Abstract
In order to obtain a more comprehensive knowledge basis for the supply of essential elements to sheep on pasture in Norway, a systematic, countrywide investigation of element composition of pasture plants was conducted, with emphasis on natural pastures. Samples of pasture grass, herbs, willow shrub leaves and bilberry (N = 575) from 142 locations were analysed for the essential trace elements Se, Co, I, Zn and Mn, and for the major elements Ca, P, Mg, Na and K. A large and systematic geographical variation was observed for Se, I and Na, while concentrations of Zn and of most major elements showed limited variation with sampling site. Se concentrations were inadequate in the majority of samples from all plant species. Marked botanical variation was noted for Co and Zn, and willow shrub leaves were identified as a valuable source of these elements in natural sheep pastures.
Published Version
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More From: Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica, Section A — Animal Science
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