Manganese

Manganese (Mn) is essential for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and for synthesis of chondroitin sulfate necessary in cartilage formation.

Function:

Manganese (Mn) is essential for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and for synthesis of chondroitin sulfate necessary in cartilage formation.

Sources:

Forages : 40 to 140 mg of Mn/kg dry matter (DM).

Concentrates (except corn) : 15 to 45 of Mn/kg dry matter.

Daily requirements (NRC, 2007):

40 mg Mn/kg dry matter.

0.76 to 0.99 mg Mn/kg body weight.

N.B. 500 kg horse eats approximately 2% of its body weight per day i.e. 10kg dietary DM/day.

Deficiency:

Enlarged hocks, lameness, abnormal cartilage development. Mn deficiency may be associated with limb abnormalities and congenital contractures in newborn foals, but it is not proven. Increased risk of resorption in utero or death at birth. Irregularity of oestrus cycle. Brain function impairment.

Excess:

Mn is the least toxic of trace elements, and there is no known instance of intoxication in horse.

When problems may occur?

Large amounts of Mn in the ration can interfere with phosphorus absorption.

Mn can interact with iron in the digestive tract, preventing the absorption of iron, leading to anaemia.