Effects of Molybdenosis on Antioxidant Capacity in Endangered Przewalski's Gazelles in the Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve in the Northwestern China

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of molybdenosis on antioxidant capacity in endangered Przewalski's gazelles (Procapra przewalskii) in the animal rescue center in the Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve in Northwestern China. Ten P. przewalskii in molybdenosis were selected and treated orally with copper sulfate (CuSO₄) at a dose of 20 g/animal/5 days for 20 days. Ten healthy P. przewalskii were also selected and allocated to healthy pastures for 20 days. Samples of soil, forage, and animal tissue were collected. The values of mineral and hematological parameters were measured. Results showed levels of molybdenum (Mo) in soil and forage were significantly higher than those in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). The Mo content of blood and hair in gazelles from the rescue center was also significantly higher than those in the healthy ranches animals (P < 0.01). The copper (Cu) contents in blood and hair from the rescue center were significantly lower than those from the healthy pasture (P < 0.01). Hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell volume (PCV) in the gazelles from the animal rescue center were significantly lower than those from animals in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), phosphocreatine kinase (CPK), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly higher than those from gazelles in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). The antioxidant capacity in gazelles from the animal rescue center was significantly lower than that of gazelles in healthy ranches. Supplementing CuSO₄ significantly decreased the Mo content of blood and cured molybdenosis in gazelles. In summary, the Mo content of soil and forage was very excessive for gazelles in the animal rescue center. The antioxidant capacity of P. przewalskii has been seriously affected by molybdenosis.

Keywords: Antioxidant capacity; Molybdenosis; P. przewalskii; The Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve; The animal rescue center.