Biochemical and hematologic values for 18 clinically healthy radiated tortoises (Geochelone radiata) on St Catherines Island, Georgia.

摘要: BACKGROUND The radiated tortoise (Geochelone radiata) is a critically endangered species in its native land, the southern portion of island Madagascar. Captive breeding programs have generated data on behavior and ecology G radiata; however, hematologic biochemical also are important managing populations. OBJECTIVE purpose this study was to evaluate sex seasonal effects from captive tortoises. METHODS Whole blood collected January August 2001 18 tortoises (10 male, 8 female) housed at Wildlife Survival Center St Catherines Island, Georgia, as part routine health assessment. Routine plasma analyses electrophoresis were done using standard methods. Data male female compared within between seasons 2-way ANOVA. RESULTS RBC HCT values significantly higher summer than winter males females. Total protein concentration did not differ females; had concentrations alpha1- beta-globulins males. Male sodium uric acid LDH activity during winter, urea CK activities summer, with Female triglyceride phosphorus phosphorus, cholesterol, CONCLUSION Sex differences for likely reflect vitellogenesis egg production females, altered hydration status summer. will be useful assessment species.