Serum chemistry profiles for Lechwe waterbucks ( Kobus leche): Variations with age and sex

Abstract

1. 1. Over an 8-year period, 19 biochemical parameters have been determined at various ages in the blood serum of 92 clinically healthy Lechwe waterbucks ( Kobus leche), 33 males and 59 females. 2. 2. Significant differences have been noted with age. In neonates, the lowest values of total proteins, glucose, creatinine, urea, AST, ALT and iron have been noted; the highest ones have been seen for cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, calcium and phosphorus. 3. 3. With regard to sex, raised values of glucose, urea, alkaline phosphatase and ALT, and lowered values of cholesterol, have been noted in juvenile females compared with males of the same age. 4. 4. In adult females, higher levels of urea and cholesterol and lower levels of glucose, triglycerides and natrium have been recorded compared with males. 5. 5. With sex and age, no significant changes have been found in the levels of GGT, magnesium, chlorides and copper. 6. 6. Out findings are discussed with those abstracted from the literature for related species.