Haematology and plasma biochemistry reference intervals in wild bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps)

Abstract

The aim of the study is to provide haematology and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for wild free-roaming central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). These data will aid the veterinarian in determining the health and husbandry status of the pet bearded dragon. The study group consisted of 130 wild central bearded dragons. The data were assigned into two groups: Breeding Season (BS) from September to November and Non-Breeding Season (NBS) from December to March. These groups were further divided into sex and reproduction status with females determined to either be gravid or non-gravid. The 83 male and 47 female dragons were captured in north western New South Wales, Australia, centred around the towns of Bourke, Wanaaring and Tibooburra. Haematological and plasma biochemistry parameters were measured using standard methods. Data were analysed for the effects of sex, season and gravid status. There were significant differences between sexes in PCV, basophils, albumin, globulin, amylase, calcium, phosphate and triglycerides. There were seasonal differences in PCV, basophils, uric acid, glucose, globulin, calcium, phosphate, cholesterol and triglycerides. There were significant differences in phosphate and cholesterol between gravid and non-gravid dragons within the breeding season. There were variations in haematology and biochemistry parameters depending on sex, season and reproductive status of females. These reference intervals differed from previous studies of captive central bearded dragons and can provide some insight into captive conditions compared to wild animals.

Keywords: Pogona vitticeps; biochemistry; central bearded dragon; haematology; iridovirus; reference intervals.