MYCOFLORA AND PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF LOCALLY PROCESSED SNAIL FEED SOLD IN BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

Snails are good sources of nutrients such as proteins, fats, Iron, Calcium and Vitamin A. The aim of this study was to determine the mycoflora and proximate composition of locally processed snail feed sold in Benin City. Snail feed samples were obtained from local feed producers in Benin City, Nigeria. All samples were serially diluted and inoculated on potato dextrose agar. Thereafter, the plates were incubated at 28±2oC for 72hrs. Fungal isolates were identified based on cultural and morphological characteristics. The crude protein content of the snail feed samples was determined by Kjeldahl method while the calcium contents were also determined. The total heterotrophic fungal count from this study ranged from 0.51±0.01x104Cfu/g (Vicomo Finisher and Kings Farm Starter) to 0.98±0.01x104Cfu/g (Kings Farm Finisher). The proximate composition of snail feed based on the crude protein and calcium contents ranged from; 9.92% - 33.08% and 555.2mg/kg - 845.61mg/kg respectively. Fungal isolates identified include Mucorsp, Rhizopussp, Aspergillusniger, Trichodermasp, Saccharomyces sp and Rhizomucorsp. Trichodermasp, had the highest occurrence of 28.57% while Rhizomucorsp. had the lowest occurrence of 4.76%. Kings Farm Starter feed contained the highest amount of crude protein (33.08%) and calcium (845.71 mg/kg) while Animal Health Care (AHC) Finisher feed contained the lowest amount of crude protein (9.92%) and calcium (555.2 mg/kg). From this study, it was observed that locally processed snail feed samples sold in Benin City had low fungal counts an indication that the snail feed were of good mycological quality. Therefore, safe and hygienic environment for processing as well as hygienic practices during packaging should be adhered to. Also, proper storage of feed to avoid moisture uptake and damage by heat is advised. Feeds should be stored suitably where it cannot be attacked by microorganisms, insects and rodents.