During a 7 mo exhibit loan, diets of two juvenile female giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) were monitored. Mineral [calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), zinc (Zn)] and vitamin (beta-carotene and total tocopherol) concentrations in the diet were quantified as well as in a serum sample obtained from one of these animals. Diets consumed by the pandas contained (dry matter basis): 0.82% Ca, 0.62% P, 1.05% K, 14.3 mg/kg Cu, 31.8 mg/kg Zn, 12.2 mg/kg beta-carotene, and 12 mg/kg total tocopherol. Serum values for these vitamins and minerals were within reported normal limits for the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). This diet appeared to provide adequate nutrition for maintenance and growth.
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1 July 1991
Dietary Vitamin and Mineral Concentrations of Two Juvenile Female Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
S. A. Mainka,
Li Mao,
Zhao Guanlu
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
Vol. 27 • No. 3
July 1991
Vol. 27 • No. 3
July 1991
Ailuropoda melanoleuca
diets
giant panda
minerals
nutrition
vitamins