Nutrient Profile of DAP

Question

Nitrogen and phosphorus content of DAP fertilizer:

Select an answer

Nitrogen and phosphorus content of DAP fertilizer:

  1. 18% & 46% respectively — Correct Answer
  2. 20% & 40% respectively
  3. 26% & 46% respectively
  4. None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 18% N and 46% P respectively

DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) — (NH₄)₂HPO₄ contains approximately 18% nitrogen and 46% phosphorus (as P₂O₅). It is used as an NPN source in ruminant diets and as a fertilizer. In animal nutrition, DAP provides both NPN and a significant source of available phosphorus.

DAP vs Common NPN Sources
Source N% P% Use
Urea 46.6% 0% Ruminant NPN
DAP 18% 46% (as P₂O₅) NPN + P source in ruminants
Ammonium sulfate 21% 0% NPN source
Advantages of DAP in Ruminant Diets
  • Simultaneously corrects NPN deficiency and phosphorus deficiency.
  • Less rapidly degraded than urea → slightly reduced ammonia toxicity risk.
  • Commonly used where both protein and phosphorus supplementation is needed.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
  • 20% N and 40% P → neither figure is accurate for DAP.
  • 26% N and 46% P → N% is too high (26% is close to ammonium nitrate).
  • None → 18% N and 46% P is the standard textbook value for DAP.

📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition

This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.

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