Mineral composition of certain Atriplex species and Cassia sturtii

Author: W.A. van Niekerk, C.F. Sparks, N.F.G. Rethman and R.J. Coertze
Year: 2004
Issue: 5
Volume: 34
Page: 105 - 107

The objective of this study was to quantify the macro and trace mineral concentrations of Atriplex canescens, A. halimus, A. nummalaria and Cassia sturtii at two different sites in South Africa. Statistically significant differences in Ca, P, Mg, Se, Zn and Mn concentrations occurred between plants and sites. Calcium, Mg, Zn and Mn were present in sufficient concentration to meet nutrient requirements of small ruminants, but P was deficient at Lovedale, Northern Cape and Se at Hatfield, Gauteng. The Atriplex spp. have in general higher macro- and trace mineral concentrations at both sites than C. sturtii.

Keywords: Atriplex, Cassia sturtii, Minerals
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