Variability factors in trace elements nutritional status by plasmatic indicators in camel (Camelus dromedarius) in Morocco. I. Normal value and physiological variability

Abstract

To study the copper and zinc nutritional status of camel in different ecological areas from Morocco (Guelmim, Laâyoune, Tadla), one-hundred-twenty-five dromedary camels were used in three experiments. The mean regional plasma values varied from 65 to 102 µg/l00 ml for copper and from 38 to 59 µg/100 ml for zinc. Except the significant effect of age on plasma zinc concentration which was higher in youngers than adults, there was no significant effect of physiological factors (age and sex) on copper and zinc plasma concentrations. Results are discussed according to the variations of basal diet availability in the different trials.