Mineral profile of cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats reared in humid southern-eastern plains of semi arid Rajasthan

Serum mineral profiles of cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats maintained in humid southern-eastern plains of semiarid Rajasthan were ascertained to identify their mineral status. The Ca (g %), P (g %), Mg (g %), Zn (ppm), Cu (ppm), Mn (ppm) and Fe (ppm) contents of concentrates, green fodder, straws, Stover, tree leaves and Pasture grasses were estimated. Serum calcium concentrations of all the species during different physiological stages ranged between 9–10 mg percent and were within normal range. Phosphorus levels were 4.10, 3.79, 3.16 and 2.79 mg % in cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats during different physiological stages and were below the normal level in buffaloes, sheep and goats, respectively. Magnesium level was within normal range of 2–3 mg % in all the species. Serum Cu levels were 0.88, 0.89, 1.04 and 0.78ppm in cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats, respectively and were marginally lower than the normal range. The Zn concentration was 2.97, 1.92, 1.61 and 1.21 ppm in cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats respectively and was found well above the normal level. It is concluded from the study that marginal deficiency of P and Cu was found in animal of the region for which supplementary phosphorus and copper is required by incorporation into mineral mixture or concentrate.