Faecal glucocorticoid metabolites as a measure of adrenocortical activity in polar bears (Ursus maritimus).

摘要: Analysis of faecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs) is frequently applied to assess adrenocortical activity in animal conservation and welfare studies. Faecal sample collection non-invasive feasible under field conditions. FGM levels are also less prone circadian rhythms, episodic fluctuations short acute stressors than (GC) obtained from other matrices, for example blood or saliva. To investigate the suitability measurement polar bears (Ursus maritimus), a species listed as Vulnerable by IUCN (International Union Conservation Nature), cortisol enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was biologically validated demonstrating significant increase FGMs after five zoo-to-zoo transports. In addition validating method, study documented an average delay 7 h until first occurrence food colorants monitored bears, which provides essential information future After validation, assay measure concentrations over 1-year period. Several pre-defined potentially stressful events were recorded event log their effect on concentrations. A mixed model analysis revealed increases social tension environmental changes, whereas season sex had no effect. The demonstrates that EIA suitable measuring using carefully combination with detailed sampling protocol can serve valuable tool evaluating mid- long-term stress bears. be used monitor captive order optimize housing conditions but elucidate responses wild populations targeted measures.