Mineral status of cows and its relationship with the soil-plant system in a dairy unit of the Eastern region of Cuba

Main Article Content

Juana Galindo
Odilia Gutiérrez
Maida Ramayo
Laura Leyva

Abstract

The mineral status of cows and its relationship with the soil-pasture system in a dairy unit of the Eastern region of Cuba was studied. For soil analysis, Na, K, Mg, Ca and P contents were determined in the different animal feed production areas. The chemical composition of pastures was established and blood samples were taken to 10 % of the herd for analyzing their macro and microelement composition. The mineral content of soils varied regarding the agroproductive system where animals grazed. Pastures presented CP contents lower than those reported for the species. Cows showed severe Cu and Zn deficiencies, below the contents considered as normal. The Ca/P relationship was not adequate. It is concluded that the productive systems under study show mineral deficiencies. The use of correction mineral formulas
is recommended.

Key words: minerals, soil, pasture, blood, cows

Article Details

How to Cite
Galindo, J., Gutiérrez, O., Ramayo, M., & Leyva, L. (2016). Mineral status of cows and its relationship with the soil-plant system in a dairy unit of the Eastern region of Cuba. Cuban Journal of Agricultural Science, 48(3). Retrieved from https://cjascience.com/index.php/CJAS/article/view/578
Section
Animal Science

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