Unusually high zinc concentrations in snake plasma, with observations on plasma zinc concentrations in lizards, turtles and alligators

摘要: We provide evidence that normal plasma zinc levels in snakes are the same range as elevated associated with haemolytic anaemia and fatal toxicosis dogs, weight loss anorexia crocodiles had ingested coins high content. Blood samples from large representative groups of snakes, lizards, turtles alligators were analysed for content by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Plasma all snake species five to 50-fold greater than reported mammals. lizards also higher those mammals, but significantly lower snakes. mammals birds. After prolonged dialysis plasma, 76% remains retentate, suggesting presence a protein strong affinity metal. Zinc vary among taxonomic groups, emphasizing common evolutionary origin birds their divergence other reptiles.