Mineral Inter-relationship among Soil, forage and Dairy cattle in Kashmir, India

Samples of soil, forage and blood serum of cattle in six villages Ganderbal district of kashmir were collected and analysed for different macro and micro mineral contents to establish the mineral correlation among soil, forage and animals. The macro and micro mineral contents in soils of Ganderbal district were higher than their respective critical levels except Mn. Similarly, in forage except for zinc all the mineral values were above critical level. The study also revealed the serum mineral values above the critical levels. The soil and forage (r=0.558) and forage and serum (r=0.463) showed significant positive correlations while, non-significant (P<0.05) positive correlation (r=0.08) between soil and serum for Cu was observed. The correlation for Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, iron and manganese observed between soil-forage, Forage-serum as well as soil-serum was non-sgnificant. Based on present study, supplementation of calcium, phosphorous, copper and zinc in the diet of cattle under existing feeding practices in Ganderbal district of Kashmir is imperative for better health and productivity. However, further, studies should elucidate the bioavailability and strategic dietary supplementation of minerals for livestock [Vet. World 2011; 4(12.000): 550-553