Hematological and serum biochemistry evaluation in howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) and capuchin monkeys (Sapajus apella): A comparative study

Background

Evaluation of blood parameters in captive non-human primates (NHPs) is crucial for monitoring their health and ensuring that their environment meets their physiological requirements.

Methods

We performed hemogram, serum biochemistry, and parasitological exams in 20 howler monkeys and 21 capuchin monkeys.

Results

In both species, over 50% of the individuals presented at least one parasite. There was a negative effect of age on red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell, platelets, total protein, globulin, and alkaline phosphatase, and a positive effect on the A:G ratio, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and mean platelet volume (MPV). Capuchin monkeys presented the highest platelets and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values and howler monkeys presented the highest MPV, aspartate aminotransferase, ALT, amylase, glucose, bilirubin, and triglycerides values. We observed an interaction between species and sex on RBC, Htc, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and cholesterol.

Conclusions

Species differences found in blood parameters may reflect differences in physiological adaptations associated with ecological and morphological traits and are clinically relevant for evaluating animal health and the suitability of breeding programs.