Chronic aflatoxicosis has been diagnosed in New Zealand White (NZW) Rabbits after consumption of contaminated feed pellets Total concentration of aflatoxins (AF) in the feed pellets was higher ( 68.15 mg/kg) than the permissible level (25 mg/kg) . AF was also detected in both liver and kidney specimens taken from the affected rabbits . The rabbits exhibited depression , lethargy , inappetance and growth retardation . Necropsy findings revealed congestion in kidneys , spleen and lungs The liver was either congested or pale and friable Clinico-pathological examinations revealed cytotoxic , hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects of AF. Chronic aflatoxicosis created a problem of infertility in both males and females It was manifested by reduced litter size, reduced birth, as well as weaning weights increased prenatal mortalities , and increased number of unestrus does Conception rate as well as pregnancy rate were also reduced. Spermatogenic disruption and poor semen quality was recorded in males. Colour mutation and developmental abnormalities were also observed in youngs, Cytogenetic analysis revealed that chromosomes of intoxicated rabbits were inflicted with several types of structural and numerical abnormalities The deleterious effects of AF on animal health, production and reproduction were also discussed.
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