ABSTRACT
Production levels in the tropical regions are lower than in the temperate regions of Latin America. Protein and energy deficiencies are most serious during prolonged dry seasons. Mineral deficiencies, however, occur year round, and seriously limit animal productivity even in the dry season. Minerals required by beef cattle for maintenance, growth, and reproduction include major minerals and minor minerals. The mineral content of grazed forages is influenced by season, plant species, and soil mineral status. Seasonal effects on mineral content of grazed forage vary widely; some minerals are higher in one season than in another. The effects of mineral deficiencies are determined by the magnitude of the deficiency, whether or not the deficiency is continuous or cyclical, and by interactions between mineral deficiencies and with other nutrients. The primary factor predisposing response to mineral supplementation is the mineral status of the soils on which the grazed forages are grown.
