The objective of this trial was to determine the macrominerals requirements (Ca, P, Mg, Na, and K) for young bulls from different genetic groups. Forty-four young bulls from the following genetic groups were used: Nellore, F1 Nellore x Aberdeen-Angus, F1 Nellore x Brown Swiss, and F1 Nellore x Simmental. Animals averaged 362 ± 35 kg of initial body weight and between 10 to 11 months of age. Diet contained signal grass hay (Brachiaria decumbens, Stapf.), soybean meal, ground corn, molasses, and macro and microminerals premix. The net requirements for weight gain of each macromineral were obtained by the first derivative of their respective equations generated from non-linear regression of the mineral content (Ca, P, Mg, Na, and K) in function of the animal empty body weight. The equation obtained from regressing empty body weight on weights taken immediately before slaughter was used for the conversion of body weight into empty body weight. The macrominerals requirements for maintenance were estimated using the NRC and ARC models recommendation while absorption coefficients used were those proposed by the ARC model. The model test of identity indicates no difference comparing regression equations for all studied macrominerals among the four genetic groups.
beef cattle; minerals; mineral retention; nutrition; steers
