Muna M.M. Ahmed, S.M. Abead and M.E.S. Barri1
Institute of Environmental Studies, P.O.Box 321, Khartoum, Sudan
1Central Veterinary Research Laboratories, Soba, P.O.Box 8067, Khartoum, Sudan
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of age and physiological status on some mineral concentrations in the serum of female camels namely calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na) and potassium (K). Animals used were an indigenous ecotype of nomad (Rashiada) inhabiting a semi-arid region (Butana) in eastern part of Sudan. A total of 32 female camels from approximately 3 to 12 years of age were divided into different groups; young (3-4 years old) and pregnant camels within three months to parturition were grouped according to number of gestations; first (4-5 years old), second (6-7 years old), third (8-9 years old) and fourth gestation (10-12 years old). Lactating camels (all in their mid-lactation) were classified according to yield; high, medium and low. Each group or subgroup consisted of four animals. The data analysis revealed that age, pregnancy or lactation had no significant effect on the concentration of minerals investigated. However, there was a tendency for Na level to increase with age, while Ca levels were observed to increase progressively through low, medium and high yielder.
Key words: Female camels, macrominerals, physiological state
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