Mineral profile grassland of Andropogon lateralis and Sorghastrum setosum (Gramineae) in Corrientes, Argentina

Abstract

The goal of this work was to determine the floristic composition and the mineral contribution of Andropogon lateralis Nees (PAL) and Sorghastrum setosum (PSS) pastures, in the animal diet for the production of beef, analyzed by ICP-AES spectrometry in two series of soils from the Province of Corrientes, Argentina. The greatest contribution of dry raw matter is provided by A. lateralis and S. setosum. The contribution of legume is low. The profile of essential mineral elements, probably essential ones and of those of uncertain function, partially fulfill the meat producer cattle requirements. The elemental ratios Ca/P, Na/K (mEq), Cu/Mo and Cu/Fe, are acceptable. The K/Mg, K/Ca+Mg (mEq) and Na/Mg (mEq) ratios are not adequate, and there is Mg deficiency.