Cobalt Requirement of Sheep in Semi-arid Tropics

Cobalt is an essential trace element in ruminants which can be used to synthesize vitamin B12 in the digestive tract by microbial action. When intake of Cobalt is inadequate, the microbial population in the rumen is altered, and synthesis of vitamin B12 is greatly lowered. Supplementing Cobalt in diets of ruminants could therefore help to supplement vitamin B12 needed for optimal microbial activities and subsequent breakdown of fibrous feeds. Cobalt supplementation could therefore help prevent growth retardation, weakness, emaciation and other abnormal situations experienced by young and adult ruminants in semi-arid environment.