Abstract
Morphometric characteristics of blood cells were examined in 44 (16 males, 28 females) Bolson tortoises (Gopherus flavomarginatus) in Mapimí, Mexico. Blood samples were drawn from the subcarapacial vein, and smear stains were used to differentiate and measure the diameter and surface area of cells. Mature and polychromatophilic erythrocytes were identified, as well as five types of leukocytes (lymphocytes, heterophils, eosinophils, basophils and monocytes), and thrombocytes. The shape and color of G. flavomarginatus blood cells were similar to those reported for the G. agassizii, and G. polyphemus species. Blood cell sizes fitted related data from other reptile species. The information generated in this study can help monitor the health status of G. flavomarginatus individuals in the wild, thus advancing efforts to protect this endangered species.
Highlights
IntroductionAnalysis of the cellular component of blood is a common technique for evaluating the health status of wild animals.[1,2] In tortoises, conditions such as anemia, leukemia, inflammation and allergy are associated with changes in blood cell values.[3,4] While cell morphometry of numerous terrestrial, semiaquatic and marine tortoises has been previously described,[5,6,7] there are still species of great ecological importance that are yet to be characterized
Analysis of the cellular component of blood is a common technique for evaluating the health status of wild animals.[1,2] In tortoises, conditions such as anemia, leukemia, inflammation and allergy are associated with changes in blood cell values.[3,4] While cell morphometry of numerous terrestrial, semiaquatic and marine tortoises has been previously described,[5,6,7] there are still species of great ecological importance that are yet to be characterized.Gopherus flavomarginatus is an endemic Mexican tortoise, considered to be the largest terrestrial chelonian in North America, with a carapace length of up to 40 cm.[8]
Blood samples were obtained from forty-four G. flavomarginatus individuals (16 males, 28 females)
Summary
Analysis of the cellular component of blood is a common technique for evaluating the health status of wild animals.[1,2] In tortoises, conditions such as anemia, leukemia, inflammation and allergy are associated with changes in blood cell values.[3,4] While cell morphometry of numerous terrestrial, semiaquatic and marine tortoises has been previously described,[5,6,7] there are still species of great ecological importance that are yet to be characterized. The conservation efforts towards the G. flavomarginatus tortoise demand a better knowledge of its biology and health status. The present study aimed to determine the blood cell morphometry in this species, to provide information that may advance health monitoring, treatment and other protection strategies
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