The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of manganese (Mn) supplementation on bone status and calcium balance in ovariectomized rats according to the calcium intake levels. Total of 50 Sprague Dawley female rats (6 weeks) were divided into 5 groups and bred for 12 weeks: sham operated control group (SACa), OVX Ca deficiency group (OLCa) with Ca deficiency diet (0.1% Ca modified AIN-93N diet), OVX Ca deficiency & Mn supplement group (OLCaMn), OVX adequate Ca group (OACa; 0.5% Ca AIN-93N diet) and OVX adequate Ca & Mn supplement group (OACaMn). BMD (bone mineral density) of the femur was increased by Mn supplementation in OVX adequate Ca group. However, BMDs of spine, femur and tibia were lowered in OLCa compared to the OLCaMn group. Bone strength of tibia in OLCaMn group was significantly lower than OLCa group. Serum ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and CTx (C-telopeptide of collagen cross-links) levels were significantly higher in ovariectomized rats than those in the sham group, but they were not changed by Mn supplementation. Ca retention rate and Ca absorption rate did not differ among the experimental groups. Urinary Ca excretion was increased by Mn supplementation in Ca deficiency rats. In summary, Mn supplementation resulted in positive effects on bone mineral density ovariectomized rats with which intake adequate Ca. However, Mn supplementation on Ca deficiency ovariectomized rats resulted in decrement of BMO and bone strength by increasing Ca excretion. Therefore, it is encouraged to consider calcium intake levels in supplementation of manganese in order to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis and to keep bone healthy. (KoreanJNutr2008; 41(3): 206~215)