groups of farms. Intervention by the government, local bodies and scientific institutions must be made in this area supporting the farmers to develop awareness in this serious issue and also providing necessary technical and financial support for the farmers to construct proper waste management systems such as compost unit as well as biogas plants because they provide a support for the most efficient waste management system in a dairy farm proving that waste is wealthThesisItem Open Access Efficay of probiotic and ascorbic acid in alleviating summer stress in growing broiler rabbits(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2010) Smitha, S; KAU; Kannan, AThe research work was conducted to study the efficacy of probiotic (Lactobacillus casei) and ascorbic acid in alleviating summer stress in growing broiler rabbits. The study was done in the summer season from March to May. The growth performance of rabbits in summer, their physiological response to stress and the cost effectiveness of supplementing probiotic, Lactobacillus casei and ascorbic acid were studied. Twenty four weaned New Zealand White rabbits were randomly selected from Rabbit unit at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara were utilized for the study. They were divided into four groups of six animals each. The treatments were as follows: Treatment I (T1) - Ascorbic acid (Merck) at the rate of 200 mg per kg feed was given along with the basal diet, Treatment - 2 (T2) - Probiotic, Lactobacillus casei (Unique Biotech) containing 106 colony forming units per gram of feed was given along with the basal diet, Treatment - 3(T3) - Probiotic and Ascorbic acid at the same rate as in T2 and T3 were given along with the basal diet and Treatment - 4 (T4) - Rabbits fed with basal diet alone. The various climatic parameters studied were maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity (morning and afternoon) in macro climate and maximum and minimum temperature, relative humidity (morning and afternoon), dry bulb temperature (morning and afternoon) and relative humidity (morning and afternoon) in micro climate. The production parameters recorded were weekly body weight, daily feed intake, average daily weight gain and feed efficiency. The physiological parameters studied were weekly respiration rate, weekly rectal temperature and monthly cortisol (faecal and serum) values (twice a month for three months). Disease incidence and mortality during the period was recorded. Cost effectiveness of supplementing probiotic and ascorbic acid was determined. The mean monthly temperature humidity index values suggested that animals were under moderate heat stress in the first (28.45±0.16) and the second month (28.50±0.22), while no stress prevailed in the third month (26.83±0.21). By one way Analysis of variance it was found that supplementation of probiotic, Lactobacillus casei and ascorbic acid had a significant effect in alleviating summer stress in rabbits. The animals in the T1 group showed significantly (P<0.05) higher overall mean daily body weight gain, overall mean feed efficiency and significantly (P<0.05) lower overall mean respiration rate and faecal cortisol level compared to T4 animals. The rabbits in T2 treatment showed significantly higher (P<0.05) final body weight, overall mean daily body weight gain, overall mean feed efficiency and significantly (P<0.05) lower overall mean respiration rate compared to T4. The rabbits in the T3 group showed significantly higher (P<0.05) final body weight, overall mean daily body weight gain, overall mean feed efficiency and significantly (P<0.05) lower overall mean faecal cortisol level compared to T4. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the treatments in mean feed intake, rectal temperature and serum cortisol. No disease incidence or mortality was observed during the experimental period. Supplementation of probiotic and ascorbic acid was found to be efficient in reducing the production economics. Hence it was concluded that supplementation of probiotic, Lactobacillus casei at the rate of 106 cfu per g of feed and ascorbic acid at the rate of 200 mg per kg feed in combination was found to be most effective and economic in alleviating summer stress in growing broiler rabbits.ThesisItem Open Access Androgen mediated behavior of sambar deer stags (Cervus unicolor) during rut season(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2010) Vishnu Savanth, V; KAU; Saseendran, P CThe study was carried out at the State Museum and Zoo, Thrissur, Kerala, India for a period of four months from 11th June to 11th October, 2009. There were a total of 70 sambar deer in the enclosure, during the commencement of the study, of which 22 were males including 16 adult stags. A total of 318 hours of observation was involved in the study spanning over four months and each animal received about 53 hours of observation. Top three stags in the rut stage, on a chronological order of dominance namely H1, H2 and H3 were selected. Three more superior stags in late stages of velvet growth were selected and were named V1, V2 and V3 as per descending order of dominance. Hence, a total of six animals were selected for the study. Behavioral scores were allotted on the basis of the observations recorded on the ethogram and with the help of a standard score chart. Stag H1 maintained a behavioral score of 42±11.73 during the hard antler phase whereas during the velvet phase it slipped to 9.66±2.25. The behavioral score of stag H2 was 42.85±12.58 during the hard antler stage and it reduced to 12.6±2.3 during the velvet period. Stag H3 had a behavioral score of 44±14 during the rut season; it became 12.6±3.13 during the velvet stage. The behavioral score of stag V1 was 23.16±12.84 during the velvet stage, but as it entered the rut season, its score shot up to 51.81±5.54. Stag V2 had a behavioral score of 24.85±13.83 during the velvet phase, as it shifted to hard antler stage, the score increased to 51.9±5.38. The behavioral score of V3 was 30.33±14.76 during the velvet antler stage, the shift to the rut took up the score to 53.75±4.83. Fecal testosterone level was measured by RIA on a weekly basis from all six stags. The stag H1 possessed the largest harem followed by H2 and H3 with a membership of 17, 13 and 07 individuals respectively till they retained the hard antlers. As V1, V2 and V3 entered the rut season, V1 collected the largest harem with 19, followed by V3 with 14, and V2 not lagging far behind with 13 members. The stag H1 maintained a testosterone level of 14.66±2.30 ng g-1 of dry feces when it was in rut stage. The testosterone level after the antler casting in the seventh week maintained a low profile of 7.85± 2.32 ng g-1 of dry. The testosterone level of stag H2 was 14.07±0.54 ng g-1 of dry feces during the hard antler phase and its decline by the eight week led to the antler casting. The testosterone level then was at a level of 9.12± 2.40 ng g-1 of dry feces. Stag H3 had testosterone levels of 14.85±1.17 ng g-1 of dry feces before casting the antler. The casting was followed by testosterone levels of 9.56±1.94 ng g-1 of dry feces. Stag V1 had testosterone levels of 13.52±1.82 ng g-1 of dry feces in the velvet stage. After velvet shedding, the stag had hormone levels of 18.65±1.20 ng g-1 of dry feces. V2 maintained testosterone levels of 12.45±0.91 ng g-1 of dry feces during the velvet stage. Velvet shedding was accompanied by an increase in testosterone level to 18.77±1.03 ng g-1 of dry feces. The stag V3 had the hormone levels at 12.32±1.18 ng g-1 of dry feces before casting the velvet. The testosterone level after the velvet casting was 18.72±0.79 ng g-1 of dry feces. The stags in the rut season were found to have a significantly higher testosterone concentration in comparison with the velvet growth stage stags. The study also reveals that, it is the sudden dip in the testosterone concentration which causes the antler casting. Velvet shedding was preceded by an increase in the testosterone levels emphasizing its role. The increasing behavioral scores were also accompanied by higher levels of testosterone. Statistical analysis to correlate the testosterone levels of all the stags during both hard antler and velvet stage to the behavioral scores showed a significant and positive correlation ( ρ = 0.875, p < 0.01 ). Statistical analysis of the testosterone level and behavioral score during the hard antler stage alone also showed positive and significant correlation ( ρ = 0.791, p < 0.01 ). The correlation between the testosterone level and the behavioral score was significant and positive during the velvet stage as well ( ρ = 0.805, p < 0.01 ).ThesisItem Open Access Techno economic analysis of rabbit farming in Kamakshy panchayath of Idukki district(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2007) Chitra, R Nair; KAU; Saseendran, P CThe study was conducted to evaluate the success rate of rabbit farming in Idukki district, where the rabbit population is highest (38,433) in the state. Fifty rabbit units were selected at random and classified based on the number of doe units reared by them as small(1-10 doe unit), medium (11-20 doe unit) and large (>20 doe unit) to evaluate the farmers profile and managemental practices. Macro and microclimatological data of the study area were recorded during the study period. Monthly mortality of rabbits, breeding and monthly production of kits were also recorded. The feed ingredients fed to rabbits were analyzed. Mineral status, bio chemical parameters and lipid profile of serum was checked. Rainy season and transition period to rainy season found to have a pronounced impact on the mortality of rabbits in Kamakshy panchayath. The rabbit farmers here were not breeding their rabbits during the rainy season. The rabbit farmers mostly lived in nuclear family system and were having rabbit farming as their subsidiary occupation. Both middle aged (31-50 years) people and youngsters (<30 years) were mainly involved. In Kamakshy panchayath rabbit farming serve as an additional income for the small and medium farmers and as a means of livelihood security as far as the the large farmers are concerned. Majority of them were educated and having 5-10 years of experience.A combination of local grasses and kitchen waste were the predominant feeding pattern among small farmer groups. Cage system was the preferred type of housing with a cage size of 1-2 sq.ft. and 2-4 sq.ft. Cages were located adjoining the house, 1-15 ft to > 15 ft away from the house. Housing cost found to be very cheap in Kamakshy panchayath. Rabbits were sold predominantly on live weight basis, above two months of age in all the three farmer groups and were sold at less than Rs.100 per kg body weight. Pasteurellosis and Coccidiosis were the frequently occurring disease and this account for the major share of mortality among the rabbits. Majority of the small and medium farmers were doing treatment with the help of experienced farmers. The serum parameters like total proteins, albumin, globulin, calcium, phosphorous, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, proximate analysis of feed ingredients, slaughter studies, chemical analysis of meat and economic analysis of rabbit farming showed significant difference between groups. Azolla had a higher crude protein (18.68±0.32 Vs 12.62±0.32) and lower crude fibre (13.03±0.26 Vs 18.38±0.38) content compared to mixed grass. The protein content of azolla is comparable to the concentrate feed for rabbits and fibre content of mixed grass is good to prevent the digestive disorders. The dressing percentage varies from 41.11 in small to 51.3 in large farmer groups. Chemical analysis of meat revealed the highest value for crude protein content in Longissmus Dorsi (LD) muscle (20.79±0.50) and hind leg (20.47±0.49). The profit in rabbit farming from a single doe among the three farmer groups were calculated. Constraints in rabbit farming were studied and possible suggestions were made. Cogg- Douglas production function for rabbit farming in Kamakshy panchayath has given an average return to scale of 1.89. The profit per month from a single doe unit in small, medium and large farmers found to be Rs.117.13, Rs.133.73 and Rs.174.38 respectively. Cost for cages (Rs.38.87) and feed (Rs.449.93/year) which form the lions share in rabbit farming is very least among small farmer group. Thus this small scale backyard rabbitry can be a useful enterprise for providing supplementary income to improve the socio-economic conditions of the rural and urban poor and a large scale rabbitry can be recommended as an enterprise for livelihood security.ThesisItem Open Access Management protocol for averting drop of milk production in dairy cattle during summer(Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2009) Nisanth, P; KAU; Kannan, AA study was conducted to assess the effect of feeding management on milk production and metabolic profile of crossbred cows in mid lactation. Twelve healthy crossbred cows having a peak yield of minimum eight litres in the previous lactation, were selected as the experimental animals. The animals were divided into two groups of six each as uniformly as possible with regard to age, milk yield and parity and were randomly allotted to two dietary treatments, T1 consisting of basal concentrate mixture and green grass as roughages and T2 consisting basal concentrate mixture, green grass as roughage of which 1/3rd of the concentrate and roughage is fed during the day time and rest in the evening and early morning with water availability at all times. Daily maximum temperature, minimum temperature and relative humidity were recorded inside the shed using maximum and minimum thermometer to quantify the microenvironment prevalent around the animals in both the treatment groups. Physiological parameters like respiration rate and rectal temperature were measured to give an immediate response to the climatic stress and consequently the level of comfort to the animal. Individual records of daily intakes of concentrate and roughage, daily milk production and fortnightly body weight were maintained through out the experiment. Milk samples were collected at fortnightly intervals and were analysed for milk fat, total solids and solids not fat. Blood was collected at fortnight intervals for estimating haemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, packed cell volume, plasma glucose and cortisol. The ambient temperature prevailed during the study period was higher than what was reported as comfortable or ideal temperature for better livestock production and the excess humidity and temperature levels recorded in the present study at Mannuthy could be classified as humid and hot. The average rectal temperature during morning and afternoon between T1 and T2 did not differ significantly. The mean values clearly indicated that high ambient temperature increased the respiratory rate in the afternoon. The respiration rate for morning and afternoon recording was not found to be differed between T1 and T2. Average body weight of animals revealed no significant difference for the both groups during all the fortnight studied. The average daily dry matter intake linearly increased as the lactation progressed in both the groups. Dry matter intake by the animals of T2 was comparatively better than the animals of T1 with a significant increase (P<0.05) during the fourth and seventh fortnight. Scrutiny of the data on milk production during first 120 days of lactation further revealed that comparatively higher milk yield and better persistency was observed in T2. There was no significant difference in any of the milk composition parameters between the treatments. The haematological parameters such as haemoglobin, packed cell volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and plasma glucose estimated at the fortnight intervals were not significantly affected by the two dietary treatments. On statistical analysis a significant difference (P< 0.05) in plasma cortisol was obtained between the two groups during the first and second fortnights. The overall average plasma cortisol level was significantly higher in the T1 in comparison to T2. From the overall results obtained in the present study it could be concluded that the night time feeding of the animals during summer season has improved total milk production and helped to maintain the higher milk yield as well as persistency of milk production in lactating crossbred cows and found that there was some long-term effect on performance of evening fed cows.