The Importance of Arsenic, Vanadium, Cobalt and Strontium in Poultry, A Review

Abstract

Any deficiency in trace element content of commercial poultry diets will decrease their performance. To prevent this situation it is necessary to supplement trace minerals in poultry diets to allow the modern birds to reach their genetic potential. The NRC publication as the most famous reference for livestock and poultry nutrients requirement has no recommendation for some less needed trace mineral such as arsenic, vanadium, cobalt and strontium. This deficiency is seen in commercial mineral supplements too which in some situations could result in a reduction in animals productivity. This review has summarized the new finding on the important role of arsenic, vanadium and cobalt in poultry.