Morphology and elemental analysis of free range and stabled Polish Konik horses hair using Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).

The research article focuses on understanding the impact of diet on the elemental composition and morphological properties of hair in Polish Konik horses. The researchers found no significant changes in the properties and composition of the horses’ hair, despite individual variability.

Research Context and Objectives

• The study aimed at assessing the effects of diet on the elemental composition and the physiognomies of the hair of healthy Polish Konik horses. Hair was used in this study as it is more biologically stable and encapsulates a comparatively constant level of minerals, drugs, or toxins.
• The article focused on quantifying differences, if any, between free range and stabled Polish Konik horses in terms of the elemental makeup of their mane hair.

Methodology

• Hair samples for the study were obtained from 19 horses within The National Park located in Popielno, Poland. Out of the 19 horses, 6 lived in free range with continuous access to pasture, while the remaining 13 were stabled and fed on oats, hay and straw.
• A technological method combining Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was employed for analyzing the hair samples. This process was used to scrutinize each horse’s hair for microscopic appearance and the content of several elements like Mg, Si, S, Ca, Mn, Co, Zn, and Se.

Findings

• The study observed no significant alterations in morphological properties and elemental composition of the hair samples. This implied that dietary differences didn’t lead to clear differences in hair composition or appearance.
• While individual variability in element content was noticeable among horses in both groups, it was found that this variability did not impact their overall health. Hence, the variations were deemed insignificant.
• However, an interesting observation was made when the results were juxtaposed with other similar studies. Here, it was seen that the level of elements present in the hair of Polish Konik horses was significantly lower than the levels found in healthy horses of other breeds.
• The overall diet plan, constituting of pasture, oats and hay, was found to be deficient in providing the necessary amount of primary mineral elements to the horses.

Conclusions and Future Research

• The article concluded stating that further examination would be beneficial to elucidate the effects of diet and maintenance on the mineral balance of horses.
• The findings imply that although the horses’ health was not directly affected, the existing feeding regimen might not provide adequate amounts of certain elemental minerals.