PJB-2018-932
Comparative study of toxic metals of conventional versus non-conventional forages in relation to animal mineral nutrient allowance
Kafeel Ahmad
Abstract
This assessment was conducted to evaluate the toxic metal composition of conventional forages (popular, prevailing and indigenous plants (the forages commonly grown since centuries) and non-conventional forage (Unpopular, exotic and less prevailing and occasionally grown forages to meet emergency needs of the livestock) in Bhakkar District, Punjab, Pakistan. The mean concentrations of lead and cadmium were 8 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg, respectively in the soil at all survey sites were found to be lower than the critical levels. In contrast, the mean soil concentrations of cobalt and chromium at all sites were found to be higher than the critical levels of 0.5 mg/kg and 0.02 mg/kg, respectively. The high concentration of these metals may be due to the accumulation of toxic material from filter cake and other effluents from the sugarcane industry in that area. Cd, and Pb concentrations in both conventional and non-conventional forage species were found to be lower than the critical levels of Cd, 3-8 mg/kg and 0.05 mg/kg, respectively; therefore, further research in this sector is needed so that both conventional and non-conventional forages may be used as livestock friendly consuming forages.
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