Phosphorous and Calcium Utilization and Requirements in Farm Animals

Mineral nutrition of livestock is an area of significant importance due to its contribution to farm animal economics and health. Providing animals with the required levels of nutrients can improve development, growth and productivity, but production systems increasingly need to be considered alongside issues of economy and environmental sustainability. With a focus on macromineral utilization in farm animals, this book brings together quantitative aspects of phosphorus and calcium metabolism in farm animals, in chapters written by leading researchers worldwide. Chapters cover the isotope dilution technique, phosphorus and calcium utilization in ruminants (sheep, goats and cattle) and non-ruminants (swine and horses) and recommended values of phosphorus and calcium inclusion in feed. Providing information on the efficiency of utilization, availability and requirements in livestock and interactions between the animal and the environment, this is an essential resource for researchers and students in animal sciences and nutrition.