ASPECTS OF NITROGEN AND MINERAL-NUTRITION IN ICELANDIC REINDEER, RANGIFER TARANDUS

Nitrogen and mineral (Fe, Mg, Na, K, and Ca) compositions of foodstuff s consumed by and dung produced by male, pregnant and lactating female adult Icelandic reindeer and calves were determined during May of 199 2. Iron levels in foodstuffs are consistently above the reported toxic ity level for similar-sized sheep (0.5 ppt) and may lead to iron toxic ity when consumed by reindeer during periods of high lean body mass ca tabolism. Male and female reindeer meet nutrient requirements for all measured elements and nitrogen with the possible exception of calcium for males during antler growth.