Selected biochemical parameters in captive mountain tortoises (Geochelone pardalis)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Herpetology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Establishing reference ranges for serum biochemical parameters is crucial for assessing the health of captive wildlife.
• Limited data exists on the normal physiological values for the mountain tortoise (Geochelone pardalis).

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the serum biochemical profiles of a captive population of mountain tortoises.
• To provide baseline data for future health assessments and disease diagnosis in this species.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples were collected from 13 captive mountain tortoises.
• Concentrations of 22 biochemical analytes, including electrolytes, proteins, enzymes, and metabolites, were measured using standard laboratory techniques.

Main Results:

• Serum concentrations for sodium, potassium, chloride, urea, creatinine, uric acid, total protein, albumin, inorganic phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose were determined.
• Significant variations were noted in enzyme levels, including aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), creatine kinase (CK), lactic acid dehydrogenase (LD), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).
• Specific ranges for enzymes were: AST (11-113 U/l), ALT (1-72 U/l), CK (12-242 U/l), LD (147-2641 U/l), and ALP (56-168 U/l).

Conclusions:

• The study established preliminary serum biochemical reference ranges for captive mountain tortoises.
• The wide variability observed, particularly in enzyme activities, highlights the need for careful interpretation of these values in clinical practice.
• These findings contribute valuable data for the veterinary care and management of Geochelone pardalis.