Whole-body nutrient composition of various ages of captive-bred bearded dragons (Pogona vitteceps) and adult wild anoles (Anolis carolinensis)
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2002 |
Authors: |
Jennifer J. Cosgrove, Donald H. Beermann, William A. House, Barbara D. Toddes, Ellen S. Dierenfeld |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
nutrition, reptile, whole-prey composition |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.10055.abs Neonates, 11-day-old, and 17-day-old captive-bred bearded dragons (Pogona vitteceps) and wild-caught adult anoles (Anolis carolinensis) were chemically analyzed to determine the whole-body concentrations of vitamins E and A, crude protein, and minerals. Significant differences (P<0.05) were noted between neonates and older age groups of the bearded dragons for concentrations of all the minerals except calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P). The neonatal animals generally exhibited lower concentrations of all minerals, except for magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe), than did the older lizards. The concentration of vitamin E was higher, and that of vitamin A was lower in neonates than in older animals. The whole-body concentrations of protein, vitamins A and E, Ca, P, potassium (K), sodium (Na), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) differed significantly between the bearded dragons and anoles. Zoo Biol 21:489–497, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.