Utilization of tanniniferous feeds. 7. Effect of supplementation of Acacia nilotica pods on mineral balances in crossbred cattle

Abstract

Male crossbred (Karan Fries and Karan Swiss; body weight 205 to 233 kg) cattle (12) were grouped into 4 of 3 each in a randomized block design to determine the effect of Acacia pods on mineral balances. Acacia pods were used at different levels in concentrate mixture (0,31, 62 and 93%). Dry matter intake (kg/d) was 5.92±0.16, 5.70±O.30, 5.47±O.37 and 5.17±O.70 in 0, 31, 62 and 93% Acacia pods supplemented groups respectively. Dry matter intake was not affected by inclusion ofAcacia pods up to 62% in the concentrate mixture, but reduced thereafter. Calcium balance was increased up to 62% level of inclusion of Acacia nilotica pods in the concentrate mixture and decreased thereafter. However, phosphorus balance was unaffected with increased level of Acacia nilotica pods up to 62% in the concentrate mixture but reduced thereafter. Magnesium balance reduced with increased level of Acacia nilotica pods in the ration. Balance of Zn (mg/d) in treatment groups reduced significantly compared to control group. Copper balance (mg/d) reduced with increased level of pods in the concentrate mixture. Similarly, cobalt balance was lower in Acacia pods supplemented groups. Reduction in balances of Mg, Zn and cobalt were more pronounced as compared to copper with increased level of Acacia pods in the concentrate mixture. It can be inferred that Acacia nilotica pods beneficially improved the calcium balance while did not affect phosphorus balance up to 62% inclusion of Acacia pods, however, reduced the availability of magnesium, zinc, cobalt and copper in crossbred cattle.