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Zinc supplements and reproduction in grazing ewes
1School of Agriculture (Animal Science), University of Western Australia, 6009, Nedlands, Western Australia.
Biological Trace Element Research
|November 22, 2013
Summary
Zinc supplementation showed minimal impact on reproductive performance in grazing Merino ewes across six Western Australian experiments. While plasma zinc levels increased in some ewes, lamb production saw no significant improvement.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Merino ewes are a key breed for wool production.
- Reproductive efficiency is crucial for flock profitability.
- Zinc is an essential trace element for animal health and reproduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of zinc supplementation on Merino ewe reproductive outcomes.
- To assess the relationship between plasma zinc levels and reproductive success.
- To compare findings with previous studies on zinc and ewe reproduction.
Main Methods:
- Conducted six grazing experiments with Merino ewes in Western Australia.
- Administered zinc supplementation to experimental groups.
- Measured reproductive performance indicators, including lambing rates.
- Monitored plasma zinc concentrations prior to lambing.
Main Results:
- A marginal increase (7%) in lambing rates was observed in only one of the six experiments (P=0.1).
- Zinc supplementation elevated plasma zinc levels in ewes before lambing in two of the experiments.
- No consistent or significant improvement in overall reproductive performance was detected.
Conclusions:
- Zinc supplementation does not appear to significantly enhance the reproductive performance of grazing Merino ewes under these conditions.
- Further research may be needed to determine optimal zinc levels or specific conditions where supplementation could be beneficial.
- Results suggest that other factors may be more limiting for reproductive success in this population.
