Reference intervals for hematology, plasma biochemistry, and bone mineral density in captive Ceratophrys cranwelli (Anura: Ceratophryidae)

Abstract

Abstract Hematology, plasma biochemistry, body composition, and bone mineral density (BMD) were analyzed for 30 captive Ceratophrys cranwelli (C. cranwelli) to establish the reference intervals. There was no significant difference between males and females in all blood routine tests. Blood biochemistry included 17 analytes, and only total bile acid (TBA), calcium (CA), and phosphorus (PHOS) showed significant differences. Male TBA levels were higher than females, while female CA and PHOS levels were higher than males. The body composition and BMD of males and females were similar, except for bone area, which showed a significant gender difference, with females having higher values than males. The data obtained in this study can help with the medical management of diseased individuals and serve as a reference for health assessments of future populations.