Dietary Selenium Influence on Milk Production, Blood Profiles, and Reproductive Efficiency in She-Camels and Neonatal Growth Performance

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary selenium supplementation during the pre- and post-partum periods on milk production, blood parameters, reproductive performance in she-camels, and the growth of their offspring. Twenty pregnant Maghrabi she-camels, in their last three months of gestation, were randomly divided into four experimental groups and supplemented with selenium-methionine at levels of 0, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 mg/kg diet. The experiment lasted 12 months, including a 3-month pre-partum and 9-month lactation period, during which the camels were fed a basal diet of concentrate feed, berseem hay, and rice straw. The results revealed that Se supplementation at all levels significantly increased placental weight and calf body weight at weaning, with the highest body weight and average daily gain observed in the 0.4 mg/kg group. Reproductive performance was also enhanced, with a reduction in postpartum first estrus interval and calving interval, particularly in the 0.4 mg/kg group. Milk production was significantly higher in Se-supplemented groups, with the 0.4 mg/kg group showing the longest lactation period and highest milk yield. Fat, lactose, and total solids yields improved, and Se concentration in milk increased with supplementation. Furthermore, Se supplementation led to improvements in blood biochemical parameters, including glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Hormone concentrations of T3, T4, P4, and E2 were significantly higher in Se-supplemented groups. In conclusion, dietary Se supplementation during the pre- and post-partum periods can significantly enhance reproductive performance, milk production in she-camels and growth performance of their offspring, with the greatest benefits observed at 0.4 mg/kg.

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