![]() There is also excellent evidence that manganese, via its effect on enzymes systems, alters the synthesis of gonadal steroids such as estrogen and progesterone in the female. There is strong evidence, for example, that the manganese content of ovaries in normal cows was considerably higher than in those with high incidences of cystic ovaries. The mode of action by which manganese causes this deficiency is not clear other than it appears to be exerting these influences via enzyme systems in which it may be an essential cofactor. Other symptoms reported include poor calf growth and loss of hair color in both calves and cows, and an increase in the incidence of cystic ovaries. ![]() There has been evidence that calves, at birth, will “knuckle over” at the fetlock. In addition, there is excellent evidence that manganese deficiency will cause abortions in animals and deformed calves at birth. Research evidence exists that manganese deficiencies can have an impact on suppression of conception rates, delayed estrus in both postpartum females and young prepubertal heifers. One of the hidden trace elements that may have considerably more influence than we realize is manganese.Īs with copper, manganese probably exerts its greatest influence on the animal via its effect on enzyme systems. Exactly how does copper alter reproductive function in animals? Some excellent research showed that the effect on reproduction may not relate to a copper deficiency but rather may relate to the copper deficiency being created by excesses of other trace elements such as molybdenum and sulfur.Ĭonsiderable attention in the livestock industry is focused on trace element deficiencies such as copper, selenium, zinc, and other elements. In addition, there is evidence that copper can cause an alteration in semen quality in males. ![]() Specifically, cows may show normal estrous behavior and then in situations where a severe copper deficiency develops, ovulation does not occur and, subsequently, there is a retardation of future estrous cycles. In addition to its effect on fertility, research has shown that there will be an alteration in reproductive behavior, or the manner in which cows show estrous activity. It is interesting to note that in a number of studies where copper deficiency has clearly been documented, there often is no impact on fertility or any other reproductive parameter. The effect on fertility can range from a very limited effect to a very pronounced decrease in first-service conception and overall pregnancy rates. This has been evidenced by a reduction in first-service conception rates, altered embryonic survival (in situations of embryo transfer), and a reduction in overall pregnancy rates. In a number of research studies, it has been clearly documented that a copper deficiency can have an effect on fertility. In fact, one of the major effects of copper deficiency may well be its effect on enzyme systems reducing productivity via alteration of enzymatic activity in the body. In both cases, excesses can have an impact on the animal, most notably by their negative impact on copper utilization.Ĭopper (Cu) is involved in numerous body physiological functions such as hemoglobin formation, iron absorption and mobilization, and connective tissue metabolism-usually via copper’s involvement in enzyme function. Other elements such as iron and molybdenum can be important considerations but seldom from a deficiency standpoint. The trace elements most likely to influence reproduction in cattle are copper, cobalt, iodine, selenium, zinc, and manganese, deficiencies of which can occur in the grazing ruminant and affect reproductive performance or related important economic production parameters. The phosphorus supplementation program you use should be influenced by the phosphorus content of the forage being fed and the requirements of the cow. ![]() Thus, in areas of the country such as Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, phosphorus deficiency is more likely to be observed than in parts of the country where cows are routinely maintained on summer grass and then fed harvested forage during the winter months, both of which often contain adequate phosphorus. Phosphorus supplementation is important in most parts of the United States, but it becomes more important in areas of the country where cattle are maintained on grazed forage year around. In formulating cow diets, one important mineral to consider that maintains normal reproductive function is phosphorus. Since mineral availability varies by region, consult your local county Cooperative Extension agent for more information regarding your area. Phosphorus, calcium, copper, cobalt, iodine, selenium, zinc, and manganese are all involved in governing successful reproduction.
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