Studies of a naturally occurring sulfur-induced copper deficiency in Przewalski's gazelles

The Przewalski's gazelles in the Hudong area of the Qinghai Lake area in China were affected by an ailment characterized by pica, emaciation, dyskinesia, loss of appetite, and anemia. Concentrations of copper (Cu) in soil and forage from affected and unaffected areas were similar and within the normal range, but concentrations of sulfur (S) in soil and forage were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in affected than in unaffected areas. Concentrations of Cu in blood, hair, and liver from the affected Przewalski's gazelles were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. Affected Przewalski's gazelles showed a hypochromic microcytic anemia and a low level of ceruloplasmin. Oral administration of copper sulphate (CuSO(4)) prevented and cured the disease. We conclude that the disorder of Przewalski's gazelles was caused by secondary Cu deficiency, mainly due to high S content in forage.