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. 2013 Nov;52(6):792-7.

Underwater anesthesia of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) for measurement of auditory evoked potentials

Emily F Christiansen  1 , Wendy E D Piniak  2 , Lori A Lester  3 , Craig A Harms  4
Affiliations

Underwater anesthesia of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) for measurement of auditory evoked potentials

Emily F Christiansen et al. J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013 Nov.

Abstract

Investigations into the biology of aquatic and semiaquatic species, including those involving sensory specialization, often require creative solutions to novel questions. We developed a technique for safely anesthetizing a semiaquatic chelonian species, the diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), for measurement of auditory evoked potentials while animals were completely submerged in water. Custom-modified endotracheal tubes were used to obtain a watertight seal on both sides of the glottis and prevent aspiration of water during testing. No adverse effects were seen after the procedures, and assessment of venous blood-gas partial pressures and lactate concentrations indicated that sufficient gas exchange was maintained under anesthesia through manual ventilation.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Endotracheal tube modified for use in underwater anesthesia.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Anesthetized and intubated diamondback terrapin submerged for measurement of AEP.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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MeSH terms