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ANIMAL SCIENCES

ANNUAL REPORT 2011-12 131

Animal Health

Better health of food animals is one of the major contributing factor towards productivity, in terms of their growth, reproduction and production capabilities. The Animal Health Research Group at the Animal Sciences Institute, NARC is focusing on studying the pathogenesis and epidemiology of emerging and newly introduced animal diseases in this country, which has national, regional or international significance. During the report year most of research focus of this group has been towards studying pathogenesis and pathogen characterization in case of FMD, tick infestation, and selected zoonotic diseases. This program is also hub for activities related to the department of Animal Genomics and Biotechnology under the degree awarding institution of PIASA at NARC.

Studies on Foot and Mouth Disease Virus

Pakistan is endowed with a large livestock population. The national herd (2010-11) consists of 35.6 m cattle, 31.7 m buffaloes, 28.1 m sheep, 61.5 m goats and 1.0 m camels. Productivity of livestock in Pakistan is generally low. One of the main reasons of low productivity is frequent occurrence of infectious diseases particularly FMD. FMD was reported in animals in pre-partition India and disease has been seen since independence in Pakistan. The disease was usually seen as a mild febrile infection with mild lesions in cattle and buffaloes with a seasonal pattern (usually wheat harvest time or change of weather) up to early 1970s. Now the disease is endemic and wide spread in Pakistan and occurs throughout the year. FMD is currently the most common infectious disease of livestock in the country.

Studies were carried out focusing on viral persistence in buffaloes and cattle. In this regard, 45 farms were identified in ICT area having more than 20 animals. Experiment was initiated in 30 farms, where randomly selected 10 animals from each farm were ear tagged for identification purposes and blood was collected besides collecting probing samples and oral swabs. Sero-conversion against non-structural FMDV proteins revealed 77.66% positive animals. The oro-phageal-fluid was collected using probing cub recently introduced in Pakistan and oral swabs were collected for virus isolation on BHK-21/LFBK cell lines and detection of persistant infection by rRT-PCR. These samples are being collected at monthly interval and analysis is ongoing.

Polyvalent Vaccine Matching Studies were started at Livestock Research Station, NARC. In this regard, 13 NSP negative animals were against using Merial vaccine in two groups. In another trial 11 NSP negative animals were vaccinated with Arriah vaccine. Post vaccination sera were collected and at day 0,7,14,21,28, 60 and 90. All the sera were analyzed using LPBE, NSP-ELISA and SNT. All the animals remained NSP negative throughout the study and titration was carried out using LPBE. Serum neutralization studies with field isolates are planned.

Slaughter house based studies were conducted for the detection of infection in animals at ICT and Rawalpindi. Interestingly, 28% animals were found NSP positive and among them viruses were recovered from 27.3% animals. Sero-conversion against non structural proteins of FMDV was observed in 31.85% sheep and 17.27% goat. The overall sero-conversion was 20.38%

vaccinated FMD

FMD

Animal Health

ANNUAL REPORT 2011-12132

Identification of Tick Species Infesting Large Ruminants at LRS, NARC

The study was carried out to determine the prevalence of tick infestation in large ruminants maintained at Livestock Research Station (LRS), National Agricultural Research Centre Islamabad (NARC). Monthly examination of animals for tick infestation at LRS from August 2010 up to October 2011 has been carried out. A total of 90animals (30 Cattle and 60Buffaloes) were screened out for the presence of ticks on monthly basis. Of these, only 27 Cattle were found infested with different species of ticks & none of buffaloes were found infested with any type of tick.

Monthly wise Prevalence Rate of Ticks is as follows:Oct, 2010 (36.66 %), Nov, (0 %), Dec, (19.35 %), Jan, 2011 (9.09 %), Feb, (0 %), March, (0 %), April(3.70 %), May( 3.70%), June(3.85 %), July(0 %), August (0%), and Sep, 2011( 12.12 %).

The prevalence of ticks in Cattle was high in October (36.66 %) followed by December (19.35 %), January (9.09 %) and April (3.70 %). All ticks were recovered from crossbred and Achai breed of cattle. After collection, permanent mounts of ticks were made for their identification. Ticks were identified on the basis of their morphological features. Hyalomma

spp. was found to be the most abundant tick infesting the Achai breed of cattle.

Studies on PPR Virus

In continuation of the research activities being carried out on PPR virus at NARC, recently first part of a new study has been completed to ascertain the carrier potential of small ruminants in the persistence and transmission of PPR virus in at selected places in the country. The research focus in this project has been transmission pattern of PPR virus under field conditions, quantification of risk factors and monitoring of changes in virulence of PPR virus circulating in small ruminant population. The information thus generated is expected to help in bridging the epidemiological gaps in existing base line data regarding the occurrence of PPR in Pakistan.

Initially, the project area has been selected and registration of affected farmers has been carried out. An awareness workshop involving all the stake holders has been completed. For the purpose of virus isolation and typing, cell culture based procedures along with setting up of Real Time PCR have been accomplished.

antolicum

Use of Probang cup Blood collection Sample in probang cup

Animal Health


Bacterial Diseases of Livestock (Brucellosis and Haemorrhagic septicaemia)

Brucellosis, also known as Malta fever or undulant fever, in humans and Bang's disease in cattle, is among the oldest and one of the most common bacterial zoonoses with annual reporting of human cases to the tune of 500,000 worldwide. The serological surveys of different location in the country suggested its prevalence of 15% in general livestock population. Some studies carried out so far indicated significant role of cell mediated immune response against the vaccine in buffalo-calves. Some studies related to disease epidemiology, diagnosis and control of Brucella melitensis infection in small ruminants has been recently initiated in this regards.

aerosol vaccine of heterotrophic Pasteurella multocida B:3,4 was prepared and tested under field condition. This vaccine was found to be 80-90% effective in challenge protection studies besides conferring immunity for one year.

Animal Biotechnology (NIGAB Component)

The following research activities were undertaken:

� Genetic analysis of genes controlling growth, milk production and disease resistance etc. in important Pakistani sheep, goat, buffalo and cattle breeds

� Genetic analysis of inherited disorders in cattle� Teaching and research supervision of PIASA post graduate students.

Salient Outcomes

Polymorphism of the QTLs affecting live weight gain in two Pakistani sheep and one goat breed was studied. Also polymorphism in genes affecting milk fat contents in Pakistani buffalo and cattle breeds was studied. The results of these studies showed that the polymorphism in QTLs affects growth and milk production in these breeds. Similarly, polymorphisms in prolactin as well as leptin genes were investigated. Results of these studies will lead us to apply these research tools for marker assisted selection in animals, which will result in devising cross-breeding strategies to improve the local breeds of livestock more effectively.

Brucella

A live

Animal Health


National Reference Laboratory for Poultry Diseases

Avian health issues have attained high significance due to increase in the commercial poultry farming activities in the country. With the occurrence of disease outbreaks of highly infectious avian diseases, sometime having zoonotic potential, enhanced diagnostic capacity at national level is desperately needed. Although various diagnostic kits, reagents, drugs and vaccines are being imported for the control of various poultry diseases, however, these drugs and vaccines are less effective against local strains of these poultry pathogens. Keeping the above in view the National Reference Lab for Poultry Diseases (NRLPD) has been functional at the Animal Sciences Institute of NARC since 2004. The NRLPD is equipped with the latest state of the art equipments and possesses highly qualified & trained manpower along with the presence of strong national and international collaborations in the field of avian disease research.

Avian Disease Diagnosis and Control

One of the major activities of NRLPD during 2011 has been development and standardization of effective molecular diagnostic procedures that result in devising effective poultry disease control strategies. The detailed work done in this regard is given below:

� During 2011, different types of 45500 clinical samples from all over the country were analyzed for diagnosis of various avian pathogens. In this regard about 273 isolates of different poultry pathogens including AAV, AIV-H9N2, NDV, IBV, APV, Salmonella and E.coli were isolated and preserved in the national repository of NRLPD.

� Two new Avian Influenza isolates of types H3N1 and H4N6 were also recovered during the routine surveillance of commercial and domestic poultry from AJK and Sindh.

� In the area of molecular diagnostics type specific identification of new pathotypes of Avian Adenovirus-4 involved in transmission from parents to off-springs was identified.

� Rapid detection through molecular diagnosis using PCR was first time standardized for Salmonellosis and Pasteurellosis diagnosis.

Biological and Molecular Characterization of Avian Pathogens

The second major component of NRLPD was biological characterization of poultry pathogens. In this regard, various pathogens of NDV, AAV, AIV-H9N2 and AIV-H3N1 were characterized through various biological and molecular tools.

� A total of 8 field isolates of NDV were biologically characterized for their pathogenicity, and antigenicity through measuring their IVPI, ICPI, MDT and EID . 50

All these tests revealed that there is introduction of a new genotype (VII) of NDV with very virulent pathogenicity. A revised vaccination strategy was proposed to the Pakistan Poultry Association.

� A total of 12 isolates of AIV-H9N2 were characterized through molecular techniques. The viruses were sequenced for 2 genes (HA & NA), while 6 viruses were sequenced for whole genome. The results revealed that with the passage of time, certain

National Reference Laboratory


significant differences were observed on the biological markers for antigenicity in various genes of H9N2 viruses.

� Another group of 24 isolates of AIV-H9N2 were antigenically characterized using a newly developed and highly sophisticated technique called antigenic cartography. The results revealed that some of the isolates recovered during 2009 and 2010 were highly reactive antigenically, however, the old isolates recovered during 1999-2004 distinctly differed from the recent H9N2 AIVs isolate antigenically. This resulted in proposing modification of existing H9 vaccines to the farmers.

� During the last months of 2011, commercial poultry was hit by huge outbreaks of hydropericardium syndrome in broiler breeders. This resulted in mortality of approximately 6 million broilers and 30-45% production losses in breeding stocks on an average. Various outbreak investigations conducted by NRLPD lead to the identification of a new strain of AAV-4 involved in such situation. A revised vaccination schedule including 3-shot strategy in place of one-shot strategy was proposed for the breeding stocks.

� Immunosuppressive potential of AAV-4 in the presence of AIV-H9N2 was also investigated which revealed high mortality and a significant decrease in the immune response of the birds during co-infection of these pathogens. As a result of this study regular usage of AIV H9 and AAV-4 vaccine was proposed to the farmers, especially to the laying stocks.

Cross Border Avian Influenza Surveillance

FAO sponsored project on Cross Border AI Surveillance was undertaken to investigate movement of avian influenza viruses between Pakistan and Afghanistan borders. In this joint investigation and surveillance activities were conducted in the districts close of the border between two countries. In this regard a comprehensive Avian Influenza surveillance was conducted in the project areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtoon Khawa provinces. For this purpose blood and swab samples were collected from back yard poultry and commercial broilers in local markets, vendor shops, village house hold and birds transported from Pakistan to Afghanistan. A number of field staff, diagnosticians, and farmers were trained for diagnosis and rapid response strategy against avian influenza (bird flu) infections. The study revealed non-existence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza viruses in both the countries, resulting no transboundry movement of the virus in the project areas.

National Reference Laboratory


Animal Reproduction

Assessing DNA Integrity of Buffalo Spermatozoa

Artificial insemination (AI) with frozen-thawed semen is the most effective technique devised for the rapid genetic improvement of farm animals. To warrant the highest outcome with AI, evaluation of cryopreserved semen should be conducted. However it is mainly restricted to motility and membrane and actrosome integrity. The ability to detect nuclear damage is an important tool for the development of sperm preservation methods.

A comparatively simple and inexpensive method of “Acridine orange assay” (AOA) was standardized to assess the DNA integrity of buffalo spermatozoa. The assay is widely used in Human Andrology labs in technically advanced countries to evaluate DNA integrity of spermatozoa. The assay measures the susceptibility of sperm nuclear DNA to acid-induced denaturation in situ by quantifying the metachromatic shift of AO fluorescence from green which is intact double stranded DNA (dsDNA) to red which is a denatured or single stranded DNA (ssDNA).

Standardization of AOA Test for Buffalo Sperm

Acridine orange assay was standardized before use for percentage of DNA damaged sperm in buffalo semen to evaluate the accuracy for the absolute standard in buffalo. Semen from three Nili-Ravi buffalo bulls was diluted in PBS-BSA (Phosphate buffered saline-Bovine s e r u m a l b u m i n ) @ 5 0 m i l l i o n spermatozoa/ml. DNA damage was induced by exposure to known intensity of UV light in laminar flow hood for 8 hrs. One split-diluted semen sample from each bull served as control (in darkness). Two slides from each extended semen sample (3 bulls) were prepared at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hrs of UV exposure or control for the assessment of sperm DNA integrity by AOA. Two hundred spermatozoa were counted per slide for assessment of DNA integri ty (%) under epif luorescent microscope. The experiment was repeated three times (3 replicates). DNA integrity of irradiated and non irradiated sperm is shown in figure 1. Conclusion: AOA is a practicable and sensitive method for the detection of buffalo sperm integrity at molecular (DNA) level.

DNA Integrity of Frozen Thawed Buffalo Spermatozoa Detected by AOA

Semen was collected from four Nili-Ravi buffalo bulls with artificial vagina twice in a week (three replicates). Semen was diluted in Tris-Citric acid extender @ 50 million spermatozoa/ml. Extended semen of each bull was split into two parts. One part was assessed for sperm DNA integrity (%) by Acridine Orange assay before cooling and equilibration. Second part of extended semen of each bull was cooled and equilibrated for 6

Fig. 1. DNA integrity of buffalo spermatozoa exposed to UV radiation. DNA integrity was assessed by a modified Acridine orange assay

Animal Reproduction


hrs at 4 °C. Semen was filled in PVP French straws and cryopreserved by using a programmable cell freezer. Semen straws were stored in LN2 (-196 °C) for 24 hrs. At post-thawing, semen of each bull was assessed for sperm DNA integrity (%) by AOA. Average sperm DNA integrity of fresh-extended semen in Tris-Citric acid buffer was 97%. Whereas, sperm DNA integrity recorded after freeze-thawing was 91%.

Conclusion: Cryopreservation did not affect DNA integrity (P>0.05) of buffalo bull spermatozoa.

Exposure to Bull (biostimulation) A ervice Period during Peak Breeding Season in Buffalo (TWG Project)

Biostimulation n be defined as the stimulus provoked by the presence of males, which induces estrous and ovulation through genital stimulation, pheromones, or other external cues.

Reproductive efficiency is one of the primary factors affecting productivity of buffaloes and may be hampered by prolonged service period. Hormones have been used over last two decades to stimulate reproductive system in cattle. The use of hormone is banned in Europe due to possible residual effects in milk and meat. The instance should be followed by developing countries. Management practices like nutrition, housing and bio-stimulation may influence ovarian activity in buffalo. Bio-stimulation in the form of presence of a bull in the herd may affect reproductive function of animals by stimulating hypothalamus-pituitary axis of females. A study with zebu cattle showed that exposure of heifers to a male during pre-pubertal period decreased age at puberty in heifers. Present work was proposed to study effect of presence of bulls in the herd on fertility, service period and calving interval of buffaloes.

Work Plan

Sixteen buffaloes with normal calving history (within past 20-122 days) were used in the experiment.

� Partially Bio-stimulated group: These animals were kept without bull except exposure at the time of teasing twice a day for half an hour each. (Otherwise no bull within the radius of 0.3 km for 60 days).

� Biostimulation group: These animals were kept with a mature bull day and night for a period of 60 days.

Animals in heat were naturally served. Pregnancy test was performed in the animals 45 days after service.

Results

“Service period” and “interval from start of trial to conception” in buffaloes after round the clock exposure to bull or only twice a day teasing is shown in figure 2.

ffects S

(male or bull effect) ca

Animal Reproduction


Conclusion: Partial biostimulation (teasing with a bull twice a day) seemed as effective for buffaloes as “continuous presence of bull” during peak breeding season to attain an optimum service period.

Fig. 2: Service period and time interval from bull introduction to conception (days) in buffaloes after round the clock exposure to bull or only twice a day teasing. Difference non significant.

Fig. 3. Biostimulation (exposure to bull) an effective method to increase reproductive efficiency of buffalo

Animal Reproduction


Animal Nutrition

Lactation Performance of Buffalo and Cattle Heifers Reared on Stair-Step Feeding Versus Control as per NRC Requirements

� Both buffalo and cow heifers on stair-step feeding attained puberty 18-23 months age comparable to those fed as per NRC recommended levels, resultantly saved one additional lactation in production life.

� Both buffalo and sahiwal heifers that have calved and were reared on stair-step vs control as per NRC after calving were used for recording of Lactation performance.

� Sahiwal Cow: Average milk yield was 122.4% higher in heifers reared on stair-step feeding (n=4) than those fed on control (n=2) diet (2.78 vs. 1.25 lit/d/h) during 150 days of recording period.

� Buffaloes: Average milk yield was 54.03% higher in heifers reared on stair-step feeding (n=7) than those fed on control (n=4) diet (3.25 vs. 2.11 lit/d/h) during 250 days of recording period.

� Stair-step regimen saved Rs 1850/head in buffalo and Rs 3491/head in cow heifers from 7 to 24 months of age; compared to National Research Council (NRC) recommended levels. However further investigations are required.

Comparison of Wheat Straw and Corn Cobs Based Concentrate Plus Fed Green Fodder Diets on Intake, Growth Rate, Digestibility and Nitrogen Metabolism in Growing Buffalo Calves.

� Nine buffalo calves of 10-12 months age and 160 kg average body weight were taken from Livestock Research Station to Animal Nutrition Programme and randomly divided into three groups A, B and C with 3 calves in each group. Three mixed diets (CP=12% and TDN=68%) were formulated as: A) concentrate plus wheat straw with ratio of 3:1, B) concentrate plus corn cobs with ratio of 3:1 and C) concentrate plus wheat straw (50%) and corn cobs (50%) with ratio of 3:1.

� Calves were fed 50% mixed diets and 50% seasonal green fodder on dry matter basis at the rate of 3% live body weight for 105 days. Data on daily feed intake and fortnightly weights were recorded. A five days nutrients digestibility and nitrogen metabolism trial was conducted. Feed, orts, faeces and urine samples were collected daily, composited for each animal and stored for chemical analysis.

� Dry matter intake was almost similar among all groups. However daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio in calves of group B (concentrates plus corn cobs) was higher followed by group A (concentrate plus wheat straw) and C (concentrates plus wheat straw and corn cobs). Similarly, digestibility of DM, CP, CF and N retention in terms of % N intake was higher in group B followed by group C and A except N retension that was higher in group A (Table-1).

Animal Nutrition


Table 1: Growth performance, nutrients digestibility and nitrogen metabolism in growing buffalo calves fed experimental rations.

Conclusion: Preliminary results revealed that corn cobs based concentrate plus green fodder diet proved more efficient in terms of weight gain, feed efficiency and digestibility of nutrients than other diets containing wheat straw and wheat straw plus corn cobs in growing buffalo calves.

Newly Approved Projects (TWG)

� Effect of protease enzyme (Ronozyme pro act) supplementation to diet on growth performance of broiler chicks. Statistical analysis of data of this experiment is underway.

� Effect of protease enzyme (Sibanza) supplementation to diet on growth performance of broiler chicks.

� Effect of non-starch polysacharide and phytase cocktail enzyme (Rovo bio mix) supplementation to diet on growth performance of broiler chicks.

Project Submitted for ALP

� Evaluation of bio-available phosphorus in indigenous feedstuffs for poultry sumbmitted for ALP funidng has been approved.

� Improving productivity of buffaloes through minerals supplementation (under review).

� Comparative evaluation of feeding roughages to dairy animals in traditional versus improved feeding practices- a Nationally Coordinated Project with funding from ALP is also under review.

Rations

Description A (wheat straw)

B (corn cobs)

C (wheat straw+

corn cobs)Average DM intake (kg/head/day) 4.75 4.78 4.88 Average initial weight (kg) 158.33 159.67 161.00 Average final weight (kg/head) 218.67 238.67 219.67 Average weight gain (kg/head/day) 0.575 0.725 0.560 Feed efficiency 8.26 6.59 8.71

Dry matter Crude protein 58.81 66.08 63.13 Crude fiber 57.20 62.34 58.92 Nitrogen retention (g/day) 35 38 24% of intake N 43.92 51.41 35.38

Nutrients digestibility (%) 59.88 64.48 62.23

Animal Nutrition


Feed Technology Unit

Following livestock feeds were prepared at Feed Technology Unit and sold to farmers, apart from experimental feeds for different programs of ASI.

Sale of Feed products amounting to Rs.5 millions from January to December 2011

� PARC Feed: 5652 bags� Poultry Feed: 300 bags� Milk Booster: 714 kg� Urea-Molasses Blocks: 760 Numbers

Future Plan

� RADP funded Project entitled “Stair-step Heifer Development Program for Induction of Early Puberty” is going-on. Following two experiments will be completed under RADP project.

� Lactation performance of buffalo and cattle heifers reared on stair-step feeding versus control as per NRC requirements.

� Effect of stair-step feeding scheme on growth and reproductive performance of Nili-Ravi buffalo and Sahiwal heifers.

Following TWG approved projects will be completed during the reporting period.

� Effect of Protease enzyme (Sibanza) supplementation to diet on growth performance of broiler chicks.

� Effect of Non- starch poly sacharide and phytase cocktail enzyme (Rovo bio Mix) supplementation to diet on growth performance of broiler chicks.

� New experiment entitled “Comparative evaluation of silage versus hay of oats conserved at bloom stage as basal diet along with concentrate supplement stall-fed buffalo calves” has been planned during the current fiscal year.

PATCO, and Feed Technology Unit (FTU), recognizing the importance of Quality Feed and other Nutritional Products in Livestock Production and their availability to livestock farmer/stakeholders in Pakistan and being beneficial for both the parties did agree to cooperate. this respect an MOU between PATCO, and Feed Technology Unit (FTU), ASI, NARC.

in

In has been signed

Animal Nutrition


Small Ruminant Production

Study on Production Potential of Different Sheep and Goats for Mutton Production under High Input System

This is a four year RADP project (2009-2013) with the following objectives:

� To compare the feedlot system with traditional rearing system to increase small ruminant production.

� To evaluate the carcass quality of lambs and kids as affected by different planes of nutrition.

� To determine the economic feasibility of raising selected sheep and goat breeds under different feeding systems.

� Evaluation of production potential through Up-gradation with exotic germplasm (African Boer Goat) at farmer's flock in the project areas.

Achievements

For the Project studies, Forty two male Beetal goats (1.5 years old) and twenty one male Thalli sheep (6 month old) were utilized during the current year (2011-12). The male Beetal goats were randomly divided into three groups as follows:

� Thirteen Beetal males were kept in this group and they were supplemented with concentrate along-with normal grazing.

� Fourteen Beetal males were kept in this group and they were given NRC 100% along-with normal grazing

� Fifteen Beetal males were kept in this group and they were given concentrate Ad libitum along-with normal grazing.

The results and findings are presented below:-

Performance of Beetal Male Goat at NARC

Small Ruminants

Group 1 Group 2 Group 313 14 15

28.0 30.7 33.6132 145 156 47.2 51.3 49.5600 1021 953

15.40 26.20 24.50 5.6 7.0 6.51117 181 157

ParticularsNo. of animals on trial (n)Mean Initial body wt. (kg)Mean Final body wt. (kg)Total weight gain (kg)Daily wt. gain (gm/animal)Dressing %Daily feed intake (gm/animal)Cost of Daily feed intake (Rs./animal)FCRCost Benefit Ratio (Rs. /kg gain)

24.6±1.0452.6±5.48

28.6±2.01 28.8±2.1659.3±6.26 62.4±8.94


The results indicate that the fattening is affected by both age of the animals and season of the year. The fattening potential is more exploitable at the age of 9 months and above. Moreover, extreme seasonal weather either hot or cold results in decline in fattening performance.

In order to evaluate the carcass characteristics of the experimental Beetal male goats, the random samples from each of the above-said three groups was slaughtered and their carcass were examined. Some of the results of the assessed carcass traits are as follows:

Carcass Evaluation of Beetal Male Goats at NARC

The male Thalli sheep were purchased from the open market and after adaptation period, they were trialed. The male Thalli sheep were randomly divided into three groups as follows:

� Six Thalli males were kept in this group and they were supplemented with concentrate along-with normal grazing.

� Seven Thalli males were kept in this group and they were given NRC 100% along-with normal grazing.

� Eight Thalli males were kept in this group and they were given concentrate Ad libitum along-with normal grazing.

Group 1 Group 2 Group 3

3 2 3

Particulars

No. of animals slaughteredAverage live weight before slaughter (kg)Average live weight after slaughter (kg)

Carcass weight (kg)

Dressing (%)Blood (kg)

Skin (kg)Stomach with ingesta (kg)

Stomach empty (kg)

Intestine with ingesta (kg)Intestine empty (kg)

Head (kg)

Liver (kg)Heart (kg)

Left Kidney with fatRight Kidney with f

Left Kidney without fat

Right Kidney without fatLungs

Fat

(kg)at (kg)

(kg)

(kg) (kg)

(kg)

Small Ruminants

60.3±11.93

58.2±11.73

59.5±9.19

57.5±9.19

30.2±5.3049.52.3±0.295.1±0.976.8±2.161.8±0.525.4±1.193.0±1.043.2±0.431.3±0.250.25±0.0500.5400.6200.0730.0800.61±0.1635.2±1.96

63.3±8.33

61.0±8.53

27.5±7.7847.22.2±0.295.2±1.286.5±0.502.3±0.315.9±1.633.4±0.503.4±0.401.5±0.240.23±0.1020.2130.2200.0860.0930.67±0.0614.5±1.40

29.5±4.9551.32.04.8±0.356.2±1.911.8±0.114.8±0.862.2±0.033.4±0.141.1±0.070.22±0.0280.4700.2800.0600.0600.62±0.2544.0±0.92


Performance of Thalli Male Sheep at NARC

The Thalli male sheep are under further trials and the results obtained indication of its fattening potential.

gives

Particulars Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 No. of animals on trial (n) 6 7 8Mean Initial body wt. (kg) 25.3 24.4 23.1 Mean Final body wt. (kg) 57.2 55.8 55.1 Mean Daily wt. gain (gm/animal) 115 113 116 Mean Daily feed intake (gm/animal) 569 979 828Cost of Daily feed intake (Rs./animal) 14.61 25.14 21.26 FCR 4.95 8.66 7.14 Cost Benefit Ratio (Rs./kg gain) 127 222 183

Small Ruminants


Dairy Technology

Each year about 47 billion of milk is produced in Pakistan. Around 15 percent is spoiled or remains under value at source/farms. Hardly, 10 percent is collected properly and milk plants process about ¼ of this (1.2 billion The rest (90 %) is processed by small-scale traditional technologies (100 to 500 batches). However, traditional technologies are inefficient and primitive, lacking quality and hygiene thus posing health hazards and draining farm economy. On the other hand, demand for safer and hygienic products is increasing due to increased consumer awareness and media activism. Moreover, indigenous products have to compete with the products being marketed by national and multi-national giants; hence the problems of small holders / cottage processors need to be addressed thoughtfully as 90 percent of total produce is being handled / processed by them. These processors do not have access to trainings and often find difficulties in getting the right kind of information to prepare and sell quality dairy products.

The Dairy Technology Program focuses on problems of small producers and processors and provides them result-oriented training on hygienic dairy product preparation at cottage level. The ultimate target is value addition to milk by improving hygienic quality of milk at farms and expanding dairy product variety and thus generating better employment opportunities for small investors both in rural and urban areas.

Achievements

Preparation and Quality Evaluation of Herbal/Spicy Cheese

Cheese, a diverse variety of dairy product, is consolidated curd made by coagulation of milk with or without fermentation or curing. It is produced throughout the world in wide-ranging flavors, textures, and forms. It consists of proteins and fat from milk, usually the milk of cows, buffalo, goats, or sheep is used. World wide there are about 2000 recorded varieties of cheese now being made and marketed. Their styles, textures and flavors depend on the origin of the milk, the butterfat content, the bacteria and mold, the processing, and aging/curing etc. Herbs, spices, condiments etc may be used as seasoning agents. It may also be colored for enhancing appearance. It is more compact and has a longer shelf life than milk itself due to

litres

litres).litre

Dairy Technology


low water contents and lack of fermentable milk sugar. Cheese is valued for its portability and high content of fat, protein, calcium, and phosphorus etc.

Cheese makers understand that the sensory value of cheese plays an important role in the consumer's choice. However, it is not only the taste that counts but cheese flavor, as one of the sensory values which is a combination of taste, aroma, heat, cold and tactile sensations also matters equally. It is an important quality attribute, and although the type of milk and manufacturing method play their roles, it is mainly formed during the curing stage or is result of seasoning by additives which are usually natural.

In many parts of the world naturally flavored cheeses are produced in which herbs and spices are used. A number of herbs such as rosemary, sage, oregano, thyme, ginger, summer savory, clove, marjoram, basil, mint (peppermint & spearmint etc), common balm etc are used, Similarly spices such as fennel, cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg, garlic, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, red pepper, green chilly etc are also incorporated alone or in combination. They serve many purposes: -

� They enhance overall product quality and add further leverage to value added product.

� They add an exotic flavor and aroma suppressing unwanted taints of animal feed/species-specific characteristics of milk etc.

� In addition to that, these impart specific color and flecking/freckling effects giving novelty to product appearance.

� Moreover, some of these herbs / spices have antifungal components and thus help to extend shelf life of the product without chemical preservative use.

� Above all, herbs and spices give antioxidant property to the product.

Because of the world-wide trend toward use of natural additives in food and cosmetics there is a growing interest in natural antioxidants of plant origins which are free radical scavengers. Herbs and spices are one of the most important targets to search for natural antioxidants from safety view point. Cheese is best suited medium to get “encapsulated” antioxidants of these additives as it contains both oily and aqueous phases. Hence, wholesomeness of antioxidants can easily be incorporated, preserved and delivered to the cheese consumers. The study under report was initiated to get advantage of our traditional culinary herbs and spices to prepare a traditional white cheese loaded with antioxidant with an objective to bring cheese to a new level of nutrition and value addition.

Admixing antioxidant containing herbs/spices with cheese imparts not only specific color and freckling effects giving novelty to product appearance but also brings

cheese to a new level of nutrition and value addition.

Dairy Technology


Trials: A number of trials were made to prepare traditional white cheese and cheese with added herbs and spices such as Cumin, Mint, Coriander leaves, Coriander seeds, Black pepper, Green pepper, Nutmeg, Black Cardamom etc. Different cheese varieties produced were evaluated by a taste panel. Results are shown in Table 1.

Conclusion: It was observed that generally herbs and spices enhanced sensorial scoring as compared with plain white cheese. Characteristic appearances for certain herb/spices variety was also convincingly novel and assertive for majority consumers. In this the most suitable, Nutmeg was followed by Black Cardamom, Cumin, Black pepper, Coriander leaves etc. For certain varieties, particularly those with spices, ESL {extended shelf life} phenomena were convincingly observable: in this regard the most notable varieties were Black Cardamom, Nutmeg, Cumin, Black Pepper and Coriander etc.

Trainings, Extension and Technical Services

Training, extension and technical services etc are hallmark of the Dairy Technology Program which are extended to farmers (individually or in groups), cottage business persons, small producers or processors and university graduates. In the year under report major focus of training was student internships which included both class room instructions and hands-on practice on milk analysis and product preparations; a total 1225 man-hours on training was spent as detailed in Table 2.

Table 2. Summary of Trainings/Internships during 2011-12 (1225 Man Weeks)

Table 1. Trials of herb/spicy cheese preparation with consumer acceptance ranking

regard,

Experimental Trials With Sensorial Score (%) Ranking Order Cheese Varieties

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Mean + SD1. Black cardamom -- -- -- 95 90 85 90 90 90 90 + 3 2. Nutmeg -- -- -- 80 85 85 80 85 85 83 + 3 3. Cumin 90 80 75 75 85 80 80 85 80 81 + 5 4. Black pepper 80 85 80 75 80 -- 75 85 75 79 + 4 5. Coriander leaves 85 85 80 70 80 75 75 75 75 78 + 5 6. Green pepper 80 85 90 70 75 75 75 70 70 77 + 7 7. Mint 85 90 85 -- 75 70 70 70 70 77 + 8 8. Plain white cheese 70 70 70 65 70 65 70 65 65 68 + 3

Batch Dates Institutions Participants (N) Duration Title1 4-15 July 2011 KPAU, Peshawar 5 DVM Internees 2 weeks Milk Quality Testing 2 18-20 July2011 Farmfresh (Pvt) Ltd. 3 Executives / supervisors 1 week Raw Milk Testing 3 18-29 July 2011 KPAU, Peshawar 5 DVM Internees 2 weeks Milk Quality Testing 4 24 - 28 Oct 2011 UAJ & K, Rawalakot. 6 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing 5 31 Oct - 04 Nov

2011 UAJ & K, Rawalakot 6 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing

6 9-13 Jan 2012 SAU, Tandojam 6 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing 7 16-20 Jan 2012 SAU, Tandojam 5 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing 8 12 Mar-1 June 2012 UVAS, Lahore 1 BSc (Hons) Internee 12 weeks Dairy Product Testing 9 02-06 April 2012 PMASAAU,

Rawalpindi6 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing

10 16-20 April 2012 PMASAAU, Rawalpindi

5 DVM Internees 1 week Routine Milk Testing

11 16-27 April 2012 UVAS, Lahore 1 DVM Internee 2 weeks Milk Quality Testing- - 49 25 weeks -

Dairy Technology


Poultry and Wildlife

Back Yard Poultry Breeding & Culture

Poultry Production is considered to be one of the most efficient and economical system of production of animal protein. In Pakistan Poultry has been playing a vital role in bridging the gap between supply and requirement of animal protein food of high biological value. Poultry production is mostly dependent on exotic commercial lines but ever since the existence of this industry in Pakistan no attention has been given to our backyard poultry. Indigenous chickens have the advantage of being well adapted to the local environmental conditions (hot cold humid dry and rainy weather). These chickens are scavengers by nature and a system of supplementary feeding is not practical. The birds scavenge for their own feed from morning to evening around houses and fields. They depend on field grains, insects, earthworms, green matters, crop residues, homestead pickings and kitchen wastes. Another advantage of the desi chicken is the good taste & flavor of both eggs and meat as claimed by the common consumer. Few demerits of significant importance include slow growth rate, small egg & body size, poor eggs, late maturity and broodiness can be overcome with selective breeding as well as cross breeding to other high productive exotic breeds. Currently, there are few local breeds like Aseel, Naked Neck and Desi (Non-Descriptive) are available for the backyard poultry.

of the Project at Poultry ASI, NARC

Keeping in view the above facts, a cross breeding project was started in July 2009. White Leghorn birds are being crossed with Naked Neck, RIR and Fayoumi breeds. The progeny are being distributed to the villagers for backyard poultry production.

Poverty Alleviation and Empowering Women in Rural Areas by Producing Rural Chicken that can Live as a Scavenger Bird in Backyard Rearing System with High Egg and Meat Production

15000 highly productive chicks were supplied to the rural and domestic poultry farmers. It is expected that as a result of enhanced egg and meat production, the living standards and health status of the rural population especially the women would increase significantly.

Collection of performance data from the farmers still continue. Following is the summary of the results collected so far from 9 different farms.

Commencement

Achievements:

No. Characters DSEI RIR x WLH

ASEEL x WLH

FAYOUMI x WLH

1 Sexual maturity (days) 212 188 224 186

2 No. Of eggs in 40 weeks of Production

73 156 121 151

3 Body weight at maturity (grams) 900 1100 1175 1025

4 Viability during 1stYear of laying (%)

90 86.31 86.11 85.00



Future Plan

� Poverty alleviation and empowering women in rural areas by providing highly productive rural chicks that can live as a scavenger bird in backyard rearing system with high egg and meat production.

� Production & sale of highly productive chicks to the rural poultry farmers will continue.

� We have initiated the production of highly productive rural chicks on mass scale in 2012. This will enable us to get 50,000 chicks & 40,000 eggs during the year 2012.

� Coordinated research project entitled “Genetic Improvement of Rural Poultry has been submitted to ALP for funding. This project will be started at University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Khyber Pakhtunkhawa Agriculture University, Peshawar and Poultry Research Institute, Karachi.

Wildlife

Pakistan is the land of spectacular scenery, having some of the greatest and beautiful mountain ranges, rivers, deserts and forests. Due to diversified eco-zone, a variety of habitat of different types rich and diversified wildlife species.

In the mid-1800s, elephant, lion, and tiger were common in present pakistan. Herds of chinkara were common in the Cholistan, Thal and Thar Deserts and Persian gazelle in Chagai and Kharan deserts. Blackbuck could be easily seen in Cholistan, urial roamed freely in Salt Range, Kala Chitta Range, Kirthar Range, slopes of Northern Areas mountains and many areas of Balochistan. Ibex and Markhor were found in most of the ranges of northern mountains and Balochistan and hog deer in all riverine tracts of Sindh and Punjab. Nilgai was commonly found in agricultural lands from Bahawalpur to Sialkot and so was Kashmir stag in the Neelam Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Musk deer inhabited almost all birch and alpine habitat areas of northern mountain ranges. Similar was the case with barking deer, goral and Sindh ibex in their respective habitats.

Production of Highly Productive Rural Chicks on Mass Scale

Breeds”

Captive Breeding of

host

Highly productive cross bred chicks produced at Poultry & Wildlife Program NARC



Wildlife for Aesthetic Values, Natural Processes, Agriculture, Medicine and Economy

Wildlife is the integral part of the natural ecosystems. Protection and conservation of wildlife would mean the stabilization of environment for human beings. Wildlife is a natural resource which is valuable and useful to humanity and its economic values can be at least partially measured. It may also be remembered that wildlife is a renewable natural resource and with proper care and management it reproduces itself and sustains its population. The use of wild plants and animals is one of the oldest traditions in human society. All our food, a large portion of our medicines, much of our clothing, and in some regions, virtually all our fuel and building materials come from these biological resources.

Wildlife Facing Severe Threats to Extinction in Pakistan

At present Wildlife and their habitat all over the country has been adversely affected due to human population explosion, land erosion by wind and water, deforestation and indiscriminate hunting. The continuing loss of forest habitat, with its associated fauna will have serious implications for the nation's other natural and agricultural ecosystems. Hence, there is need to suggest necessary steps for its conservation/management. In Pakistan, most of the remaining biodiversity is concentrated in protected areas. In-situ conservation has been recognized as primary approach to biodiversity conservation in Article 8 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD, 1992). Biodiversity Action Plan for Pakistan recommends; resource inventories, management-oriented research, specific activities for the recovery of threatened species, socio-economic surveys of communities living in and adjacent to the protected areas and development and implementation of management plans for ensuring sound and effective management of priority protected areas (GOP, 1999).

Pakistan has some of the world's rarest wild animals and bird's species but these are now in danger of extinction due to exploitation and loss of natural habitats (BAP, 1998). Biodiversity conservation is a component of sub-sector of natural resource conservation that has been accorded high priority in five year plans. The magnitude of this phenomenon is well illustrated by the latest Red List of IUCN-World Conservation union. This document catalogues 1528 animal species as critically threatened, including 162 species of mammals. This report also categorizes 70 species of mammals as completely wiped out within last few years, four species as extinct in their natural habitats with chances of rehabilitation through ex situ conservation programs.

The key to biological heritage of Pakistan lies in the involvement of local people and in the support provided by competent research institutions like PARC for the conservation and sus-tainable use of biodiversity. The Government of Pakistan recognized the importance of these measures in the preparation of the National Conservation Strategy (1992) and in becoming a signatory to, and ratifying, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1994.

Lack of scientific data about the biology and ecology of these species from their natural habitat and captivity is a major constraint in their scientific management. In order to conserve and manage this natural resource, in nature and in captivity, data on biology ecology and behavior of wildlife species is needed but it is very difficult to record the exact observations of some wildlife species due to their peculiar shy habits in their inaccessible natural habitat and it remains the main hurdle in their management in natural habitat as well as in captivity i.e. in zoo and wildlife parks.



Keeping in view these problems and hurdles in management and conservation of native wildlife species, an RADP project entitled “Studies on biology, captive breeding and other behavioral aspects of indigenous endangered wild animals and birds” was proposed and is now in final stages of implementation at Poultry and Wildlife Program NARC.

� Construction of five deer enclosures, 8 bird cages, one bird aviary, office/store building completed.

� Procurement of the required animals / bird i.e. a pair of Blue Bull, Hog deer, Black Buck and two pairs of peafowl, one pair of jungle fowl and pheasants has been shifted to the wildlife section.

� Developed permanent pasture fields and plantation inside wildlife research section for feeding needs and shades.

� Successful breeding results of Hog deer, Black Buck, Jungle fowl, Pheasants and Peafowl achieved.

� Sale of one pair of Blue bull at Rs-/ 100,000 and deposited in NARC Account.� Data on feeding preferences, breeding, and behaviour is being collected and is in

progress.� Data of farming of wild animals/birds; feeding preferences, space requirements,

breeding; conception, gestation period, disease during pregnancy and birthing problems fecundity, and weaning period and general behaviour is being collected and is in progress for publication, Wild bird's breeding season, incubation period, clutch size, hatchability, feeding also recorded.

� Collaboration for joint research with Wildlife Management Department UAAR, Zoology Department Punjab University, Wildlife Department,

WWF Pakistan, Punjab Wildlife Department, Environmental Department CDA Director, Islamabad Zoo, Lohi bher Safari, Behria Zoo.

Future Plan

� Roughly 10% of all present species in the world needs captive breeding exercises to save their gene pool in the world, in this context NARC has successfully started studies on captive breeding, feeding & farming of native wildlife specie for conservation & management and will be a source of Research facility for University students and researcher in future.

� Captive breeding/farming of Hog deer Urial Black buck peafowl and jungle fowl will be continued as these species observed to be best breeders and fit to this environment for further research and commercialization, farming of Hog deer to explore alternative meat sources for the

� Due to lack of basic scientific information regarding our valuable indigenous wildlife heritage, there is drastic decline in their population day by day and are facing threat of extinction due to indiscriminate hunting and habitat degradation.

� Our efforts will address the above issues and provide baseline data on captive breeding/feeding and behavior for best possible scientific management of the said native species in nature as well as in captivity. The animals and birds produced as a

Achievements:

University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore,

future.



result research on captive breeding will be sold to the wildlife breeders for further propagation of the species and will also be a source of generation for this program and alternative livelihood for the farmers/breeders.

� Survey will be conducted wildlife breeding farms and demand of wild animals and birds and their farming

� Transfer/sharing of technology to researchers, students, wildlife farmers, breeders and wildlife management and conservation related organizations & NGOs.

� Maintain already established wildlife conservation/breeding research facilities at NARC.

offunds

on

Black Buck at Wildlife SectionCommon Indian Peafowl at Wildlife Section

Jungle fowl for breeding at wildlife sectionGolden Pheasant at wildlife Section

Hog Deer at wildlife SectionHog Deer Fawns with their Mothers rearing at wildlife section



Livestock Research Station

Income Generated

� Milk Sent to Market 48,618 Lit.� Sale of milk Rs. 26,73,991/-� Sale of Animals Rs. 21,37,600/-� Sale of seed Rs. 5,10,400/-

Total Rs. 53,21,991/-

Clinical Activities

� Animal Treated 281 Nos.� Vaccination: 395 Nos.

(All herd vaccinated against BQ, FMD & HS)� Tattooing 66 Animals� Tagging 190 Animals� Pregnancy Test Performed 332 Animals� Artificial Insemination done 28 Animals� Deworming (All herd) 430 Animals� Spray (all herd) 12 times

Fodder Production

� Land Preparation 245 acres� Sowing of both Kharif & Rabi fodder 216 acres� Land Re-habilitation 055 acres� Green Fodder Supplied 8,83,693 kg� Grazing provided to the Animals 8,08,000 kg� Silage prepared 2,50,000 Kg� Total fodder production 1941693 kg � Wheat Straw Bailing 7500 Bales

On Going Projects and Other Activities Facilitated by LRS:

� Does Presence of Bull Affect fertility and Service Period in Buffaloes TWG (approved)

� Age and herd Structure Analysis in Dairy Population with Overlapping Generation TWG

� FMD Vaccine Matching Studies, USDA Project� Persistence of FMDV in Buffaloes, USDA Project� Comparative evaluation of Silage Vs Hay of Millet conserved at bloom stage as

basal diet along with concentrate supplement in stall fed buffalo calves� Angora Rabbit Farming as High Value Livelihood Source for Pakistani Women.

fodder

?

s

Livestock Research Station


Aquaculture and Fisheries

Ornamental Fish Breeding

RADP subproject entitled “Culture and Breeding of ornamental fishes (Goldfishes, koi carp and guppies) and feed development for their different developmental stages” has been started from 16th November 2012. The project was initiated to carry out research on some fresh water ornamental fishes like Goldfish Shubunkin (Crassius auratus auratus), Double tail (Oranda Goldfish), Koi Carp (Local), Imported Koi Carp White and hi fin koi carp, Rainbow shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatus), Albino Shark Epalzeorhynchos munense) and Guppies (Poecilia reticulata ). These fishes are selected because of their popularity among the people as well as culturists. Culture and breeding of ornamental fishes in Pakistan will help to save foreign exchange and will also provide a base for local production of ornamental fish. The success of ornamental fish culture in the country will not only meet the local demand but will also provide the opportunity to raise foreign exchange for country, through its export in the regions where there is high demand. Broodstock of ornamental fish i.e. Goldfish Shubunkin (Crassius auratus auratus), Double tail (Oranda Goldfish), Koi Carp (Local), Imported Koi Carp White and hi fin koi carp, Rainbow shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatus), Albino Shark Epalzeorhynchos munense) and Guppies (Poecilia reticulata ) has been procured from the local market.

Ornamental fish procured from local market were infected with ectoparasites i.e. Learnea and Argulus. The infected fish were successfully treated with Trichlorfon (Dimethyl ( 2,2,2 trichloro1-hydroxyethyl) phophate) @ 0.5mg/100 liters. Ornamental fish infected with fungal diseases were treated with the solution of 0.025 ml/litre formalin and 0.1 mg. /litre of malachite green.

Acclimatization

Acclimatization of different procured ornamental fishes has been done at aquaria, circular tanks and raceways for a period 15 days. During acclimatization the fish were fed at libitum with locally developed diet containing 35% CP.

Breeding

Brooders of Shubunkin, Double Tail, Koi carp (orange and white), High fin Koi carp were stocked in earthen ponds, raceways and circular fiber glass tanks during the month of February, 2012 for breeding trials. Aquatic plant (Hydrilla) was added in ponds, raceways and circular tanks as substrate for egg attachment. Successful breeding has been achieved during the month of March, 2012.

Color Development

Trials are underway in aquaria with locally developed diet supplemented with Spirulina (Blue Green Algea) and Beet Root (Red Chukandar) for color enhancement.


154


Pond Culture & Reproductive Performance of Seengharee

Aorichthys seenghala was started in August 2008 at Aquaculture and Fisheries Program (AFP), National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), Islamabad and ended in August 2011. The present study based on the hypothesis that Seengharee can be cultured in captive conditions. Survey of different water bodies of Punjab, Sindh and AJK was conducted for the availability of Seengharee seed. Potential sites in Punjab (Head Baloki and Head Rasool), Sajawal in Sindh and Mangala Dam (AJK) were identified. Seengharee (Aorichthys aor) was collected from the Head Rasool, Mangla dam reservoir and Sajawal, Sindh and brought back to AFP, NARC. The fish was then successfully acclimatized in the captive condition both in indoor fiberglass circular tanks and outdoor concrete raceways at AFP. Meanwhile, morphometric and meristic studies were conducted which revealed that fish was Aorichthys seenghala instead of Aorichthys aor.

Experiment was also conducted for diet development of Seengharee using locally available feed ingredients. For this purpose, a study entitled, “Effect of different diets having different crude protein levels on the growth performance of Seengharee” was conducted. It was concluded that feed with 30% CP was best for the optimum growth of Seengharee. In another study, growth of Seengharee was compared with diets containing different ratios of animal and plant proteins. It was concluded from study that diet containing 10% animal protein showed optimum growth 68.9g as compared to other diets containing 20% and 30% animal protein. The effect of feeding frequency on the growth performance of Seengharee in cemented raceways was also studied. It was concluded that there was no significant difference in weight gain per fish and net yield between fish fed once a day and those fed twice a day

Seasonal changes in hematological parameters in Seengharee were studied. All hematological parameters showed significant variation during different seasons. In Dec-Jan 2009 some fishes were infected with disease which was identified as bacterial Pop eye disease. Causative agent of the disease was Aeromonas hydriphila. This disease was treated with DBO (a Chinese medicine used for treating eye diseases of fish containing antibiotics Tetracycline). Five ml of medicine was used in 100ml of water once a day. The treatment was continued for a week. Further spreading of infection was stopped after the treatment but fish recovered from the disease resulted in permanent blindness.

Cannibalism was studied in Seengharee and it was observed that number of small sized fish decreased day by day without any mortality. It was concluded from the experiments that this decrease in number of fish was due to cannibalism behavior of this species.

Double Tail (Oranda Goldfish)Goldfish Shubunkin



Digenesis/Control of Parasitic & Microbial Infestation in Exotic & Indigenous Carps Cultured in Punjab

Like other farming systems, aquaculture is plagued with disease problems resulting from its intensification and commercialization. Virus infections have been identified in molluscan, crustacean and fish aquaculture. In Asian regions, principally shrimp and several teleost fishes are reported to be affected by harmful viral diseases, leading to sickness and mortalities. The culture system in Pakistan mainly focused on carp fishes including both indigenous major carps and exotic Chinese carps. Along with the dynamic growth of the aquaculture sector and the trends towards intensification of production, there has been a corresponding increase in the occurrence of losses due to diseases. Keeping in view the importance of fish diseases, the present study has been designed to conduct research on prevalence of parasitic and microbial infections in freshwater fishes cultured in ponds and brooders used in hatcheries of Punjab. The following results were achieved:

For the diagnosis of bacterial and parasitic fish diseases Diagnosis Lab was established at Aquaculture and Fisheries Program. Survey of the Divisions in Punjab i.e. Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad & Rawalpindi was conducted for the selection of potential fish farms. Fifty five fish farms and four hatcheries were selected. Fish samples were collected randomly from selected farms for the disease diagnosis.

In most of fish farms surveyed in these selected areas polyculture of six species i.e. Grass Carp, Silver Carp, Bighead Carp, Rohu, Mori and Thaila were being done. Out of these farms fish in 26 (47%) were found infected with external parasites diseases Lernaea and Argulusi. Three fish species i.e. Grass Carp, Thaila and Bighead Carp were found susceptible with learnea and argulus. Learnea was the most prevalent Thaila while argulus infection was in Grass Carp. Only 4 fish farms (7%) were infected with bacterial disease Fin Rot. Catla catla and Labeo rohita were infected with bacterial disease, fin rot. Fin rot was found in farm/ hatcheries in district Faisalabad and Toba Tek Singh. In one fish farm fungal disease Saprolegniasis was found in Labeo rohita.

Infected fish were treated with medicines /drugs. Fish infected with Lernaeasis and Argulusis were treated with trichorfon @ 1kg/acre and fish were recovered within 15 days of treatment. For the treatment of Saprolegnia (fungus) bath with malachite green 1-2 mg per litre for 30 - 60 minutes was very effective. Bath in 3% solution of and Antibiotic KMnO 4

Study of Cannibalism behavior of Seengharee Aorichthys seenghala



bath @ 1gm/100 liter, cured the Fin Rot disease in fish. Bulging Eye Bacterial Disease was successfully treated with DBO, a Chinese drug containing Gentamycin.

Water quality parameters like pH, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Alkalinity, Hardness, E. C. and Salinity were recorded of visited farms/hatchery. The water quality parameters were within normal range except Totally Dissolved Solids (TDS) varied between 300-2100 mg/lit (normal value 250 mg/lit).

Thaila (Catla catla) and Seengharee (Aoricthys seenghala)suffering from buldging eye disease


animal sciences - parc reports/2011-2012/animal sciences.pdfetc. in important pakistani sheep, goat,...

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