Selenium Toxicity in the Dromedary Camels Clinical Symptoms and Lesions

Introduction Selenium (Se) is a group VI element with chemical properties very similar to those of sulfur, it has been demonstrated as an essential element for ruminants. Selenium is required to prevent deficiency diseases such as white muscle disease, maintain growth rates of young animals and promote reproductive performance. Camel sensitivity to trace element imbalances has been reported (Faye and Bengoumi, 1994). Selenium is generally considered a highly toxic element and selenium toxicity may occur in camels through incorrect diet formulation or prolonged oral exposure to elevated dietary selenium (Se) in forage. The objectives of the current study were to determine effects of graded levels of soldium selenite intake on camel performance and to provide preliminary data on camel selenosis (clinical symptoms and lesions).