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International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology

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Articles 1 - 30 of 147

Full-Text Articles in Animal Sciences

Exploring The Significance Of Kenya's Indigenous And Emerging Blue Foods For Sustainable Aquaculture Development. A Review, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Domitila Kyule, Esther Magondu, Kevin Obiero, Jimmy Mboya, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Tanga M. Chrysantus, Gerald Kwikiriza, Francis K. Njonge Oct 2026

Exploring The Significance Of Kenya's Indigenous And Emerging Blue Foods For Sustainable Aquaculture Development. A Review, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Domitila Kyule, Esther Magondu, Kevin Obiero, Jimmy Mboya, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Tanga M. Chrysantus, Gerald Kwikiriza, Francis K. Njonge

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Kenya's aquaculture sector is at a pivotal stage, transitioning from a historical reliance on Nile tilapia and African catfish toward a more diversified production portfolio that integrates indigenous and emerging freshwater and marine species. This shift is increasingly recognized as essential to enhance climate resilience, food security, and ecosystem health. This systematic review synthesizes more than two decades (2000 to 31st January, 2026) of peer-reviewed literature to evaluate the biological suitability, culture performance, and socio-ecological roles of underutilized native taxa, including Ningu (Labeo victorianus), Jipe tilapia (Oreochromis jipe), freshwater prawns (Macrobrachium spp.), rabbitfish (Siganus sutor), marine-acclimatized Nile tilapia, mud crab …

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Tissue-Specific And Sex-Dependent Microbiome Structure In East African Cattle Ticks (Amblyomma Gemma And Rhipicephalus Pulchellus) And Their Bovine Hosts, Dennis Getange, Samson Mukaratirwa, Rua Khogali, Epaphrus Yuko, James Kabii, Joel L. Bargul, Jandouwe Villinger Aug 2026

Tissue-Specific And Sex-Dependent Microbiome Structure In East African Cattle Ticks (Amblyomma Gemma And Rhipicephalus Pulchellus) And Their Bovine Hosts, Dennis Getange, Samson Mukaratirwa, Rua Khogali, Epaphrus Yuko, James Kabii, Joel L. Bargul, Jandouwe Villinger

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Ticks and their vertebrate hosts share intimate ecological interactions that shape microbial community composition, with implications for tick fitness and pathogen transmission. However, the extent and specificity of tick–host microbial interactions remain poorly understood, particularly in East African tick species. Here, we characterised microbial communities across multiple tissue types from two economically important tick species (Amblyomma gemma and Rhipicephalus pulchellus) and their shared bovine host using 16S rRNA V1-V2 gene sequencing. We profiled haemolymph, midgut, salivary glands, and gonads from individual ticks (25 Am. gemma and 8 Rh. pulchellus), alongside 12 bovine blood samples. Microbiota were dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, …

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Harnessing Kenyan Aquaculture Through Social Media: Impacts, Challenges And Strategic Directions, Domitila Kyule, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Esther Magondu, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Kevin Obiero, Cecilia Githukia Aug 2026

Harnessing Kenyan Aquaculture Through Social Media: Impacts, Challenges And Strategic Directions, Domitila Kyule, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Esther Magondu, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Kevin Obiero, Cecilia Githukia

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Aquaculture is increasingly important for food, nutrition and livelihoods in Kenya, but the sector still faces persistent constraints in extension delivery, farmer learning, input access, market coordination and information reliability. This review examines how social media and related digital communication tools are shaping aquaculture development in Kenya, with attention to impacts, challenges, governance needs and strategic directions. A systematic literature review of studies and institutional sources published between 2015 and 2025 was conducted. The search identified 388 records, of which 45 sources were included in the final synthesis after screening, eligibility assessment and quality appraisal. Because the evidence was heterogeneous, …

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Gendered Analysis Of Fish Feed Ingredients And Sourcing Practices In Western Kenya’S Aquaculture, Kristie Drucza, Sujata Ganguly, Rodrigue Yossa, Chrysantus Tanga Jul 2026

Gendered Analysis Of Fish Feed Ingredients And Sourcing Practices In Western Kenya’S Aquaculture, Kristie Drucza, Sujata Ganguly, Rodrigue Yossa, Chrysantus Tanga

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Introduction – Fish feed management plays a central role in aquaculture productivity, but it is rarely analysed through a gender lens. This study examines how women and men differ in their use and sourcing of fish feed ingredients in smallholder aquaculture systems in Western Kenya. Drawing on feminist economics, it explores how everyday roles, access to resources, and mobility shape feed practices. Methods – The analysis uses survey data from 213 fish farmers, including 112 women and 101 men, across six counties in Western Kenya. A binary logit model was used to assess factors associated with the use of selected …

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Partial Insect-Based Meal Inclusion In The Diets Of Ross® 308 Broilers Upregulates Growth And Immune Related Genes, Victor K. Rotich, Isaac M. Osuga, Mathew G. Gicheha, Shaphan Y. Chia, Jandouwe Villinger, Anderson N. Maina, Jinhua Xiao, Dennis Beesigamukama, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jun 2026

Partial Insect-Based Meal Inclusion In The Diets Of Ross® 308 Broilers Upregulates Growth And Immune Related Genes, Victor K. Rotich, Isaac M. Osuga, Mathew G. Gicheha, Shaphan Y. Chia, Jandouwe Villinger, Anderson N. Maina, Jinhua Xiao, Dennis Beesigamukama, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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This work investigated the effects of black soldier fly ( Hermetia illucens L.) larvae meal (BSFLM) on growth- and immune-related gene expression in Ross 308 broilers. Birds were fed diets containing soybean meal (SBM), fishmeal (FM), combinations with BSFLM, or BSFLM alone. Growth, organ weights, immune genes [interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)] and growth-related genes [chicken growth hormone (cGH), insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1)] expression were measured. Our results demonstrate that birds fed FM+BSFLM had significantly higher final liveweight, average daily weight gain (ADG), and low feed conversion ratio. Birds fed FM+BSFLM showed highest …

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Polyhydroxybutyrate (Phb) From Biofloc Systems Enhances The Growth And Immune Performance Of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Jimmy B. Mboya, Felix Sugantham Apr 2026

Polyhydroxybutyrate (Phb) From Biofloc Systems Enhances The Growth And Immune Performance Of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Jimmy B. Mboya, Felix Sugantham

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This study characterised polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)-producing bacteria from the culture water of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) in biofloc ponds and investigated the influence of PHB on the growth and immune performance of GIFT. Out of 40 bacterial isolates, Bacillus infantis, Exiguobacterium profundum, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus hirae showed positive results for PHB against fluorescent stains. The PHB yield in the range of 5%–95.45% (w/w) was recorded, with the highest from K. pneumoniae (95.45% w/w). The experimental treatments included a basal diet as a control (C), a basal diet with PHB (5 g kg−1) from …

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Taxonomy, Distribution And Ecology, Biology, Nutritional Composition, And Conservation Status Of Critically Endangered Lake Chala Tilapia Oreochromis Hunteri (Günther, 1889): Implications For Aquaculture Development, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Domitila Kyule, Esther Magondu, Jacob O. Iteba, Kevin Obiero, Paul Orina, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Tanga M. Chrysantus Jan 2026

Taxonomy, Distribution And Ecology, Biology, Nutritional Composition, And Conservation Status Of Critically Endangered Lake Chala Tilapia Oreochromis Hunteri (Günther, 1889): Implications For Aquaculture Development, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Domitila Kyule, Esther Magondu, Jacob O. Iteba, Kevin Obiero, Paul Orina, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Tanga M. Chrysantus

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Oreochromis hunteri Günther, 1889, commonly known as Lake Chala tilapia, is an endemic cichlid restricted to the small crater lake, Lake Chala, on the border of Kenya and Tanzania. This review synthesizes existing knowledge on the taxonomy, and phylogenetic placement, distribution and ecology, and biology including nutritional composition, and conservation status of O. hunteri and identifies knowledge gaps to assess its potential for aquaculture development. The knowledge gaps include its reproductive biology, population structure, and adaptive capacity to environmental and climatic variability. As the type species of the genus Oreochromis, O. hunteri is a unique, genetically isolated lineage within a …

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Cross-Domain Antimicrobial Resistance In Poultry Farming: A One Health Assessment Of Antimicrobial Use And Multidrug Resistance In Kiambu County, Kenya, Ann Kangai Munene, Peter Muiruri Mwangi, Lilly Caroline Bebora, Christine Minoo Mbindyo, John Muthini Maingi Jan 2026

Cross-Domain Antimicrobial Resistance In Poultry Farming: A One Health Assessment Of Antimicrobial Use And Multidrug Resistance In Kiambu County, Kenya, Ann Kangai Munene, Peter Muiruri Mwangi, Lilly Caroline Bebora, Christine Minoo Mbindyo, John Muthini Maingi

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Background and Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a major One Health threat driven by inappropriate antimicrobial use (AMU) in humans, animals, and the environment. Poultry production is recognized as a key reservoir of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, yet few studies in Kenya examine AMU and AMR across interconnected human–animal–environment domains. This study assessed AMU patterns among poultry farmers in Kiambu County and characterized phenotypic resistance in Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. isolated from humans, chickens, and chicken environments. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2024, involving 102 poultry farms. Farm demographics and AMU data …

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Oligonychus Trichardti (Acari: Tetranychidae) Associated With Urochloa Grasses In Kenya: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach, Paula Espitia-Buitrago, Claudia Perea, Lavender A. Odhiambo, Rosa N. Jauregui, Frank Chidawanyika Jan 2026

Oligonychus Trichardti (Acari: Tetranychidae) Associated With Urochloa Grasses In Kenya: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach, Paula Espitia-Buitrago, Claudia Perea, Lavender A. Odhiambo, Rosa N. Jauregui, Frank Chidawanyika

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Spider mites represent a significant constraint to improved forage grass adoption in East Africa, particularly affecting Urochloa cultivars that are crucial for addressing the region’s 40% livestock feed gap. This study employed an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular analyses to identify a spider mite species infesting Urochloa interspecific grasses in Kenya. A colony of 80 spider mites was established from symptomatic Urochloa hybrid cv. Cayman plants collected from Mbita Point, Kenya, showing characteristic foliar chlorosis and necrotic spots. Morphological examination of 46 slide-mounted specimens using Hoyer’s medium revealed consistent morphotypical features characteristic of Oligonychus (Reckiella) trichardti Meyer, 1974. …

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A Pestel-Swot Matrix Analysis Of Sustainable Aquafeed Sector: A Case Of Kenya's Fish Feed Sector, Esther Magondu, Lucy Njogu, Kevin Ouko, Jimmy B. Mboya, Mavindu Muthoka, Rodrigue Yossa, Jonathan Munguti, Mary A. Opiyo, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Kevin Obiero Sep 2025

A Pestel-Swot Matrix Analysis Of Sustainable Aquafeed Sector: A Case Of Kenya's Fish Feed Sector, Esther Magondu, Lucy Njogu, Kevin Ouko, Jimmy B. Mboya, Mavindu Muthoka, Rodrigue Yossa, Jonathan Munguti, Mary A. Opiyo, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Kevin Obiero

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Global demand for seafood continues to rise, positioning aquaculture as a critical pathway for improving food security, nutrition, and rural livelihoods. In Kenya, the aquaculture sector remains constrained by structural challenges, with fish feed accounting for 60%–70% of production costs and limiting sectoral growth, particularly for smallholder farmers. This review critically analyzes Kenya's fish feed sector through an integrated PESTEL-SWOT framework, drawing on a scoping review of academic literature, policy reports, and sector development studies. The paper highlights key macro-level drivers, including fragmented policy implementation, dependency on imported ingredients, and climate-related risks, and connects these with internal industry dynamics such …

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One Health Interventions And Challenges Under Rural African Smallholder Farmer Settings: A Scoping Review, Evanson R. Omuse, Honest Machekano, Bonoukpoè M. Sokame, Daniel M. Mutyambai, Thomas Dubois, Sevgan Subramanian, Frank Chidawanyika Jun 2025

One Health Interventions And Challenges Under Rural African Smallholder Farmer Settings: A Scoping Review, Evanson R. Omuse, Honest Machekano, Bonoukpoè M. Sokame, Daniel M. Mutyambai, Thomas Dubois, Sevgan Subramanian, Frank Chidawanyika

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The global human population is rapidly increasing, escalating interactions of people, animals and the environment. This has led to more convoluted health challenges, for which African smallholder farmers bear the brunt. The One Health (OH) approach recognises the interconnectedness of these health challenges and thus follows a transdisciplinary approach involving diverse stakeholders to address them. Although there have recently been global concerted efforts and studies on OH, an information gap exists in Africa, particularly regarding smallholder farmers and their needs. Additionally, evaluation frameworks and outcome metrics for OH initiatives are still unclear. Thus, this study was conducted to critically map …

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Stomoxys Flies (Diptera, Muscidae) Are Competent Vectors Of Trypanosoma Evansi, Trypanosoma Vivax, And Other Livestock Hemopathogens, Julia W. Muita, Joel L. Bargul, John Mark O. Makwatta, Ernest M. Ngatia, Simon K. Tawich, Daniel K. Masiga, Merid N. Getahun May 2025

Stomoxys Flies (Diptera, Muscidae) Are Competent Vectors Of Trypanosoma Evansi, Trypanosoma Vivax, And Other Livestock Hemopathogens, Julia W. Muita, Joel L. Bargul, John Mark O. Makwatta, Ernest M. Ngatia, Simon K. Tawich, Daniel K. Masiga, Merid N. Getahun

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Stomoxys flies are widely distributed and economically significant vectors of various livestock pathogens of veterinary importance. However, the role of Stomoxys spp. in pathogen transmission is poorly understood. Therefore, we studied the feeding patterns of these blood feeders collected from specific locations in Kenya to identify various vertebrate hosts they fed on, the livestock hemopathogens they carried, and to elucidate their role in pathogens transmission. Our findings show that field-collected Stomoxys flies carried several pathogens, including Trypanosoma spp., Anaplasma spp., and Theileria spp., which were also detected in the blood of sampled livestock, namely camels and cattle. The findings on …

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Do Behavioral Attitudes Of Livestock Farmers In Cameroon Influence The Adoption Of Insect-Based Feed? An Application Of The Theory Of Planned Behavior, Ruth T. Nembu, Boris D. Soh Wenda, Hervé K. Mube, Hervé W. Napi, Shaphan Y. Chia, Sali A. Ndindeng, Rodrigue B. Kamga, Dorothy E. Fon May 2025

Do Behavioral Attitudes Of Livestock Farmers In Cameroon Influence The Adoption Of Insect-Based Feed? An Application Of The Theory Of Planned Behavior, Ruth T. Nembu, Boris D. Soh Wenda, Hervé K. Mube, Hervé W. Napi, Shaphan Y. Chia, Sali A. Ndindeng, Rodrigue B. Kamga, Dorothy E. Fon

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This study investigates the effects of behavioral factors on the adoption of insect-based feed technology among livestock farmers in Cameroon. We use partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze primary data collected from 131 poultry and fish farmers in the Centre region of Cameroon. Our findings reveal that 18.32 % of the surveyed farmers are users of insect-based feed, whereas 81.68 % are non-users. We also show that livestock farmers’ attitudes directly influence the decision to use insect-based feed. Our findings suggest that perceived behavior control and subjective norms indirectly reinforce the decision to use insect-based feed-through attitudes. …

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Defatted Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal As A Substitute Of Soybean Meal In Dairy Cow Diets, D. J.M. Braamhaar, W. F. Pellikaan, D. List, D. Korir, C. M. Tanga, S. J. Oosting Apr 2025

Defatted Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal As A Substitute Of Soybean Meal In Dairy Cow Diets, D. J.M. Braamhaar, W. F. Pellikaan, D. List, D. Korir, C. M. Tanga, S. J. Oosting

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The replacement of soybean meal (SBM) with insect meal, e.g. black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM), as an alternative protein source in livestock feed is gaining traction globally. To date, no in vivo studies have been conducted to test the impact of BSFLM on the milk production of dairy cows. This study quantified the effects of replacing SBM with defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (DBSFLM) in diets of lactating dairy cows on feed intake, milk production and composition, apparent total-tract digestibility, feed- and nitrogen use efficiency. Twelve lactating Holstein-Friesian cows were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin …

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Biological Control Of Ticks In Domestic Environments: Modeling The Potential Impact Of Entomopathogenic Fungi On The Transmission Of East Coast Fever In Cattle, Joseph Wang Ang A. Oundo, Nienke Hartemink, Mart C.M. De Jong, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Shewit Kalayou, Daniel Masiga, Quirine Ten Bosch Jan 2025

Biological Control Of Ticks In Domestic Environments: Modeling The Potential Impact Of Entomopathogenic Fungi On The Transmission Of East Coast Fever In Cattle, Joseph Wang Ang A. Oundo, Nienke Hartemink, Mart C.M. De Jong, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Shewit Kalayou, Daniel Masiga, Quirine Ten Bosch

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Biological control of ticks using entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) is a highly desired alternative to chemical acaricides for the control of tick-borne pathogens. For Metarhizium anisopliae isolate ICIPE 7, one of these EPFs, efficacy against multiple tick species has been demonstrated in laboratory and field settings. However, we currently have little quantitative understanding of how EPFs can impact transmission. We developed a deterministic model of tick–host–pathogen interactions to explore how the effects of EPF on Rhipicephalus appendiculatus ticks may impact the transmission dynamics of East Coast fever (ECF) in cattle populations. We parameterized the multi-faceted effects of EPFs on tick dynamics …

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Effects Of Insect Meals On Fish Digestibility, Blood Parameters, And Economic Performance: A Meta-Analysis, M. A. Aaqillah-Amr, A. Hidir, M. Ikhwanuddin, N. A. Fatan, R. Muhammad-Rahimi, S. Ning-Shahira, R. G.N. Siankhe, G. W. Vandenberg, C. M. Tanga, R. Yossa Jan 2025

Effects Of Insect Meals On Fish Digestibility, Blood Parameters, And Economic Performance: A Meta-Analysis, M. A. Aaqillah-Amr, A. Hidir, M. Ikhwanuddin, N. A. Fatan, R. Muhammad-Rahimi, S. Ning-Shahira, R. G.N. Siankhe, G. W. Vandenberg, C. M. Tanga, R. Yossa

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This review examines the use of insect meal (IM) as a substitute for fishmeal (FM) in fish feeds within the past decade. While global interest in this alternative is growing, research on its effects on fish digestibility, blood parameters, and economic performance has been limited. Meta-analysis on the apparent digestibility coefficient revealed a negative effect summary on dry matter (0.92) and crude lipid (0.51), although the difference between the two groups was relatively minor. However, a positive effect summary was reported in the apparent digestibility of crude protein (0.12), suggesting a potential advantage in the utilization of protein by fish …

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Knowledge And Acceptance Of Insects As Feed Source For Poultry Production In Conflict Affected Regions Of Cameroon, Chaba F. Ambele, Ngantu Harrison, Shaphan Y. Chia, Zewdu Abro, Komivi S. Akutse, Akum E. Akumeyam, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jan 2025

Knowledge And Acceptance Of Insects As Feed Source For Poultry Production In Conflict Affected Regions Of Cameroon, Chaba F. Ambele, Ngantu Harrison, Shaphan Y. Chia, Zewdu Abro, Komivi S. Akutse, Akum E. Akumeyam, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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Globally, insects are increasingly being considered as sustainable and complementary feeds for poultry production. However, there is a lack of information on the perception of people in vulnerable and conflict-affected communities in Cameroon. This paper presents a survey on awareness and willingness to integrate insect meals in poultry feeds in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. During this survey, purposive and snowball sampling procedures were used to collect data from 253 households. Among those interviewed, 32% were internally displaced people and 68% residents. In general, 97% of the respondents were aware that insects are a natural food source for …

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Mapping Global Research On Mycotoxins In Aquafeed From Scientometric And Critical Perspectives, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Sudarshan Shanmugam, Jimmy B. Mboya, Felix Sugantham, Kevin Obiero, Jonathan Munguti, Sunday Ekesi, Sevgan Subramanian, Shaphan Y. Chia, Dennis Beesigamukama, Rodrigue Yossa, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jan 2025

Mapping Global Research On Mycotoxins In Aquafeed From Scientometric And Critical Perspectives, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Sudarshan Shanmugam, Jimmy B. Mboya, Felix Sugantham, Kevin Obiero, Jonathan Munguti, Sunday Ekesi, Sevgan Subramanian, Shaphan Y. Chia, Dennis Beesigamukama, Rodrigue Yossa, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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The global significance of mycotoxins in aquaculture is evident. However, regional vulnerabilities, effects, and inconsistent regulations on mycotoxin contamination remain underexplored. This study integrates a scientometric analysis of research on mycotoxins in aquafeed, published from 1992 to 2023 in Web of Science, with a conventional review of their occurrence in aquafeed and feed ingredients. Bibliometric tools, VOSviewer, and biblioshiny, were used to analyze global research trends, collaborations, and themes. We found a total of 181 publications, authored by 938 researchers from 49 countries, with Brazil leading (25 publications). The Toxins journal accounted for the most publications (23). Aflatoxins, particularly aflatoxin …

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Unraveling The Potential Of Black Soldier Fly Larvae As A Sustainable Protein Source For Nile Tilapia Production In Diverse Aquaculture Systems, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Jimmy B. Mboya, Domitila Kyule, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jan 2025

Unraveling The Potential Of Black Soldier Fly Larvae As A Sustainable Protein Source For Nile Tilapia Production In Diverse Aquaculture Systems, Jonathan Munguti, Mavindu Muthoka, Jimmy B. Mboya, Domitila Kyule, Menaga Meenakshisundaram, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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Aquaculture plays a critical role in global food security, with Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) recognized for its adaptability and robust growth. However, traditional feeds, heavily reliant on fishmeal (FM) and soybean meal, face economic and environmental challenges. In response, black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) has emerged as a promising, nutrient-dense alternative. This review synthesizes existing literature on BSFLM’s nutritional profile and its suitability for Nile tilapia diets, while acknowledging that the data come from diverse independent studies conducted under varying environmental conditions and husbandry practices. BSFLM consistently provides high-quality protein (29.9%–48.2%), aligning with tilapia’s requirements, and is rich in …

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Feeding Habits And Malaria Parasite Infection Of Anopheles Mosquitoes In Selected Agroecological Areas Of Northwestern Ethiopia, Aklilu K. Belay, Abebe Asale, Catherine L. Sole, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Baldwyn Torto, Clifford M. Mutero, David P. Tchouassi Dec 2024

Feeding Habits And Malaria Parasite Infection Of Anopheles Mosquitoes In Selected Agroecological Areas Of Northwestern Ethiopia, Aklilu K. Belay, Abebe Asale, Catherine L. Sole, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Baldwyn Torto, Clifford M. Mutero, David P. Tchouassi

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Background: Surveillance of the host–anopheline mosquitoes’ interaction is important for assessing malaria transmission risk and guiding vector control. We assume that changes in malaria vector species’ feeding habits, as well as the surrounding environment, have a substantial impact on varied malaria transmission. In this study, we determined the vertebrate host feeding patterns of anopheline mosquitoes to characterize entomologic risk factors for malaria in Jabi Tehnan, Northwestern Ethiopia. Methods: Blood-fed anophelines surveyed during malaria surveillance in Jabi Tehnan district of northwestern Ethiopia were utilized in this study. They were collected using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) light traps deployed …

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Multimodal Interactions In Stomoxys Navigation Reveal Synergy Between Olfaction And Vision, Merid N. Getahun, Steve B.S. Baleba, John Ngiela, Peter Ahuya, Daniel Masiga Dec 2024

Multimodal Interactions In Stomoxys Navigation Reveal Synergy Between Olfaction And Vision, Merid N. Getahun, Steve B.S. Baleba, John Ngiela, Peter Ahuya, Daniel Masiga

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Stomoxys flies exhibit an attraction toward objects that offer no rewards, such as traps and targets devoid of blood or nectar incentives. This behavior provides an opportunity to develop effective tools for vector control and monitoring. However, for these systems to be sustainable and eco-friendly, the visual cues used must be specific to target vector(s). In this study, we modified the existing blue Vavoua trap, which was originally designed to attract biting flies, to create a deceptive host attraction system specifically biased toward attracting Stomoxys. Our research revealed that Stomoxys flies are attracted to various colors, with red proving to …

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A Randomized Controlled Trial Of Tickoff® (Metarhizium Anisopliae Icipe 7) For Control Of Tick Infestations And Transmission Of Tick-Borne Infections In Extensively Grazed Zebu Cattle In Coastal Kenya, Joseph Wang Ang’A Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Gerrit Gort, Gebbiena M. Bron, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Quirine Ten Bosch, Daniel Masiga Nov 2024

A Randomized Controlled Trial Of Tickoff® (Metarhizium Anisopliae Icipe 7) For Control Of Tick Infestations And Transmission Of Tick-Borne Infections In Extensively Grazed Zebu Cattle In Coastal Kenya, Joseph Wang Ang’A Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Gerrit Gort, Gebbiena M. Bron, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Quirine Ten Bosch, Daniel Masiga

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The entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae isolate ICIPE 7 is being developed as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical acaricides in managing natural tick infestation on livestock. Its impact on tick infestation and tick-borne infections in cattle under natural conditions are yet unclear. We conducted a randomized controlled field trial to assess the safety and effects of Tickoff® (a formulation of M. anisopliae isolate ICIPE 7) and the chemical acaricide Triatix® on tick infestation and incidence of Anaplasma marginale and Theileria parva in extensively grazed zebu cattle in coastal Kenya. A total of 217 eligible herds comprising 1459 intent-to-treat zebu cattle were …

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Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) Infesting Cattle In Coastal Kenya Harbor A Diverse Array Of Tick-Borne Pathogens, Joseph Wang Ang A. Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Quirine Ten Bosch, Jandouwe Villinger, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Daniel Masiga Jan 2024

Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) Infesting Cattle In Coastal Kenya Harbor A Diverse Array Of Tick-Borne Pathogens, Joseph Wang Ang A. Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Quirine Ten Bosch, Jandouwe Villinger, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Daniel Masiga

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Ticks and the microbes they transmit have emerged in sub-Saharan Africa as a major threat to veterinary and public health. Although progress has been made in detecting and identifying tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) across vast agroecologies of Kenya, comprehensive information on tick species infesting cattle and their associated pathogens in coastal Kenya needs to be updated and expanded. Ticks infesting extensively grazed zebu cattle in 14 villages were sampled and identified based on morphology and molecular methods and tested for the presence of bacterial and protozoan TBPs using PCR with high-resolution melting analysis and gene sequencing. In total, 3,213 adult ticks …

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Determinants Of Agro-Pastoralists’ Willingness To Pay For Improved Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia Vaccine In Kenya, Fredrick Ochieng Ouya, Eric Bett, Purity Nguhiu, Stella Makokha, Harrison Lutta, Willis Adero Abwao, Martin Mwirigi Dec 2023

Determinants Of Agro-Pastoralists’ Willingness To Pay For Improved Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia Vaccine In Kenya, Fredrick Ochieng Ouya, Eric Bett, Purity Nguhiu, Stella Makokha, Harrison Lutta, Willis Adero Abwao, Martin Mwirigi

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Animal health care is critical for livestock production especially in arid and semi-arid areas where majority are agro-pastoralists. Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) is a highly contagious and fatal disease which commonly affects goats in arid and semi-arid areas. The government has been the major provider of CCPP vaccine and few large-scale farmers who are licensed and able to purchase directly from the vaccine producer. Although the vaccine is sold to farmers at a subsidized price by the government, its distribution has been characterized by scarcity, irregular and late administration by the authority concerned. It is envisioned that if the willingness …

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Effect Of Use Of Tsetse Repellant Collar Technology On The Farm Performance And Household Welfare Of Small-Scale Livestock Farmers In Kenya, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Kassie Menale, Gracious M. Diiro, Michael N. Okal, Daniel K. Masiga Jun 2023

Effect Of Use Of Tsetse Repellant Collar Technology On The Farm Performance And Household Welfare Of Small-Scale Livestock Farmers In Kenya, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Kassie Menale, Gracious M. Diiro, Michael N. Okal, Daniel K. Masiga

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Tsetse-transmitted Animal African Trypanosomosis (AAT) is a disease of economic importance to livestock development in Sub-Saharan Africa. The disease is widely managed using trypanocides that are expensive for smallholders and associated with health risks due to drug residues in animal products and drug resistance. Developed recently by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) and partners, the novel Tsetse repellent collar technology (TRCT) provides an effective alternative control measure that targets the tsetse fly vector of AAT. This study assessed the impact of TRCT on household welfare and food security by using ex-post non-experimental data obtained from 632 …

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Gut Microbiota Shift In Layer Pullets Fed On Black Soldier Fly Larvae-Based Feeds Towards Enhancing Healthy Gut Microbial Community, Evalyne W. Ndotono, Fathiya M. Khamis, Joel L. Bargul, Chrysantus M. Tanga Dec 2022

Gut Microbiota Shift In Layer Pullets Fed On Black Soldier Fly Larvae-Based Feeds Towards Enhancing Healthy Gut Microbial Community, Evalyne W. Ndotono, Fathiya M. Khamis, Joel L. Bargul, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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Globally, most gut microbiota-related studies have focused on broilers due to their diverse microbial communities compared to that of layer chicken. However, in Africa few studies have been undertaken despite the increasing benefits to the poultry industry. The utilization of Insect-Based diets to improve the gastrointestinal function and gut health in poultry is increasingly gaining global attention. Here, we evaluated the potential roles of commercial black soldier fly larvae-based feeds (BSFLF) in reshaping the abundance, composition and diversity of the gut microbiota of layer chickens using high throughput Oxford nanopore Minion sequencing of the full length bacterial 16S rRNA gene. …

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Striving To Be Resilient: The Role Of Crop-Poultry Integrated System As A Climate Change Adaptation Strategy In Semiarid Eastern Kenya, Kelvin Mulungu, Daniel Kangogo Nov 2022

Striving To Be Resilient: The Role Of Crop-Poultry Integrated System As A Climate Change Adaptation Strategy In Semiarid Eastern Kenya, Kelvin Mulungu, Daniel Kangogo

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Climate change continues to pose significant challenges to food security and livelihoods of smallholder farmers specifically in semi-arid regions. One approach that holds prospects for climate risk management is climate-smart agriculture (CSA). CSA has concentrated on crop practices with little attention to livestock especially indigenous (village) chickens as a potential practice that can be combined with crop agriculture. This study considers the adoption of three CSA practices: improved maize seeds (IS), soil management (SM), indigenous chicken (IC) enterprise and their various combinations. Using survey data collected from 300 farming households in semiarid Kenya, we estimate the impact of integrated crop-poultry …

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Metabolites From Trypanosome-Infected Cattle As Sensitive Biomarkers For Animal Trypanosomosis, Merid N. Getahun, John Ngiela, John Mark O. Makwatta, Peter Ahuya, Tawich K. Simon, Samuel K. Kamau, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga Jul 2022

Metabolites From Trypanosome-Infected Cattle As Sensitive Biomarkers For Animal Trypanosomosis, Merid N. Getahun, John Ngiela, John Mark O. Makwatta, Peter Ahuya, Tawich K. Simon, Samuel K. Kamau, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga

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Trypanosomes are important global livestock and human pathogens of public health importance. Elucidating the chemical mechanisms of trypanosome-relevant host interactions can enhance the design and development of a novel, next-generation trypanosomosis diagnostics. However, it is unknown how trypanosome infection affects livestock volatile odors. Here, we show that Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma vivax infections induced dihydro-β- ionone and junenol, while abundance of dihydro-α-ionone, phenolics, p-cresol, and 3-propylphenol significantly elevated in cow urine. These biomarkers of trypanosome infection are conserved in cow breath and the urine metabolites of naturally infected cows, regardless of population, diet, or environment differences. Furthermore, treating trypanosome-infected cows …

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Microhabitat And Patch Selection Detection From Gps Tracking Collars Of Semi-Free Ranging Mashona Cattle Within A Semi-Arid Environment, C. Gwatirisa, B. T. Mudereri, T. Chitata, C. Mukanga, M. M. Ngwenya, J. V. Muzvondiwa, R. Mugandani, M. Sungirai Jul 2022

Microhabitat And Patch Selection Detection From Gps Tracking Collars Of Semi-Free Ranging Mashona Cattle Within A Semi-Arid Environment, C. Gwatirisa, B. T. Mudereri, T. Chitata, C. Mukanga, M. M. Ngwenya, J. V. Muzvondiwa, R. Mugandani, M. Sungirai

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Over the last 30 years, the global positioning system (GPS) tracking collars have significantly enhanced livestock grazing behavior studies. Practices designed to understand and improve livestock grazing distribution can now be accurately and cost-effectively monitored with GPS tracking. The behavior and spatiotemporal microhabitat selection of Mashona cattle relative to the season in a semi-free-range grazing system was evaluated using a low‐cost GPS herd activity monitoring (GPSHAM) collar. The GPSHAM automatically logged the position of the lead cow at 20-second intervals over a 7–hour daily grazing period. Additionally, the GPS data was complemented by visually observing the lead cow during daylight …

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Molecular Detection Of Novel Anaplasma Sp. And Zoonotic Hemopathogens In Livestock And Their Hematophagous Biting Keds (Genus Hippobosca) From Laisamis, Northern Kenya, Daniel M. Mwaki, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Johnson Kinyua, Kenneth Ogila, Collins Kigen, Dennis Getange, Jandouwe Villinger, Daniel K. Masiga, Mark Carrington, Joel L. Bargul Jan 2022

Molecular Detection Of Novel Anaplasma Sp. And Zoonotic Hemopathogens In Livestock And Their Hematophagous Biting Keds (Genus Hippobosca) From Laisamis, Northern Kenya, Daniel M. Mwaki, Kevin O. Kidambasi, Johnson Kinyua, Kenneth Ogila, Collins Kigen, Dennis Getange, Jandouwe Villinger, Daniel K. Masiga, Mark Carrington, Joel L. Bargul

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Background: Livestock are key sources of livelihood among pastoral communities. Livestock productivity is chiefly constrained by pests and diseases. Due to inadequate disease surveillance in northern Kenya, little is known about pathogens circulating within livestock and the role of livestock-associated biting keds (genus Hippobosca) in disease transmission. We aimed to identify the prevalence of selected hemopathogens in livestock and their associated blood-feeding keds. Methods: We randomly collected 389 blood samples from goats (245), sheep (108), and donkeys (36), as well as 235 keds from both goats and sheep (116), donkeys (11), and dogs (108) in Laisamis, Marsabit County, northern Kenya. …

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