Abstract
The objective of the present research was to evaluate the effects of mineral
supplementation on estrus onset, growth, and hematological and biochemical
parameters in Simmental heifers. The study was initiated by a field survey to determine
the reproductive problem of the exotic breed cattle raised by smallholders. Complete
minerals were then formulated and fed to 18 Simmental heifers for 14 weeks across
three groups as follows: P0, no supplementation (control), P1, supplemented with
mineral feed in meal form, and P2, supplemented with mineral in block lick form. Each
treatment consisted of six heifers stratified by body weight into six groups for
replication. Parameters measured included estrus onset time, body weight gain, mineral
intake, blood mineral levels, hematology, total protein, and progesterone levels.
Simmental heifers raised by smallholders were delayed in onset of first estrus (20.4
months) and first calving (30.17 months). Heifers supplemented with minerals (P1 and
P2) had an earlier estrus in the 2nd and 4th weeks, while in the control groups (P0), the
first estrus appeared in the 8th and 9th weeks. Heifers supplemented with block minerals
(P2) had lower body weight gain, and Fe, Zn, and progesterone levels than those
supplemented with minerals in meal form (P1). The results showed that mineral
supplementation in meal form positively affected estrus onset, growth rate, and
biochemical parameters in Simmental heifers.
Khalil, Andri Bachtiar, Zaituni Udin. (2019) Effects of mineral supplementation on reproductive efficiency of Simmental heifers, Asian Journal of Agriculture and Biology, Volume 7, Issue 3.
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