Biochemical blood parameters and hormone levels of foraging, nesting, and injured loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) in Turkey

Authors: DOĞAN SÖZBİLEN, YAKUP KASKA

Abstract: The biochemical blood parameters of 22 (7 foraging, 7 nesting, and 8 injured) loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) from the southwest coast of Turkey were investigated. A total of 27 blood variables were analyzed in three groups (plasma enzymes, plasma metabolites, and plasma ions), and 4 steroid hormones: testosterone (T), estradiol (E₂), progesterone (Pro), and corticosterone (B). Triglyceride, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, magnesium, and phosphorus were higher in nesting females; urea was high in foraging individuals; and sodium, potassium, and chloride were lower while estradiol levels were higher in injured individuals. In addition, plasma steroid hormone levels T, Pro, and B were assessed in healthy and stranded individuals. The results of the present study provide valuable blood parameters for the medical care of the species in rescue centers and help us to understand the physiological response of loggerhead sea turtles to different conditions.

Keywords: Loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta caretta, plasma biochemistry, steroid hormone, health, rehabilitation

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