Reference values for biochemical analytes in feral sheep from Socorro Island, Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico

Abstract

To establish reference values for biochemical analytes related to freshwater shortage adaptation, a total of 376 blood samples were collected from feral sheep at Socorro Island, Revillagigedo Archipelago. Year-round variation was assessed by sampling at the beginning of each season defined by the March equinox, June solstice, September equinox, and December solstice. The resulting data set was analyzed using Gaussian distribution and descriptive statistics. Confidence intervals of 95% were established. Analysis of variance was used to compare the mean values of each season. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, albumin, total protein, sodium ion, anion gap, creatine kinase, arginine vasopressin, and aldosterone showed concentrations above the reference range for domestic sheep. Triglycerides, urea, albumin, sodium ion, and aldosterone showed concentrations within the reference range for domestic goats. Most biochemical analytes showed differences (P<0.05) between seasons, with the highest values occurring during winter, and the lowest during spring. Results could help improve the accuracy of metabolic profiles used as a tool for evaluating dehydration indicators, and to describe the physiological mechanisms employed by feral sheep to cope with seasonal availability of freshwater.