Effect of multi-nutrient liquid supplement on serum minerals and hormone profile in buffalo heifers

Eighteen Murrah buffalo heifers (average BW of 290 +/- 2.5 kg) were randomly distributed into three groups of six each in an experiment based on randomized block design to investigate the effect of partial replacement of concentrate mixture with molasses based multi-nutrient liquid supplements (MMLS) on serum mineral and reproductive hormonal profile. During 240 d of experimental period, all animals were supplied with green forages (2 kg DM/d) and wheat straw ad libitum. Animals in group T-1 (control) were fed a concentrate mixture (maize 40, wheat bran 40, soyabean meal 17, mineral mixture 2, and salt 1%) to meet their nutrient requirements. However, 20% of the concentrates were replaced with MMLS and MMLS plus in groups T-2 and T-3, respectively. Blood was collected on d 0, 120 and 240 days of experiment to evaluate serum mineral and reproductive hormonal (progesterone and estradiol) profile. Serum concentrations of Ca, P, Fe and Mn were similar among the groups. Serum concentration of Cu and Zn was higher in groups T-2 and T-3. Concentrations of progesterone and estradiol were similar among the groups, but showed an increasing trend on day 240. It was concluded that partial replacement of concentrate mixture with MMLS and MMLS plus improved Cu and Zn status without any adverse impact on other minerals and reproductive hormone profile.