Trace mineral deficiency in goats with history of abortions in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

The study was undertaken to determine the blood trace mineral status in goat herds with a history of high levels of abortions in 4 areas of the Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. Serum zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) were analyzed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) machine, while selenium analysis was performed using the ICPMS 300Q machine. Zn and Se deficiencies of up to 12.5 and 5000 times lower than the minimum expected levels, respectively were revealed in all areas, while Cu levels exceeded the maximum expected levels by up to 4.4 times. All areas with Zn and Se deficiencies also had history of abortions, such that more studies are necessary on the possible link between the deficiencies and the reproductive problems in the areas studied. Mineral supplementation should be considered in order to correct the mineral deficiencies and mitigate against the possible health and reproductive problems.