Different dietary protein levels for Podocnemis unifilis subadult farming: hematological and biochemical assessment

This study evaluated the physiological responses of subadult yellow-spotted Amazon river turtle, Podocnemis unifilis, to incremental crude protein levels (29%, 32%, 35%, and 39% CP) as extruded commercial feeds. The hematological plasma biochemical parameters P. unifilis were analyzed at 60, 120, 180 days feeding trial. increase in total thrombocyte, leukocyte, lymphocyte, heterophil, eosinophil numbers, besides high respiratory burst activity showed an improvement animal immune defense response diets, acting together maintain integrity tissues against antigens infectious agents. Elevated cholesterol triglyceride observed after increasing time (until days) with incremented artificial diets during captivity are a nutritional warning, related condition being less physically active. Based on these results, periodic evaluations particularly important ensure healthy adequate conditions captive-bred animals, such maintaining lower stocking densities animals avoid stress and, if possible, providing them fresh food addition feed.