Supplementation of Brown Seaweed (Turbinaria conoids) Powder and its Effect on Blood Metabolites and Mineral Profile in Adult Goats

Fifteen adult goats (14.59±1.41kg kg BW; 11–12 months of age) were assigned to 3 groups (CON, T₁ and T₂) using completely randomised design. Goats in CON group were fed a standard ration of concentrate mixture, straw and green with no seaweed supplement whereas, goats in T₁ and T₂ groups were given concentrate mixture having 4 and 8% of brown seaweed (Turbinaria conoids), respectively. The values of PCV, hemoglobin, albumin, globulin and A: G ratio were similar in all the groups, however, serum glucose and total protein levels were higher (P<0.01) in group T₂ as compared to groups T₁ and CON. Serum mineral concentation of Ca, P, Fe, and Mn did not differ among the groups whereas Cu level was found to be higher in T₁ as compared to CON and T₂ and serum Zn concentration was higher (P<0.01) in group T₁ followed by groups T₂ and CON. Hence, incorporation of brown seaweed at 4% level in the concentrate mixture of adult goats increased the concentrations of glucose, total protein, Cu and Zn without any adverse impact on other blood metabolites.