Hematology, Biochemistry, and Blood Gas Reference Intervals for Captive Anesthetized Long-Tailed Goral (Naemorhedus...

The long-tailed goral (Naemorhedus caudatus) is classified as an endangered species globally, and national projects for conservation are underway in South Korea. However, blood test references would enable comprehensive health assessments in this species. This study provides reference intervals for hematology, biochemistry, and blood gas analysis in long-tailed goral for health assessments and to aid conservation strategies. Blood test data from 75 gorals managed between 2016 and 2020 were analyzed to establish reference intervals and to examine the influence of age and sex on hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as differences between arterial and venous blood in blood gas analysis. Significant age-related differences (p < 0.01) were observed in MCH, lymphocyte count, platelet count, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, ALT, amylase, creatinine, calcium, and inorganic phosphorus. Sex-related differences were found in lymphocyte count, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, ALT, and amylase. Blood gas analysis showed significant differences in pO₂, SO₂, and lactate between arterial and venous samples. This retrospective study provides statistical reference intervals for hematology, biochemistry, and blood gas analysis in clinically healthy long-tailed gorals, which is particularly valuable for endangered wildlife where obtaining an adequate number of specimens is challenging.