Effect of moderate work on intake and serum profile of minerals in semi-captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) fed sugarcane based diet

Abstract

Two feeding trials were conducted to study the effect of moderate work on intake and serum profile of minerals in semi-captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Six elephants were divided into 2 groups. Animals in group 1 performed no exercise while those in group 2 performed 4 h of moderate work. During both the trials, all elephants were fed a basal diet comprising wheat-roti, sugarcane and tree leaves. Intake of sugarcane was higher in group 1 while forage intake was higher in group 2. Serum concentration of Fe and Zn was higher in group 2. Apparent absorption of Ca, P, Fe and Cu was higher in group 2. It is evident that 4 h of moderate exercise has no adverse impact on intake and serum profile of minerals; rather it improved the serum concentrations of Fe and Zn. It was concluded that 4 h of touristic work is beneficial for semi-captive Asian elephants.