Use of Bovine Rib Bone in Serial Sampling for Mineral Analysis

Abstract

A total of 2160 samples of rib bone were used in a split-plot design analysis of variance to show that, on an ash weight basis, P content is not different among the right and left 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th ribs of cattle above 6 mo of age. Results were similar for Ca on a fresh or dry weight basis. Some differences existed in Mg content among some of the ribs. Location on the rib from which samples were taken was responsible for significant differences in mineral concentrations. Based on results reported herein, ribs 9, 10, 11, and 12 of the right and left side may be used in the serial sampling of bone tissue in the bovine for the purpose of comparing the content of P, Ca, and—to some extent—Mg. Serial sampling makes possible comparison of bovine mineral status based on bone tissue over an extended experimental period that includes eight sampling dates. © 1993, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.