Effect of Eimeria acervulina infection in chicks fed excess dietary cobalt and/or manganese

Two trials were conducted with male Cobb chicks to investigate the interaction between experimental Eimeria acervulina infection and dietary excesses of Co and Mn. Eimeria acervulina infection depressed rate and efficiency of weight gain, increased bone mineral retention and exacerbated Co toxicity. A significant Co X Mn interaction was observed in growth rate and efficiency of gain and in Co and Mn concentration in some tissues as well. This interaction was present both in uninfected chicks and in coccidiosis-infected chicks. Excesses of dietary Co and Mn increased tissue Co and Mn concentrations, respectively. Excess Co also increased Mn accumulation in kidney, bile and the tibia.