Feed Ingredients: Feed Supplements: Microminerals

Abstract

Trace minerals are required for a number of biological processes in the body. At least eight trace minerals (cobalt, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc) are essential for cattle and a deficiency of any of these results in abnormalities such as reduced growth or milk production, impaired reproduction, skeletal disorders, or decreased disease resistance. Chromium also appears to be required by cattle, and beneficial responses to chromium supplementation have been observed in cattle. Some trace minerals, such as selenium and copper, can also cause toxicity problems when fed at high concentrations. Trace mineral requirements of cattle are affected by a number of factors including age, stage (lactating vs nonlactating) and level of production, breed, and bioavailability of the mineral from the diet. Bioavailability of certain trace minerals can be greatly affected by the level of other minerals present in the diet. This article will discuss functions, deficiency signs, factors affecting requirements, sources, and toxicity of each essential trace mineral.