A trace element survey in the Transkei
van der Veen, R.R.
South African Medical Journal 47(8): 344-347
1973
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 4692059 Document Number: 67895
Suggestions are made for improvements in breeding, management and feeding of livestock in the Transkei, where production is poor. A survey of trace elements to establish normal values in the area is described with the aim of formulating balanced diets for different grazing areas. Sampling points were established in grazing areas and in different rainfall areas. The 55 points provide about 1000 samples a year. Cattle were chosen as the experimental animals. Liver samples were studied by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; it has not been possible to estimate Mo. The study has a long way to go before definite conclusions can be drawn. Practical application of the results is discussed. Licks with trace elements are relatively inexpensive for improvement of the diet of livestock.