25-OH-D3, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase content in sera from captive polar bear (Ursus maritimus) cubs at the Denver Zoological Foundation
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20131.abs After the development of rickets in two hand-reared polar bear (Ursus maritimus) cubs at the Denver Zoological Foundation we initiated a project opportunistically evaluating sera 25-OH-D3, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels in seven mother-reared polar bear cubs. From one to three serum samples were obtained while the cub was still in the […]
Influence of different dietary calcium levels on the digestibility of Ca, Mg, and P in captive-born juvenile Galapagos giant tortoises (Geochelone nigra)
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1035.abs Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) are very important minerals in reptile nutrition, but many diets still are not balanced. To achieve optimal growth, including a healthy skeleton and a strong shell, a well-balanced supply with these minerals is prerequisite. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the digestibility of diets with different […]
An introduction to the biogeochemical cycling of calcium and substitutive strontium in living coral reef mesocosms
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430120505.abs The coral reef mesocosms designed by the Smithsonian Institution’s Dr. Walter Adey, his Marine System Laboratory personnel, and staff members of the Pittsburgh Aqua-Zoo simulate most of the physical, chemical, and biological parameters found in natural Caribbean coral reefs. After developing the mesocosm in Pittsburgh, an evaluation and comparison between natural reef seawater […]
Early growth and bone mineralization of the iguanid lizard, Sceloporus occidentalis in captivity: Is vitamin D3 supplementation or ultraviolet B irradiation necessary?
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430100504.abs The insectivorous, heliophilic iguanid lizard, Sceloporus occidentalis, was used in this study. Eight groups of field-collected juveniles were subjected to different doses of ultraviolet-B radiation or were fed crickets maintained on different diets with varying amounts of vitamin D3 and other nutrients. The crickets fed to all groups were dusted with calcium carbonate […]
Challenges with effective nutrient supplementation for amphibians: A review of cricket studies
Over the last 25 years, numerous studies have investigated the impact of insect supplementation on insect nutrient content. In light of recent nutrition related challenges with regards to zoo amphibians fed an insect based diet, this review attempts to comprehensively compile both anecdotal and published data in the context of practical application on this topic. […]