Title
Circulating concentrations of vitamins A and E in captive psittacine birds
Author(s)
Torregrossa A.-M., Puschner B., Tell L., Olsen J., Dierenfeld E.S.
Published
2005
Publisher
Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery
Published Version DOI
https://doi.org/10.1647/2004-004.1
Abstract
Information about physiologic concentrations of vitamins A and E in captive psittacine birds would be useful in the diagnosis of potential vitamin deficiencies or toxicoses. To help provide this information, a retrospective study was done to assess circulating concentrations of vitamins A and E in captive Psittaciformes at 6 facilities representing 12 genera and 33 species. Plasma or serum samples collected from psittacine birds were analyzed for concentrations of a-tocopherol (n = 115) and retinol (n = 167). Mean retinol concentration (± standard deviation) in all birds was 0.471 ± 0.209 µg/ml, and mean a-tocopherol concentration was 13.05 ± 6.60 µg/ml. When compared by subfamily and genera, concentrations of both retinol and a-tocopherol differed significantly among groups. Post hoc testing demonstrated that differences in concentrations of retinol and, at the subfamily level, of a-tocopherol were attributable to low concentrations in Pesquet parrots (Psittrichas fulgidus). Differences at the genus level were mainly caused by high a-tocopherol concentrations in hyacinth macaws (Andorhynchus hyacinthinus). These results demonstrate that circulating concentrations of vitamins A and E in psittacine birds depend significantly on subfamily and genera. © 2005 by the Association of Avian Veterinarians.
Keywords
Aves; Hyacinthus; Psittacidae; Psittaciformes; Psittrichas fulgidus

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