Ponle Bashirat Ayomide, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

The study was conducted at the Department of Biological Science Bayero University Kano laboratory which was aimed at studying the effect of Citrus sinensis peel extract on larvae and adult of Culex quinquefasciatu. Citrus sinensis peel was collected from Rijiyar lemo in Kano state and was later processed using standard procedure. The peel was extracted using maceration method. Mosquito larvae was collected from the gutter at female hostel Bayero University Kano and was reared at the laboratory using standard procedure. The adult mosquito was identified using a proper taxonomic guild. Bioassay for the larvae and adult were conducted using procedure. The result of the study indicated that Citrus sinensis peel extracted at 6%w/v concentration recorded the highest mortality of the larvae (44.44%) followed by 4%w/v which also recorded (29.63%) mortality. In conclusion Citrus sinensis peel extract at 6%w/v concentration was most effective in killing mosquito larvae and adult respectively. It is recommended that, encouraging public the benefit of Citrus sinensis peel extract will promote waste recycling and sustainability and as well increasing public awareness and implementation on natural mosquito control methods to reduce mosquito population.

Lois Ojochenemi Job, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

This study was conducted to assess the larval load and developmental period of tomato fruit borers on commonly cultivated tomato varieties in Kano State, Nigeria. The objective was to determine the infestation level of larvae in tomato fruits, identify the species of emerging adult borers, and evaluate their developmental duration under laboratory conditions. Infested and healthy tomato fruits were collected from Yankaba Market and reared in controlled environments. A total of six tomato samples labeled A to F were used to assess larval load, while twenty-five replicates were used for the developmental study, with one larva introduced per tomato. Observational data such as temperature, larval length, number of days to pupation and adult emergence, and survival rates were recorded. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis (Chi-square test of Independence) were used to interpret results. Findings revealed that the Roma variety was significantly more susceptible to larval infestation (80%) than the Cherry variety. Six adult moth species were identified, with Helicoverpa armigera being the most dominant. The larval stage had a higher survival rate (58.06%) than the pupal stage (41.94%), and developmental periods varied across species. These results highlight the need for varietal selection and lifecycle-targeted pest control. It is recommended that farmers adopt resistant varieties like Cherry and implement timely control measures during the larval stage to minimize losses.

Akinsete Bolaji Hezekiah, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

Zoonotic diseases, transmissible from animals to humans, represent a significant public health threat, particularly in abattoir environments where close contact with livestock is routine. This study assessed the prevalence of four key zoonotic diseases—Bovine Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, Salmonellosis, and Cysticercosis—among animals slaughtered at the Kano State Central Abattoir. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving the collection and laboratory analysis of blood and tissue samples from 50 animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and camels. The results revealed Bovine Tuberculosis as the most prevalent infection (30%), followed by Brucellosis (26.7%), Salmonellosis (23.3%), and Cysticercosis (20%). Cattle accounted for the highest infection rates across all diseases, though infections were also detected in other species. The findings highlight serious gaps in abattoir hygiene, inspection practices, and worker awareness, all of which facilitate the persistence and transmission of zoonotic pathogens. The study recommends stricter veterinary oversight, improved sanitation protocols, and integrated One Health strategies to minimize public health risks associated with meat production in Nigeria.

Amina Kudu Mohammed, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

Dermestes maculatus are major insect pest of dried fish, causing significant loss in weight of fish and quality. This study was conducted at the department of Biological sciences, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, from December, 2025 to March, 2026 with the aim of investigating the efficacy of leaves of three plants (Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf), Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf), Cymbogon citratus (Lemon grass)) as extracts in their control. The mortality of adult Dermestes maculatus by Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were the three main objectives guiding this work. The leaf samples of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were collected around the residential areas of BUK old campus. The leaves were washed, air dried and macerated into powder which is then soaked in ethanol for 24 hours. The material is filtered and then evaporated. The resulting solution was used for bioassay at varying amounts to obtain different concentration. The insect first colony used for the experiment was obtained from a market in Gwale LGA of Kano and were identified using appropriate taxonomic keys. Adults from the colony were reared in kilner jars for two weeks and provided water soaked cotton wool to aid oviposition and newly emerged adults of new colony are obtained for the bioassay of the experiment. The results indicated that Cymbogon citratus evoked highest mean mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 10% after 96 hours and the lowest mean mortality (0.33±0.33) at 20% after 24 hours. The results also indicated that Verrnonia amygdalina recorded least mean mortality 0f (0.33±0.33) at 10% concentration after 48 hours, while the highest mortality for V. amygdalina was recorded at (1.67±0.33) at 20% after 96 hours. Ocimum gratissimum evoked least mean mortality of (0.33±0.00) at 5% after 72 hours and highest mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 20% after 96 hours. The results also indicated that the efficacy of the extracts was dose and time dependent. The study concludes that the extracts of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina are effective in the control of adult Dermestes maculatus. The study recommends further research to isolate active compounds from the plants in order to identify the bio agent for insecticidal activity, and developing them as biopesticides. The study also recommends the use of the plant extracts Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina of as biopesticides.

Mustapha Hadiza Onyinoyiza, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of ectoparasites in two female student hostels, Nana Hall and Ramat Hall, at Bayero University Kano, Nigeria. A comparative cross-sectional study design was adopted, and a total of 120 rooms were randomly selected and inspected, with 60 rooms from each hostel. Data were collected through direct visual inspection of rooms and identification of ectoparasites based on morphological characteristics. The study identified five major ectoparasites: bedbugs, lice, ticks, fleas, and mites. The results revealed a high overall prevalence of infestation (89.2%) across both hostels, with Ramat Hall recording a slightly higher prevalence (90.0%) compared to Nana Hall (88.3%). Bedbugs were the most predominant ectoparasite in both hostels, accounting for the highest proportion of infestation, followed by lice, while ticks, fleas, and mites occurred in lower proportions. Ramat Hall also exhibited a higher parasite burden with greater total counts and mean parasite density per room. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 0.10, p > 0.05) indicated that there was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of ectoparasite infestation between the two hostels. This suggests that infestation levels in both hostels are similarly high and widespread. The high prevalence observed in this study highlights the need for improved sanitation, regular monitoring, and effective pest control measures in university hostels. Increased awareness among students and better hostel management practices are recommended to reduce infestation and improve student health and well-being.

Faiza Ibrahim Muhammad, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the insecticidal activity of Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) peel extract against Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. The research was designed to evaluate the effects of different concentrations and exposure times on mortality in both larval and adult mosquito stages. Laboratory bioassays were carried out using three concentrations of the extract (10 ml, 15 ml, and 20 ml) and four exposure durations (5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes). Each treatment was replicated to ensure reliability of the results. Mortality was determined through direct laboratory observation, where individuals that showed no movement or response to stimulation after exposure were recorded as dead.Laboratory observations revealed that the extract exhibited clear insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti. Mortality increased progressively with increasing concentration of the extract, indicating a dose-dependent effect. Similarly, longer exposure times resulted in higher mortality rates, demonstrating a time-dependent response. The highest mortality was consistently recorded at the highest concentration (20 ml) and longest exposure time (20 minutes), while the lowest mortality occurred at the lowest concentration (10 ml) and shortest exposure duration (5 minutes). These patterns observed during the laboratory experiments suggest that the effectiveness of Citrus sinensis peel extract depends largely on both the amount of extract applied and the duration of contact with the mosquitoes.A marked difference in susceptibility was observed between larval and adult stages. Larvae consistently recorded higher mortality than adults across all concentrations and exposure times. This laboratory finding indicates that the larval stage is more sensitive to the extract, possibly due to structural and physiological factors such as a softer body surface, higher permeability, and less developed detoxification mechanisms. Adults, in contrast, appeared more resistant, requiring higher concentrations and longer exposure periods to achieve comparable mortality.Data obtained from the laboratory experiments were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine whether the observed differences among treatments were statistically significant. The statistical analysis confirmed that both concentration and exposure time had significant effects on mosquito mortality at p < 0.05. This indicates that the variations in mortality recorded during laboratory observation were not due to random chance. Post hoc analysis using Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test further revealed significant separation among treatment means, with higher concentrations and longer exposure times differing significantly from lower treatments. The consistency between laboratory observations and statistical outcomes strengthens the validity of the results. The insecticidal activity observed in this study is likely associated with bioactive phytochemicals present in Citrus sinensis peel. These phytochemicals may disrupt essential physiological processes in mosquitoes, including membrane integrity, metabolic activities, and nervous coordination, leading to paralysis and eventual death. The dose- and time-dependent nature of the response suggests a cumulative toxic effect that becomes more pronounced with increased concentration and prolonged exposure.In conclusion, both laboratory observations and statistical analysis demonstrate that Citrus sinensis peel extract possesses significant insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti. The effectiveness of the extract is strongly influenced by concentration, exposure duration, and developmental stage, with larvae being more susceptible than adults. The findings support the potential use of Citrus sinensis peel as a phytochemical-based and environmentally friendly alternative for mosquito control.

Kudirat Abdullahi, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

The induction of triploidy in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) is a significant strategy in aquaculture to produce sterile, fast-growing fish. This study evaluated the effect of electric shock exposure time on the fertilization, hatching, and subsequent growth performance of induced triploids. Fertilized eggs were subjected to electric shock at varying exposure times of 1, 2, 3, and 4 minutes post-fertilization, alongside a non-shocked control group. Chromosomal status was verified using relative DNA indexing, which revealed that the 3-minutes exposure successfully achieved a 1.5 index ,confirming triploidy (3n),whereas the 1-minutes exposure remained diploid (2n) at a 1.0 index.Results indicated that fertilization rates were not significantly impaired by the shock among 1 and 4 minutes (p > 0.05), with the 3-minute exposure recording the highest fertilization rate compared to 4 minutes (93.93 ± 2.0%) (p < 0.05). The hatching rates were significantly affected by the duration of exposure (p < 0.05). The 3-minute treatment yielded a hatching rate of (80.64 ± 2.44%), which has no significant difference compared to the control group (82.93 ± 1.64%), whereas the 1- and 2-minute exposure recorded the lowest hatchability (53.96 ± 6.47 and 48.53 ± 2.79%, respectively). In contrast, growth performance analysis revealed that survivors from the 2-minute treatment group exhibited the highest growth metrics, achieving a final weight of 62.50 ± 13.64 mg compared to 1 -, 3 -, and 4 – minutes and a Specific Growth Rate (SGR) of 15.37%, compared to 12.88% in the 3-minute group (p < 0.05). The study concludes that while an exposure time of 2 minutes maximizes individual somatic growth potential, a 3-minute exposure time is the most efficient protocol for commercial hatchery production as it provides the optimal balance between high hatchability and triploid performance.

Jemilah Momodu, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the abundance of Aedes mosquito species in Bayero University Kano (BUK) Old Campus, Kano State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two objectives: to identify adult Aedes mosquitoes reared from collected larvae and to determine their abundance within the study area. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the research. Larval samples were collected from a blocked gutter in Al-Ansar Garden, an area considered suitable for mosquito breeding. The samples were taken to the laboratory and reared to the adult stage under controlled conditions. The emerged adult mosquitoes were then identified morphologically using visible diagnostic features. The findings showed that a total of 210 adult mosquitoes emerged from the collected larvae. Out of this number, 120, representing 57.1%, were identified as Aedes mosquitoes, while 90, representing 42.9%, were non-Aedes mosquitoes. This indicates that Aedes mosquitoes were more abundant than other mosquito groups recovered from the breeding site. The result further suggests that the habitat sampled in the study area supports the breeding and development of Aedes mosquitoes. The study concluded that Aedes mosquitoes are present in considerable proportion within the selected area of BUK Old Campus, and their abundance points to possible public health implications because of their known role in the transmission of viral infections. The study therefore recommends proper environmental sanitation, regular clearing of drainage channels, and continuous monitoring of mosquito breeding sites within the campus environment to reduce their proliferation.

Ramatu Badamasi Abdulfatah, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study assessed the concentration of selected heavy metals (Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), and Iron (Fe)) in water and muscle tissues of two fish species (Catfish and Tilapia) obtained from Ramin Birji River, Kano State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from three sampling sites (Site A, Site B, and Site C), while fish samples consisting of Clarias gariepinus (Catfish) and Oreochromisniloticus (Tilapia) were obtained from the river. Standard analytical procedures were used for sample preparation and analysis. Water samples were filtered, acidified, and digested, while fish muscle tissues were dried, digested using nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide, and analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed that Pb was not detected in Site A and Site B but was detected in Site C (0.055 ± 0.1225 mg/L), exceeding the WHO/FAO permissible limit of 0.01 mg/L. Chromium concentrations in water ranged from 0.015±0.085 to 0.020 ± 0.0360 mg/L, which were within the recommended limits. Iron concentrations ranged from 2.755 ± 0.0645 mg/L to 5.400 ± 0.0585 mg/L, exceeding the permissible limit of 0.3 mg/L. In fish muscle tissues, the concentrations of Pb, Cr, and Fe in both Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromisniloticus were within the permissible limits recommended for fish consumption. The results indicate that although iron levels in the river water were relatively high, but the accumulation of these heavy metals in the fish species studied were low and within acceptable safety limits. Continuous monitoring of the river is recommended to prevent potential environmental and health risks associated with heavy metal contamination.

Sakina Malami Musa, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and electric shock on androgenesis production in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Androgenesis is a reproductive technique in which offspring inherit only paternal genetic material following inactivation of the maternal genome. In this experiment, freshly collected eggs were exposed to UV radiation at different durations (1.5 and 2.5 minutes) to inactivate the maternal DNA, followed by fertilization with milt and application of electric shock (24 V for 3 minutes) to restore diploidy against a control group without treatment. DNA concentration, fertilization rate, and hatching rate were used as indicators to assess the success of the treatments. The results showed a decrease in DNA concentration with increasing UV exposure, with the control group (0 min) having the highest (2,078.5 μg), whereas 2.5 min exposure had the lowest (100.26 μg) DNA concentration (p < 0.05), indicating effective maternal genome inactivation. Although fertilization occurred in the treated groups (1.5 min: 93.18%, 2.5 min: 90.80%), hatching success was significantly low (0% at 1.5 min) compared to the control group (82.93%) (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that while UV irradiation and electric shock can induce androgenesis in African catfish, the current treatment conditions negatively affect embryo viability. Therefore, further optimization of UV exposure duration and electric shock parameters is necessary to improve hatching success and enhance the practical application of androgenesis in aquaculture.

Amina Zakariyya Idris, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

Malaria remains a major public health problem in Nigeria, particularly in endemic areas such as Kano State. This study was carried out to determine malaria parasite density among patients attending Kabuga Primary Health Care, Kano. A cross-sectional study design was employed involving febrile patients who presented at the health facility during the study period. Blood samples were collected and examined using standard Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood film microscopy, which remains the gold standard for malaria diagnosis. The overall prevalence of malaria infection was determined among the study population, with parasite density quantified and classified into different levels (low, moderate, and high parasitaemia). The results showed variations in parasite density among infected individuals, with a higher proportion of cases falling within the moderate density range. Comparative analysis between male and female patients revealed differences in parasite density, although these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, clinical symptoms such as fever were the most commonly observed among infected patients, supporting its relevance as a key indicator for malaria suspicion in endemic settings. The findings highlight the continued importance of microscopy in not only detecting malaria infection but also in accurately quantifying parasite density, which is essential for proper case management and monitoring of disease severity.

Radiyat Najeem, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

The rapid expansion of aquaculture has raised significant environmental concerns about the discharge of nutrient-rich wastewater, particularly phosphate (PO₄³⁻), which can drive eutrophication in receiving water bodies. This study investigates the potential of charcoal from the tamarind tree, characterized by a point of zero charge (PZC) at pH of 9.41 and rich in oxygen functional groups, as an effective adsorbent for phosphate removal from aquaculture effluent. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of charcoal dosages (0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 4.0% of the synthetic wastewater volume) on PO₄³⁻ removal efficiency and adsorption capacity in wastewater with an initial PO₄³⁻ concentration of 90.56 mg/L. The study revealed that PO₄³⁻ removal efficiency increased slightly with increasing charcoal dose, while adsorption capacity decreased. The charcoal doses of 2.0% and 4.0% achieved removal efficiencies of 26% and 24.4%, respectively compared to the 23.8% achieved at 0.5% charcoal dose. However, the high adsorption capacity of 2.49 mg/g was achieved at a 0.5% charcoal dose, compared to 0.68 and 0.32 mg/g at 2% and 4% charcoal doses, respectively. The effect of 0.5% charcoal was further studied in real aquaculture wastewater with initial PO₄³⁻ of 20.15 mg/L (autoclaved) and 25.38 mg/L (unautoclaved) and found to remove 49.38% and 66.77% of PO₄³⁻ from autoclaved and unautoclaved aquaculture wastewater, respectively. These findings underscore the viability of charcoal as a sustainable, cost-effective adsorbent for treating aquaculture wastewater.