Abstract. This study aimed to establish values and reference intervals of macro-mineral plasma concentrations, as well as the variations of these variables depending on the physiological stages of Ouled Djellal ewes, reared in the Northeast of Algeria. Six plasma macro-mineral elements: calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chlorine (Cl), were analyzed in blood samples belonging to one hundred thirty-four (n=134) healthy Ouled Djellal ewes (2-5 years old). Obtained levels were statistically analyzed using Reference Value Adviser software in order to establish the reference intervals. In addition, a follow-up study using thirty (30) ewes was carried out to determine the variations of these same parameters depending on the animals’ physiological stages. Animals were subjected to blood sampling during seven periods of their reproductive cycle (dry period; early gestation; mid-gestation; late gestation; early lactation; mid-lactation; after weaning). Reference intervals values for the studied macro elements were: Ca (66-106.7 mgl/L), P (30.5-85 mg/L), Mg (17-32 mg/L), Na (132.6-165 mEq/L), K (3.8-6.2 mEq/L) and Cl (98-123.9 mEq/L). The follow-up study showed significant variations of these macro-elements according to the animal’s reproductive stages. In late gestation, both calcium and magnesium levels increased significantly; however, they showed a significant decrease in early lactation. Phosphatemia was significantly higher in both dry and empty ewes. The lowest values of sodium and potassium were recorded at the beginning of lactation. Chlorine plasma levels decreased very significantly in mid-lactation. Such results provide baseline information that permits monitoring the impact of various mineral disturbances in this breed and checking the animal’s health status depending on its physiological stage.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.