The cutting-edge technologies of single-cell omics have revolutionized the study of animal reproduction, enabling the visualization of cellular and molecular domains in organisms during various growth stages. This review presents a conceptual framework grounded in the latest developments from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), ATAC sequencing (scATAC-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and multi-omics approaches applied to the reproductive organs of livestock and model species. Technologies survey molecular types of the cell, the course of transcription, chromatin accessibility, and regulatory networks for specific tissues in the development of gonads, gametogenesis, and embryo formation. In comparative analysis, both common and species-specific characteristics have been identified in models of cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, and avian species. This has made them a valuable resource for the development of trait-based breeding protocols. We discuss how single-cell data are being integrated with genomic selection frameworks to enhance fertility prediction and assisted reproduction strategies, leading to improvements in artificial insemination and reproductive disease modelling. The rapid evolution of protocols and tools has enabled the livestock science field to expand the use of these technologies, despite technical and computational challenges such as tissue dissociation bias, genome annotation gaps, and data complexity. The livestock science sector, therefore, is experiencing the broad adoption of single-cell differentials not just in the transformation of reproductive science but also in practical decision-making guidance for the new generation of animal breeding and fertility management. Full article

This study assessed the impact of garlic and neem leaf supplementation on the histomorphology of the intestinal structure of rabbits over a 48-day feeding trial. Twenty-four mature rabbit bucks with an average weight of 3.2 kg from three breeds (New Zealand White, White Chinchilla, and Dutch) were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, each with six rabbits in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Four diets were formulated to meet the nutritional needs of rabbits, with supplementation at 0% (control, CON), 5% garlic (G5), 5% neem leaf (N5), and a combination of 2.5% garlic and 2.5% neem leaf (GN2.5). At the end of the feeding trial, sections of the duodenum were collected, processed, and examined histologically to evaluate villus height, crypt depth, villus-to-crypt ratio, and mucosal thickness. Histological analysis revealed variations in villus height and crypt depth across dietary treatments, with rabbits in the combined garlic and neem leaf group GN2.5 (p  < 0.05) showing improved villus surface area and villus-to-crypt length ratio compared to other groups. The G5 and GN2.5 groups also exhibited enhanced mucosal thickness, indicating potential benefits for nutrient absorption and gut health. No significant lesions or adverse histological changes were observed in any treatment group, suggesting the safety of garlic and neem leaf as dietary supplements in rabbits. It was concluded that both garlic and neem leaf can be beneficial as natural additives for improving gut morphology in rabbits but cannot be used in high percentages. Full article

This study evaluated two broiler strains (Marshall and Cobb 500) and an indigenous improved dual-purpose (Noiler) strain for thermotolerance, hematological indices, serum metabolites, and behavioral traits. The collected data were analyzed using appropriate models, including a linear mixed model, one-way ANOVA and an ordinal regression model. Results of the study indicated a significant (p < 0.05) effect of age on physiological variables but not strain. Similarly, WBC was higher in Cobb 500 birds than Noiler chickens (p < 0.05). Conversely, ALP and urea were higher in Noiler than in the exotic strains, whereas enzyme activity had a nuanced pattern among the study strains. In the same vein, Marshall and Noiler chickens spent more time moving around the pen and sawdust bathing compared to Cobb 500 (p < 0.05). There was a higher number of Noiler birds touchable (χ2 = 17.51, p = 0.002), but Cobb 500 birds were less frightened by the grab test (χ2 = 8.76, p = 0.0126). These results indicated a trade-off between productivity and welfare across the three genetic groups, highlighting the importance of balancing genetic selection for production with the preservation of natural behaviors and physiological resilience to foster sustainable poultry welfare in a changing climate and escalating environmental stressors. Full article

The study examined the effect of Terminalia mantaly leaf extracts on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and blood profile of broiler chickens. A total of 105 day-old Ross 308 chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments, with 21 birds per treatment in three replicates of seven birds each. The treatments consisted of 0% (control), 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% T. mantaly leaf extracts mixed in drinking water and administered to the birds for 56 days. The measured parameters comprised initial and final weights, total and average daily weight gain, total and average daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, carcass traits, as well as haematological and serum biochemical indices of the broilers. Full article

This study investigated the adoption, benefits, and challenges of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in dairy farms in the Mutasa District of Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe, utilizing a purposive sample of thirty small-scale and medium- to large-scale farmers. The overall ICT utilization was found to be low, with farmers primarily relying on the mobile phone as the most pervasive tool across all scales. The principal benefit cited was improved financial services, for instance mobile money transfers for milk payments. Despite the potential for improved productivity, the adoption of advanced dairy ICTs and computers was negligible. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in overall ICT usage between the two farming scales. The main constraints to adoption were identified as the high costs of ICTs and a pervasive lack of skills, compounded by infrastructural deficits such as the unavailability of electricity. The study recommends a dedicated focus on providing adequate financing and implementing targeted skills development through community information centers and extension services to promote the uptake of advanced agricultural ICTs. Full article

This objective of the study was to investigate the effects of season and energy levels on the broiler productivity index (BPI) in the semi-arid environment. The study was conducted in three different seasons (hot, rainy and cold seasons). A total of 2,025 boiler chickens comprising three strains (Arbor Acre, Marshall and Hubbard) were used. Of this, 675 were used per season, with 225 birds from each strain. The birds were fed diets containing three energy levels: low (LE), medium (ME), and high (HE). Temperature-humidity index (THI) of the seasons was computed to characterize the thermal comfort of the chickens across the seasons. Results indicated that the chickens were reared under severe heat stress (THI > 30), moderate heat stress (THI 27.8–28.8), and thermo-neutral conditions (THI < 27.8) during the hot, rainy, and cold seasons, respectively. Additionally, energy level and season significantly affected the BPI of the chickens (p < 0.05). Birds fed the LE diet had a higher BPI than those fed the other energy levels. Furthermore, birds reared during the cold season exhibited a higher BPI than those reared in the other seasons. Therefore, feeding the LE diet improved the BPI of birds across all seasons. Full article

The increasing competition for major feed ingredients such as maize due to world crisis, caused by the high cost and scarcity of these conventional feed ingredients due to climate changes have necessitated the exploration of indigestible alternative feed resources for sustainable small ruminant production. Crop residues and agro-industrial by-products (AIBPs) are highly abundant, cost-effective, and readily available feed options that can enhance livestock production while minimizing environmental waste. This systematic review evaluates the nutritive effects, physiological responses, and reproductive parameters associated with the inclusion of crop residues and AIBPs in small ruminant diets. The review synthesizes findings from various studies, highlighting their impact on feed intake, digestibility, growth performance, haematological and biochemical indices, reproductive efficiency, and overall productivity. While these alternative feed resources can improve nutrient availability and animal performance, challenges such as anti-nutritional factors and variability in nutrient composition must be addressed through appropriate processing techniques. The findings suggest adequate utilization of crop residues and AIBPs, alongside suitable supplementation, did not necessarily affect the production indices, thereby enhancing small ruminant production, reduce feeding costs, and contribute to sustainable livestock farming as well as decrease the potency for environmental pollution. Full article

This study examined the key factors influencing goat production in selected local government areas of Anambra State, Nigeria. A well-structured questionnaire was distributed to 100 goat farmers randomly selected from the three locations. Percentage frequency, multiple regression, and chi-square analyses were employed in data analysis. Results indicated that 64% of the respondents were male and 36% female. The predominant breeds raised were West African Dwarf (68%) and Red Sokoto (32%), managed under extensive (50%), semi-intensive (47%), and intensive (3%) systems. About 70% of the respondents had no access to credit, and of those who received (30%), only 7% obtained credit from the bank. A majority (66%) of the respondents had no access to veterinary services, resulting in infrequent vaccination (68%) and prevailing Peste des Petits Ruminants (70%) and foot-and-mouth (25%) diseases. Regression analysis revealed that the production system significantly influenced farmers' income (R² = 34.50%, b = 1.04, p < 0.05), while herd size was primarily affected by production costs (R² = 22.90%, b = 0.26, p < 0.05). Chi-square results indicated that income and production costs were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with gender and location of goat farmers. The study concludes that socio-economic characteristics, breed type, production system, loan access, diseases, veterinary factors and geographical location are critical determinants of income and herd size among goat farmers. Prioritizing these factors is essential for enhancing productivity and economic returns in goat farming in Anambra State. Full article

The food and beverage industry generates a significant amount of fruit waste, especially in the form of peels, seeds, and various components of fruit pomace. The mismanagement of fruit pomace, particularly when dumped in landfills, poses significant health and environmental risks. Therefore, it is crucial to redirect these byproducts to productive applications, such as broiler nutrition, where they have substantial potential to contribute to reducing feeding costs. The pomace is, however, often unsuitable as broiler feed ingredients due to their high crude fiber and tannin contents. In recent years, solid state fermentation (SSF) with bacteria, fungi, and yeast has been applied to valorize pomace through breaking down complex materials into simpler, more digestible compounds, enhancing the bioavailability of nutrients, and boosting the antioxidant activity. It is envisaged that the utilization of fruit pomace as broiler feed ingredients is expected to alleviate pressure on conventional feed ingredients, optimize broiler production systems, and promote both environmental and economic sustainability. This review aims to gather supporting evidence on the applicability and potential of SSF of fruit pomace, as well as the impact of the resulting fermented fruit pomace on broiler nutrition, focusing on growth performance metrics, meat quality attributes, and gut health. Full article

Backyard poultry farming is an efficient, sustainable, and economical practice in which kitchen waste serves as a key component. Organic kitchen waste can be used to feed poultry, providing nutrients from vegetable scraps, fruit peels, leftover cooked food, and crushed eggshells, thereby reducing reliance on costly commercial feeds. Eggshells, for example, are an excellent source of calcium, which supports bone strength and improves egg production in laying hens. However, inorganic waste such as plastic, glass, and other non-degradable materials must be excluded, as they pose health risks and endanger poultry. Using kitchen waste not only lowers feed costs and improves economic efficiency but also promotes environmental sustainability by diverting organic waste from landfills, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a circular bioeconomy. Kitchen waste offers a sustainable and potentially cost-effective alternative to commercial feed, with nutritional content that varies but can provide valuable protein, fat, and fiber. Studies have shown that certain food waste streams can significantly reduce feed costs by replacing expensive grains, oils, and protein meals, with potential cost savings of up to 25% in some cases. Despite these benefits, challenges such as contamination risks, nutrient imbalances, and seasonal variability in waste availability must be addressed through proper management strategies, including composting, fermentation, and drying. With such measures, the full potential of kitchen waste as an alternative feed source can be harnessed to promote environment friendly and resource-efficient poultry farming. Full article