BIBLIOGRAPHY MALANES, NORWIN B. JANUARY 2012....
BIBLIOGRAPHY
MALANES, NORWIN B. JANUARY 2012. Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with
Different Kinds of Garden Weeds. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Myrna B. Walsiyen, MSc
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to compare the growth performance of rabbits fed with
different kinds of garden weeds.Specifically, the study aimed to determine the growth
performance of rabbits fed with different kinds of garden weeds in terms of total gain in weight,
feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and morbidity and mortality rates.
Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in terms initial and final weights,
total gains in weight and feed conversion ratio. Significant differences were only observed in
feed consumtion.
The rabbits had an overall mean initial weight of 0.53 kg and 1.69 kg for final weight.
The overall total gains in weight was 1.155 kg and an overall mean FCR of 8.678.
For the feed consumption, the rabbits fed with Black Nightshade had the highest feed
consumption followed by rabbits fed with Hairy Bitter Cress and finally those fed with Wild
Radish and those fed with the combination of the three garden weeds.
Based on the results of the study, it can be said that the garden weeds namely Black
Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress and the Wild Radish can be used as feeds for rabbits and they can
be fed solely or combined together.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography………………………………………………………………… i
Abstract ……..………………………………………………………………
i
Table of Contents ……………………………………………………………
ii
INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………….
1
REVIEW OF LITIRATURE ……………………………………………….
3
MATERILS AND METHODS …………………………………………….
5
RESULTS AND DISCUSION ……………………………………………..
10
Body
Weight
……………………………………………………….. 10
Total Gain in Weight ……………………………………………….
11
Feed Consumption ………………………………………………….
11
Feed Conversion Ratio ………………………………………………
12
Morbidity and mortality …………………………………………….
13
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOOMENDATION ………………
14
Summary
………………………………………………………….... 14
Conclusion ………………………………………………………….
15
Recommendation
…………………………………………………… 15
LITIRATURE CITED ………………………………………………………
16
APPENDICES ………………………………………………………………
17
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
1
INTRODUCTION
Rabbits have potential as meat-producing animals in the tropics, particularly on
subsistence-type small farms. Such characteristics as small body size (thus low daily feed
requirements), short generation interval, high reproductive potential, rapid growth rate
and the ability to utilize forages and fibrous agricultural by-products are attributes in
favor of rabbit production (Cheeke, 1978). They can even be raised with simple housing
and management and they can be raised by farmers or anybody at that as one of their
hobbies.
The rabbit is a small herbivore that has a digestive tract uniquely suited to the
utilization of herbage. It can be fed with different kinds of garden weeds to be specific. It
is in this connection that this study was conducted to determine the growth performance
of rabbits fed with different garden weeds most especially so that garden weeds are
copious at any garden in this locality.
This study is about the growth performance of rabbits fed with different kinds of
weeds. The result of the study can contribute knowledge in the field of animal feeds and
feeding as well as animal nutrition. It can served as example for rabbit raisers for them to
realize that the weeds that they usually removed from their gardens can be used as feeds
to rabbits and since these weeds are taken free, their usage can result to a reduction in
feed cost. The result also serves as a reference material to other researchers to come up
with follow-up studies
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the performance of rabbits fed
with different garden weeds namely Black nightshade, Hairy bitter cress, and Wild
radish.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
2
Specifically, it aimed to determine the performance of rabbits fed with different
garden weeds in terms of gain in weight, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and
feed cost to produce a unit gain in weight, and morbidity and mortality rates and
todetermine the garden weeds that give the best.
The study was conducted at the BSU RabbitryHouse, Balili, La Trinidad, Benguet
from November, 2011 to February, 2012 for a period of 95 days.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
3
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Cheeke (1986) that rabbits have potential as meat-producing animals in the
tropics, particularly on subsistence-type small farms. Such characteristics as small body
size (thus low daily feed requirements), short generation interval, high reproductive
potential, rapid growth rate and the ability to utilize forages and fibrous agricultural by-
products are attributes in favor of rabbit production.
The conventional feeds in rabbit production in our locality are concentrates of
rabbit pellets and forage. Commercial feed usually accounts for about 70% of total cost
of rabbit production. A problem also with local production of concentrates is the absence
of facilities to make “pellets” and rabbit do not want to feed in the form of powder. The
fine particles cause respiratory and digestive problems. One advantage of rabbit is that it
is herbivorous non-ruminant. Compared to the other monogastric animals, it can digest
the protein in forage very efficiently. Rabbits are herbivores but it is a common practice
to give then concentrates before they are provided with their regular roughage diet
(Bennet, 1979).
Studies have shown that there are potentially many sources of fodders in the form
of tree leaves which are not as yet, being utilized to the maximum extent (D’Mello, 1991;
Kier et al., 1997). Similarly, Kamalaket. al (2004)cited that tree and shrub leaves have the
potential for alleviating some of the feed shortages and nutritional deficiencies
experienced in the dry season on smallholder.Moreover, Cawad (2004), stated that rabbits
love to eat variety of foliage from trees, shrubs, weeds, and grasses.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
4
Maddul (1999) cited that the digestive system of rabbits allows the utilization of
forage based diets effectively despite its being a non-ruminant. Consequently, rabbits are
well suited to low-energy, fibrous feedstuffs and are less-adapted to high-energy
ingredients such as cereals grains. Thus fibrous feedstuffs such as fodder or fresh forage
are typically the basal ingredients of rabbit’s diets. For small-scale rabbits raising,
feeding grains such as grass, vegetable, carrots and others succulent feeds maybe
feasible, but is not practical on a commercial scale.
Escborn (1985) cited that rabbits are unique among small animals for food and
commerce because they produce highly nutritious, low fat, low cholesterol meat rich in
proteins and certain vitamins and minerals. Being herbivores, they do not compete with
humans for their food and are easily adoptable to different environments. Investment and
labors are low and rabbits can be cared for by the most vulnerable family members. They
are easy to transport and are highly productive, with short gestation and lactating periods.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
5
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
The materials used in the study were as follows: weighing scale, feeding racks
and watering crocks, record boo, cleaning materials, twelve (12) New Zealand White
Rabbits that were 2 months old and selected weeds namely the Black Nightshade
(SolanumNigrum), Hairy Bitter Cress (CardamineHirsuta), and Wild Radish
(RorripaIndica) as shown in Figures 1-3.
Methodology
Preparation of rabbit cages.Two weeks before the start of study, the rabbit cages
including the feeding racks and watering crocks were cleaned and disinfected.
Procurement of stocks. The stockswere purchased from one of the rabbit raisers
within Baguio-La Trinidad.
Experimental treatments and design. Following the Completely Randomized
Design (CRD), the 12 rabbits were equally divided into 4 to compose the 4 treatments
(Fig. 4). Each treatment had 3 replications with one rabbit per replication.
However, before the rabbits were assigned to their corresponding cages, their
weights were obtained and recorded to serve as their initial weights. The different
treatments were as follows:
T1
Black
Nightshade
T2
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
T3
Wild
Radish
T4
Combination of the three treatments
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
6
Fig 2. Black Nightshade
Fig 2. Hairy bitter cress
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
7
Fig
4.
Wild
Radish
Fig. 4. New Zealand White Rabbits assigned in one of the treatment
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
8
Care and management of rabbits.The rabbits in all the treatments were subjected
to the same care and management. The only differencewas on the types of weeds fed to
the rabbits depending on what treatments where they belong. The rabbits that were
assigned in treatment 1 were fed with Black Nightshade,Hairy Bitter Cress for those
assigned in treatment 2, Wild Radish for treatment 3 and combination of the above
garden weeds for treatment 4.
Feeding was done twice a day, once in the morning at 6:00 o’clock andanother in
the afternoon at 4:00 o’clock. Water was always available. However, before the
feedstuffs were given to the rabbits, these were washed after which thesedrained so that
as much as possible, these were given dry. Also, the weight of the feeds given to the
rabbits in a day was obtained and recorded. Cleaning of the rabbit cages most especially
underneath was done every morning before feeding time.
Data Gathered
1. Initial weight (kg). This was obtained by weighing the experimental rabbits
individually at the start of the study.
2. Final weight (kg). This was obtained by weighing the experimental rabbits
individually at the end of the study.
3. Feed offered (kg). This was obtained by taking the weight of the feeds given to
the experimental rabbits each day.
4. Feed leftover. This was the amount of feeds not consumed by the rabbits which
was taken every morning before feeding them.
5. Morbidity. This refers to the number of rabbits that got sick during the duration
of the study.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
9
6. Mortality. This refers to the number of rabbits that died during the duration of
study.
7. Production cost. This refers to the cost each of the materials used in the.
From the data above, the following were computed.
1.Feed intake (kg). This was obtained by subtracting the total amount of leftover
feeds from the feeds offered.
2. Total gain in weight (kg). This was computed by subtracting the initial weight
from the final weight of the rabbit per replicate.
3.Morbidity rate (%). This was computed by dividing the number of rabbits that
got sick by the total number of rabbits per replicate multiplied by 100%.
4.Mortality rate (%). This was computed by dividing the number of rabbits that
died during study period by the total number of rabbits per replicate multiplied by 100%.
5. Feed conversion ratio (FCR). This was taken by using this following formula:
FCR= Total Feed Intake
Total
Gain
in
Weight
6. Net profit (Php). This was taken by subtracting the total cost of production
from the gross sales of rabbits.
7. Return of Investment (ROI). This was taken using the following formula:
ROI= Net Profit x 100%
Total Cost Production
Data Analysis
The data gathered were analyzed using the Analysis Of Variance (ANOVA) for
Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Treatment means were compared using the
Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT).
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
10
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Body Weights
Table 1 shows the initial and the final weights of the rabbits in the different
treatments. In terms of initial weight, statistical analysis revealed that there were no
significant differences between treatment means. This indicates that the rabbits used in
the study were more or less of the same weight at start of the study. The overall mean
initial weight of the rabbits was 0.53 kg.
Similarly, no significant differences were also observed between treatment means
in the final weights of the rabbits. This indicates also that the rabbits in all the treatments
were more or less of the same weight at the end of the study. The overall mean final
weight of the rabbits was 1.69kg.
Table 1. Mean initial (at 60 days old) and final weight (at 115 days) of the rabbits by
treatment (kg)
TREATMENT MEAN*
Initial
Final
Black
Nightshade
0.446
1.66
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
0.524
1.66
Wild
Radish
0.632
1.67
Combination of the three treatments
0.513
1.76
*Meanswith no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
11
Table 2. Total gains in weight of the rabbits from 60 days to 155 days old by treatment
(kg)
TREATMENT
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
1.194
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
1.139
Wild
Radish
1.043
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
1.243
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Total Gain in Weight
Table 2 shows the total gains in weight of the experimental rabbits for a feeding
period of 95 days. Like in body weight, statistical analysis revealed that there were no
significant differences among treatment means. This means that the gains in weight of the
experimental rabbits were more or less the same. It also means that any of the garden
weeds namely black nightshade, hairy bitter cress and wild radish or garden weeds be
used as feeds of the rabbits, and it can be fed sole or combined together. The total gains
in weight of the rabbits range from 1.243 kg observed from the rabbits fed with
combination of the three garden weeds to 1.043kg observed from the rabbits fed with
wild radish. The overall total gain in weight of the rabbits was 1.155 kg.
Feed Consumption
Table 3 presents the feed consumption of the rabbits in the different treatments. It
is shown in the Table that the rabbits fed with the Black Nightshade had the highest feed
consumption with a mean of 10.211 kg as revealed by the statistical analysis. This was
followed by the feed consumption of the rabbits fed with Hairy Bitter Cress with a mean
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
12
Table 3. Feed consumptions of the rabbits from 60 days to 155 days old by treatment (kg)
TREATMENTS
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
10.210a
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
9.930b
Wild
Radish
9.650c
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
9.560c
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
of 9.93 kg, and finally the feed consumptions of the rabbits fed with the wild
radishandthose fed with the combination of the above garden weeds with means of 9.650
kg and 9.560 kg, respectively.
The above result reveals that the feedstuff Black Nightshade is seems to be more
palatable than the other feedstuffs in the study, hence, the higher feed consumption
observed from the rabbits fed with it.
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
Table 4 shows that the FCR of the rabbits fed with the different garden weeds
namely black nightshade, hairy bitter cress, wild radish and the combination of the
three.Statistical analysis showed that there were no significant differences between
treatment means. It means that the FCR of the rabbits were more or less the same.
TheFCR of the rabbits ranging from 7.763 derived from the rabbits fed with combination
of the three garden weeds to 9.507 derived from the rabbits fed with wild radish. The
overall mean FCR was 8.678.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
13
Table 4. Feed conversion ratio observed from the rabbits by treatment
TREATMENT
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
8.627
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
8.817
Wild
Radish
9.507
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
7.763
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Morbidity and mortality.
No one among the rabbits got sick during the entire duration of the study.
However, one of the rabbits from those fed with Black Nightshade during the earlier part
of the study died but it was no because feedstuff fed. Instead it was due to the faulty in
the cage where it was confined.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
14
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The study was conducted to compare the growth performance of rabbits fed with
different kinds of garden weeds that were 2 months old. The rabbits involved in the study
were 12 New Zealand White Rabbits. This was conducted at the Benguet State University
(BSU) Experimental Rabbitry House, Balili, La Trinidad, Benguet from November 10 to
February 2012.
Specifically, the study aimed to determine the comparative growth performance
of rabbits fed with different kinds of garden weeds in term of total gain in weight, feed
conversion ratio, and morbidity and mortality rates and to determine which garden weed
that produce the best performance in rabbits. Following the completely randomized
design, the rabbits were randomly distributed in four treatments. Each treatment was
replicated three times with one rabbit per replication. The different treatments were as
follows: T1-black nightshade; T2-hairy bitter cress; T3-wild radish; T4-combination of the
three feedstuffs.
Results of the study showed that the there were no significant differences between
treatment means as revealed by the statistical analysis in terms of body weights, gains in
weight, feed conversion ratio. The overall mean initial weight of the rabbits was 0.53 kg
and 1.69 kg for the overall final weight. The mean total gain in weight ranged from 1.243
kg derived from the rabbits fed with the combination of the different garden weeds to
1.043 kg derived from the rabbits fed with Wild radish. Lastly, for the feed conversion
ratio, the ranged was from 7.763, again derived from the rabbits fed with the combination
of the three garden weeds to 9.507, derived from the rabbits fed with Wild radish.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
15
A significant effect was observed only in the feed consumption. The rabbits feed
with Black Nightshade had the highest feed consumption followed by those fed with
Hairy Bitter Cress. The rabbits fed with Wild Radish and those fed with the combination
of the three garden weeds had the lowest feed consumption.
Conclusion
Based on the result of the study, it is therefore concluded that the rabbits when fed
with garden weeds namely Black Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress, Wild Radish or
combination of the above weeds will have more or less the same growth performance.
Recommendation
Based on the results of the study, it is therefore recommended that the garden
weeds namely the Black Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress and Wild Radish can be used as
feeds to rabbits and these can be fed solely or combined together.
However further study should be conducted to include the effect of the above
garden weeds on the quality of the rabbits.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
16
LITERATURE CITED
BENNET, B. 1979.Rising Rabbit Successfully. Williamson Publication Co.
Charlotte. P 79
CAWAD, J. 2004. Digestibility and Intake of some Tree Leaves by Rabbits. B. S. Thesis
(Unpub). Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
CHEEKE, P. R. Feeding systems for tropical rabbit production emphasizing roots, tubers
and banana. Retrieve 28 April 2011 from the World Wide Web:
http://www.fao.org/ag/aga/agap/frg/ahpp95/95-235.pdf
CHEEKE, P. R. 1978. Alfalfa as a feedstuff for rabbits. J. Appll. Res. 1(1): 6-8
ESCBORN, 1985. A compendium of rabbit production: appropriate condition in
developing countries. Pp 127-127.Deutsche
GesselsChaftTechnischeZusammenarbiet (GRTZ) GmbH, Dag-Hammarskjold-
Wag D6263 Eschborn 1, Federal Republic of the Germany.
GAINESVILLE, GEORGIA. 2011. Weeds and Plants for Rabbits. Retrieve 3 May 2011
from the World Wide Web: http://www.wespinangora.com/id63.html
KAMALAK, A., O. CANBOLAT, Y-GORBUZ, O. OZAY, C. OSKAN and M.
SAKARYA. 2004. Chemical composition and in vitro gas production
characteristics of several tannin containing tree leaves. Livestock Research for
Rural Development 16(4). Retrieved 4 May 2011 from the World Wide Web:
http://www.cipav.org.co/lrrd16/6/kama16044.htm
KIER, B.L., VAN NGUYEN, T.R. PRESTO and E.R ORSKOV. 1997. Nutritive value
leaves from tropical trees and shrubs. Retrieved 4 May 2011 from the World
Wide Web: http://www.cipav.org.co/lrrd/4/bren941.htm
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
17
APPENDICES
Appendix Table 1.Mean initial weight of rabbits at 60 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1
0.450
0.500
0.449
1.399
0.466
T2
0.500
0.542
0.530
1.572
0.524
T3
0.650
0.700
0.542
1.892
0.513
T4
0.449
0.641
0.450
1.540
0.513
GRAND
TOTAL
6.40
GRAND
MEAN
0.53
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0433
0.01445
2.8807
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.0401
0.00502
Total
11
0.0835
CV=
13.27%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
18
Appendix Table 2.Mean final weight of rabbits at 155 days of age (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1 1.71
1.77
1.49
4.97
1.66
T2 1.75
1.74
1.50
4.99
1.66
T3 1.75
1.52
1.75
5.02
1.67
T4 1.76
1.72
1.79
5.27
1.76
GRAND
TOTAL
20.25
GRAND
MEAN
1.69
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0196
0.00652
0.4301
4.0662
7.9510
Error
8 0.1213
0.01516
Total
11
0.1408
CV=
7.30%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
19
Appendix Table 3.Mean feed consumption of the rabbits from 60-155 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
II
T1 10.270
10.170
10.190
30.630 10.210a
T2
10.000
9.870
9.920
28.950
9.650b
T3 9.710
9.620
9.620
28.950
9.560c
T4 9.610
9.580
9.490
28.680
9.560c
GRAND
TOTAL
118.05
GRAND
MAEN
9.84
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.7784
0.25947
75.7591**
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.0274
0.00343
Total
11
CV=
0.59%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
20
Appendix Table 4. Total gains in weight of the rabbits from 60-155 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1 1.270
1.270
1.041
3.581
1.194
T2 1.250
1.198
0.970
3.418
1.139
T3
1.100
0.820
1.208
3.128
1.043
T4 1.330
1.079
1.340
3.730
1.243
GRAND
TOTAL
13.857
GRAND
MEAN
1.155
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0665
0.02216
0.8845
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.2005
0.02506
Total 11
0.2669
CV=
13.71%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
21
Appendix Table 5. Feed conversion ratio of the rabbits by treatment
REPLCATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
II
T1
8.080
8.010
9.790
25.880
8.627
T2
8.000
8.230
10.220
26.450
8.817
T3
8.830
11.730
7.960
28.520
9.507
T4
7.330
8.880
7.080
23.290
7.763
GRAND
TOTAL
104.14
GRAND
MEAN
8.678
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MF
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
9.0069
3.00229
1.7668
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8
13.5940
1.69925
Total
11
22.5940
CV=
15.62%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
MALANES, NORWIN B. JANUARY 2012. Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with
Different Kinds of Garden Weeds. Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Myrna B. Walsiyen, MSc
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted to compare the growth performance of rabbits fed with
different kinds of garden weeds.Specifically, the study aimed to determine the growth
performance of rabbits fed with different kinds of garden weeds in terms of total gain in weight,
feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and morbidity and mortality rates.
Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in terms initial and final weights,
total gains in weight and feed conversion ratio. Significant differences were only observed in
feed consumtion.
The rabbits had an overall mean initial weight of 0.53 kg and 1.69 kg for final weight.
The overall total gains in weight was 1.155 kg and an overall mean FCR of 8.678.
For the feed consumption, the rabbits fed with Black Nightshade had the highest feed
consumption followed by rabbits fed with Hairy Bitter Cress and finally those fed with Wild
Radish and those fed with the combination of the three garden weeds.
Based on the results of the study, it can be said that the garden weeds namely Black
Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress and the Wild Radish can be used as feeds for rabbits and they can
be fed solely or combined together.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography………………………………………………………………… i
Abstract ……..………………………………………………………………
i
Table of Contents ……………………………………………………………
ii
INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………….
1
REVIEW OF LITIRATURE ……………………………………………….
3
MATERILS AND METHODS …………………………………………….
5
RESULTS AND DISCUSION ……………………………………………..
10
Body
Weight
……………………………………………………….. 10
Total Gain in Weight ……………………………………………….
11
Feed Consumption ………………………………………………….
11
Feed Conversion Ratio ………………………………………………
12
Morbidity and mortality …………………………………………….
13
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOOMENDATION ………………
14
Summary
………………………………………………………….... 14
Conclusion ………………………………………………………….
15
Recommendation
…………………………………………………… 15
LITIRATURE CITED ………………………………………………………
16
APPENDICES ………………………………………………………………
17
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
1
INTRODUCTION
Rabbits have potential as meat-producing animals in the tropics, particularly on
subsistence-type small farms. Such characteristics as small body size (thus low daily feed
requirements), short generation interval, high reproductive potential, rapid growth rate
and the ability to utilize forages and fibrous agricultural by-products are attributes in
favor of rabbit production (Cheeke, 1978). They can even be raised with simple housing
and management and they can be raised by farmers or anybody at that as one of their
hobbies.
The rabbit is a small herbivore that has a digestive tract uniquely suited to the
utilization of herbage. It can be fed with different kinds of garden weeds to be specific. It
is in this connection that this study was conducted to determine the growth performance
of rabbits fed with different garden weeds most especially so that garden weeds are
copious at any garden in this locality.
This study is about the growth performance of rabbits fed with different kinds of
weeds. The result of the study can contribute knowledge in the field of animal feeds and
feeding as well as animal nutrition. It can served as example for rabbit raisers for them to
realize that the weeds that they usually removed from their gardens can be used as feeds
to rabbits and since these weeds are taken free, their usage can result to a reduction in
feed cost. The result also serves as a reference material to other researchers to come up
with follow-up studies
Generally, this study was conducted to determine the performance of rabbits fed
with different garden weeds namely Black nightshade, Hairy bitter cress, and Wild
radish.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
2
Specifically, it aimed to determine the performance of rabbits fed with different
garden weeds in terms of gain in weight, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and
feed cost to produce a unit gain in weight, and morbidity and mortality rates and
todetermine the garden weeds that give the best.
The study was conducted at the BSU RabbitryHouse, Balili, La Trinidad, Benguet
from November, 2011 to February, 2012 for a period of 95 days.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
3
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Cheeke (1986) that rabbits have potential as meat-producing animals in the
tropics, particularly on subsistence-type small farms. Such characteristics as small body
size (thus low daily feed requirements), short generation interval, high reproductive
potential, rapid growth rate and the ability to utilize forages and fibrous agricultural by-
products are attributes in favor of rabbit production.
The conventional feeds in rabbit production in our locality are concentrates of
rabbit pellets and forage. Commercial feed usually accounts for about 70% of total cost
of rabbit production. A problem also with local production of concentrates is the absence
of facilities to make “pellets” and rabbit do not want to feed in the form of powder. The
fine particles cause respiratory and digestive problems. One advantage of rabbit is that it
is herbivorous non-ruminant. Compared to the other monogastric animals, it can digest
the protein in forage very efficiently. Rabbits are herbivores but it is a common practice
to give then concentrates before they are provided with their regular roughage diet
(Bennet, 1979).
Studies have shown that there are potentially many sources of fodders in the form
of tree leaves which are not as yet, being utilized to the maximum extent (D’Mello, 1991;
Kier et al., 1997). Similarly, Kamalaket. al (2004)cited that tree and shrub leaves have the
potential for alleviating some of the feed shortages and nutritional deficiencies
experienced in the dry season on smallholder.Moreover, Cawad (2004), stated that rabbits
love to eat variety of foliage from trees, shrubs, weeds, and grasses.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
4
Maddul (1999) cited that the digestive system of rabbits allows the utilization of
forage based diets effectively despite its being a non-ruminant. Consequently, rabbits are
well suited to low-energy, fibrous feedstuffs and are less-adapted to high-energy
ingredients such as cereals grains. Thus fibrous feedstuffs such as fodder or fresh forage
are typically the basal ingredients of rabbit’s diets. For small-scale rabbits raising,
feeding grains such as grass, vegetable, carrots and others succulent feeds maybe
feasible, but is not practical on a commercial scale.
Escborn (1985) cited that rabbits are unique among small animals for food and
commerce because they produce highly nutritious, low fat, low cholesterol meat rich in
proteins and certain vitamins and minerals. Being herbivores, they do not compete with
humans for their food and are easily adoptable to different environments. Investment and
labors are low and rabbits can be cared for by the most vulnerable family members. They
are easy to transport and are highly productive, with short gestation and lactating periods.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
5
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Materials
The materials used in the study were as follows: weighing scale, feeding racks
and watering crocks, record boo, cleaning materials, twelve (12) New Zealand White
Rabbits that were 2 months old and selected weeds namely the Black Nightshade
(SolanumNigrum), Hairy Bitter Cress (CardamineHirsuta), and Wild Radish
(RorripaIndica) as shown in Figures 1-3.
Methodology
Preparation of rabbit cages.Two weeks before the start of study, the rabbit cages
including the feeding racks and watering crocks were cleaned and disinfected.
Procurement of stocks. The stockswere purchased from one of the rabbit raisers
within Baguio-La Trinidad.
Experimental treatments and design. Following the Completely Randomized
Design (CRD), the 12 rabbits were equally divided into 4 to compose the 4 treatments
(Fig. 4). Each treatment had 3 replications with one rabbit per replication.
However, before the rabbits were assigned to their corresponding cages, their
weights were obtained and recorded to serve as their initial weights. The different
treatments were as follows:
T1
Black
Nightshade
T2
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
T3
Wild
Radish
T4
Combination of the three treatments
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
6
Fig 2. Black Nightshade
Fig 2. Hairy bitter cress
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
7
Fig
4.
Wild
Radish
Fig. 4. New Zealand White Rabbits assigned in one of the treatment
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
8
Care and management of rabbits.The rabbits in all the treatments were subjected
to the same care and management. The only differencewas on the types of weeds fed to
the rabbits depending on what treatments where they belong. The rabbits that were
assigned in treatment 1 were fed with Black Nightshade,Hairy Bitter Cress for those
assigned in treatment 2, Wild Radish for treatment 3 and combination of the above
garden weeds for treatment 4.
Feeding was done twice a day, once in the morning at 6:00 o’clock andanother in
the afternoon at 4:00 o’clock. Water was always available. However, before the
feedstuffs were given to the rabbits, these were washed after which thesedrained so that
as much as possible, these were given dry. Also, the weight of the feeds given to the
rabbits in a day was obtained and recorded. Cleaning of the rabbit cages most especially
underneath was done every morning before feeding time.
Data Gathered
1. Initial weight (kg). This was obtained by weighing the experimental rabbits
individually at the start of the study.
2. Final weight (kg). This was obtained by weighing the experimental rabbits
individually at the end of the study.
3. Feed offered (kg). This was obtained by taking the weight of the feeds given to
the experimental rabbits each day.
4. Feed leftover. This was the amount of feeds not consumed by the rabbits which
was taken every morning before feeding them.
5. Morbidity. This refers to the number of rabbits that got sick during the duration
of the study.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
9
6. Mortality. This refers to the number of rabbits that died during the duration of
study.
7. Production cost. This refers to the cost each of the materials used in the.
From the data above, the following were computed.
1.Feed intake (kg). This was obtained by subtracting the total amount of leftover
feeds from the feeds offered.
2. Total gain in weight (kg). This was computed by subtracting the initial weight
from the final weight of the rabbit per replicate.
3.Morbidity rate (%). This was computed by dividing the number of rabbits that
got sick by the total number of rabbits per replicate multiplied by 100%.
4.Mortality rate (%). This was computed by dividing the number of rabbits that
died during study period by the total number of rabbits per replicate multiplied by 100%.
5. Feed conversion ratio (FCR). This was taken by using this following formula:
FCR= Total Feed Intake
Total
Gain
in
Weight
6. Net profit (Php). This was taken by subtracting the total cost of production
from the gross sales of rabbits.
7. Return of Investment (ROI). This was taken using the following formula:
ROI= Net Profit x 100%
Total Cost Production
Data Analysis
The data gathered were analyzed using the Analysis Of Variance (ANOVA) for
Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Treatment means were compared using the
Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT).
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
10
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Body Weights
Table 1 shows the initial and the final weights of the rabbits in the different
treatments. In terms of initial weight, statistical analysis revealed that there were no
significant differences between treatment means. This indicates that the rabbits used in
the study were more or less of the same weight at start of the study. The overall mean
initial weight of the rabbits was 0.53 kg.
Similarly, no significant differences were also observed between treatment means
in the final weights of the rabbits. This indicates also that the rabbits in all the treatments
were more or less of the same weight at the end of the study. The overall mean final
weight of the rabbits was 1.69kg.
Table 1. Mean initial (at 60 days old) and final weight (at 115 days) of the rabbits by
treatment (kg)
TREATMENT MEAN*
Initial
Final
Black
Nightshade
0.446
1.66
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
0.524
1.66
Wild
Radish
0.632
1.67
Combination of the three treatments
0.513
1.76
*Meanswith no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
11
Table 2. Total gains in weight of the rabbits from 60 days to 155 days old by treatment
(kg)
TREATMENT
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
1.194
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
1.139
Wild
Radish
1.043
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
1.243
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Total Gain in Weight
Table 2 shows the total gains in weight of the experimental rabbits for a feeding
period of 95 days. Like in body weight, statistical analysis revealed that there were no
significant differences among treatment means. This means that the gains in weight of the
experimental rabbits were more or less the same. It also means that any of the garden
weeds namely black nightshade, hairy bitter cress and wild radish or garden weeds be
used as feeds of the rabbits, and it can be fed sole or combined together. The total gains
in weight of the rabbits range from 1.243 kg observed from the rabbits fed with
combination of the three garden weeds to 1.043kg observed from the rabbits fed with
wild radish. The overall total gain in weight of the rabbits was 1.155 kg.
Feed Consumption
Table 3 presents the feed consumption of the rabbits in the different treatments. It
is shown in the Table that the rabbits fed with the Black Nightshade had the highest feed
consumption with a mean of 10.211 kg as revealed by the statistical analysis. This was
followed by the feed consumption of the rabbits fed with Hairy Bitter Cress with a mean
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
12
Table 3. Feed consumptions of the rabbits from 60 days to 155 days old by treatment (kg)
TREATMENTS
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
10.210a
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
9.930b
Wild
Radish
9.650c
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
9.560c
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
of 9.93 kg, and finally the feed consumptions of the rabbits fed with the wild
radishandthose fed with the combination of the above garden weeds with means of 9.650
kg and 9.560 kg, respectively.
The above result reveals that the feedstuff Black Nightshade is seems to be more
palatable than the other feedstuffs in the study, hence, the higher feed consumption
observed from the rabbits fed with it.
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
Table 4 shows that the FCR of the rabbits fed with the different garden weeds
namely black nightshade, hairy bitter cress, wild radish and the combination of the
three.Statistical analysis showed that there were no significant differences between
treatment means. It means that the FCR of the rabbits were more or less the same.
TheFCR of the rabbits ranging from 7.763 derived from the rabbits fed with combination
of the three garden weeds to 9.507 derived from the rabbits fed with wild radish. The
overall mean FCR was 8.678.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
13
Table 4. Feed conversion ratio observed from the rabbits by treatment
TREATMENT
MEAN*
Black
Nightshade
8.627
Hairy
Bitter
Cress
8.817
Wild
Radish
9.507
Combination
of
the
three
treatments
7.763
*Means with no letter superscripts are not significantly different at 5% level of
significance (DMRT)
Morbidity and mortality.
No one among the rabbits got sick during the entire duration of the study.
However, one of the rabbits from those fed with Black Nightshade during the earlier part
of the study died but it was no because feedstuff fed. Instead it was due to the faulty in
the cage where it was confined.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
14
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The study was conducted to compare the growth performance of rabbits fed with
different kinds of garden weeds that were 2 months old. The rabbits involved in the study
were 12 New Zealand White Rabbits. This was conducted at the Benguet State University
(BSU) Experimental Rabbitry House, Balili, La Trinidad, Benguet from November 10 to
February 2012.
Specifically, the study aimed to determine the comparative growth performance
of rabbits fed with different kinds of garden weeds in term of total gain in weight, feed
conversion ratio, and morbidity and mortality rates and to determine which garden weed
that produce the best performance in rabbits. Following the completely randomized
design, the rabbits were randomly distributed in four treatments. Each treatment was
replicated three times with one rabbit per replication. The different treatments were as
follows: T1-black nightshade; T2-hairy bitter cress; T3-wild radish; T4-combination of the
three feedstuffs.
Results of the study showed that the there were no significant differences between
treatment means as revealed by the statistical analysis in terms of body weights, gains in
weight, feed conversion ratio. The overall mean initial weight of the rabbits was 0.53 kg
and 1.69 kg for the overall final weight. The mean total gain in weight ranged from 1.243
kg derived from the rabbits fed with the combination of the different garden weeds to
1.043 kg derived from the rabbits fed with Wild radish. Lastly, for the feed conversion
ratio, the ranged was from 7.763, again derived from the rabbits fed with the combination
of the three garden weeds to 9.507, derived from the rabbits fed with Wild radish.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
15
A significant effect was observed only in the feed consumption. The rabbits feed
with Black Nightshade had the highest feed consumption followed by those fed with
Hairy Bitter Cress. The rabbits fed with Wild Radish and those fed with the combination
of the three garden weeds had the lowest feed consumption.
Conclusion
Based on the result of the study, it is therefore concluded that the rabbits when fed
with garden weeds namely Black Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress, Wild Radish or
combination of the above weeds will have more or less the same growth performance.
Recommendation
Based on the results of the study, it is therefore recommended that the garden
weeds namely the Black Nightshade, Hairy Bitter Cress and Wild Radish can be used as
feeds to rabbits and these can be fed solely or combined together.
However further study should be conducted to include the effect of the above
garden weeds on the quality of the rabbits.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
16
LITERATURE CITED
BENNET, B. 1979.Rising Rabbit Successfully. Williamson Publication Co.
Charlotte. P 79
CAWAD, J. 2004. Digestibility and Intake of some Tree Leaves by Rabbits. B. S. Thesis
(Unpub). Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.
CHEEKE, P. R. Feeding systems for tropical rabbit production emphasizing roots, tubers
and banana. Retrieve 28 April 2011 from the World Wide Web:
http://www.fao.org/ag/aga/agap/frg/ahpp95/95-235.pdf
CHEEKE, P. R. 1978. Alfalfa as a feedstuff for rabbits. J. Appll. Res. 1(1): 6-8
ESCBORN, 1985. A compendium of rabbit production: appropriate condition in
developing countries. Pp 127-127.Deutsche
GesselsChaftTechnischeZusammenarbiet (GRTZ) GmbH, Dag-Hammarskjold-
Wag D6263 Eschborn 1, Federal Republic of the Germany.
GAINESVILLE, GEORGIA. 2011. Weeds and Plants for Rabbits. Retrieve 3 May 2011
from the World Wide Web: http://www.wespinangora.com/id63.html
KAMALAK, A., O. CANBOLAT, Y-GORBUZ, O. OZAY, C. OSKAN and M.
SAKARYA. 2004. Chemical composition and in vitro gas production
characteristics of several tannin containing tree leaves. Livestock Research for
Rural Development 16(4). Retrieved 4 May 2011 from the World Wide Web:
http://www.cipav.org.co/lrrd16/6/kama16044.htm
KIER, B.L., VAN NGUYEN, T.R. PRESTO and E.R ORSKOV. 1997. Nutritive value
leaves from tropical trees and shrubs. Retrieved 4 May 2011 from the World
Wide Web: http://www.cipav.org.co/lrrd/4/bren941.htm
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
17
APPENDICES
Appendix Table 1.Mean initial weight of rabbits at 60 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1
0.450
0.500
0.449
1.399
0.466
T2
0.500
0.542
0.530
1.572
0.524
T3
0.650
0.700
0.542
1.892
0.513
T4
0.449
0.641
0.450
1.540
0.513
GRAND
TOTAL
6.40
GRAND
MEAN
0.53
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0433
0.01445
2.8807
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.0401
0.00502
Total
11
0.0835
CV=
13.27%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
18
Appendix Table 2.Mean final weight of rabbits at 155 days of age (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1 1.71
1.77
1.49
4.97
1.66
T2 1.75
1.74
1.50
4.99
1.66
T3 1.75
1.52
1.75
5.02
1.67
T4 1.76
1.72
1.79
5.27
1.76
GRAND
TOTAL
20.25
GRAND
MEAN
1.69
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0196
0.00652
0.4301
4.0662
7.9510
Error
8 0.1213
0.01516
Total
11
0.1408
CV=
7.30%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
19
Appendix Table 3.Mean feed consumption of the rabbits from 60-155 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
II
T1 10.270
10.170
10.190
30.630 10.210a
T2
10.000
9.870
9.920
28.950
9.650b
T3 9.710
9.620
9.620
28.950
9.560c
T4 9.610
9.580
9.490
28.680
9.560c
GRAND
TOTAL
118.05
GRAND
MAEN
9.84
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.7784
0.25947
75.7591**
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.0274
0.00343
Total
11
CV=
0.59%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
20
Appendix Table 4. Total gains in weight of the rabbits from 60-155 days old (kg)
REPLICATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
III
T1 1.270
1.270
1.041
3.581
1.194
T2 1.250
1.198
0.970
3.418
1.139
T3
1.100
0.820
1.208
3.128
1.043
T4 1.330
1.079
1.340
3.730
1.243
GRAND
TOTAL
13.857
GRAND
MEAN
1.155
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MS
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
0.0665
0.02216
0.8845
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8 0.2005
0.02506
Total 11
0.2669
CV=
13.71%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
21
Appendix Table 5. Feed conversion ratio of the rabbits by treatment
REPLCATION
TOTAL MEAN
TREATMENT I II
II
T1
8.080
8.010
9.790
25.880
8.627
T2
8.000
8.230
10.220
26.450
8.817
T3
8.830
11.730
7.960
28.520
9.507
T4
7.330
8.880
7.080
23.290
7.763
GRAND
TOTAL
104.14
GRAND
MEAN
8.678
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
SV
DF
SS
MF
Computed
F
Tabular
F
5%
1%
Treatment
3
9.0069
3.00229
1.7668
4.0662
7.5910
Error
8
13.5940
1.69925
Total
11
22.5940
CV=
15.62%
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed with Different Kinds of
Garden Weeds /Norwin B. Malanes. 2012
Document Outline
- Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed withDifferent Kinds of Garden Weeds
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
- INTRODUCTION
- REVIEW OF LITERATURE
- MATERIALS AND METHODS
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
- SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
- LITERATURE CITED
- APPENDICES