Application of copper in pig feed

**Abstract:** The addition of high levels of copper in pig feed has been widely discussed among experts. It is important to note that the color of pig manure is not directly related to feed digestibility but rather to the ingredients used in the feed. Many people believe that black pig manure indicates high digestibility, which is a misconception. This belief stems from the traditional use of green feeds like sweet potato vines and wild vegetables in rural China, which are rich in chlorophyll and cause the manure to appear black. When pigs are sick, farmers often feed them more bran-based feed to improve nutrition, resulting in lighter or yellowish feces. Over time, this has led to an unscientific assumption that darker manure means better digestion. Since Barber scholars first reported in 1955 that adding high copper to pig diets could enhance growth, numerous studies have shown that high copper levels (150–250 mg/kg) can promote animal growth and improve feed efficiency. Countries around the world have long used high-dose copper in pig feed, and in China, its use became common in the 1990s. However, recent practices have raised concerns. Some farmers believe that more copper equals better results, even adding visible copper sulfate particles to feed. They judge feed quality based on the darkness of the manure, leading to excessive copper usage that exceeds safe limits. This not only increases costs and pollutes the environment but also threatens human and animal health. Therefore, regulating copper levels in feed is essential. **The Role of Copper** Copper is an essential trace element for pigs, playing a key role in metabolic processes as part of metalloenzymes. Pig feeding standards typically recommend 4–6 mg/kg of copper. Feed sources like cake-based feeds tend to contain more copper, while corn and rice are lower in copper. Diets based on corn and soybean meal require only small amounts of copper to meet the pig’s needs. At higher levels (150–250 mg/kg), copper can improve nutrient absorption, exhibit antimicrobial effects, potentially stimulate growth hormone secretion, and increase feed intake. Despite these benefits, improper use of high copper can lead to serious problems. **Common Misconceptions About High Copper Addition** Some believe that the darker the manure, the better the feed digestibility. However, the color of pig manure is influenced by feed ingredients, not digestibility. Green feeds like sweet potato vines contain chlorophyll, which turns manure black. When pigs are ill, farmers may switch to bran-based feed, causing lighter-colored feces. This has led to the false belief that dark manure equates to high digestibility. Adding excessive copper to make manure black is not only unscientific but also harmful. Copper sulfate decomposes in the gut to form black compounds like copper sulfide and copper oxide. Farmers who prioritize dark manure may overuse copper, exceeding the 250 mg/kg safety limit. This can lead to copper poisoning, metabolic issues, and reduced growth performance. **High-Dose Copper and Growth Stages** Many farmers add high copper throughout the entire growth period, including in sows. However, research shows that the growth-promoting effect of copper is most significant in early stages (15–40 kg). In later stages (over 40 kg), the benefits diminish. Studies indicate that copper supplementation is most effective for weaned piglets, with limited impact on finishing pigs. Some researchers suggest that pigs over 50 kg do not need additional copper. **Imbalance Between Copper and Other Nutrients** High copper levels can interfere with the absorption of other minerals like zinc and iron. To maintain balance, additional zinc and iron should be included when using high-copper feed. Moreover, high levels of trace elements can degrade vitamins in the feed, requiring increased vitamin supplementation. While copper at 150–250 mg/kg can improve growth and feed efficiency, it must be balanced with other nutrients. Focusing solely on copper without considering overall nutritional balance can reduce the effectiveness of feed and even hinder growth. **Health Risks of Excessive Copper** Excessive copper in pig feed can accumulate in tissues, particularly in the liver. In China, where pig liver is commonly consumed, high copper levels in meat may pose a risk to human health. Research shows a strong correlation between dietary copper and tissue copper concentration. Pigs fed high-copper diets can accumulate up to 120 mg/kg of copper in their livers, raising concerns about long-term health impacts. In conclusion, while copper has benefits in pig nutrition, its use must be carefully regulated. Overuse leads to environmental pollution, economic waste, and health risks. A balanced and scientific approach is essential to ensure both animal and human well-being.

Vegetable Seedlings Led Grow Light

A lamp tube is a specially designed lighting device designed to provide the required light for plants grown indoors. It usually consists of multiple LED lamp beads that emit specific wavelengths of light to meet the needs of plant photosynthesis.

The main characteristics of plant lamps are as follows:

1. Spectral regulation: plant lamps can emit light of specific wavelengths suitable for plant growth, such as blue, red and violet light. These rays can provide the required spectrum at different growth stages, promoting the healthy growth of the plant.

2. High efficiency and energy saving: The plant light tube uses LED technology, which has the characteristics of high efficiency and low energy consumption. Compared to traditional fluorescent or incandescent lamps, plant lamps are more energy efficient and can save energy costs.

3. Long life: LED lamp beads have a long life, usually up to tens of thousands of hours. This means that plant lamps do not require frequent bulb changes, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

4. Adjustable brightness: plant lamps usually have the function of adjustable brightness, which can adjust the light intensity according to different plant needs and growth stages to provide the best growth environment.

5. Safe and reliable: Plant lamps use low voltage power supply and have a low fire risk. In addition, it is usually designed to be water and dust resistant and suitable for both indoor and outdoor growing environments.

In short, the plant lamp is a lighting device designed for indoor planting, by emitting a specific wavelength of light, to provide the required light for the plant and promote its healthy growth. It has the characteristics of high efficiency and energy saving, long life, adjustable brightness, safety and reliability, and is suitable for all kinds of plant planting environment.

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