Mineral and electrolyte profile of Zovawk pig in different seasons

A study was carried out to investigate the effect of season on mineral and electrolyte profile of indigenous pig, Zovawk of Mizoram. Blood samples were collected from three different age groups viz. pre-weaning, grower and adult in three different seasons viz. summer, rainy and winter. Minerals and electrolytes viz. calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride and iron were estimated in plasma separated from blood samples after centrifugation. Plasma concentration of phosphorus, sodium, chloride and iron showed significant variations in different seasons. Phosphorus and chloride were found higher in rainy season. Sodium was higher in winter followed by summer and rainy seasons. Iron was found lower in summer. Season had no significant effects on calcium, magnesium and potassium. The study revealed high ranges of plasma iron in indigenous pig, Zovawk of Mizoram indicating its closeness to its wild origin.