Alterations in Serum Mineral Concentrations Following Mineral Mixture Supplementation in Postpartum Anestrus Buffaloes

Abstract

Postpartum anestrus is a common reproductive problem in buffaloes, particularly under hot–humid climatic conditions, and is often associated with nutritional and mineral imbalances. Adequate macro- and micro-minerals play a crucial role in regulating endocrine function and ovarian activity, making mineral supplementation a potential strategy for improving reproductive performance. The present research was conducted to evaluate the effect of mineral mixture supplementation on the serum mineral profile in postpartum anestrus buffaloes during the hot humid season. A total of 18 postpartum anestrus buffaloes were selected for an on-farm trial and divided into two treatment groups (T1 and T2) and one control group, comprising 6 animals in each group. The treatment group T1 received chelated mineral mixture (CMM) supplementation (50 g/day) for 15 days. Group T2 was subjected to CMM as in T1 plus Garbhov bolus (1 bolus/day) with feed for 15 days, while the control group was maintained on routine feeding without mineral supplementation. Blood samples were collected on Day 0 (before starting supplementation) and on Day 20, i.e., 5 days after completion of supplementation, and were analyzed for serum concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, cobalt, iron, selenium, and zinc between groups (pre- and post-treatment). Results indicated a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum levels of phosphorus, copper, iron, and zinc in T1 and calcium, magnesium, copper, and cobalt in T2 compared to baseline and control animals. The findings suggest that mineral mixture supplementation effectively restores mineral balance in postpartum anestrus buffaloes and may play a supportive role in improving reproductive efficiency, particularly under heat stress conditions.