Assessing the Use of Microchip Transponders as a Marking Method in Juvenile Hermann's Tortoises (Testudo hermanni)

Abstract

Abstract International conventions dictate reliable identification of various reptile species that are subject to intensive trade targeting and habitat destruction. As a rule, tortoises with a minimal plastron length of 100 mm are fitted with a microchip transponder. The development of new generations of transponders, however, may offer the possibility to identify smaller individuals. This study evaluated the use of microchip transponders in juvenile Hermann's tortoises, Testudo hermanni, by using two groups of 30 captive-bred tortoises. Microchip transponders were implanted in the first group of tortoises, and the second group served as a control group. During a 10 month observation period, including 2 months of hibernation, both groups were evaluated for short- as well as mid-term effects of microchip implantation, and readability of the microchips was checked twice a week. Body weight and plastron length were determined twice a week to compare growth and weight curves between both groups. Radiographs w...