[Number and maturation distribution of the reticulocytes from six animal species].

With the fully automated reticulocyte analyzer Sysmex R-1000 (Fa. Toa Medical Electronics Co., LTD) the reticulocyte count and the reticulocyte ratio of rabbit, rat, mouse, mastomys, dog and swine was determined. Simultaneously, the reticulocytes were subdivided into 10 maturation classes according to their fluorescence intensity. The maturation distribution can be characterized by a distribution quotient. Both the maturation distribution as well as the distribution quotient are considered to be useful as good indicators of erythropoietic activity. The investigation establishes, that the reticulocyte count and the maturation distribution of these six species can be determined quickly and easily. The distinct differences between the species reflect the maturation locus of the reticulocytes, which varies among the species (medullary or humoral type of maturation).