Time to check livestock’s trace mineral levels Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory expert explains importance of assessing livestock minerals15 July 2024 15 July 2024 3 minute read 3 minute read By: By: Agrilife Today North AmericaTrace minerals play an important role in livestock health. A Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, TVMDL, expert said despite their importance, trace mineral imbalances are easy to overlook — at least until a health issue occurs. What are trace minerals? As the name suggests, trace minerals are elements the body needs in small amounts. The trace minerals most nutritionally essential for livestock are copper, cobalt, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium and zinc.