Author
 |
Mayland, Henry |
|
Submitted to: Animal Nutrition Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 10/10/1999 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Animals require the same mineral elements for growth and reproduction as do plants. In additional, animals also require Na, Se, and I. Optimum ranges of these essential minerals have been established. Of increasing concern are the interactions that occur between some of these elements. For example, K reduces the bioavailability of Mg and Ca and can be a significant factor in the increased occurrence of grass tetany (hypomagnesemia) in the U.S. Another example is the effect of Mo and S on reducing the bioavailability of Cu. Sulfur is also known to reduce the bioavailability of Se. Knowledge of these interactions helps in diagnosing dietary mineral deficiencies and toxicities. Technical Abstract: The list of mineral elements necessary for livestock growth is similar to that for plants. It includes K, Ca, Mg, P, S, Cl in relatively large concentrations, as well as the trace minerals Co, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn. Animals, but not plants, also require Na, Se, and I. Several interactions important to animal health exist. High concentrations of K will reduce Mg and Ca uptake by plants and animals increasing the risk of grass tetany in animals. Interactions of Cu, Mo, and S reduce bioavailability of Cu to animals. High concentrations of S reduce bioavailability of Se to animals. |
