Phosphorus (P) 0.25 – 0.4%
Approximately 80 percent of the body’s phosphorus is found in bones, with the remainder in the blood and other tissues. In addition to skeletal structural functions, phosphorus is essential in energy metabolism and acid-base balance and is a constituent of enzymes and genetic material. The major symptoms of phosphorus deficiency include reduced growth, listlessness, unkempt appearance, depressed fertility, pica (depraved appetite, eating wood, rocks and bones) and decreased serum phosphorus. Phosphorus is the most commonly encountered mineral deficiency and also the most expensive macromineral. Sources of phosphorus include protein supplements, cereal byproducts, mineral supplements, and dicalcium phosphate.
Reference: Hart, S. 2008. Meat Goat Nutrition. Pages 58-83 in Proc. 23rd Ann. Goat Field Day, Langston University, Langston, OK.