Bhutan Journal of Animal Science

FARMERS’ PERCEPTION OF LIVESTOCK EXTENSION SERVICE DELIVERY IN SELECTED DISTRICTS OF WESTERN BHUTAN

2024-06-10T10:05:16+00:00

Livestock farming is a major source of income for the Bhutanese population, and the availability and effectiveness of livestock extension services play a vital role in empowering livestock farmers. Evaluating farmers’ perceptions of livestock extension service delivery is essential for understanding the services that align with farmers’ needs. This study aimed to assess farmers' perceptions regarding livestock extension service delivery in selected districts of western Bhutan. A total of 180 livestock farmers from Thimphu and Samtse districts were interviewed. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression, Fisher’s exact test, and principal component analysis (PCA). Most respondents (Thimphu, 95.6%; Samtse, 98.9%) reported availing of livestock extension services. There was a significant association between the district and the perception of service provision (p < 0.05), with respondents from Thimphu expressing a more favorable perception compared to those from Samtse. Regarding farmers' perception of professionalism and staff attitude, a significant association was found with the frequency of service availed (p<0.05). Three main components were identified for respondents’ perception of the impact of services (impact on farm management, farm productivity, and knowledge base of farmers). Additionally, there were some differences (p<0.05) between respondents from Thimphu and Samtse concerning the constraints affecting the effectiveness of extension service delivery. The primary constraint identified was the inadequate planning of extension programs, particularly in cases where a single extension worker was responsible for covering a large geographic area. The study revealed that, on the whole, farmers in the western region hold a positive perception of livestock extension service delivery. However, some variations in perception were noted between respondents from the two districts, underscoring the need for approaches to address specific regional challenges and enhance the effectiveness of extension services.

EFFECT OF YEAST (SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE) AS FEED ADDITIVE ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEANED PIGLETS

2024-06-21T07:09:53+00:00

The study was carried out to assess the effect of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a feed additive on the growth performance of weaned piglets. A total of 28 weaned piglets with an average age of 45 days were selected and allocated into four groups of seven piglets each; control group (T₀) with no yeast supplemented, and treatment 1 (T₁), treatment 2 (T₂), and treatment 3 (T₃) with 2%, 4% and 6% yeast-supplemented in their diet respectively. During the 42-day experimental period, the weight gain of the piglets and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) were taken weekly. Average initial body weight was 9.97 ± 1.46 kg for T₀, 9.97 ± 1.14 kg for T₁, 9.83 ± 0.94 kg for T_2, and 9.84 ± 0.90 kg for T₃. The result indicated that the body weight gain differed significantly (p = .014) between different treatment groups. T₁obtained the highest weight gain (7.27 ± 1.87 kg) when compared to T₀ (4.78 ± 0.69 kg), T₂ (6.80 ± 1.63 kg) and T₃ (6.34 ± 0.90 kg). Moreover, there was a significant difference, (p = .016) in Average Daily Gain (ADG) of the experimental animals between different treatment groups. The ADG was significantly higher for T₁(0.172 ± 0.045 kg) compared to T₀ (0.113 ± 0.016 kg), T₂ (0.161 ± 0.038 kg) and T₃(0.150 ± 0.21 kg) proportionately. However, the results suggested that the FCR among the treatment groups did not differ significantly (p = .063). Nevertheless, T₁ (3.91 ± 0.91 kg) showed the lowest FCR compared to T₀(5.16 ± 0.76 kg), T₂ (4.15 ± 1.14 kg) and T₃(4.22 ± 0.61 kg) correspondingly. This study concludes that yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a feed additive improved the growth performance of weaned piglets, and piglets supplemented with 2% yeast had a noticeable effect on weight gain, ADG, and FCR compared to the other treatment groups.

EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTING AZOLLA PINNATA ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF WEANED PIGLETS

2024-06-21T08:09:03+00:00

The main objective of the study was to determine the effect of supplementing Azolla pinnata on the growth performance in weaned piglets. A total of 28 piglets were used for the study. It was divided into four treatment groups using a Randomized Complete Block Design. The piglets in the control group were fed with concentrate feed alone; piglets in Treatment 1 were supplemented with 10% Azolla, Treatment 2 with 20% Azolla supplement, and Treatment 3 with 30% Azolla. The trial was conducted for 42 days. The study showed a significant difference (p<0.05) in the overall weight gain. The lowest overall weight gain 2.9±0.20 kg was in Control and the highest overall weight gain 6.32±0.48 kg was in Treatment 3. The Average Daily Gain showed a significant difference (p<0.05) among the groups. The highest ADG of 0.12±0.1061 kg was recorded in Treatment 3 and the lowest 0.06±0.0057 kg was recorded in the control group. There was no significant difference in the FCR of the four treatment groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that supplementing Azolla has noticeable results on weight gain, FCR, and ADG. Besides, it is suggested to conduct an in-depth study taking a larger sample size in weaned piglets with the supplementation of a higher percent of Azolla pinnata in feed and assess their performance for one production cycle.

CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF LAYER FARMING IN PUNAKHA AND TSIRANG DISTRICTS

2024-06-21T09:48:23+00:00

This study examines the challenges and prospects of layer farming in Tsirang and Punakha districts of Bhutan. Layer farming, primarily focused on egg production, plays a crucial role in enhancing food security, generating income, and promoting economic development in rural communities. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative insights from interviews with layer farmers. Findings reveal several challenges faced by farmers, including market constraints, feed availability issues, labor shortages, and health-related concerns such as high mortality rates. Despite these challenges, the study identifies promising prospects for the sector, including growing demand for eggs, supportive government policies, access to technology and resources, and opportunities for market diversification and export. Recommendations are provided to address the challenges and leverage the opportunities, emphasizing the importance of market development, capacity building, input accessibility, research and innovation, infrastructure improvement, policy support, and extension services. By implementing these recommendations in collaboration with stakeholders, layer farming in Tsirang and Punakha can realize its full potential, contributing to sustainable growth and development of the poultry sector and rural livelihoods in Bhutan.

The ANALYSIS OF GENDER ENGAGEMENT IN DAIRY FARMING IN BHUTAN

2024-06-10T13:52:23+00:00

The availability of adequate sex-disaggregated and gender-specific data in the farming sector plays a crucial role in making informed policy decisions, promoting increased farm output, enhancing rural income, and improving the overall well-being of families and communities. The objective of this study was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the roles of men and women, their access to and control over resources, and the constraints faced by women in dairy farming. Data from a total of 120 respondents across four regions of the country were analyzed to provide insights into the variations in gender relations within the context of dairy farming. The roles of men, women, boys, and girls, access to and control over resources between men and women, and constraints faced by women in dairy farming were assessed. To assess the involvement and access to and control over resources between men and women, a three-point scale (mostly men, mostly women, both or jointly) was employed and yes and no were used for boys and girls to examine their participation in dairy farming activities. A Likert Scale was employed to examine the constraints faced by women in dairy farming. The findings revealed that both men and women were engaged in all activities, suggesting that dairy farming in Bhutan is gender-neutral. There was the presence of gender disparities, with women having significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of involvement and better access to and control over resources compared to men. The observed variations in gender involvement highlight the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse contributions of each gender category in the dairy farming sector. This understanding is crucial for developing inclusive and effective agricultural policies and programs. The study identified several constraints faced by women in dairy farming, underscoring the need for targeted interventions that address the specific needs and challenges of women dairy farmers in Bhutan. Acknowledging and leveraging the diverse contributions made by each gender category and addressing the challenges faced by women in the dairy farming sector can lead to more sustainable and equitable agricultural practices. Additionally, further exploration is necessary to investigate and understand the underlying factors contributing to the observed variations in gender roles and relations within the context of dairy farming in Bhutan.

Keywords: Access to; constraints; control over; dairy farming; gender; roles.

COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF GOLDFISH (CARASSIUS AURATUS LINNEAUS 1758) FED WITH LOCALLY FORMULATED, MIXED AND IMPORTED FEED

2024-06-21T10:58:58+00:00

Feed is a critical input for improving production and minimizing the cost of production in ornamental fish farming. This study compared the growth performance and economic feasibility of different feeds on the goldfish (Carrasius auratus). The experiment was done in a completely randomized block design, with three treatments; imported feed (T1), locally formulated feed using mustard cake, rice bran, and wheat (T2), and a 50:50 mixture of local and imported feeds (T3). A total of 45 juvenile goldfish (8-15g) were randomly selected and assigned to three treatments (T1, T2, and T3), each with three replicates. A total of nine glass aquariums were used and the fish were fed twice daily at 2% of fish biomass. The body weight and body lengths were measured at day 0 and after every 30 days for 90 days. Likewise, pH, dissolved oxygen_, and temperature were recorded twice daily. The mean percentage of weight gain was significantly higher (p = 0.108) in T1 (88.28 ± 5.66%) as compared to T2 (26.40± 5.58%) and T3 (39.43 ± 3.88%). The difference in the mean percentage of length gain across treatments was insignificant (p = 0.4), although it was highest in T1 (26.10±4.47%) followed by T2 (21.17±3.47%) and T3 (22.10±3.95 %). Moreover, the insignificant difference in the water quality parameters among treatments (p > 0.05) suggests no deterioration in the analyzed water quality parameters. Cost-benefit analysis showed T2 was more profitable (Nu. 274.11 per fish) compared to T1 (Nu. 270.73 per fish) and T3 (Nu. 269.33 per fish). The study concludes that better growth performance is achieved with T1 compared to T2 and T3 but T2 can significantly reduce the cost of production. Similar studies should be done to better understand the growth performance of goldfish by increasing the protein content in feed as well as including more than one protein source.

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT STOCKING DENSITIES ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE, SURVIVABILITY AND LENGTH-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIP OF JUVENILE CHOCOLATE MAHSEER, NEOLISSOCHILUS HEXAGONOLEPIS (McClelland, 1839)

2024-06-21T10:46:38+00:00

This study examined the effect of different stocking densities on the growth performance, survivability, and length-weight relationship of juvenile Chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis). Three 74m³ concrete tank (10m × 4.9m × 1.5m) were assigned to treatments: T1(1 juvenile/m³; n = 74), T2 (2 juvenile/m³; n = 148), and T3 (3 juvenile/m³; n = 222) in a completely randomized design. Juveniles were fed twice daily at 2% of their total biomass. The body weight and body lengths were measured at day 0 and after every 30 days for 90 days. Likewise, pH, dissolved oxygen_, and temperature of the water were recorded twice daily for all treatments. Survivability reached 100% across treatments. The overall mean percentage weight gain was significantly higher in T1 (26.02 ± 4.52 %) and T2 (26.02±4.99 %) compared to T3 (8.34±1.29 %) (p >.05). The overall mean percentage length gain was significantly higher in T1(12.71±2.17%) followed by T2 (6.49±1.34%) (p < 0.05). Likewise, specific growth rate (%/day) was significantly higher in T1 (0.20±0.04 %) and T2 (0.14±0.04 %) compared to T3 (0.07±0.01 %) (p < 0.05). Overall feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in T1 (6.47) and T2 (6.81) compared to T3 (29.26) (p < 0.05). The juveniles showed different degrees of negative allometry. The allometric form of the length-weight relationship equation was established as W = e^−1.62× L^2.01for T1, W = e^−3.81× L^2.74for T2, and W = e^0.28× L^1.40for T3. Observed water quality parameters did not differ significantly among treatments (p > 0.05). A cross-sectional cost-benefit analysis showed T1 had a better economic benefit than T2 and T3. The study recommends T1 as the optimal stocking density for better growth performance, feed conversion, and economic return.

IMPACT OF STOCKING DENSITY ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF STUNTED FINGERLINGS

2024-06-27T08:41:55+00:00

The impact of stocking densities on growth performance of stunted fingerlings was evaluated. Advanced fries of Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala each weighing between 0.66 and 0.72 grams were reared in earthen ponds with optimum water quality parameters for 120 days. Three ponds with dimensions of 2442m² (T1), 2176m² (T2), and 2652m²(T3) were adopted considering the existing facilities in the study site. T1was stocked with 50 fries/m², T2 with 60 fries/m², and T3 with 70 fries/m² of L. rohita and C. mrigala mixed in equal proportion. The fingerlings were fed a commercial sinking pellet with 35% protein at a rate of 2% of their body weight throughout the study. Descriptive statistics, including the mean, standard deviation, and percentages were analyzed for quantitative variables. ANOVA was utilized to assess differences in the growth performance of stunted fingerlings. Treatment T1 resulted in the highest weight gain (7.12±5.09g), and the highest density treatment, T3, showed the lowest weight gain (3.63±3.62g) with all significance tests conducted at the 5% level. Survival rates varied from 44.53% to 84.04% with T1 showing significantly higher survival rate. Similarly, T1 exhibited the best specific growth rate of 1.98 as compared to other two treatments. Therefore, the research observed that a stocking density of 50 fries/m² is optimal stocking density particularly for L. rohita and C. mrigala to derive a maximum yield in terms of stunted fingerlings.

DETERMINANTS OF REPEAT BREEDING IN SOWS AND GILTS AT THE NATIONAL PIGGERY DEVELOPMENT CENTRE IN BHUTAN:

2024-06-11T01:55:30+00:00

Repeat breeding represents a substantial economic repercussion in pig breeding. A retrospective analysis of EliteHerd^© database (April 2005 - March 2023) and monthly technical reports (October 2015 - March 2023) were analyzed to investigate repeat breeding cases at the National Piggery Development Center (NPiDC) in Bhutan. Data associated with repeat breeding were exported to Microsoft Excel from the EliteHerd^© database for descriptive statistics. Data from monthly technical reports were compiled in Microsoft Excel, and correlation and Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests were performed using R v4.2.0. Overall, 19.2% of sows and gilts showed repeat breeding, with 44.2% (n=540) repeating regularly within specific interval (18-24 or 39-45 days), and 55.8% (n=682) repeating irregularly at varying times (0-17 or 25-38 or 46-108 days). Gilts representing 28.2% (n=461) of cases, experienced comparatively more repeat breeding, which declined with increasing parity. While a low positive correlation was observed between repeat breeding and thermal indices (temperature, humidity, and temperature-humidity index), other possible determinants were noticed. Increasing sow numbers (2%) coupled with declining boar numbers (5.8%) seemingly led to high usage of certain superior boars, potentially affecting fertility and return to service. About 38% (n=28) of the breeding boars were at times highly used. About 36% (n=440) of repeat breeders had returned ≥3 times and were not culled as technically required. Therefore, the determinants of repeat breeding were deemed to be the combined effect of hot summer temperature, high humidity, over-use of certain superior boars due to increasing sow levels, and non-culling of severe repeat-breeders on the farm among many other contributing factors.

PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF NATIVE CHICKEN STRAINS AS BROILERS

2024-06-30T16:55:33+00:00

This study assessed the performance of native chicken strains; Naked Neck, Frizzle, and Seim as broilers under the same management conditions at Pantang Phangkhar under Zhemgang Dzongkhag. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized experimental design. Throughout the experiment period of 42 days, birds were weighed in groups every 7 days to calculate Average Daily Gain (ADG). Daily feed offered and refusals were recorded to compute Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI) as the difference between the two measures. Data on ADG, ADFI, and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) were analyzed. Data were collected from 90 unsexed chicks comprising 30 each of Naked Neck, Frizzle, and Seim. The slight difference in body weight between the three native chicken strains (Seim; 330.08 ± 64.01 g, Naked Neck: 373.42 ± 92.07 g, and Frizzle; 314.95 ± 75.46 g) was found in this study. On 42-day, there was a modest difference in weight between Naked Neck and Frizzle. Similarly, ADG was also recorded little higher in Naked Neck (2.15 ± 0.50g) followed by Seim (1.92 ± 0.51g), and Frizzle (0.72 ± 0.61 g) with no significant difference (p = 0.98) among three native strains. At the conclusion of the experiment, five randomly chosen birds from each strain were slaughtered and dressed to assess carcass characteristics. The Pearson correlation test indicated perfect positive correlation (r=1.00) between live weight and hot carcass weight, live weight and dressing percentage, live weight and shank or leg weight, hot carcass weight and shank weight, head weight and shank weight. Naked Neck showed comparatively better broiler characteristic than the Frizzle and Seim in terms of FCR, ADG, eviscerated weight and dressing percentage. The results of this study indicated that Naked Neck can be promoted as a native broiler strain. However, an in-depth study is recommended to gain a scientific understanding of native broilers, which should continue until a substantial market size is achieved and an extended study duration is covered.

PROCESS STANDARDIZATION OF TRADITIONALLY PRODUCED CHEESE (DATSHI) AND ITS EFFECT ON IMPROVING SENSORY ATTRIBUTES, MICROBIAL QUALITY AND SHELF LIFE

2024-06-25T06:09:34+00:00

This study aimed to determine the process standardization of traditionally produced datshi and to assess the microbial quality of raw milk, pasteurized skimmed milk and datshi. A total of 60 samples of raw milk, pasteurized skimmed milk and datshi were collected from Thimphu (n=24) and Paro (n=36) respectively. All the samples were analyzed for microbial load using pour plate method and microbial contamination. The overall mean total bacterial count for the raw milk, pasteurized skimmed milk and datshi were 6.20±0.61, 4.79±1.06 and 6.31±0.39 log10cfu/ml respectively. The overall bacterial count for raw milk in Paro (n=12) was higher than Thimphu (n=8) and was statistically significant(p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference for pasteurized skimmed milk and datshi in the two Dzongkhags. High bacterial count in raw milk was observed in Tshaluna (6.74 log10cfu/ml) and Lamgong (6.78 log10cfu/ml) amongst five MPUs. Highest bacterial count in pasteurized skimmed milk was in Tshaluna (5.83 log10cfu/ml) and the lowest was in Laykha and Taba (4.15 log10cfu/ml). Similarly, the highest bacteria count for datshi was in Shari (6.80 log10cfu/ml) and the lowest in Lamgong (5.76 log10cfu/ml). The microbiological contamination showed the presence of staphylococcus aureus in the raw milk of Taba only. The yeast count in datshi ranged from <1.0x10¹ to 1.9x10⁷cfu/gm and mold count from <1.0 X10¹ to 1.0 X10¹ cfu/gm in all samples. The detection of microbes in raw milk and datshi indicates poor quality of milk and unhygienic management and processing practices in the study sites. Thus, it is suggested and warrants pasteurization process at the collection and processing units to improve the quality and shelf life of milk and dairy products and food borne illnesses.

TRICHOBEZOAR (HAIRBALL FORMATION) IN CALVES

2024-06-12T08:22:42+00:00

: Trichobezoar is the hairball formation in an animal's stomach, most commonly found in the young animal due to ingestion of body hair. The Dairy farm located at Samrang under Bhutan Livestock Development Corporation Limited had recorded the mortality of 28 pre-weaned calves due to hairball formation in the rumen. The calves died with distinct symptoms such as high respiration, distended abdomen, off-feed, recumbent, and vomiting. During the post-mortem examination, the rumen was found with various sizes of hairballs and clumps of body hairs. Based on the information documented for four years from 2019-2022, it indicates that overcrowding, group housing, indoor feeding, and lack of fiber in the calf diet were the main causes of body licking, ingestion of body hair, and hair-ball formation in the rumen. The intervention of efficient farm operation and management is suggested to reduce the risk of hairball formation in young calves. The findings from the present study did not address how each cause of body licking contributes to hairball formation in calves. Therefore, an in-depth and detailed study on each identified cause of body licking is recommended for future study.

A REVIEW OF POULTRY DEVELOPMENT MODALITY IN BHUTAN

2024-06-21T03:18:05+00:00

Poultry farming in Bhutan has undergone notable evolution, transitioning from traditional backyard systems to more commercially oriented ventures. Through an extensive review of academic literature, government reports, and grey literature sources, this study presents a comprehensive analysis of the historical evolution, current trends, challenges, and prospects of poultry development modalities in Bhutan. With reliance on agriculture for livelihoods, poultry farming in Bhutan emerges as a substantial contributor to the country's economy and food security. The transition from traditional backyard systems to more commercially oriented ventures reflects a shift toward modernization and economic diversification. These include subsistence, semi-commercial, and commercial models, each with its unique characteristics and implications for rural livelihoods and food production. Key findings highlight a steady increase in the poultry population, particularly in commercial farming, supported by government initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and investment in the sector. However, the poultry sector faces several challenges, including disease outbreaks, high feed prices, uneven market accessibility, and limited technical knowledge of poultry husbandry among farmers. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved bio-security measures, promoting local production of feed raw materials, strengthening market linkages, and implementing training programs for farmers and extension agents. Despite these challenges, the poultry sector in Bhutan demonstrates significant potential for sustainable growth and development. Recommendations for future action include prioritizing research and innovation to improve disease resistance, production efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Moreover, there is a need for technology integration and market diversification to ensure long-term viability. In conclusion, the poultry sector in Bhutan is positioned to play a crucial role in enhancing food security, promoting economic growth, and fostering community development. However, leveraging this potential requires coordinated actions among government stakeholders, the private sector, and development partners to address existing challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.