# Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of Subadult Captive Siberian Tigers (Panthera tigris altaica)

## TL;DR

This study establishes blood and biochemical profiles for young captive Siberian tigers to support their health monitoring and conservation.

## Contribution

The study provides species-specific hematological and biochemical data for subadult Siberian tigers, highlighting immune adaptations.

## Key findings

- Subadult Siberian tigers showed elevated MPV and RDW-CV, possibly due to pre-anesthesia stress.
- Neutrophil percentages were higher in Siberian tigers compared to domestic cats and Bengal tigers.
- Biochemical profiles for subadult tigers were characterized, offering new baselines for conservation.

## Abstract

The Siberian tigers are the apex predators in the Asia–Pacific region. This species has been listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List since 1986. Establishing standardized hematological and biochemical parameters is critical for monitoring the health of wild populations, particularly in the conservation of endangered species. In order to understand these tigers’ physiological statuses and adaptive mechanisms, in this report, we provide comprehensive blood and biochemical profiles of subadult Siberian tigers. The findings of the present report provide a reasonable foundation for health monitoring, targeted conservation efforts, and the population recovery of Siberian tigers in their natural habitats.

The conservation of Siberian tigers, the apex predators in the Asia–Pacific region, hinges on a thorough understanding of their physiological statuses and adaptive mechanisms. In order to fill a critical gap in our knowledge of this endangered species, we conducted comprehensive analyses of Siberian tiger whole blood and serum using modern hematology and biochemical analyzers. The blood samples were collected from subadult (2–3 years old) Siberian tigers (n = 15 for hematological analysis and n = 7 for biochemical analysis). In the present study, distinct hematological patterns including an elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) and a higher red cell distribution width coefficient of variation (RDW-CV) were observed, which were possibly triggered by pre-anesthesia resistance movements. Notably, the neutrophil percentage in Siberian tigers was found to be significantly higher than that in domestic cats and Bengal tigers, suggesting species-specific immune adaptations. In addition, serum biochemical analysis provided refined parameter ranges for subadult tigers. Unlike previous studies encompassing a broader age range, our data specifically characterize biochemical profiles in subadult tigers, offering vital baselines for health monitoring and conservation strategies. These results not only enhance our understanding of the biology of Siberian tigers but also provide scientific support for targeted conservation efforts, fostering population recovery and ecological balance in their natural habitats.