Deposition of copper, manganese, selenium and zinc in the ovine foetus and associated tissues

Abstract

Merino ewes, some of which were supplemented with copper and selenium, were mated with Merino rams and were slaughtered between 70 and 150 days after mating. Copper, manganese, selenium and zinc were determined in the conceptus and associated tissues. Supplementation with copper and selenium increased the concentration of these elements in the conceptus. Relationships were derived for predicting the quantities of copper, manganese, selenium and zinc in the foetus and conceptus from the age of the foetus, and, in the case of copper and selenium, from their concentration in the dam's liver or blood. The use of these relationships for predicting nutrient requirements for pregnancy is discussed.