Chlorine (Cl)
The chlorine wiki is divided into two: chlorine in animals and chlorine in soil and crops.
Chlorine in animals
Chlorine (Cl), together with sodium (Na) and potassium (K), plays an essential role in osmotic, pressure of body cells and thus the moisture balance of the body. Together, these minerals determine the cation-anion difference (also called acid-base balance) of the ration and the body.
| Category | g/kg dry matter | g/animal/day |
|---|---|---|
| Young cattle from 4 months | 0.6 | 2.2 |
| Young cattle from 9 months | 0.6 | 3.3 |
| Young cattle from 16 months | 0.6 | 4.6 |
| Dry 8-3 weeks to calving | 0.7 | 7.7 |
| Dry 3-0 weeks to calving | 0.8 | 8.5 |
| Milking (20 kg) | 2.0 | 37 |
| Milking (40 kg) | 2.8 | 66 |
Chlorine is important in lowering the pH of the abomasum in the form of HCl. Furthermore, it is important in the production of enzymes (for example, the digestion of starch) and for respiration. Chlorine ions are exchanged in the lungs for exhales CO2.
Chlorine deficiency
Chlorine deficiency disturbs the electrolyte balance in the body, which can lead to delayed breathing, lethargy and constipation. Specific symptoms include a decreased intake of feed and water and thus a worsened condition and lowered production. However, chlorine deficiencies rarely occur in practice.
Chlorine surplus
Chlorine excess is also rare in practice; animals can easily excrete any excess through manure and urine. The CVB (2005) therefore does not specify a toxicity limit for chlorine. Normally, the chlorine content in a ration is regulated through the addition of sodium chloride (salt). When chlorine is provided in the form of calcium chloride, the tolerance is much lower.
By performing Ration Check from Eurofins Agro, you will find out the chlorine levels in your mixed ration and can make immediate adjustments if necessary.
Chlorine in soil and crop
Together with sodium and potassium, chlorine plays a role in the moisture balance of plants. In the soil, chlorine, like sodium, is susceptible to leaching, especially on sandy and alpine soils.
For sugar beets and cereals, chlorine is an important element. For potatoes, an excess of chlorine can lead to a decrease in production (lower underwater weight). Eurofins Agro's analysis Fertilization Manager considers the various factors and provides advice for all soil types.
Normally, grass and grass silage contain an ample amount of chlorine. Cut corn, CCM, beer brush, sugar beet pulp and grains contain lower levels.
| Fresh grass | Grass silage | Maize | Lucerne | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average | - | 12.9 | 2.3 | 7.1 |
| Target range | - | 5-20 | 1.1-2.7 | - |