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Agriculture

Essential Mineral Profiles in Soils and Forages in Indonesia's Active Volcanoes

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers from Andalas University have conducted a study to explore the essential mineral concentrations of volcanic soils and forages in different eruption-impacted areas in Indonesia. The study aimed to discuss the possible effects of these minerals on beef cattle nutrition. The researchers collected 75 forage and topsoil samples from five active volcanoes on different islands in Indonesia and analyzed them for essential macro minerals and trace elements.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that forage Ca concentrations varied from 0.52 to 0.76 ppm, while P concentrations ranged from 0.09 to 0.36%.
  • The soils were found to be rich in Fe, with concentrations ranging from 142,230 to 20,252 ppm.
  • The researchers concluded that forage K, S, and Cu exceeded tolerable levels, while Ca, Mg, Zn, Co, and Se concentrations were favorable, but P and Na were insufficient.
  • The essential minerals most likely to limit beef cattle's nutritional status and productivity in the eruption-impacted areas are K, S, Cu, P, and Na.
  • The study's results have implications for beef cattle nutrition in areas affected by volcanic eruptions.
  • The researchers identified potential areas for further research, including the impact of volcanic ash on plant nutrition and the effects of mineral deficiencies on beef cattle health.

Statistics:

  • 75 forage and topsoil samples were collected from five active volcanoes in Indonesia.
  • The Fe concentration in forages ranged from 109 to 308 ppm.
  • The Mn concentration in forages ranged from 30 to 186 ppm.
  • The Zn concentration in forages ranged from 50 to 85 ppm.
  • The Cu concentration in forages ranged from 10 to 60 ppm.
  • The P and Mg concentrations in soils ranged from 23.99 to 174.87 mg/100 g and 10.07 to 71.00 mg/100 g, respectively.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Andalas University Researchers Release New Data on Tropical Animal Agriculture (Essential mineral profiles in soils and forages in Indonesia's active volcanoes: Implication for beef cattle nutrition in the eruption-impacted areas). Agriculture Week. September 18, 2025; p 101.
  • Essential mineral profiles in soils and forages in Indonesia's active volcanoes: Implication for beef cattle nutrition in the eruption-impacted areas. Journal of the Indonesian Tropical Animal Agriculture, 2025,50(1):33-45.

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