During the wet season especially in phosphorus deficient countries such as Botswana when the energy and protein levels in the feed are high the need for phosphorus increases as it becomes the limiting nutrient. Limiting nutrient means this nutrient limits the ability of the animal to reach the performance target. When fed phosphorus during the wet season cattle can show a great response with improved live-weight gain, improved fertility, and increased milk production. The major impact of phosphorus is reduction of appetite which leads to low weaning rates and increased mortality. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency: 1. Lameness. 2. Poor growth rate/ retarded growth rate in young cattle - wonder why your young animals are not growing check their phosphorus level. 3. Peg leg. 4. Stiff gait. 5. BOTULISM may be encountered in phosphorus deficient cattle from chewing bones. Choos...
We are a non-profit online community of visionary, dedicated and passionate farmers who have come together to encourage, share and assist one another with valuable farming information and technology regarding the best agricultural practices and trends across the world. Our primary goal is to “Promote Sustainable Agriculture” as a viable tool to food security across the world.