Trace element levels in plasma/serum and erythrocytes of Keteku and white Fulani cattle.

In order to determine the probable role of trace elements in the maintenance of trypanotolerance in tropical cattle, the levels of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) in plasma/serum and erythrocytes of trypanotolerant Keteku (Kt) and trypanosusceptible White Fulani (WF) cattle were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and compared by breed or sex. Trypanotolerance was associated with significantly higher (P < 0.05) erythrocyte levels of Zn and Mn. The Kt breed showed higher erythrocyte levels of Zn and Mn than the WF. Serum Mn level was also significantly higher (P < 0.01) in Kt than WF cattle. However, PCV and total protein concentration were not significantly different by breed or sex.