Abstract:

The need to expanding the narrow food base especially protein of animal origin in quality and quantity for human and livestock has made Animal Scientists, Foresters and academic Zoologists to continue to beam their search lights on possible alternative sources of high quality animal protein. This has led to the evolving area of animal agriculture known as minilivestock production system. The term minilivestock includes small indigenous vertebrates and invertebrates which can be profitably and sustainably produced as food, animal feed, research work, income generation and lots more. Minilivestock comprise but not limited to the following: grass cutters, giant rats, guinea pigs, frogs, giant snails, manure worms, economic and edible insects (bees, grasshoppers and termites) including other mini species of livestock that are probably obtainable from the wild. Reptiles and small birds such as quails can be considered as eligible for minilivestock production status. Advantages abound if this unconventional animal agricultural system (minilivestock production) is adequately explored. These may include suitability for family backyard farming, source of employment, increase global food security, and environmental friendliness in the rearing process, indigenous adaptability and other yet to be mentioned merits of these unique but underutilised species. Minilivestock production if adequately encouraged will not only reduce unemployment but will also enhance food security.