Abstract:
Proc, Aust. Soc. Anim. Prod. Vol. 18 COPPER AND SELENIUM INADEQUACY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CATTLE: A PRELIMINARY REPORT T-S. KOH* Despite the widespread use of trace element supplements, copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) deficiencies are still observed in livestock in South Australia (Judson et al, 1987). A survey commenced in April 1989 to determine areas of South Australia where cattle may be at risk to these trace element deficiencies. The survey involves a random collection of 80 liver samples per week from 12 abattoirs throughout the State. The livers were dried at 80�C, acid digested and assayed for Cu by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and for Se by fluorometry. Initial findings based on 2000 animals are given in Table 1. Of the animals sampled, 24% had liver Cu concentrations equal to or less than 0.4 mmol/kg dry matter (DM) and 18% had liver Se concentrations equal to or less than 4 umol/kg DM (Table 1). Distribution of liver Cu results were positively skewed but were log-normal. In contrast, normal distribution was observed for liver Se results. There was an effect of age and gender on the mean concentrations of liver Se (P > 0.001) but not on those of liver Cu (P > 0.05). No significant correlation was observed between liver Cu and liver Se concentrations. The author thanks the South Australian Cattle Compensation Trust Fund for financial support, the Department of Primary Industry and Energy for sample collection and staff of Biochemistry Section, CVL for technical assistance. JUDSON, G-J., CAPLE, I-W., LANGLANDS, J.P. and PETER, D-W, (1987). In 'Temperate Pastures: their production, use and management', p-377, editors J.L. Wheeler, C.J. Pearson and GE. Robards (Australian Wool Corporation/CSIRO:Melbourne), * Central Veterinary S.A. 5000, Laboratories, DWS Building, Frome Road, Adelaide, 508