Blood chemistry of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

Abstract

The blood chemistry of six adult bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) kept in an artificial environment (simulated sea water) has been studied. Whole blood, plasma, and serum constituents are compared to those of the dog and horse. The plasma sodium, plasma chloride, and serum albumin levels appear to be higher while the α1, α2, and ß-globulin levels appear to be lower than those found in dogs and horses. The blood urea nitrogen values (mercury-combining capacity) are considerably higher than those found in dogs and horses.