Age relationships with telomere length, body weight and body length in wild dugong (Dugong dugon)

摘要: The ability to estimate age and determine the growth status of free-ranging dugongs (Dugong dugon) is vital providing insight into basic biology this endangered species. Currently, estimation in dugong carcasses relies on counting dentin layer groups (GLGs) tusks, but a disadvantage they need be intact. We explored whether measures telomere length could used as an alternative approach given that other species, are inversely related. In study, relative (rTL) was measured by qPCR skin samples from 24 varying ages determined counts GLGs. addition, relationships between GLG body weight were examined. Our findings indicate estimated GLGs negatively correlated with using logistic formula rate attrition approximately 0.036 rTL/year 5-20 years. By comparison, both positively GLG-based age, rates ~8.8 kg/year for ~3.58 cm/year length, respectively. After that, slowed substantially then plateaued. results suggest physical maturity occurs at 20 years rTL might serve tool dugongs, living deceased.