BIBLIOGRAPHY DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013. The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed
with Various Garden weeds. Benguet State University, La Trinidad Benguet.
Adviser: Myrna B. Walsiyen, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to find out the growth performance of rabbits when fed
with garden weeds namely Japanese weeds (“Sapsapon”), Creeping nods (“Gagate”) and
Cobblers peg (“Poket”). Specifically, the study was conducted to determine the
performance of rabbit in terms of gain in weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and
return on investment when fed with various garden weeds.
Twelve 60 day old New Zealand White rabbits were used in the study. These were
distributed randomly into three treatments using the three different feedstuffs namely:
Japanese weeds (T1), creeping nods (T2) and cobblers peg (T3).
Results revealed no significant differences in terms of gain in weight feed intake
(as fed basis), feed conversion ratio (as fed basis) among the treatment evaluated. However,
in terms of dry matter basis in feed intake and feed conversion ratio, statistical analysis
revealed that there were significant differences among treatments. This is expected because
of the different dry matter contents of the three garden weeds used in the study which was
8.65% for Japanese weeds, 11.61 % for cobblers peg and 13.25% for creeping nods.
Based on the results of the study, Japanese weeds, creeping nods and cobblers peg
when fed to rabbits, had the same effect on the growth performance of rabbits. Raisers may
feed these weeds, whichever is available, to their rabbits.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
INTRODUCTION
Rabbits (Oryctolagus cunniculus) are unique among other animals because they are not
only used for pets but also raised for meat, fur or wool, and laboratory uses. As food, it is
a good source of protein and has a lower fat content compared to other livestock meat
(Warren, 2002).
Rabbit is a non-ruminant herbivore, having an enlarged hind gut. This has considerable
influence on its ability to utilize feedstuffs and dietary nutrient requirements. Rabbit’s
stomach has a very low pH of about 1.6 which effectively kills bacteria (Church, 1986).
Rabbit raising has several advantages over other agricultural animals. It can easily
be raised by anyone under any climatic condition. The facilities take up a little space
compared to the other agricultural animals such as cattle and swine. They are also
herbivores and can be feed with roughage diets (Warren, 2002).
In rabbit enterprise the high cost of feeds has prompted many small farm rabbit
raisers to various practices to reduce their feed expenses. The usual practice of some rabbit
raisers is to use commercial feeds like swine grower ration which accounts for a large
percentage of the total production cost.
One way to minimize feed cost is by introducing feedstuffs which are locally found
such as garden weeds like Japanese weed (Crassocephalum crepidioides), Cobbler’s peg
(Bidens pilosa), and Creeping nods (Borreria laevis). This study was then conducted to
determine the effect of the above garden weeds on the performance of rabbits.
Results of the study will contribute to the knowledge of the students. It also help farmers
or backyard raisers to choose on what weeds to feed their rabbits most especially those that
are of high nutritive value and are available in the locality to help them reduce feed cost.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the growth performance of rabbits
fed with various garden weeds namely Japanese weeds (Crassocephalum crepidioides),
Cooblers peg (Bidens pilosa) and Creeping nods (Borreria laevis).
Specifically, the study aimed to:
1. determine the performance of rabbits in terms of gain in weight, feed conversion
ratio, and feed intake when fed with the above garden weeds;
2. determine which local feedstuffs are preferred by the rabbits; and,
3. determine the returns on investment of raising rabbits when fed with the above garden
weeds.
This study was conducted at the Benguet State University (BSU) Rabbitry Balili, La
Trinidad, Benguet from November 2012 to January 2013.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Maddul (1991) cited that the digestive system of rabbits allows the utilization of
the forage- based diets effectively despite its being a non- ruminant. Consequently, rabbits
are well suited to low energy fibrous feedstuffs and are less well- adapted to high energy
ingredients, such as cereal grains. Thus, fibrous feedstuffs such as fodders or fresh forage
are typically the basal ingredients of rabbit diet. For small- scale rabbit rising, feeding
greens such as grass, vegetable tops, carrots and other succulent feeds may be feasible, but
is not practical on a commercial scale.
De Leon (1998) cited that the basic feed for rabbits is roughage and so they should
be given a wide selection of grass, cover crops, and any given leafy plants. He also cited
that to ensure fast growth rabbits can be fed pellets, growing mash, and corn or rice bran.
Church (1986) stated that if palatable greens are fed free choice to rabbits, the amount of
pellets offered will be reduced about half, with no adverse effect on performance. He also
mentioned that most greens are very high in water content, so large amounts have to be
consumed to make a useful contribution to the nutritional needs of rabbits.
Church (1991) stated that growing rabbits of 5-10 weeks of age will have an
average daily dry feed consumption of 80-95g/kg body weight (2500kcal/kg). Feed
conversion ratio varies widely among rabbit’s breeds and managements. An average feed
conversion for meat- producing rabbits should be 3:1 that is 3kg of feed for each kg of live
weight of age. For good economic return it is important to produce rabbits that reach
slaughter weight in the shortest time. Total feed utilized includes both feed consumed and
feed efficiency. A good efficiency and average daily gain can be obtained through the good
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
animal genetic selection, proper nutrition and health, good feeding practices and constant
management improvement.
Likewise, Cheeke in 1987 reported that the amount of concentrate used can be
reduced by feeding forage. Weeds or green are high in water content, they should not be
relied upon as the only source of nutrients. Full feeding on grains (with no pellets) will not
support a satisfactory growth rate of fryers.
Weeds have importance in the management of all land and water resources; its
greatest effect is on agriculture. It is widely known that losses, caused by weeds exceed the
losses from any category of agricultural pests, such as insects, nematodes, diseases,
rodents, etc. However, most weeds are found to be edible to human and animals. Weeds
also contribute to the nutritional needs of livestock because these are utilized as
supplementary greens to livestock and poultry (Rao, 2000).
Indigenous plants, in which weeds are included, play an important role in livestock
diets particularly in the Cordillera Region. These plants supply large proportion of the
proteins, vitamins, and minerals to the animal. In addition, some are used in medicinal
purposes. The plants are adapted to the temperature, moisture, and soil specific conditions
and grow well on water logged soil, and some are fast growing and harvested all year
around (Buathoki, 1993).
Longbuan (2009) in his study on the growth response of rabbits fed with selected
weeds, reported that rabbits fed with Cobblers’ peg or “poket” had the highest body weight,
compared to the rabbits fed with ‘kalunay” (Amaranthus spinosus L.) and “kalunay” plus
“poket”.With the result of his study he concluded that cobblers’ peg can be used as an
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
alternative to sustain production of rabbits during the time of crisis when pellets are very
high in cost.
Japanese weed, locally termed as “Sap-sapon”, belongs to the family asteraceae. It
is an annual herb growing up to 180 cm tall. Its use is widespread in many tropical and
subtropical regions. Its fleshy, mucilaginous leaves and stems are eaten as a vegetable, and
many parts of the plant have medical uses and are also used as food for rabbits. These
weeds are commonly found in vegetative crops, plantation crops, cultivated lands, and
waste places (Colting,et al., 2003). This weed is rich in protein, fat, soluble sugar and ash.
It also includes the minerals like: calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper (Huang, et
al, 2011).
Bidens pilosa, commonly known as Cobblers peg or “poket”, belongs to the family
asteraceae. It is an annual weed that grows up to about one meter in height, depending on
the local conditions (Colting, et al., 2003). According to Muchuweti et al., (2009), Cobblers
peg is found to be a valuable source of vitamin C (63mg/100g), iron (15mg/100g), zinc
(19mg/100g),
phosphorus
(273mg/100g),
potassium
(267mg/100g),
protein
(24.5mg/100g), fat (4g/100g), and carbohydrates (56mg/100g).
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
The materials used in this study were 12 two months old New Zealand White rabbits. Other
materials used include cages, drinking troughs, weighing scale, cleaning materials, record
book, and garden weeds namely Japanese weed or “Sapsapon” (Crassocephalum
crepidioides), Creeping nods or “Gagatte” (Borreria laevis) and the Cobbler’s peg or
“Poket” (Bidens pilosa L.).
Figure 1. Japanese weeds “Sapsapon”
Figure 2. Creeping nods “Gagate”
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Figure 3. Cobblers peg “Poket”
Methodology
Preparation of experimental cages. Two weeks before the start of the study, the
experimental cages including the feeding and watering troughs were thoroughly cleaned
and disinfected.
Preparation of the weeds. The weeds were collected in La Trinidad, Benguet. These
were washed and drained to remove excess water before giving to the rabbits.
Experimental animals. The rabbits were purchased from one of the rabbit raisers
within La Trinidad, Benguet. The rabbits used were 60 days old.
Experimental treatments and design. Using the completely randomized design (CRD), the
rabbits were grouped into three treatments. Each treatment was replicated four times and
one rabbit was assigned per replicate. The different treatments were as follows:
T1 =Japanese weed
T2 = Creeping nods
T3 = Cobbler’s peg
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Before the rabbits were placed into their respective cages, their individual weights were
taken and recorded.
Care and management of the experimental rabbits. All the experimental rabbits were
subjected to the same care and management except on the type of weeds fed to them
depending on the treatment where these were assigned. The rabbits assigned in treatment
1 were given Japanese weeds or “sap-sapon”. Those in treatment 2 were given creeping
nods or “gagatte” and those in treatment 3 were given cobbler’s peg or “poket”.
The rabbits were fed twice a day between 6:00 to 7:00 in the morning and 5:00 to 6:00 in
the afternoon. The weeds were given ad libitum to the rabbits. Fresh and clean water was
available at all times for the rabbits. Daily cleaning of the rabbit cages was done. The
rabbits were fed with the garden weeds until they were 4 months old.
Dry matter determination. The dry matter contents of the garden weeds were determined
at the laboratory of the Department of Animal Science, Benguet State University. The
weeds were chopped into smaller sizes. Each sample had a weight of 10 grams. After the
weighing, the samples were oven dry for two days. The oven dry weights were taken, and
the dry matter contents were computed.
Data Gathered
1. Initial weight (g). This refers to the weight of the
rabbits at the start of the study.
2. Final weight (g). This refers to the weight of the
rabbits at the end of the study.
3. Feeds offered (g). This refers to the amount of feeds
that were given to the rabbits per day.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
4. Feed left over (g). This was the amount of feeds not
consumed by the rabbits which was taken every morning before
feeding time.
5. Production cost (Php). This includes the expenses on
the cost of the stocks and other expenses that were used during
the experiment.
6. Mortality. This refers to the number of rabbits that
died during the study period.
From the data gathered above, the following were computed:
1. Total gain in weight (g). This was computed by subtracting the
initial weight from the final weight of the rabbits.
2. Average daily gain (g). This was computed by dividing the total gain
in weight by the duration of the study.
3. Feed intake, Dry matter basis (g). This was computed by subtracting
the total amount of feed left over from the feed offered.
4. Feed conversion ratio (DM Basis). This was taken by using the formula:
Feed Conversion Ratio =Total Feed Intake
Total Gain in Weight
5. Morbidity and Mortality rate (%). This was computed by dividing
the number of rabbits that died by the number of rabbits per replicate multiplied
by 100%.
6. Return on investment (ROI). This was computed using the formula:
ROI=Net Profit x100%
Total Cost of Production
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
7. Dry matter content of the weeds (%). This was computed using the formula:
%DM = Weight of Feed Sample after Drying x 100%
Weight of the Feed Sample before Drying
Data Analysis
All data were analyzed using the analysis of variance for Completely Randomized
Design (CRD). The treatment means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range
Test (DMRT).
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Body Weights of the Rabbits
Table 1 presents the initial and final weights of the rabbits in the different treatments. True
to both parameters, no significant differences were observed between treatments as
revealed by the statistical analysis. These imply that the rabbits at the start of the study
were more or less of the same weights. The mean initial weight was 0.866 kg.
The non- significance in final weights reveals that the rabbits were more or less of the
same weights at the end of the study. The mean final weight of the rabbits in the different
treatments was 2. 041 kg.
Gain in Weight
Table 2 presents the gains in weight of the rabbits in the different treatments.
Similar to the final weight, statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between
treatment means. This reveals that the rabbits had more or less the same gains in weight. It
also reveals that the weeds used in the study namely Japanese weeds (“sapsapon”),
Table 1. Initial and final weights of rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENT BODY WEIGHTS (kg)
INITIAL
FINAL
Japanese weed
0.901a
2.050a
Creeping nods
0.821a
2.004a
Cobblers peg
0.875a
2.069a
*Means with the same letter superscript are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
Creeping nods and Cobbler’s peg had more or less the same effect in terms of gain in
weight. The mean total gain in weight was 1.18 kg and the average daily gain in weight
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
was 0.02 kg. This result is similar with the findings of Longbuan (2009), where weeds
namely “Kalunay” and cobblers peg did not affect nor improve the gains in weight of the
rabbits
Feed Intake
The feed intakes of the rabbits in the different treatments are shown in Table 3. As
fed, statistical analysis revealed that there were no significant differences between
treatment means. This indicates that the rabbits in the different treatments had consumed
more or less the same amount of feeds. It is also revealed that the palatability of Japanese
weeds, cobblers peg and creeping nods are more or less the same when fed to New Zealand
rabbits. The overall mean feed intake, as fed basis, was 17.15 kg. The feed intake is very
high because it was pure weeds which are succulent most especially the Japanese weeds.
Table 2. Gains in weight of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENT
GAIN IN WEIGHT (kg)
TOTAL DAILY
Japanese weed
1.15a
0.01925a
Creeping nods
1.21a
0.02025a
Cobblers peg
1.19a
0.01978a
*Means with the same letter superscript are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Table 3. Feed intake of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENTS
FEED INTAKE (kg)
AS FED DRY MATTER
Japanese weeds
17.170a 1. 480c
Creeping nods
17.166a
2.310a
Cobblers peg
17.114a 1.990b
*Means with different letters superscript are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
Church (1986) mentioned that most greens are very high in water contents so large amounts
have to be consumed to make a useful contribution to the nutritional needs of rabbits.
However, in terms of dry matter, statistical analysis revealed that rabbits fed with creeping
nods consumed the highest amount of feeds with a mean of 2.31kg followed by the rabbits
fed with cobblers peg with a mean of 1.99 kg. The rabbits fed with Japanese weeds
consumed the lowest amount with a mean of 1.48 kg. This is expected because the creeping
nods have the highest dry matter content, followed by the cobblers peg and lastly the
Japanese weeds. The dry matter content of creeping nods obtained was 13.25%, 11.61%
for cobblers peg and 8.65% for Japanese weeds.
Feed Conversion Ratio
Table 4 presents the feed conversion ratios of New Zealand rabbits. Statistical
analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in terms of as fed basis.
However, in terms of dry matter, significant differences were observed. Rabbits fed with
Japanese weeds had a better FCR of 1.29 compare to those fed with cobblers peg and
creeping nods with FCRs of 1.68 and 1.89, respectively. Though the study of Longbuan
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Table 4. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENTS
FFED CONVERSION RATIO___
AS FED
DRY MATTER
Japanese weeds
15.054a
1.2945b
Creeping nods
14.338a
1.8928a
Cobblers peg
14.476a
1.6793a
*Means with different letter superscripts are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
(2009), was a comparison between “kalunay” and cobblers peg as feed supplement to the
rabbits, his findings also revealed that rabbits fed with pellets plus cobblers peg had a
higher FCR of 2.69 compared to those rabbits fed with pellets plus “kalunay” that had an
FCR of 2.56. Meanwhile Church (1991), reported that an average feed conversion ratio for
meat- producing rabbits should be 3:1 that is 3 kg of feed for each kg of live weight of age.
Morbidity and Mortality
There were no mortality nor even morbidity observed among the rabbits during the
entire experimental period. This indicates that Japanese weeds, Creeping nods and
Cobblers peg contain no toxic substance and are edible feeds for rabbits. This findings
support the report of Rao (2000), which stated that most weeds are found to be edible to
human and animals.
Returns on Investment
The returns on investment in the different treatments are shown in Table 5 and the
particulars are found in appendix Table 11. The ROI of the rabbits was not subjected to
statistical analysis; however it is shown in the Table that rabbits given cobblers peg had
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
the highest ROI of 6.40% followed by the rabbits given Japanese weeds with an ROI of
5.44% and finally the rabbits fed with creeping nods that had an ROI of 3.06%.
Dry Matter Contents of the Garden Weeds
The dry matter contents of the weeds are shown in Table 6 and the statistical
analysis revealed that there were highly significant differences between treatment means.
This indicates that the weeds had different dry matter contents. The result revealed that
Creeping nods had the highest mean dry matter content of 13.25%, followed by the
Cobblers peg with a mean dry matter content of 11.61% and finally the Japanese weed with
a mean dry matter content of 8.65%.
Table 5. Returns on investment per treatment
TREATMENT INCOME TOTAL COST OF
NET ROI
(PhP) PRODUCTION (PhP) INCOME (PhP) (%)
Japanese Weeds
1804
1711
93
5.44
Creeping nods
1763.3
1711
52.3
3.06
Cobblers peg
1820.5
1711
109.5
6.40
Table 6.Dry matter contents of the weeds
TREATMENT DRY MATTER (%)
TOTAL MEAN
Japanese weed
34.59c
8.65c
Creeping nods
52.98a
13.25a
Cobblers peg
46.44b
11.61b
Means with different letters superscript are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The study was conducted to determine the growth performance of rabbits fed with
garden
weeds
namely
Japanese
weeds,
Creeping
nods
and
Cobblers peg. Specifically, it aimed to determine the gain in weight, feed intake, feed
conversion ratio and returns on investment.
A total of 12 sixty days old rabbits were used in the study. Following the
Completely Randomized Design (CRD), the 12 rabbits were distributed into three
treatments. Each treatment was replicated four times with one rabbit per replication. The
different treatments were as follows: T1- Japanese weeds; T2-Creeping nod; T3- Cobbler’s
peg.
Results of the study revealed no significant differences between treatment means
in terms of initial and final weights and gains in weight. These results imply that the rabbits
in all the treatments were more or less of the same weights at the start and end of the study.
Also, the growth of the rabbits in all the treatments, which was measured in terms of gains
in weight or increase in body weight, was more or less the same.
Statistical analysis also revealed no significant differences in both the feed intakes
and feed conversion ratios if the feed intake is on as fed basis. However, if the feed intake
is on a dry matter basis, significant differences were observed in both feed intake and feed
conversion ratio. This is expected because of the differences on the dry matter contents of
the weeds used in the study. The dry matter contents obtained in the study were 8.65% for
the Japanese weeds, 11.61% for the Cobblers peg and 13.25% for the creeping nods.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Thou the returns on investment was not subjected to statistical analysis, results
show that higher ROI was obtained from the rabbits given cobblers’ peg of 6.40% while
rabbits fed with Japanese weeds and creeping nods had a ROI, of 5.44% and 3.06%,
respectively.
Conclusion
Based on the result of the study, it is therefore concluded that Japanese weeds,
creeping nods and cobblers peg has the same effect on the growth performance of the
rabbits.
Recommendation
Based on the results of the study, it is recommended that rabbit raisers can use any
of the Japanese weeds, creeping nods and cobblers peg as feeds to their rabbits.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
LITERATURE CITED
BUATHOKI, K. 1993. Vegetables sustain farmers Illeia News Letter. 9 (2).P. 13.
CHEEKE, P.R. 1987. Rabbit Feeding and Nutrition.San Diego, Academic Press, Inc.
Pp.4-5, 1527.
CHURCH, D.C. 1991. Livestock Feeds and Feeding. 3rdedition. PrenticeHall, Engle
wood cliffs, New Jersey 07632.
CHURCH, D.C. 1986. Livestock Feeds and Feeding. 2nd edition Prentice Hall. New
Jersey. Simon and Schester Inc. Pp. 360-469.
COLTING, L.M., B.S.LIGAT, L.G.LIRIO, J.C.PEREZ, and J.P.PABLO. 2003
Compendium of Insect Pest and Weeds Associated with High Crops in the Cordillera.
CHARM, Baguio Dairy Farm, Baguio City and BSU, La Trinidad Benguet.P. 98.
DE LEON, M. V. 1998. Basi Agriculture. A practical Guide for students. Phoenix
Publishing House, INC., Quezon City.P. 16.
HUANG, Q., S. GUO, F. FANG, C. HUANG, and Z.CHENG.2011.Nutrition
Compositions in Crassocephalum crepidioides and Its Heavy Metal Elements Risk
Evaluation. Retrieved on September 10, 2012 from.
LONGBUAN, K. 2009. Growth Response of rabbit fed with selected weeds. BS
Thesis (Unpub.). Benguet State University, LaTrinidad, Benguet. Pp.15-16.
MADDUL, S. B.1991.Lecture manual on Rabbit Production. BSU, La Trinidad,Benguet.
MUCHUWETI,
M.,A.KASIAMHURU,
M.A.N.BENHURA,B.CHIPURURA,
P.
AMUNA,F.ZOTOR, andW.PARAWIRA.2009. Assessment of the nutritional value of
wild leafy vegetables consumed in the Buhera District of Zimbabwe: a preliminary study,
International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), Leuven, Belgium. Retrieved on
September 08, 2012 from http://www.actahort.org/books/806/806_40.htm.
RAO, V.S.2000. Principles of Weed Science. 2ndedition,Published by Science Publishers
Inc., NH USA. Printed in India.Pp. 555.
WARREN, M. D. 2002. Small Animal Care and Management. 2nd edition Delmar, United
States of America Thomson Learning Inc. Pp.150-151.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013. The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed
with Various Garden weeds. Benguet State University, La Trinidad Benguet.
Adviser: Myrna B. Walsiyen, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to find out the growth performance of rabbits when fed
with garden weeds namely Japanese weeds (“Sapsapon”), Creeping nods (“Gagate”) and
Cobblers peg (“Poket”). Specifically, the study was conducted to determine the
performance of rabbit in terms of gain in weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and
return on investment when fed with various garden weeds.
Twelve 60 day old New Zealand White rabbits were used in the study. These were
distributed randomly into three treatments using the three different feedstuffs namely:
Japanese weeds (T1), creeping nods (T2) and cobblers peg (T3).
Results revealed no significant differences in terms of gain in weight feed intake
(as fed basis), feed conversion ratio (as fed basis) among the treatment evaluated. However,
in terms of dry matter basis in feed intake and feed conversion ratio, statistical analysis
revealed that there were significant differences among treatments. This is expected because
of the different dry matter contents of the three garden weeds used in the study which was
8.65% for Japanese weeds, 11.61 % for cobblers peg and 13.25% for creeping nods.
Based on the results of the study, Japanese weeds, creeping nods and cobblers peg
when fed to rabbits, had the same effect on the growth performance of rabbits. Raisers may
feed these weeds, whichever is available, to their rabbits.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
INTRODUCTION
Rabbits (Oryctolagus cunniculus) are unique among other animals because they are not
only used for pets but also raised for meat, fur or wool, and laboratory uses. As food, it is
a good source of protein and has a lower fat content compared to other livestock meat
(Warren, 2002).
Rabbit is a non-ruminant herbivore, having an enlarged hind gut. This has considerable
influence on its ability to utilize feedstuffs and dietary nutrient requirements. Rabbit’s
stomach has a very low pH of about 1.6 which effectively kills bacteria (Church, 1986).
Rabbit raising has several advantages over other agricultural animals. It can easily
be raised by anyone under any climatic condition. The facilities take up a little space
compared to the other agricultural animals such as cattle and swine. They are also
herbivores and can be feed with roughage diets (Warren, 2002).
In rabbit enterprise the high cost of feeds has prompted many small farm rabbit
raisers to various practices to reduce their feed expenses. The usual practice of some rabbit
raisers is to use commercial feeds like swine grower ration which accounts for a large
percentage of the total production cost.
One way to minimize feed cost is by introducing feedstuffs which are locally found
such as garden weeds like Japanese weed (Crassocephalum crepidioides), Cobbler’s peg
(Bidens pilosa), and Creeping nods (Borreria laevis). This study was then conducted to
determine the effect of the above garden weeds on the performance of rabbits.
Results of the study will contribute to the knowledge of the students. It also help farmers
or backyard raisers to choose on what weeds to feed their rabbits most especially those that
are of high nutritive value and are available in the locality to help them reduce feed cost.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the growth performance of rabbits
fed with various garden weeds namely Japanese weeds (Crassocephalum crepidioides),
Cooblers peg (Bidens pilosa) and Creeping nods (Borreria laevis).
Specifically, the study aimed to:
1. determine the performance of rabbits in terms of gain in weight, feed conversion
ratio, and feed intake when fed with the above garden weeds;
2. determine which local feedstuffs are preferred by the rabbits; and,
3. determine the returns on investment of raising rabbits when fed with the above garden
weeds.
This study was conducted at the Benguet State University (BSU) Rabbitry Balili, La
Trinidad, Benguet from November 2012 to January 2013.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Maddul (1991) cited that the digestive system of rabbits allows the utilization of
the forage- based diets effectively despite its being a non- ruminant. Consequently, rabbits
are well suited to low energy fibrous feedstuffs and are less well- adapted to high energy
ingredients, such as cereal grains. Thus, fibrous feedstuffs such as fodders or fresh forage
are typically the basal ingredients of rabbit diet. For small- scale rabbit rising, feeding
greens such as grass, vegetable tops, carrots and other succulent feeds may be feasible, but
is not practical on a commercial scale.
De Leon (1998) cited that the basic feed for rabbits is roughage and so they should
be given a wide selection of grass, cover crops, and any given leafy plants. He also cited
that to ensure fast growth rabbits can be fed pellets, growing mash, and corn or rice bran.
Church (1986) stated that if palatable greens are fed free choice to rabbits, the amount of
pellets offered will be reduced about half, with no adverse effect on performance. He also
mentioned that most greens are very high in water content, so large amounts have to be
consumed to make a useful contribution to the nutritional needs of rabbits.
Church (1991) stated that growing rabbits of 5-10 weeks of age will have an
average daily dry feed consumption of 80-95g/kg body weight (2500kcal/kg). Feed
conversion ratio varies widely among rabbit’s breeds and managements. An average feed
conversion for meat- producing rabbits should be 3:1 that is 3kg of feed for each kg of live
weight of age. For good economic return it is important to produce rabbits that reach
slaughter weight in the shortest time. Total feed utilized includes both feed consumed and
feed efficiency. A good efficiency and average daily gain can be obtained through the good
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
animal genetic selection, proper nutrition and health, good feeding practices and constant
management improvement.
Likewise, Cheeke in 1987 reported that the amount of concentrate used can be
reduced by feeding forage. Weeds or green are high in water content, they should not be
relied upon as the only source of nutrients. Full feeding on grains (with no pellets) will not
support a satisfactory growth rate of fryers.
Weeds have importance in the management of all land and water resources; its
greatest effect is on agriculture. It is widely known that losses, caused by weeds exceed the
losses from any category of agricultural pests, such as insects, nematodes, diseases,
rodents, etc. However, most weeds are found to be edible to human and animals. Weeds
also contribute to the nutritional needs of livestock because these are utilized as
supplementary greens to livestock and poultry (Rao, 2000).
Indigenous plants, in which weeds are included, play an important role in livestock
diets particularly in the Cordillera Region. These plants supply large proportion of the
proteins, vitamins, and minerals to the animal. In addition, some are used in medicinal
purposes. The plants are adapted to the temperature, moisture, and soil specific conditions
and grow well on water logged soil, and some are fast growing and harvested all year
around (Buathoki, 1993).
Longbuan (2009) in his study on the growth response of rabbits fed with selected
weeds, reported that rabbits fed with Cobblers’ peg or “poket” had the highest body weight,
compared to the rabbits fed with ‘kalunay” (Amaranthus spinosus L.) and “kalunay” plus
“poket”.With the result of his study he concluded that cobblers’ peg can be used as an
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
alternative to sustain production of rabbits during the time of crisis when pellets are very
high in cost.
Japanese weed, locally termed as “Sap-sapon”, belongs to the family asteraceae. It
is an annual herb growing up to 180 cm tall. Its use is widespread in many tropical and
subtropical regions. Its fleshy, mucilaginous leaves and stems are eaten as a vegetable, and
many parts of the plant have medical uses and are also used as food for rabbits. These
weeds are commonly found in vegetative crops, plantation crops, cultivated lands, and
waste places (Colting,et al., 2003). This weed is rich in protein, fat, soluble sugar and ash.
It also includes the minerals like: calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper (Huang, et
al, 2011).
Bidens pilosa, commonly known as Cobblers peg or “poket”, belongs to the family
asteraceae. It is an annual weed that grows up to about one meter in height, depending on
the local conditions (Colting, et al., 2003). According to Muchuweti et al., (2009), Cobblers
peg is found to be a valuable source of vitamin C (63mg/100g), iron (15mg/100g), zinc
(19mg/100g),
phosphorus
(273mg/100g),
potassium
(267mg/100g),
protein
(24.5mg/100g), fat (4g/100g), and carbohydrates (56mg/100g).
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
The materials used in this study were 12 two months old New Zealand White rabbits. Other
materials used include cages, drinking troughs, weighing scale, cleaning materials, record
book, and garden weeds namely Japanese weed or “Sapsapon” (Crassocephalum
crepidioides), Creeping nods or “Gagatte” (Borreria laevis) and the Cobbler’s peg or
“Poket” (Bidens pilosa L.).
Figure 1. Japanese weeds “Sapsapon”
Figure 2. Creeping nods “Gagate”
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Figure 3. Cobblers peg “Poket”
Methodology
Preparation of experimental cages. Two weeks before the start of the study, the
experimental cages including the feeding and watering troughs were thoroughly cleaned
and disinfected.
Preparation of the weeds. The weeds were collected in La Trinidad, Benguet. These
were washed and drained to remove excess water before giving to the rabbits.
Experimental animals. The rabbits were purchased from one of the rabbit raisers
within La Trinidad, Benguet. The rabbits used were 60 days old.
Experimental treatments and design. Using the completely randomized design (CRD), the
rabbits were grouped into three treatments. Each treatment was replicated four times and
one rabbit was assigned per replicate. The different treatments were as follows:
T1 =Japanese weed
T2 = Creeping nods
T3 = Cobbler’s peg
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DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Before the rabbits were placed into their respective cages, their individual weights were
taken and recorded.
Care and management of the experimental rabbits. All the experimental rabbits were
subjected to the same care and management except on the type of weeds fed to them
depending on the treatment where these were assigned. The rabbits assigned in treatment
1 were given Japanese weeds or “sap-sapon”. Those in treatment 2 were given creeping
nods or “gagatte” and those in treatment 3 were given cobbler’s peg or “poket”.
The rabbits were fed twice a day between 6:00 to 7:00 in the morning and 5:00 to 6:00 in
the afternoon. The weeds were given ad libitum to the rabbits. Fresh and clean water was
available at all times for the rabbits. Daily cleaning of the rabbit cages was done. The
rabbits were fed with the garden weeds until they were 4 months old.
Dry matter determination. The dry matter contents of the garden weeds were determined
at the laboratory of the Department of Animal Science, Benguet State University. The
weeds were chopped into smaller sizes. Each sample had a weight of 10 grams. After the
weighing, the samples were oven dry for two days. The oven dry weights were taken, and
the dry matter contents were computed.
Data Gathered
1. Initial weight (g). This refers to the weight of the
rabbits at the start of the study.
2. Final weight (g). This refers to the weight of the
rabbits at the end of the study.
3. Feeds offered (g). This refers to the amount of feeds
that were given to the rabbits per day.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
4. Feed left over (g). This was the amount of feeds not
consumed by the rabbits which was taken every morning before
feeding time.
5. Production cost (Php). This includes the expenses on
the cost of the stocks and other expenses that were used during
the experiment.
6. Mortality. This refers to the number of rabbits that
died during the study period.
From the data gathered above, the following were computed:
1. Total gain in weight (g). This was computed by subtracting the
initial weight from the final weight of the rabbits.
2. Average daily gain (g). This was computed by dividing the total gain
in weight by the duration of the study.
3. Feed intake, Dry matter basis (g). This was computed by subtracting
the total amount of feed left over from the feed offered.
4. Feed conversion ratio (DM Basis). This was taken by using the formula:
Feed Conversion Ratio =Total Feed Intake
Total Gain in Weight
5. Morbidity and Mortality rate (%). This was computed by dividing
the number of rabbits that died by the number of rabbits per replicate multiplied
by 100%.
6. Return on investment (ROI). This was computed using the formula:
ROI=Net Profit x100%
Total Cost of Production
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
7. Dry matter content of the weeds (%). This was computed using the formula:
%DM = Weight of Feed Sample after Drying x 100%
Weight of the Feed Sample before Drying
Data Analysis
All data were analyzed using the analysis of variance for Completely Randomized
Design (CRD). The treatment means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range
Test (DMRT).
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Body Weights of the Rabbits
Table 1 presents the initial and final weights of the rabbits in the different treatments. True
to both parameters, no significant differences were observed between treatments as
revealed by the statistical analysis. These imply that the rabbits at the start of the study
were more or less of the same weights. The mean initial weight was 0.866 kg.
The non- significance in final weights reveals that the rabbits were more or less of the
same weights at the end of the study. The mean final weight of the rabbits in the different
treatments was 2. 041 kg.
Gain in Weight
Table 2 presents the gains in weight of the rabbits in the different treatments.
Similar to the final weight, statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between
treatment means. This reveals that the rabbits had more or less the same gains in weight. It
also reveals that the weeds used in the study namely Japanese weeds (“sapsapon”),
Table 1. Initial and final weights of rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENT BODY WEIGHTS (kg)
INITIAL
FINAL
Japanese weed
0.901a
2.050a
Creeping nods
0.821a
2.004a
Cobblers peg
0.875a
2.069a
*Means with the same letter superscript are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
Creeping nods and Cobbler’s peg had more or less the same effect in terms of gain in
weight. The mean total gain in weight was 1.18 kg and the average daily gain in weight
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
was 0.02 kg. This result is similar with the findings of Longbuan (2009), where weeds
namely “Kalunay” and cobblers peg did not affect nor improve the gains in weight of the
rabbits
Feed Intake
The feed intakes of the rabbits in the different treatments are shown in Table 3. As
fed, statistical analysis revealed that there were no significant differences between
treatment means. This indicates that the rabbits in the different treatments had consumed
more or less the same amount of feeds. It is also revealed that the palatability of Japanese
weeds, cobblers peg and creeping nods are more or less the same when fed to New Zealand
rabbits. The overall mean feed intake, as fed basis, was 17.15 kg. The feed intake is very
high because it was pure weeds which are succulent most especially the Japanese weeds.
Table 2. Gains in weight of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENT
GAIN IN WEIGHT (kg)
TOTAL DAILY
Japanese weed
1.15a
0.01925a
Creeping nods
1.21a
0.02025a
Cobblers peg
1.19a
0.01978a
*Means with the same letter superscript are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Table 3. Feed intake of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENTS
FEED INTAKE (kg)
AS FED DRY MATTER
Japanese weeds
17.170a 1. 480c
Creeping nods
17.166a
2.310a
Cobblers peg
17.114a 1.990b
*Means with different letters superscript are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
Church (1986) mentioned that most greens are very high in water contents so large amounts
have to be consumed to make a useful contribution to the nutritional needs of rabbits.
However, in terms of dry matter, statistical analysis revealed that rabbits fed with creeping
nods consumed the highest amount of feeds with a mean of 2.31kg followed by the rabbits
fed with cobblers peg with a mean of 1.99 kg. The rabbits fed with Japanese weeds
consumed the lowest amount with a mean of 1.48 kg. This is expected because the creeping
nods have the highest dry matter content, followed by the cobblers peg and lastly the
Japanese weeds. The dry matter content of creeping nods obtained was 13.25%, 11.61%
for cobblers peg and 8.65% for Japanese weeds.
Feed Conversion Ratio
Table 4 presents the feed conversion ratios of New Zealand rabbits. Statistical
analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in terms of as fed basis.
However, in terms of dry matter, significant differences were observed. Rabbits fed with
Japanese weeds had a better FCR of 1.29 compare to those fed with cobblers peg and
creeping nods with FCRs of 1.68 and 1.89, respectively. Though the study of Longbuan
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Table 4. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the rabbits in the different treatments
TREATMENTS
FFED CONVERSION RATIO___
AS FED
DRY MATTER
Japanese weeds
15.054a
1.2945b
Creeping nods
14.338a
1.8928a
Cobblers peg
14.476a
1.6793a
*Means with different letter superscripts are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
(2009), was a comparison between “kalunay” and cobblers peg as feed supplement to the
rabbits, his findings also revealed that rabbits fed with pellets plus cobblers peg had a
higher FCR of 2.69 compared to those rabbits fed with pellets plus “kalunay” that had an
FCR of 2.56. Meanwhile Church (1991), reported that an average feed conversion ratio for
meat- producing rabbits should be 3:1 that is 3 kg of feed for each kg of live weight of age.
Morbidity and Mortality
There were no mortality nor even morbidity observed among the rabbits during the
entire experimental period. This indicates that Japanese weeds, Creeping nods and
Cobblers peg contain no toxic substance and are edible feeds for rabbits. This findings
support the report of Rao (2000), which stated that most weeds are found to be edible to
human and animals.
Returns on Investment
The returns on investment in the different treatments are shown in Table 5 and the
particulars are found in appendix Table 11. The ROI of the rabbits was not subjected to
statistical analysis; however it is shown in the Table that rabbits given cobblers peg had
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
the highest ROI of 6.40% followed by the rabbits given Japanese weeds with an ROI of
5.44% and finally the rabbits fed with creeping nods that had an ROI of 3.06%.
Dry Matter Contents of the Garden Weeds
The dry matter contents of the weeds are shown in Table 6 and the statistical
analysis revealed that there were highly significant differences between treatment means.
This indicates that the weeds had different dry matter contents. The result revealed that
Creeping nods had the highest mean dry matter content of 13.25%, followed by the
Cobblers peg with a mean dry matter content of 11.61% and finally the Japanese weed with
a mean dry matter content of 8.65%.
Table 5. Returns on investment per treatment
TREATMENT INCOME TOTAL COST OF
NET ROI
(PhP) PRODUCTION (PhP) INCOME (PhP) (%)
Japanese Weeds
1804
1711
93
5.44
Creeping nods
1763.3
1711
52.3
3.06
Cobblers peg
1820.5
1711
109.5
6.40
Table 6.Dry matter contents of the weeds
TREATMENT DRY MATTER (%)
TOTAL MEAN
Japanese weed
34.59c
8.65c
Creeping nods
52.98a
13.25a
Cobblers peg
46.44b
11.61b
Means with different letters superscript are significantly different at 5% level of
significance by DMRT.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The study was conducted to determine the growth performance of rabbits fed with
garden
weeds
namely
Japanese
weeds,
Creeping
nods
and
Cobblers peg. Specifically, it aimed to determine the gain in weight, feed intake, feed
conversion ratio and returns on investment.
A total of 12 sixty days old rabbits were used in the study. Following the
Completely Randomized Design (CRD), the 12 rabbits were distributed into three
treatments. Each treatment was replicated four times with one rabbit per replication. The
different treatments were as follows: T1- Japanese weeds; T2-Creeping nod; T3- Cobbler’s
peg.
Results of the study revealed no significant differences between treatment means
in terms of initial and final weights and gains in weight. These results imply that the rabbits
in all the treatments were more or less of the same weights at the start and end of the study.
Also, the growth of the rabbits in all the treatments, which was measured in terms of gains
in weight or increase in body weight, was more or less the same.
Statistical analysis also revealed no significant differences in both the feed intakes
and feed conversion ratios if the feed intake is on as fed basis. However, if the feed intake
is on a dry matter basis, significant differences were observed in both feed intake and feed
conversion ratio. This is expected because of the differences on the dry matter contents of
the weeds used in the study. The dry matter contents obtained in the study were 8.65% for
the Japanese weeds, 11.61% for the Cobblers peg and 13.25% for the creeping nods.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
Thou the returns on investment was not subjected to statistical analysis, results
show that higher ROI was obtained from the rabbits given cobblers’ peg of 6.40% while
rabbits fed with Japanese weeds and creeping nods had a ROI, of 5.44% and 3.06%,
respectively.
Conclusion
Based on the result of the study, it is therefore concluded that Japanese weeds,
creeping nods and cobblers peg has the same effect on the growth performance of the
rabbits.
Recommendation
Based on the results of the study, it is recommended that rabbit raisers can use any
of the Japanese weeds, creeping nods and cobblers peg as feeds to their rabbits.
The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013
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The Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Various Garden weeds
DOYAYAG, ROLDAN P. APRIL 2013