engleski

Evaluation of blood parameters in Western Caspian turtle (Mauremys rivulata)

Western Caspian turtle (Mauremys rivualta) is one of the rarest and most endangered species of reptiles in Croatia. The distribution of this freshwater turtle in Croatia is limited to a narrow southeast coast. The greatest threat of its extinction are the loss of habitats due to the drainage of water areas, the excessive use of pesticides and artificial manure, traffic and smuggling. Through the proper animal management, we can contribute to their protection, welfare and health. One of the useful tool in assessing physiological and health condition of the animals is hematology. Studies on Western Caspian turtle hematology are very scarce and every information on hematological parameters of this species is valuable for better understanding, protection and veterinary care. Six Western Caspian turtles (three male and three female) confiscated at the Croatian- Bosnian border were situated at the quarantine facility of Zagreb Zoo. All turtles underwent clinical examination and blood was taken for hematological and biochemical evaluation. The blood analysis included determination of hematocrit, red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), differential cell count and morphologic assessment of blood cells. Results showed a very low hematocrit (10-20%) and a low number of erythrocytes (0, 1-0, 42x106/ µL) in all animals. WBC and differential blood cell count varied among turtles. Large number of degenerative polycromatophiles was found in five turtles as well as elevated number of immature and changed azurophiles and lymphocytes. Hemoparasites genus Haemogregarina were also found in all animals. In conclusion, all of the animals were anemic with signs of chronic and degenerative impairment of hematopoiesis. These results will benefit further researchers in better understanding of physiological and pathophysiological variations of hematological parameters in Western Caspian turtle and also in turtles as a whole. Considering the small number of animals in this study further research on the topic should be made.

hematology, mauremys rivulata, blood parameters

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