Espinoza–Rodríguez, Nínive, Conde, Brirelys, and Barrios–Garrido, Héctor (2024) Hemogram values of immature Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Gulf of Venezuela. Revista Cientifica De La Facultad De Veterinaria, 34 (1). e34269.

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Abstract

Numerous studies on haematological parameters in sea turtles Worldwide allow assessing the health status of populations of these species. These values can give a first indication of some alteration in their health condition. It is important to note that these parameters may vary for various reasons such as geographic location, species, population, and size. In Venezuela, most blood profiles studies have been aimed at adult individuals. In this study, it was described the hemograms of immature specimens of Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) by–caught in the Gulf of Venezuela in various artisanal fishing ports. Blood samples from 28 Green Turtle individuals between the years 2009 – 2012 were analysed. The average Curved Carapace Length was 36.06 ± 16.15 cm; hence all specimens were considered immature individuals. The registered haematological variables showed values within the reference ranges for studied variables according to previous research performed in the area; however, some individuals showed values of Haematocrit, RGR (10⁶·μL^-1), Heterophils, Eosinophils, Monocytes and Lymphocytes higher than the reference values. Complete blood counts are a fast and cheap diagnostic method, which allows evaluating, detecting, and ruling out several diseases. These efforts will make it possible to differentiate sick individuals from healthy ones and identify changes in parameters due to physiological processes, such as growth, hormonal status, and stress. Depending on the pathological findings, it is possible to define rehabilitation strategies and monitoring of the specimens.

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