Effect of Supplementation of Area Specific Mineral Mixture on Reproductive Performance of Crossbred Cattle -A Field Study

Effect of supplementation of deficient minerals (Ca, P, Cu, Zn and Mn) through area specific mineral mixture (ASMM) was studied in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Crossbred cows (40) having different reproductive disorders were supplemented with ASMM for 90 days. Blood samples were analysed for minerals and hormones (estrogen and progesterone) prior to the supplementation and then at the end of the 90 days. Plasma P, Cu, Zn and Mn content was improved (P<0.05) in anoestrous cows. In repeat breeders cows plasma Cu and Zn showed significant (P<0.05) increase. Ca and Cu contents increased in anoestrous heifers. Plasma estrogen content of repeat breeders cows and anoestrous heifers and progesterone in anoestrous cows and anoestrous heifers indicated significant (P<0.05) increase after ASMM supplementation. Among the animals under study, 60% of anoestrous cows, 62% of repeat breeders cows and 59% of anoestrous heifers responded to supplementation, indicating the beneficial effect of mineral supplementation on their reproductive performance.